Global Trailer 61

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INNOVATION

BUSINESS

NEWS

Built To Task: CargoMatic Trailer Design: Valk Welding Carrier Trailer Refrigeration Lecitrailer Reefer Tech

Executive Interview: BERGER Market Report: Singapore Megatrends: Longer Semi Trailers Industry Voice: SAF-Holland Dubai

Acquisitions & Mergers Special Trailer Projects Retirements & Successions Solutrans Previews

, k and ing ange ball

GROUPED FOR

GROUP COMPANIES

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EUROPE AMERICA

UROPE

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

International 0)88 405 8800

alx.eu

CHINA

AMERICA

AXN Heavy Duty p: +1 502 749 3200

SINGAPORE

axnheavyduty.com

AUSTRALIA

Combining decades of experience 4/10/17 5:04 PM gathered in Asia, Australia, Europe and the US, global manufacturing powerhouse Fuwa has forged the strongest network of truck and trailer component specialists in the world.

Merging local expertise with world-leading manufacturing prowess and an irrevocable commitment to innovation, our entire range of axles, suspension systems, landing legs, couplings, fifth wheels and ball races have been designed for one goal only - to guarantee your success.

SINGAPORE

C HINA

AUS TR ALIA

EUR OPE

AMER ICA

Fuwa Engineering p: +65 68631806 fuwasin@pacific.net.sg

Fuwa Heavy Industries p: +86 750 5966333 export@fuwa.cn

Fuwa K-hitch p: +61 3 9369 0000 www.khitch.com.au

VALX International p: +31 (0)88 405 8800 www.valx.eu

AXN Heavy Duty p: +1 502 749 3200 www.axnheavyduty.com

48 COVER STORY

32

AMBITION AND PASSION

An entrepreneur’s obsession with payload optimisation to smash rivals in the marble freight task was key to the founding of BERGER. The specialist trailer builder in Austria has committed to its brand promise of developing and delivering robust, lightweight trailing equipment.

IN THIS ISSUE BUSINESS

FEATURES

36 MARKET REPORT

50 LECITRAILER

After more than 30 years in the

From its colonial foundations as a port city in 1819, Singapore has since accomplished many economic achievements.

40 INDUSTRY VOICE

Dubai is a strategic sales point for SAF-Holland according to Managing Director, Jean Khoury.

He sees great growth potential in the Arab economic region of the GCC.

42 BUILT TO TASK

The autonomous 24VDC solution is available for the CargoMatic.

44 TRAILER DESIGN

Valk Welding’s technology plays a key role in the production of Kögel’s chassis.

48 FINAL MILE

TIP Trailer Services now offers electric light commercial vehicles for last mile delivery in Europe.

trailer manufacturing market, Lecitrailer has established itself as a leading brand in Europe.

52 CARRIER

Carrier Transicold is committed to addressing the world’s most complex challenges including the safe transport and storage of food, medicines and vaccines.

54 SOR IBÉRICA

SOR Ibérica, which is based in Spain’s third largest city, Valencia, is celebrating 50 years of innovation and refrigerated trailer manufacturing.

56 SOLUTRANS

Under the patronage of the President of the French Republic, Emmanuel Macron, biennial trade fair Solutrans 2021 is the place to be for the latest in heavy and light commercial vehicle innovation.

58 KÄSSBOHRER

See what Kässbohrer will have on show at Solutrans.

“LIGHTER-WEIGHT TRAILERS THAT REDUCE FUEL COSTS AND CARBON DIOXIDE EMISSIONS, WHILE ALSO ALLOWING FOR MORE GOODS TO BE TRANSPORTED PER TRIP IS WHAT WE STRIVE TO DELIVER WITH OUR PRODUCTS.” Bastian Litterscheid, BERGER

REGULARS

60 EVENTS

04 EDITOR’S NOTE

62 MEGATRENDS

06 NEWS

63 PREVIEW

40

EDITOR’S NOTE

PUBLISHER

John Murphy john.murphy@primecreative.com.au

MANAGING EDITOR

Luke Applebee luke.applebee@primecreative.com.au

DESIGN PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Michelle Weston michelle.weston@primecreative.com.au

ART DIRECTOR Blake Storey

DESIGN

CREATING CAPACITY MATERIALS AND COMPONENTS supplies as well as staffing issues are generating headwinds for US OEMs as they seek to increase production but struggle to achieve their targets, a report has revealed.

Frank Maly, Director – CV Transportation Analysis and Research at ACT Research – said these staffing challenges may be easing and the upcoming end of supplemental employments benefits could improve workplace availability. As for pricing and availability of components and materials, this is driving up the price of trailers and is also resulting in a build-up of red-tag units with the volume of these units expected to grow in the months to follow.

Rightfully so, Maly is concerned about the causes of 2022 order uncertainty (future availability, pricing, unwillingness of OEMs to accept future orders). He said pentup demand is also occurring due to the reluctance to accept dry van and refrigerated trailer orders.

Taking a look at the nation’s economy, US Treasury Secretary, Janet Yellen, at the time of writing, issued a fresh plea for Congress to raise the federal

debt ceiling, arguing a default on US debt would trigger a historic financial crisis. A default in this instance has potential to compound damage from the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and plunge the US economy into recession.

If this were to eventuate Yellen said the US would emerge from the crisis a permanently weaker nation and that US creditworthiness has been a strategic advantage.

While Yellen did not confirm a timeline for this default situation, even October was previously touted – when the Treasury exhausts its cash reserves and extraordinary borrowing capacity under the $28.4 trillion USD debt limit – she did mention that economic damage would likely fall on consumers through higher borrowing costs and lower asset prices.

The US, according to Yellen, can borrow more cheaply than almost any other country – defaulting would jeopardise this enviable fiscal position.

It would also make America a more expensive place to live.

Kerry Pert, Aisling McComiskey

INTERNATIONAL SALES

Ashley Blachford ashley.blachford@primecreative.com.au

CLIENT SUCCESS MANAGER

Justine Nardone justine.nardone@primecreative.com.au

HEAD OFFICE

Prime Creative Pty Ltd 11-15 Buckhurst Street South Melbourne VIC 3205 Australia p: +61 3 9690 8766 f: +61 3 9682 0044 enquiries@primecreative.com.au www.globaltrailermag.com

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ARTICLES

All articles submitted for publication become the property of the publisher. The Editor reserves the right to adjust any article to conform with the magazine format.

COPYRIGHT

Global Trailer is owned by Prime Creative Media and published by John Murphy. All material in Global Trailer is copyright and no part may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means (graphic, electronic or mechanical including information and retrieval systems) without written permission of the publisher. The Editor welcomes contributions but reserves the right to accept or reject any material. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information, Prime Creative Media will not accept responsibility for errors or omissions or for any consequences arising from reliance on information published.

The opinions expressed in Global Trailer are not necessarily the opinions of, or endorsed by the publisher unless otherwise stated.

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NEWS INTERNATIONAL ASIA HONG KONG Kerry Logistics Network has announced the group’s interim results for the six months ended 30 June 2021.

Revenue increased by 68 per cent year-on-year to approx. €3,985 million (2020 1H: €2,375 million).

Core operating profit increased by 70 per cent to approx. €275.3 million (2020 1H: €161.7 million) Core net profit jumped by 81 per cent year-on-year to approx. €166,154,091 (2020 1H: €91.8 million).

The Integrated Logistics (IL) business recorded a segment profit of €140.3 million (2020 1H: €123.7 million) and International Freight Forwarding (IFF) recorded €156 million (2020 1H: €41.2 million) which represent an increase of 13 per cent and 279 per cent, respectively.

“The Covid-19 pandemic has entered into a new phase with the worldwide spread of the Delta variant, which has been severely affecting global and domestic supply chains and disrupting business operations at different levels around the world,” said William Ma, Group Managing Director of Kerry Logistics Network.

“These disruptions and capacity chokeholds, together with different government approaches and restrictions in tackling the pandemic, have compelled the logistics industry to move towards a growing focus on service customisation.

“Leveraging our core competency in providing highly customised solutions, KLN Group capitalised on the opportunities in this new environment and achieved record growth in both revenue and core net profit in 2021 1H.” The IL business reported a 13 per cent segment profit growth, mainly riding 6 / G L O B A L TR A I L E R / I SS U E 6 1

on a booming manufacturing sector in mainland China.

