UK operators’ preferred option is the 1m longer semi
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By Kevin Swallow SCHMITZ CARGOBULL says UK operators are more interested in specifying the 1m longer trailer rather than the elongated 2.05m version, as the Department for Transport (DfT) conirms to CM that there has been over 100 expressions of interest in running longer semi-trailers.
Nigel Somers, head of sales UK and Ireland at Schmitz, says operators using curtainsided trailers have been interested in the 14.6m-long semi-trailers, the 1m option, because they’re cheaper to build and only slightly reduce the payload. “Moving to 2.05m costs more to buy and run, and with relatively less payload,” he says.
UK manufacturers are struggling to achieve maximum-length longer trailers with a single rear-steer axle at a 44-tonne GVW (CM 17 November) as they are unable to put the axle in the right position to get the required turning circle without compromising weight distribution.
But German trailer axle manufacturer BPW is introducing a new version of its LL self-steering axle, offering a far bigger steering angle than the current model.
BPW’s new self-steerer offers a maximum of 27º of steering, an increase on the 20º of its current LL axle and similar amounts from rivals, such as Daimler’s axle division.
The steering angle will allow trailermakers to locate the rearmost axle further back, reducing the length of the rear overhang that 15.65m-long trailers would otherwise have.
● Wincanton has demonstrated its longer semi-trailer to all of its customers. Technical services director Dave Rowlands says the response has been incredibly positive. “We have taken it to customers’ premises and distribution centres and let them get familiar with it,” he says. “Around 50% of customers are interested in them.”