SAF-HOLLAND presented a series of answers to the megatrends of electrification, autonomous driving and digitalisation at last month’s IAA event.
The latest edition of the commercial vehicles exhibition was a success for SAF-HOLLAND, said the company.
“We came to Hannover with a whole range of innovative products and solutions that markedly increase the efficiency, safety and environmental performance of commercial vehicles. This was very well received by trade fair visitors: Our stand was well frequented throughout all days. After all the cancelled exhibitions, we really appreciated the in-person meetings with customers, partners and other interested parties. We established new contacts and concluded various business deals,” summarised Christoph Günter, President Europe, Middle East and Africa as well as Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at SAF-HOLLAND.
The focus of the supplier for commercial vehicle parts currently focuses on the electrification of axles, automated couplings and digitalisation and networking of trailers in order to optimise transport processes.
Next level of electrification: SAF TRAKr
SAF-HOLLAND has reached the next level of electrification with its SAF TRAKr regenerative braking axle that offers more efficiency and sustainability for the transport sector. The electric trailer axle, which is now going into standard production, reduces or prevents noise, particulate and CO2 emissions. The SAF TRAKr increases the comfort level for the driver and meets all legal requirements for inner-city low-emission and environmental restriction zones. They are intended for trailers with electric loads, such as refrigerated or construction materials trailers, but also vehicles with electro-hydraulic units, such as moving-floor vehicles or tanker trucks.
Next level of autonomous driving: SH Automated Coupling
One step towards the next level of autonomous driving is the concept of automated coupling. With a sensor-based process, the system now presented in Hannover automates and accelerates coupling and uncoupling. Drivers save time, benefit from added safety and gain a more attractive workplace in the cab. At the same time, SAF-HOLLAND Automated Coupling uses high-speed data transfer to make the automation of semi-trailer trucks more economical in the long term.
Next level of intelligent trailers: Smart Axle
The Smart Axle for networked trailers integrated in the digital logistics processes is a solution for the next level of intelligent trailers and was presented in Hannover for the first time. For more safety, lower overall costs and compliance with the latest legislation, the intelligent axle is equipped at the factory with sensors for wheel end monitoring, including brakes and tyre pressure.
The new SAF TIRE PILOT I.Q. tyre pressure monitoring system is also part of the Smart Axle. It meets the requirements of GSRII 2019/2144 and ECE-R-141, which will make tyre pressure monitoring systems mandatory from 2024. The digital system, which will be available from the middle of next year, keeps the tyre pressure constant at the preset value. This allows it to prevent total failure of the tyres, extends their service life and saves fuel.
The sensor-based axle also comprises the SAF TrailerMaster telematics system, which was developed by the British SAF-HOLLAND subsidiary Axscend and is already widely in use. The future-proof trailer management provides digital data in real time to ensure more transparency, safety and efficiency.