In Hong Kong, the warehousing business grew 18 per cent backed by a higher occupancy. The logistics operations business increased by 9.0 per cent as the pandemic remained largely under control since 2021 Q2.

In mainland China, the IL business continued its rebound in 2021 1H, expanding by 82 per cent year-on-year in segment profit. This was supported by the accelerated resumption of production, revived domestic consumption and thriving online shopping.

In Taiwan, the segment profit for the IL division maintained stable with a 5.0 per cent growth.

In Asia, the IL division suffered a drop of 12 per cent in segment profit as the pandemic continued to rumble across the region with prolonged lockdowns, restrictions and quarantine measures.

The IFF business recorded a 279 per cent segment profit growth in 2021 1H, mainly riding on the change Hyundai Motor Group trailer drone concept.

in consumer behaviour and strong exports from Mainland China to the world.

The IFF business is experiencing a rapidly changing market and the Group is adjusting its strategy on a monthly basis depending on the development of Covid-19 pandemic, as well as unpredictable events.

The air freight sector continued to operate with scarce international belly cargo capacity provided by passenger aircraft, prompting the market to rely on freighters of limited space, which resulted in serious fluctuation in air freight capacity and rates.

In the ocean freight sector, congestion in destination ports has caused severe delays to vessel turnaround time and exacerbated the container equipment shortage in Asia. Currently, there are still huge backlogs in Mainland China where plenty of cargo vessels destined for the Americas and Europe were cancelled or delayed.

Upon the completion of SF Holding’s investment in the group, the group’s

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NEWS INTERNATIONAL ASIA profit will have a significant adjustment in light of the disposal of the Hong Kong warehouse and the Taiwan businesses to Kerry Holdings Limited.

The cooperation will bring together the core competencies of SF Holding and the Group across multiple verticals to create a leading Asia-based global logistics platform to meet ever-changing demands.

“With no end to the pandemic in sight, KLN Group will continue to support our customers counter various supply chain challenges through customised and comprehensive solutions across major gateways,” said Ma. “We are also ready to capture the growing opportunities in the booming and evolving e-commerce business.

Meanwhile, our ongoing efforts in humanitarian logistics will expand our service capabilities to assist in disaster relief operations. Moving forward, the Group will further strengthen our product offerings to navigate a highly inefficient and volatile global supply situation.”

KOREA A hydrogen-powered container transportation system capable of operating autonomously with a double e-bogie configuration has been teased

by Hyundai Motor Group.

The news comes as Hyundai Motor Group Chairman, Euisun Chung, and other senior executives, announced plans for new hydrogen-based products and technologies at the Hydrogen Wave global online forum held 7 September 2021.

This plan includes the electrification of all-new commercial vehicle models featuring fuel cell electric or battery electric powertrains as well as the application of fuel cell systems to all models by 2028.

8 / G L O B A L TR A I L E R / I SS U E 6 1

In 2023, the company aims to introduce a next-generation fuel cell system with costs being lowered by more than 50 per cent, total package volume reduced by 30 per cent and power output doubled.

“Hyundai Motor Group’s vision is to apply hydrogen energy in all areas of life and industry such as our homes, workplaces and factories,” said Chung.

“The goal is to make hydrogen readily used for everyone, everything, and everywhere.

“We want to offer practical solutions for the sustainable development of humanity and with these breakthroughs, we aim to help foster a worldwide Hydrogen Society by 2040.”

The trailer drone concept, according to Hyundai Motor Group, is a hydrogenpowered container transportation system capable of operating fully autonomously. With the number of intelligently packaged hydrogen tanks tailored to the journey profile, the flexible and efficient trailer drone ensures more than 1,000km of sufficient range from a single charge, comparable to existing container transportation systems.

The autonomous capabilities of the trailer drone were not reportedly achieved by simply repurposing technology developed for passenger car applications. The unique requirements of container transport applications and the way container terminals operate meant that engineering teams from Hyundai needed to completely redefine how a container moves. As a result, the engineering team developed the ‘Fuel Cell e-Bogie’.

The Fuel Cell e-Bogie sits under the container just like a rail bogie and is a fully enclosed system with fuel cell propulsion and fully independent fourwheel steering.

The trailer drone concept requires

two fuel cell e-Bogies to enable sideways movement. The trailer drone can, according to the group, move autonomously through portside operations and tight urban environments. Efficiency is further boosted by the ‘Cluster Mode’ which enables multiple Trailer Drones to travel together in an almost train-like configuration.

The Fuel Cell e-Bogie is not exclusive to the trailer drone and caters to a wide value chain such as ground logistics, construction, firefighting and disaster relief missions. It offers a multi-purpose platform, capable of a variety of objectives – all in zero-emission and autonomous operation.

Meanwhile, since the development of its first FCEV in 1998, the Group has been preparing for the future of hydrogen. In 2013, the Tucson FCEV (ix35 Fuel Cell) was introduced, opening the door to the mass production of FCEVs. Then, in 2018, the company launched the next-generation fuel cell SUV, NEXO, and the world’s first heavy-duty fuel cell truck, XCIENT Fuel Cell, in 2020.

Now, the Group is backing hydrogen to play a significant role in building a sustainable future and reducing society’s dependence on fossil fuels.

After two decades at the forefront of fuel cell technology development, the Group will expand its fuel cell technologies for wider applications of its vehicles, including additional mobility solutions and various energy utilisation.

According to the Hydrogen Council, a global CEO-led initiative of leading energy, transport, industry and investment companies, hydrogen energy will account for 18 per cent of global energy demand by 2050, with a market size of 2.5 trillion USD. The popularisation of hydrogen energy will also help cut CO2 emissions by

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NEWS INTERNATIONAL ASIA more than six billion tons a year, while creating over 30 million new jobs.

Hyundai Motor Group has already started mass-producing a greatly improved version of the current XCIENT Fuel Cell, a fuel cell heavy-duty truck. It is also developing a prime mover based on the XCIENT Fuel Cell that will be released in 2023.

THAILAND Transport and logistics company, Toll Thailand, through its Project SMILE initiative has collected more than approx. $10,000 AUD to donate medical equipment, food and essential supplies to hospitals in Thailand.

Amid the Covid-19 outbreak, Toll Thailand launched Project SMILE to aid the country.

The number of Covid-19 cases started to rise sharply in July as Thailand accelerated vaccinations and raced to secure temporary field hospitals to support Covid-19 treatment.

“In the Samut Prakan area, where 85 CEVA Logistics offer ground transport solutions from China.

10 / G L O B A L TR A I L E R / I SS U E 6 1

per cent of our Thai workforce operate and reside in, new infections were also on the rise while public and private hospitals were running out of beds,” Toll said in a statement.

“A further two field hospitals in operation have already reached their total capacity and could no longer take in more patients.

“Given the proximity to several of our Toll sites and employees’ residences, together with our long history in the Samut Prakan area, Toll employees initiated SMILE campaign to support the new 1,300-bed facility which opened at Samut Prakan Ruamjai 5 in mid-July.

“Many employees, including operations staff, donated what little they could afford to support the cause. Within a month, the team gathered the donations, secured over 37,600 essential items, and sent them to the new field hospital.

“We are now gathering even more essential supplies to be sent to three

other local hospitals in the area.

“At Toll, we believe that business is not measured purely in financial terms. We also believe that the way we go about achieving our success is as important as success itself. The role of logistics within local communities is far-reaching and every small effort goes a long way.”

CHINA CEVA Logistics is leveraging its customs clearance expertise to offer customers a new method for delivering transport solutions via Alashankou port using the 9710 and 9810 e-commerce customs supervision codes.

CEVA was the first company to use the codes at the Alashankou border crossing during two pilot shipments in July.

The port in northwestern China borders Kazakhstan and recently opened to exports using codes designed for companies engaging in eCommerce activity. Previously, only cargo with general customs clearance was

NEWS

ASIA permitted through the port. In response to the change, CEVA Logistics delivered two pilot shipments for customers using the newly permissible 9710 and 9810 customs codes.

The first shipment of nearly 9,000 parcels, departed from Shenzhen China to Frankfurt Germany with a 20-day door-to-door transit time. CEVA used its multimodal TRT (Truck-Rail-Truck) solution for this pilot shipment with code 9810. The second shipment of more than 400 higher-value parcels was consolidated using both 9710 and 9810 customs supervision codes.

CEVA also used its international trucking solution for the second pilot

shipment. The truck left Shenzhen, China, and 16 days later, delivered the parcels to the customer’s warehouse in U.K. for final distribution.

The Customs Declaration code 9710 is described as ‘cross-border e-commerce B2B direct export’ and applies to goods directly exported by sellers on a cross-border e-commerce sales platform; while code 9810 goods are exported by sellers who apply for cross-border e-commerce export goods to international warehouses. The codes are intended to help small- and mediumsize Chinese companies participate in international trade and more easily develop their international, cross-border

business.

CEVA Logistics continues to develop additional ground, block train or multimodal transport options between China and Europe to serve the growing need to balance delivery time, cost and more environmentally sustainable transport.

“At CEVA Logistics, our goal is to make international trade easy,” said Says Jessica Herren, global leader of customs brokerage, CEVA Logistics.

“We explore new transit routes and methods to reduce transit time, but in addition, we have the customer clearance experts necessary to help our customers’ business grow internationally. Our expertise allows

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NEWS INTERNATIONAL EUROPE our customers to focus on their core business and to leave the customs clearance to us. eCommerce will continue to be an important growth area, and we are exploring and launching new cross-border eCommerce solutions—even at the parcel level—to deliver even more value to our global customers.”

CHINA Guangdong Supply & Marketing Group and CIMC have agreed to carry out further in-depth cooperation across various logistics segments.

Some of these fields include cold chain logistics backbone network construction, new logistics equipment, multimodal transportation and crossborder logistics, industrial park development and financial investment.

The agreement was signed in 12 July 2021.

Since 2021, under the strong support of Guangdong Supply and Marketing Cooperative Association and leaders at all levels of Guangdong Supply & Marketing Group, CIMC Cold Chain under CIMC and Tianye Cold Chain under Guangdong Supply & Marketing Group have carried out practical cooperation in pre-cooling, quickfreezing, storage and fresh-keeping.

The two businesses have already carried out field trials of litchi and asparagus in Gaozhou, Dianbai, Conghua, Jiangmen and Jiangtun of Zhaoqing in Guangdong province.

Both parties have also conducted technical joint experiment and repeated evaluation. Litchi can be kept fresh without being discoloured and will also remain ‘delicious’ after being pre-cooled

by CIMC pre-cold storage, and this has been highly praised by the mobile cold storage enterprise users and consumers.

12 / G L O B A L TR A I L E R / I SS U E 6 1

In the future, CIMC Cold Chain’s mobile cold storage products and services will provide strong support for the cold chain logistics backbone construction project of “using an investment of 17 billion yuan to build 1.6 million tons of cold storage” being promoted by Guangdong Supply & Marketing Group, and meet the needs of rapid distribution of cold storage for agricultural products in remote areas of Guangdong Province. This will meet the demand for agricultural products pre-cooling of the first kilometre of the cold chain. It is known that the two parties will launch as soon as possible with cooperation of the first batch of more than 300 sets of pre-coolers.

According to the content of the agreement signed on the spot, the two sides will also actively explore in fields such as refrigerated vehicles, recycling packaging vehicles, storage automation equipment, logistics services and financial services, promote business cooperation, and strive to make fruitful contributions to the economic and social development of Guangdong FRANCE French logistics firm, Modalis, is pushing to almost double its company’s revenue in the next three years with the help of Belgium-based trailer builder, LAG. Modalis is taking delivery of 70 new vehicles from LAG Trailers this year including a mix of container chassis, tipping container chassis, aluminium silos and box containers.

LAG is also set to introduce new products in its intermodal range later this year.

The latest trailer deliveries will see Modalis’ fleet get closer to a total of 3,000 vehicles.

“Modalis and LAG are a great match,”

said Modalis CEO, Bernard Meï.

“We’re one of the leading European intermodal service partners while LAG is our equivalent on the supplier side of semi-trailers and containers. They offer us the complete range of products with the necessary innovations foreseen concerning safety and transport efficiency.”

“This order fits perfectly in Modalis’ plan to almost double its revenue in three years’ time from €32MM to €50MM,” LAG said. “The strategy is clear and focuses on three pillars: innovation, external growth and a continuous investment in the intermodal fleet.”

GERMANY Wielton GmbH has welcomed a new Managing Director to its business.

Holger Kauer has accepted the role and his expertise will reportedly make the business even more successful in the German market.

“I am very pleased to be able to contribute my experience and knowledge to Wielton,” said Kauer.

“We want to grow significantly in Germany and gain a significant market share for ourselves in the long term.

“Wielton is a strong and attractive alternative to established manufacturers.

“We are now perceived as a major player and experience a high level of acceptance.”

GERMANY Transport and logistics company, Heppner Group, has acquired ABCLogistik and ABC-Warehousing.

This move reportedly enables Heppner to strengthen its distribution capacities in Germany and also bolsters its crossborder operations between France and Germany.

“With more than 12 per cent of the activity generated across the Rhine,

NEWS INTERNATIONAL EUROPE Germany is today the second most important market for Heppner, which achieves nearly 400,000 groupage shipments between the two countries, which represents nearly 30 per cent of its shipments by land,” Heppner said in a statement.

Managing Director of Heppner’s subsidiaries, Ghislain Fernandez, told media the company aims to control last mile logistics in Düsseldorf. Also, this acquisition will allow Heppner to consolidate its know-how at the local level by offering innovative, sustainable solutions.

In January, Heppner invested €15 million into sustainable transport.

A signatory of the ‘Objectif CO2’ charter since 2010, Heppner joined the ‘EVcom’ pilot group, a voluntary commitment program for freight forwarders to reduce their environmental impact, in 2019.

Heppner has reduced its carbon emissions by 12 per cent in 9 years.

In order to continue moving forward, the group has undertaken to convert 50 per cent of its vehicle fleet to compressed natural gas (CNG) by 2025, with half of these vehicles coming on stream by April 2021.

For the next 10 years, the group has chosen CNG as its main fuel source, while also continuing to implement other alternative solutions to diesel fuel, such as battery power, Bio CNG different ‘soft’ forms of transport such as delivery cargo bikes and it is keeping an eye on the opportunities that hydrogen may bring to transport in the future.

Heppner reported a turnover of €751 million in 2019 and a total of 3,200 employees. The business is an independent leader in international transport from and to France. Founded in 1925, Heppner currently has 14 / G L O B A L TR A I L E R / I SS U E 6 1

more than 70 facilities in France, 10 agencies in Germany and is established in the Netherlands, Spain and Senegal.

GERMANY Logistics firm, Duvenbeck, has taken delivery of 12 new vehicles from Schmitz Cargobull.

Nils Gerdemann, Managing Director of DUVENBECK Kraftverkehr GmbH & Co. Spedition KG, Bernd Reining, Head of Fleet, and Jens Beermann, Key Account Manager and branch manager at Duvenbeck joined representatives from CLAAS KGaA mbH, Rüdiger Mohr, Senior Vice President for Corporate Purchasing, and Sascha Gees, Corporate Purchasing – Head of Logistics, to visit Schmitz Cargobull’s curtainsider competence centre in Altenberge for the joint trailer handover.

They were greeted by Roland Klement, Member of the Board responsible for Research and Development at Schmitz Cargobull, and Jörg Irsfeld, Director of International Key Accounts.

Duvenbeck and Schmitz Cargobull have been working closely together since 2005. They joined forces to enhance the S.CS MEGA curtainsider for high-volume transport jobs. What’s more, Duvenbeck were so impressed with Schmitz Cargobull’s telematics system TrailerConnect CTU that their entire trailer fleet is now equipped with the technology. Duvenbeck not only uses Schmitz Cargobull’s telematics system in its new vehicles, but also retrofits all of its existing trailers with the reliable trailer telematics solution, regardless of the brand.

“During the 2008/09 global economic crisis, we worked with Schmitz Cargobull to help enhance the Megatrailer,” said Bernd Reining, Head of Fleet of Duvenbeck.

Their combined efforts, according to the OEM, resulted in significant weight savings, which have a positive impact on fuel consumption and help to reduce carbon emissions. And as the two companies worked more together, so too their mutual appreciation grew.

“Schmitz Cargobull is quality-oriented, from the individual stanchions through to the highly complex digital developments,” said Reining. “Just like Duvenbeck, they always want to get top marks from their customers.”

A quick glance at Duvenbeck’s numbers reveals that quality awareness is paying off for the company. Founded over 80 years ago, the fleet is now made up of around 1,500 HGVs and 3,000 trailers. In the automotive sector, the company works with all leading premium brands; other key business fields include consumer goods, plastics and the farming vehicle industry.

Schmitz Cargobull also benefits from this: Around 2,000 of the trailers in the fleet were built by the brand with the blue elephant. Almost all of these trailers are S.CS MEGA curtainsiders.

And before the year is out, a further 280 new trailers of this type will once again refresh the modern fleet, with even more orders already in place for 2022.

Duvenbeck has been providing extensive logistics services for seven of CLAAS’s European sites since 2013. This work primarily involves providing procurement logistics services for production factories and various CLAAS business divisions in Germany, France and Hungary. In Germany alone, Duvenbeck uses 80 HGVs every day for transferring and directly delivering products from the Harsewinkel, Paderborn, Hamm and Bad Saulgau plants. It also moves goods to and from Le Mans and Woippy in France and Törökszentmiklos in Hungary.

NEWS

EUROPE NORTHERN IRELAND The 10,000th trailer recently came off SDC Trailers’s production line in Toomebridge, three years after the facility became operational.

The semi-automated line was commissioned in August 2018 as part of a £7 million expansion to SDC’s existing Northern Ireland base, which would meet additional demand for their robust and reliable trailer range. The milestone Boxvan trailer was produced for hire and leasing specialist TIP Trailers Services and is one of over 150,000 manufactured by SDC since the company was established in 1978.

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SDC marks 10,000th trailer milestone at Toomebridge facility.

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NEWS INTERNATIONAL EUROPE that we have reached such a fantastic milestone three years after this facility was opened,” said SDC Group President, Paul Bratton said. “While technology, innovation and investment have helped us to meet customer demand, it is our loyal, long-serving staff members who have truly shaped the company’s success and the proven reliability of our trailers. I would like to thank every member of our team who worked to achieve this 10,000th trailer milestone, they do an incredible job ensuring every trailer engineered is designed and finished to our exacting quality standards.”

SDC Toomebridge Production Manager, Eoin McErlean, who has been with the company for 35 years, added: “This milestone is testament to SDC’s commitment to producing the leading trailer solutions in the industry and it could not have happened without our production, engineering and R&D teams who have served the leading haulage and logistics providers over the last 43 years. At SDC we are committed to developing trailer solutions that further advance safety and operational efficiency, and lean manufacturing is central to this. The new facility in Toomebridge has allowed us to enhance the efficiency of our processes and remain competitive, delivering quality products to customers with minimum lead time.”

The OEM has seen a sharp increase in demand throughout 2021, with one new SDC trailer going into production every 16 minutes.

RUSSIA Equipment specialist, SAF-Holland, is opening a facility in Moscow, Russia, to expand its global production network.

From 2022, the location in the north of Moscow is scheduled to produce axles 16 / G L O B A L TR A I L E R / I SS U E 6 1

of the SAF INTRA series, which are equipped with disc or drum brakes.

“Russia is already one of our most important regional markets worldwide and displays excellent growth perspectives, even over the long term,” said SAF-Holland CEO, Alexander Geis.

“With this new production site, we are investing in profitable growth in line with our Strategy 2025.”

Christoph Günter, President EMEA said: “With this new plant we will further expand our close customer relationships and serve our customers even better in terms of supply performance.

In addition to creating 60 new jobs (50 of which will be in production), the plant is expected to provide 4,000 square

metres of space and also has excellent transport connections.

UK Gray & Adams recently scored three awards at the 2021 Temperature Controlled Storage and Distribution (TCS&D) Awards in Peterborough.

On Tuesday 7th September 2021, at the TCS&D awards ceremony in the East of England Arena which celebrated many industry successes in a challenging period for businesses, Gray & Adams won Refrigerated Trailer of the Year for a sixth year in a row and the Innovation Award for the third time with Carrier Transicold for the Vector eCool. It also took home the Lifetime Achievement Award for the very first time, celebrating

Gray & Adams celebrate triple awards success.

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NEWS INTERNATIONAL EUROPE the life and considerable achievements of its founder, Jim Gray Snr, who passed away in February 2021.

The awards recognise companies and individuals who have made a difference in the temperature-controlled storage and distribution industry, and Gray & Adams’ continued nomination and success at this event has recognised its achievements in providing best-inclass products, engineering innovation, and building a lifetime of value for its customers.

Gray & Adams has a hugely successful history at the awards, having won its first two awards in 2016 for OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) of the Year and Refrigerated Trailer of the Year. It then went on to win awards for Refrigerated Rigid of the Year in 2017 and 2018 and further Refrigerated Trailer of the Year Awards in 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020, as well as the Innovation Award in both 2018 and 2019 and Customer Service Award in 2020.

This year, Gray & Adams has won three industry awards, highlighting its on-going commitment to continuous improvement, innovation, and engineering excellence. As a business, Gray & Adams has experienced numerous reasons to celebrate in recent months, having been shortlisted in the upcoming Northern Star Business Awards for Business of the Year and Family Business of the Year.

James and Peter Gray, Joint Managing Directors at Gray & Adams, commented: “Gray & Adams has always had a strong business ethos built around people, quality and innovation. Winning these awards is testament to the commitment of our expert staff, who work tirelessly to provide a service that is second to none. Their endless commitment to our customers and partners, and to 18 / G L O B A L TR A I L E R / I SS U E 6 1

building bespoke products which set the standard for quality, has facilitated our success and growth over the last 60+ years. It is especially poignant to celebrate the accomplishments of our dad, Jim. In many ways, how our team operates today was pioneered by him all those years ago. We’re very proud to have taken home three awards this year and would like to also thank our partners, our customers and our suppliers for their part in our collective success.”

UK Scotland-based business, MV Commercial, has completed a multi-

MV Commercial acquires Fruehauf.

million-pound deal to purchase tipping trailer and rigid body manufacturer, Fruehauf.

The landmark deal includes an immediate cash injection and a commitment to a further £30 million investment over the next three years, as part of ambitious plans to modernise the manufacturing facility and realise the full potential of the 67acre site in Grantham, Lincolnshire.

MV Commercial will also revive the legendary ‘Crane Fruehauf’ name, by which the business was known until around 1998. The rebranding is expected to be completed in the coming weeks.

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MV Commercial is best known for its one-stop-shop approach and plans to open a truck sales and rental facility on site in Grantham within the next month. Work will begin within days to refurbish and modernise much of the site.

“Geographically, Grantham is the perfect fit for us to develop a true ‘super site’,” said MV Commercial Managing Director, Steven Cairns.

“We should have 80-90 trucks and trailers available for sale on site within a month, and the manufacturing workforce back in the factory building at pace again.

“We are so excited for the potential

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this acquisition brings and committed to ensuring there is a lot more Fruehauf product available in the marketplace.

For long-time Fruehauf customers, we are confident this is very good news.”

Production capacity within the factory is expected to quickly reach 15-20 trailers per week under MV’s stewardship, with the future investment to focus on greater automation and achieving world-class production standards.

MV Commercial has committed to continue offering the full Fruehauf trailer and body range, and 100 per cent of the current workforce will transfer under TUPE.

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“This is a hugely significant day for both businesses, and an opportunity we couldn’t turn down,” said MV Commercial CEO, Tom O’Rourke.

“Fruehauf has a fantastic product range, a rich heritage, and a wealth of talent within its team which will be complemented by MV Commercial’s strength and experience in the marketplace.

“With immediate effect we are starting work to scale production back up, enabling us to commit to a delivery schedule for outstanding customer orders and begin building new stock trailers for MV’s own contract hire and ready-to-go fleets.”

NEWS INTERNATIONAL EUROPE/ SOUTH AMERICA UK Don Burton has been awarded the coveted Services to Industry award at the 2021 Motor Transport Awards held in London.

As planned, according to UK-based OEM, Don-Bur, the announcement came as a complete surprise to him as the preparation had been done in complete secrecy.

“He lifted his trophy to a rapturous standing ovation and was visibly moved by the recognition,” Don-Bur said in a statement.

“He has worked in the industry since 1949 where he started for a coachbuilder in Longton, Stoke-onTrent; not 100 yards away from one of the current Don-Bur Service sites. He founded Don-Bur in 1981, following a management buyout of Welfords Truck Bodies.

“Today, Don is 87, remains Chairman of Don-Bur and comes into work every day without fail. His dedication and dogged determination have transformed a small, local bodybuilder to the successful multi-million-pound business it is today.

The Don-Bur group now turns over circa £50 million per annum and employs around 500 staff at six divisions throughout Stoke-on-Trent.”

For 35 years, the Motor Transport Awards, according to the event organisers, have been seen as a benchmark for excellence among UK road transport fleet operators, vehicle manufacturers and other innovators.

CANADA Canadian OEM, Manac, has been chosen by General Dynamics Land Systems – Canada to design and built a light capability trailer and the heavy equipment transporter.

This project is part of General Dynamics’ bid for Canada’s Logistics 20 / G L O B A L TR A I L E R / I SS U E 6 1

Vehicle Modernization (LVM) program.

Manac has five manufacturing plants, one in Oran, Missouri, another one in British Columbia, and three in the province of Quebec.

A program of this magnitude, according to Manac, requires an organisation and partners with the depth and experience to manage the technical scope and complexity.

The LVM light capability trailers will be designed and produced at Manac’s main plant and head office in SaintGeorges, Quebec. The design and production of the heavy equipment transporters will be performed by a Manac-partner organisation.

“We are very excited about this partnership and truly feel we have a winning combination to support General Dynamics Land SystemsCanada in their bid for Canada’s Logistics Vehicle Modernization (LVM) project,” said Manac Vice-President Sales & Marketing, Tom Ramsden.

“We are bringing the best trailer minds and capabilities together, utilising the expertise and diversity of each to maximise the potential for success in this very exciting opportunity.”

Manac, a privately owned Canadian company, was founded in 1966 by Marcel Dutil in Saint-Georges, Quebec, and is currently being led by his son, Charles Dutil, who is the long time President and CEO of the company.

US After 32 years with the business, Hendrickson President and CEO, Gary Gerstenslager, aims to retire at the end of 2021.

Gerstenslager joined Hendrickson in 1989, and his passion, technical knowledge, and drive for excellence lead to a transformation in product design and manufacturing which

permeates all of Hendrickson today.

“Gerstenslager became President in 2006, and in 2007, became the first CEO, in addition to President, in Hendrickson’s history,” said Matthew Boler, Chairman, President and CEO of The Boler Company, parent company of Hendrickson.

“Gary embraced this role and over his 15 years as President turned Hendrickson from an important supplier within the NAFTA commercial vehicle into a leading global supplier.

“Hendrickson is committed to a seamless leadership transition, and we are pleased to announce Matt Joy will assume Gary’s responsibilities and be promoted as the fifth President and second CEO in Hendrickson’s history, effective January 1, 2022.”

Joy joined Hendrickson in 2006 and has been instrumental in the ongoing transition of the company, eventually moving through several successive roles as Vice President/General Manager of the Specialty Products Group, Vice President/General Manager of the Truck Division, and, since January 2020 as the Chief Operating Officer for Hendrickson.

US Equipment specialist, SAF-Holland, has tasked a new member of the team with heading up customer engagement, product distribution and supply chain management in the Americas.

Matthew Wolfe has accepted the role of Vice President & General Manager, Aftermarket – Americas at SAF-Holland.

He reports to SAF-Holland President – Americas, Kent Jones.

“We are excited about Matt joining SAF-Holland,” said Jones. “His vast experience will allow him to focus on our Aftermarket revenue growth, profitability, and market penetration

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Through his leadership, Wolfe will strengthen the company’s aftersales support activities to end-users and sharpen procedures and practices that will enhance the company’s strong customer relationships.

SAF-Holland Vice President & General Manager, Aftermarket, Matthew Wolfe.

He will reportedly place a high priority on the gathering and evaluation of market data analytics to directly assist product planning and create accurate demand forecasting. In addition, he will be responsible for sourcing Aftermarket products and non-competing complimentary third-party products.

Wolfe brings 23 years of experience in automotive and manufacturing with 15 years in the commercial vehicle industry.

Through his career with Meritor, Wolfe held numerous senior P&L level positions including VP Aftermarket Europe, Middle East and Africa, VP Asia Pacific, and VP Industrial Business.

His experience includes extensive international leadership and P&L responsibilities including in managing director roles in Australia and Wales as well as senior roles in Finance.

Prior to joining Meritor, Wolfe worked for DaimlerChrysler and Stealth Engineering & Technologies in addition to serving in the Military Intelligence Battalion for the US Army. He has a bachelor’s in finance and Master of Business Administration from Michigan State University’s Eli Broad School of Management.

BRAZIL The executive has assumed the entire commercial operation of the company for Brazil, some strategic markets in Latin America and exports to East Africa.

22 / G L O B A L TR A I L E R / I SS U E 6 1

SAF-Holland Americas deploys distinguished executive.

Graduated in Mechanical Engineering from the Federal University of Santa Catarina and Master’s in Industrial Economics and International Management in Nancy, France, Campos has a trajectory of nearly 15 years in the automotive and agricultural machinery sectors.

He has previously assumed various positions in the commercial and product marketing departments at CNH Industrial, being responsible for the Case IH brand, with experience in Brazil and other countries in Latin America.

For Campos, taking on the commercial directorship, working with sales and marketing at Librelato, is a great honour and a huge challenge.

“I am very excited to lead Librelato’s commercial team,” he said. “I will use my market experience to further enhance the brand’s presence in the country and abroad. I hope to meet the expectations

of the company, representatives and customers, generating value for everyone involved.”

BRAZIL Randon Companies has announced a new company is being structured for the research, production and application of nanotechnology.

Randon has discovered a new method for obtaining nioubium nanoparticles on a large scale.

This innovation, according to Randon, is unprecedented in the world market and comes with the purpose of generating new opportunities for different sectors of the manufacturing industry.

From a scientific study conducted by the Randon Technological Center – CTR and the Hercílio Randon Institute – IHR, the process of obtaining the nanoparticle proved possible for being applied. The solution enhances the

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NEWS INTERNATIONAL SOUTH AMERICA characteristics of other materials, conferring greater durability, mechanical strength and significantly altering their physical-chemical properties. In addition, it uses environmentally friendly methods, contributing to a sustainable process.

“After the completion of intense technical studies and experiments, the applicability of this innovation is now known by the market,” said Sérgio L. Carvalho, Randon Companies Executive Vice President and COO and Fras-le CEO. “It is a national technology, with a patent requested by Fras-le and with potential for application on a global scale.”

To expand research and expand the applications of this new technology, a new unit will be set up by Randon Companies, with structure, teams and proprietary resources. Initially, the application is planned to be used in the automotive industry, but can also be extended to other industrial segments.

“We are proud and pleased with the work conducted in an unprecedented way by our teams,” said Randon Companies CEO, Daniel Randon.

“This innovation proves the importance of continuing investing in research and development, a move we are doing strategically in Randon Companies.

In addition, the solution is aligned with our focus on ESG and our concern to conduct business in a sustainable way.

We are celebrating a new phase for the national and international industry.”

In related news, Fras-le is introducing a new product line in composite materials with items up to 65 per cent lighter Fras-le Smart Composites will work with composite materials for the production of auto parts. The use of this technology appears as an alternative to items originally made of steel and will result in better performance. The design is innovative and weight reduction of up to 24 / G L O B A L TR A I L E R / I SS U E 6 1

65 per cent, reduces fuel consumption and consequently reduces pollutant emissions.

Fras-le Smart Composites will be one of the first creators of the part production in structural composite materials in the Brazilian road market. In the first project, the unit will conduct the manufacture of mud flaps to support semi-trailers.

“With this movement, the company follows the direction of technological megatrends in the mobility sector and aligns its portfolio to the public sustainability commitments signed with a focus on ESG,” said Carvalho.

The anticipation is that, by October, 40 per cent of the semi-trailers produced

by Randon Implementos will leave the factory equipped with Fras-le’s new line. Semi-rods made of composite material are classified in both heavy and light duty versions and have weight reductions between 60 per cent and 65 per cent, compared to the original steel parts. In addition to weight reduction, the new components have undergone rigorous durability tests, and have superior performance versus steel, either statically or dynamically.

Through simplified drilling, semi-rods in composites facilitate the assembly process, do not require painting and do not suffer corrosive effects.

The goal is to market the product and technology with other partners in the automotive market.

“Once technically enabled, the design of new products reacts in the market, allowing a rapid expansion within the automotive industry,” said Fras-le General Director, Anderson Pontalti.

“The appeal in mass reduction, in a competitive and sustainable way, has been leveraging great market interest.

New developments are possible in relatively short periods, working with the Randon Technological Center (CTR) to

accelerate the validation process.”

Over the coming months, new production technologies in composite materials will continue expanding to new components and markets.

The qualification of this new manufacturing technology with the use of composite materials began in 2018, through the innovation of products and research developments at the Hercílio Randon Institute (IHR), with the support of the Randon Technological Center (CTR). The plan took over three years and in the first few months of 2021, it began the structure of the industrial part.

The Fras-le Smart Composites product line is established within the Fras-le industrial complex in Caxias do Sul, south of Brazil.

CHILE Kuehne + Nagel is to organise the offshore project logistics for the powerto-methanol part of the pilot phase of the Haru Oni project in Chile for Siemens Energy.

The project is a collaboration between Siemens Energy (Germany), Porsche (Germany) and Highly Innovate Fuels or HIF (Chile). It will be the world’s first integrated commercial plant for producing climate-neutral fuel from wind and water with the purpose of decarbonising the transport sector.

During the pilot phase, the Haru Oni project aims to produce 130,000 litres of e-fuels by 2022. In two proceeding phases, the capacity is planned to be increased to around 55 million litres of e-fuels per year by 2024 and to around 550 million litres of e-fuels by 2026. The project was launched on 10 September 2021 with a ground breaking ceremony joined by the Chilean Energy Minister.

By the end of this year, the main wind turbine components – a nacelle, blades and tower sections – are to

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NEWS INTERNATIONAL SOUTH AMERICA/ MIDDLE EAST be transported from multiple ports in China and delivered in one lot as part charter to Punta Arenas, Chile. In addition, there will be various container and flat-rack transports from Europe.

The longest components are the three blades just over 65m in the length and the heaviest part is the nacelle at nearly 77 tonnes.

“Renewable energy will no longer be produced only where it is needed, but where natural resources like wind and sun are available on a massive scale,” said Torsten Dubsky, Project Director for Haru Oni at Siemens Energy.

“So new supply chains are going to arise all over the world to carry renewable energy from one region to another. To guarantee these infrastructures, experienced project logistics support is needed and we are excited that Kuehne + Nagel is partnering with us for the Haru Oni Pilot Project.”

Mustafa Sener, Global Head of Project Logistics at Kuehne + Nagel, said: “As an industry leader, we are not only committed to reducing our contribution to global CO2 emissions through our Net Zero Carbon program. We also want to actively reduce CO2 emissions in transport. As such, Kuehne + Nagel is particularly proud to be a partner in one of the most prestigious projects in pursuit of meeting the EU 2030 climate targets.”

The sports car manufacturer Porsche initiated the demonstration project and will be using the eFuels in its own combustion engine vehicles.

Michael Steiner, Member of the Executive Board for Research and Development at Porsche AG, said: “Porsche was founded with pioneering spirit. That’s what drives us, we thrive on innovation. We also see ourselves as pioneers when it comes to renewable 26 / G L O B A L TR A I L E R / I SS U E 6 1

fuels, and we want to drive development forward. This fits in with our clear overall sustainability strategy. It means that Porsche as a whole will have a CO2 neutral balance sheet as e arly as 2030. Fuels produced with renewable energy can make a contribution to this. Our icon, the 911, is particularly suitable for the use of eFuels. But so are our much-loved historic vehicles, because around 70 percent of all Porsches ever built are still on the road today. Our tests with renewable fuels are going very successfully. eFuels will make it possible to reduce fossil CO2 emissions in combustion engines by up to 90 percent. Among other things, we’ll be using the first fuel from Chile in our Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup race cars from 2022.”

Chile has set itself ambitious targets as part of its National Green Hydrogen Strategy. It plans an electrolyser capacity of 5 gigawatts (GW) by 2025, rising to 25 GW by 2030. The aim is to produce the world’s cheapest hydrogen and develop the country into a leading exporter of green hydrogen and its derivatives.

The Haru Oni project takes advantage of the perfect climatic conditions for wind energy in Magallanes province in southern Chile to produce the CO2-neutral fuel using low-cost green wind power. In the first step, electrolysers split water into oxygen and green hydrogen using wind power.

CO2 is then filtered from the air and combined with the green hydrogen to produce synthetic methanol, which in turn is converted into eFuel.

The pilot plant is scheduled to start production in mid-2022. In addition to Siemens Energy, Porsche and HIF, Enel, ExxonMobil, Gasco and ENAP are participating in the Haru Oni project.

KUWAIT Agility’s digital logistics and e-commerce arm, Shipa, has opened a new facility in Kuwait to capatalise on online sales growth.

Strategically located in Sulaibiya, near the country’s major transportation links, the facility contains 12,000 pallet positions and 30,000 bin locations.

It leverages the operational expertise of Agility, a leading global logistics provider, and the integration technology of Shipa’s last-mile delivery network, serving GCC markets.

“The GCC e-commerce market is likely to double to $50 billion by 2025, according to AT Kearney, and a strong logistics backbone is going to be essential to realising that growth,” said Agility Chairperson, Henadi Al-Saleh.

“Agility is investing in ecommerce enablement and infrastructure across the region, and is excited about Shipa’s new e-fulfilment centres in Kuwait and the UAE. “The e-commerce ecosystem in Kuwait is getting stronger every day. Like all countries, it got a boost from the pandemic, but we’ve also seen strong support from the public sector and increased interest and investments from companies locally, regionally, and globally. We are determined to help these businesses – including local small and medium-sized businesses – accelerate their growth.”

The Shipa facility offers non-bonded, racked and bulk storage, inbound air and ocean stock replenishment, pick-and-pack services, customer technology integration and APIs, local and international returns services, and integration with cross-border and last-mile transportation. The facility also has temperature-controlled storage, including dry and refrigerated storage.

Shipa adheres to rigorous Quality

NEWS

MIDDLE EAST warehousing, customs brokerage, express bonded road services, and delivery options that include COD, prepaid and payment-at-door.

In addition to the new centre in Kuwait, Shipa has launched fulfilment centres and added services in Dubai to meet the surge in demand brought about by the dramatic acceleration in e-commerce and online transactions.

KUWAIT Supply chain service provider, Agility, has announced that Aramex has selected the Agility Logistics Park (ALP) in Sulaibiya as the location for its new 16,000-square-metre e-fulfilment centre

in Kuwait.

The opening of the new Aramex warehouse was attended by H.E. Dr. Matar Al-Neaydi, UAE Ambassador in Kuwait, Eng. Nader Sakeen, CEO of ALP Kuwait and GCC, Mr. Fadi Kikoloff, General Manager of Aramex Kuwait along with senior executives from both companies.

Aramex’s new facility will be housed in Agility’s recently completed multicustomer logistics warehouse, which was developed by ALP. The facility is the largest logistics warehouse in Kuwait, and was built to meet customer requirements. The warehouse complex provides Aramex Kuwait with the

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Health Safety, Security and Environment (QHSSE) standards.

“E-commerce growth in Kuwait will be boosted by the right infrastructure and technology, including dedicated warehousing, fulfilment space and capacity,” said Shipa Delivery CEO, Borhene Ben Mena.

“This new e-fulfilment centre will allow different industry players, including smaller and medium-sized businesses, to expand their online business in Kuwait and across the region.”

Shipa’s value-added services include e-fulfilment solutions scalable for all GCC markets, including access to more than 1.2 million SQM of GCC

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NEWS INTERNATIONAL MIDDLE EAST/ OCEANIA EUROPE necessary infrastructure and services needed to meet its customers’ needs across the country and the GCC. The new state-of-the-art Aramex facility will help the Company expand and grow its e-commerce fulfillment business, which involves movement of different types of consumer goods and products. Using the latest equipment and technology, the logistics warehouse will operate the latest version of INFOR WMS 10.4, RFID tags and gateways, automated conveyor belts and sorting machines, all of which are geared towards faster and more efficient operations.

Nader Sakeen, CEO of ALP Kuwait and GCC, said: “We are pleased to welcome Aramex Kuwait at their new facility at the Agility Logistics Park in Sulaibiya. The built-to-suit warehouse was tailored to customers’ requirements and is move-in ready, enabling fast deployment, flexibility and reduced capital commitments. At ALP, we know how to deliver large-scale projects that accelerate growth and enhance operational efficiency for companies operating in Kuwait and in the region.”

Fadi Kikoloff, General Manager of Aramex Kuwait, said: “We are pleased to expand our fulfillment infrastructure to deliver our customers in Kuwait and the wider region the speed and reliability they deserve. This new facility is an important investment that will help support the rapid growth of our logistics business. The facility’s cutting-edge technology strengthens our position by ensuring higher capacity, faster sortation process and reduced transit times. We believe this will allow us to fulfil growing customer demands for more reliable services.”

The secure ALP in Sulaibiya features ready-built warehouses; built-to-suit warehouses; shared facilities; and 28 / G L O B A L TR A I L E R / I SS U E 6 1

open storage, laydown, and truck- and car-staging yards. The logistics park also offers ambient and air-conditioned warehousing; freezers and chillers; asphalted container-storage yards; and racked warehousing. In addition, Agility’s warehouses meet international environmental standards and feature eco-friendly construction materials, using energy-efficient roof and side-insulated panels, wind-driven roof fans, skylights for natural lighting, along with LED and energy-saving light fittings.

Sakeen said: “Agility Logistics Parks is a world leader in the design and construction of logistics parks and warehousing solutions. Our logistics warehouses provide the essential infrastructure required for both multinational companies and local businesses in the storage, distribution, packaging, processing and light manufacturing sectors.”

The secure ALP in Sulaibiya features ready-built warehouses; built-to-suit warehouses; shared facilities; and open storage, laydown, and truck- and car-staging yards. The logistics park also offers ambient and air-conditioned warehousing; freezers and chillers; asphalted container-storage yards; and racked warehousing.

AUSTRALIA Transport and logistics company, Toll Group, has successfully divested its global express business unit.

“Toll is a simpler, more focused business with enormous size, scale and capabilities,” Toll said in a statement about beginning a new chapter in the company’s long and proud history.

“We’re well placed and ready to accelerate on our Asia Pacific growth ambitions and deliver on our purpose to move the businesses that move the world.”

The sale was first announced in April and is the culmination of months of work according Allgro – a key component of the transaction was the $500 million funding package Allegro secured to transform the business and separate it from Toll Holdings.

Toll Global Express is a diversified transportation and logistics business with an unparalleled network across Australia and New Zealand. The company has a suite of high quality assets and is either number one or two in its core markets, which includes express parcel, freight delivery and domestic forwarding services in Australia, and transport and contract logistics services in New Zealand.

The company serves more than 36,000 customers, employs over 8000 people and generates more than $3 billion AUD in annual revenue.

The surge in online transactions since the emergence of Covid-19, Allegro said, points to the potential of Toll Global Express.

“The continued growth in online commerce relies on resilient logistics networks for delivery and fulfilment,” said Allegro.

“Toll Global Express has a critical role to play as an ecommerce enabler and through our transformation strategy we will ensure the business is positioned to capture this opportunity.”

Allegro has appointed Christine Holgate as Group CEO. She is expected to lead the transformation of the business and has committed to a 100-day program of meetings with customers, business partners and employees.

Allegro co-founder and Managing Director, Adrian Loader, has been appointed Chair of Toll Global Express.

“Finally, we are very excited to formally take ownership of Toll Global Express and we look forward to its successful

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NEWS INTERNATIONAL OCEANIA transformation under Christine’s leadership,” said Allegro.

NEW ZEALAND A new leader has emerged to guide the New Zealand arm of Linfox’s transport operations.

Vaughan Grant has been named Linfox Logistics New Zealand Country Manager and will also be responsible for warehousing, retail, forestry, resources and industrial industries.

Grant has strong experience in the retail, distribution and manufacturing industries and has led significant operations for Woolworths (Countdown) in Australia and New Zealand during his 11-year tenure and spent four years as General Manager Supply Chain at Foodstuffs in New Zealand among other roles with major NZ corporations.

Most recently, Vaughan was Chief Operations Officer (COO) at T&G Fresh in New Zealand.

“We extend a warm welcome to Vaughan as he joins our New Zealand team,” said Linfox Logistics Australia and New Zealand CEO, Mark Mazurek.

“Vaughan joins the business as we prepare for a big peak period and some exciting new contract startups. He brings extensive industry experience and great customer insights to this role and I am confident that, guided by Linfox’s Leading the Way 2025 business strategy, Vaughan will lead the New Zealand team to achieve our vision to be the region’s most trusted transport partner.”

Grant said: “In my first week with the business, I can see that every decision and every action is underpinned by a genuine commitment to safety. I’m delighted to join the Linfox Group and look forward 3 0 / G L O B A L TR A I L E R / I SS U E 6 1

to working with the New Zealand team to deliver safely and efficiently for our customers.”

NEW ZEALAND Contract logistics solutions provider, DHL Supply Chain, has opened new sites in New Zealand to bolster supply chain resilience.

The new facilities in Auckland and Christchurch offer a combined floor space of 12,500 square metres and will serve the consumer (electronics and retail goods) and healthcare sectors (pharmaceuticals and medical devices) respectively.

The investment in these new facilities adds to DHL’s existing New Zealand footprint of 120,000 square metres and will help DHL Supply Chain service the evolving needs of existing customers, while supporting the logistics leader’s ambitious growth plans for the New Zealand market.

“Over the past 12 months we have seen heightened pressures on global supply chains and an increased appetite for more robust local distribution capabilities.” said DHL Supply Chain New Zealand Managing Director, Matt Casbolt.

“This investment will empower New Zealand businesses and organisations with more resilient supply chain capabilities to support their respective growth plans and business models.”

The Auckland facility extends DHL Supply Chain’s market-leading capacity for consumer products, servicing the Retail, Consumer Electronics and Consumer Personal Care sectors.

This additional capacity will enable customers to adapt inventory planning strategies as market conditions shift, hold more safety stock, and reduce the impact on their supply chains caused by supply and port

DHL launches warehouses in NZ.

disruptions. The facility is certified to store both food and pharmaceutical products and holds the latest licences for ISOs 9001:2015, 14001:2015, 45001:2018. The Christchurch facility creates capacity for the distribution of critically important healthcare products to the South Island. DHL’s industry leading cold-chain operations will ensure pharmaceutical products can be stored at their ideal temperature range of between 2.0 and 8.0 degrees Celsius, while specialised freezers will keep more sensitive products at ultra-cold temperatures. The facility is located within close proximity to Christchurch International Airport, as well as major arterial routes and forwarding hubs.

In addition to reducing lead times for vital healthcare products, the Christchurch facility will ensure these products can be delivered.

“Healthcare is one of the most important industries, so ensuring we have the right infrastructure and capability on-shore was a priority,” said Casbolt. “This investment helps us manage the short-term surge in demand for pharmaceuticals, but it also ensures New Zealand has a robust healthcare supply chain to meet future demand as the market grows.”

NEWS

OCEANIA AUSTRALIA Vawdrey Australia has produced another bespoke curtain-sided trailer custombuilt for Lilydale Instant Lawn’s turf delivery operation.

Unlike traditional curtains that slide open on horizontally mounted tracks, the Lilydale Instant Lawn (LIL) unit has fully automated curtains that roll up from the bottom to the top at the press of a button, rendering either side of the trailer completely open to unload the entire row of pallets, if required.

LIL General Manager, Steve Cole, said he believed the company was the first in Australia to use a semitrailer fitted with this system, which is

manufactured in Canada.

“It’s called a Poyntz Covered Wagon and is imported in a kit form which includes everything above the deck of the trailer apart from the curtains, which are manufactured by Attards in Dandenong South,” said Cole.

“We buy the kit through an Australian distributor called Sammut Agricultural Machinery based at Freemans Reach in northwest Sydney and Vawdrey supplies the flat-top trailer and fits the Poyntz Covered Wagon components and Attards curtains to it.”

Cole explained that the first unit was fitted to a second-hand flat-bed trailer that formerly had tarps covering the load

and that the significant time savings and added safety of the Poyntz system was immediately apparent.

“We fitted up this unit in 2008 and then in 2009 we commissioned Vawdrey to build three tandem-axle semis for us,” said Cole.

“The recent Vawdrey builds for LIL are tri-axle semi-trailers with a lift axle at the front, which is the culmination of a refinement process over the last 12 years.”

To comply with load restraint laws, Cole said every pallet on the trailer is strapped and to facilitate this there are unique coaming rails with integrated hook eyes located at regular intervals.

AMBITION & PASSION AN ENTREPRENEUR’S OBSESSION WITH PAYLOAD OPTIMISATION TO SMASH RIVALS IN THE MARBLE FREIGHT TASK WAS KEY TO THE FOUNDING OF BERGER. THE SPECIALIST TRAILER BUILDER IN AUSTRIA HAS COMMITTED TO ITS BRAND PROMISE OF DEVELOPING AND DELIVERING ROBUST, LIGHTWEIGHT TRAILING EQUIPMENT.

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COVER STORY

J

ohann Berger, during the 1960s, drove Italian marble across the Alps and one thought never left him ‘with a lighter semi-trailer, delivery volume could be increased’. He identified opportunities in the Tyrol region – between northern Italy western Austria – to design lighter tare weight semi-trailers that could transport more marble than the competition.

This entrepreneurial spirit led to the establishment of Berger Fahrzeugtechnik in 1994. The OEM nearly perished in 20082009 due to the global financial crisis however company shareholders agreed to pursue a bold strategy to develop an innovative product, the BERGERecotrail lightweight semi-trailer.

The first BERGERecotrail trailer, with a dead weight of 4.7 tonnes, rolled out of the company’s Radfeld facility in 2010.

By 2016, the OEM produced more than 1,000 BERGERecotrail units which prompted the business to upgrade its production capacities with a new facility which commenced construction in 2017

 “OUR ECOCHAMP IS 4.7 TONNES AND CAN CARRY MORE THAN 34 TONNES THEORE TICAL PAYLOAD,” HE SAID. “IT IS THE LIGHTEST SERIAL SEMI-TR AILER ON THE MARKE T, AND IT CAN BE USED TODAY BY EVERYONE, NOT JUST SPECIALISTS” Bastian Litterscheid, BERGER Managing Director

FAST FACT BERGERecotrail operates a manufacturing facility in Tirol, Austria. This factory was built in 2019 and is among the most modern trailer factories in Europe. Annual trailer production is estimated to be around 1,300 – these units are sold by sales teams working in 18 countries throughout Europe.

and was completed by February 2019.

This state-of-the-art facility, according to the OEM, is designed for optimal production. Hall cranes were installed in such a way that every point on the production line can be reached. The internally developed longitudinal beam welding robot also enable the highest standard of exact processing and thus achieves class B in welding quality. Due to a geothermal building complex, optimal and constant climatic conditions prevail and counteract the warping of the steel parts. Remaining deviations in the chassis are corrected within a few millimetres using induction heating. The perfect surface treatment of the chassis is guaranteed by the automatic sandblasting system with 16 spray wheels and an optimised painting process.

Today, there are about 100 employees across the business, 30 in commercial

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and 70 in production.

Bastian Litterscheid studied International Economics in Insbruck (Magister), starting 2008 working five years for Swarovski Hong Kong, last as a Senior Strategic Channel Manager.

Coming back to Europe in 2014, he joined BERGER as Head of Project and Process Management and rose to the position of Managing Director in 2015, being responsible for designing the base for the successful growth process, as well planning and building the new production site to manage a capacity of 3,000 trailers.

He says payload optimised trailers are the future for every transport company – and that future is now.

“Lighter-weight trailers that reduce fuel costs and carbon dioxide emissions, while also allowing for more goods to be transported per trip is what we strive to deliver with our products,” said Litterscheid.

“An investment of 20-30 per cent higher than a standard trailer pays itself back within one to three years of operation, depending

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on how a customer uses their equipment.”

Every potential customer, according to Litterscheid, can test BERGER trailers for free. “We have manufactured original of payload optimised semitrailers that are robust and of high quality, for more than 25 years. Our technology in semi-trailer construction and welding is also highly regarded.

Our light trailers are not unstable, they are built for high payloads with high quality components like S700 Steel further bolstered by quality workmanship.

COVER STORY

And they are also built for long life cycles to be driven for millions of kilometres.”

BERGER trailers are frequently used by fleets to reduce fuel costs and to minimise their carbon footprint. Transport businesses also explore new business models by driving higher payloads with more pallets and heavier goods with BERGER equipment.

For 2021 and beyond, BERGER’s business priorities include: managing high market demand in the face of uncertain supply chains; strategic growth in select focus markets across Europe; integrating new sales staff, dealers and partners; and following a sustainability strategy for a transparent carbon footprint analysis.

As for innovation, the ecoTEAM with access to a modern trailer building facility is poised to demonstrate its concepts to large audience. The time is right, according to Litterscheid, as the market is turning to weight optimised trailers to reduce fuel and carbon dioxide emissions as well as provide safe payloads with heavier trucks.

“Our ecoCHAMP is 4.7 tonnes and can carry more than 34 tonnes theoretical payload,” he said. “It is the lightest serial semi-trailer on the market, and it can be used today by everyone, not just specialists.

The ecoCHAMP for the beverage industry with a special certificate is a product we are

pushing a lot, too. More payload means more pallets with drinks. That brings a direct benefit for the transporter and the forwarder. And our ecoCOIL can take for example 29 tonnes on 2.0 metre point load – that’s unique and brings a competitive advantage.”

BERGER is experiencing growth in every market segment since it embarked on its ‘communication offensive’ following the launch of its higher-capacity facility.

“Our customers can experience the strong and direct benefits of payload optimised transport good with our ecoCHAMP and ecoCOIL, but also the demand of ecoMEGA is raising. So, it´s hard to pick one out,” said Litterscheid.

“In general, the market for weight optimised trailers is booming because it´s the only chance to save payload when the trucks are getting heavier because of new engines for alternative power units.” berger-ecotrail.com

TH E RADFE LD FORWARDI NG COM PANY LKW STARK STAN DS FOR I N NOVATION AN D RE LIABI LITY Always on the cutting edge of technology, the forwarding company relies on proven relationships, such as the one with BERGERecotrail. The two companies have not only had a neighbourly relationship for decades, but also, with over 200 payload-optimised BERGERecotrail semi-trailers, LKW STARK has successfully supplied customers throughout Europe over the years.

For heavy goods, the semi-trailer should be as light as possible. That is why LKW STARK also uses vehicles from BERGERecotrail, because economy and ecology ideally meet in the innovative semi-trailer. With a dead weight of 4.7 tonnes, up to 2,500 kilograms more goods can be transported than with conventional vehicles. This not only reduces fuel consumption by up to 1.5 litres per 100 kilometres, but also increases the payload. The long-lived vehicles are often on the road in Europe for over ten years. We are therefore entering the new year with full strength and confidence. To this end, the forwarding company has expanded its own fleet with 20 Berger trailers.

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SINGAPORE

SLING

FROM ITS COLONIAL FOUNDATIONS AS A PORT CITY IN 1819, SINGAPORE HAS SINCE ACCOMPLISHED MANY ECONOMIC ACHIEVEMENTS THAT SEES THE CITY-STATE STAND OUT AS A VITAL HUB FOR GLOBAL TRANSPORT AND LOGISTICS.

S

ingapore, according to DHL, handled 36.9 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) of containers in 2020, little changed from the 37.2 million TEUs in 2019. It also retained its position as the world’s largest bunkering port in 2020, recording marine fuel sales of almost 49.8 million metric tons.

Amid a global pandemic that has severely disrupted supply chains, Singapore’s strong maritime performance was a clear indication of how it has strengthened its status as a global logistics hub.

The country ranked second out of 169 countries in DHL’s Global Connectedness Index 2020, which measures the development of trade, capital, information, and people flows at the global, regional, and national levels.

“Singapore’s leadership recognised the importance of trade to our economy very early on,” said DHL Express Singapore Managing Director, Christopher Ong. “As we grew as a country, and we saw globalisation taking root, there was a huge focus in ensuring that there was a free flow of goods and services, which has empowered our success as a logistics hub.”

World class infrastructure has played a role in Singapore’s success, particularly as

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it is reported to be home to the world’s busiest trans-shipment seaport and one of Asia’s largest cargo airports, Changi. These hubs enable global trade and remain as important as ever amid the ongoing impact of Covid-19.

DHL said there are plans to double the annual cargo handling capacity at Changi Airport from 3.0 million to 5.4 million tonnes. It houses the 26-hectare Airport Logistics Park of Singapore, the country’s first logistics park with Free Trade Zone status when it opened in 2003.

Beyond being recognised for its first-rate infrastructure and connectivity, it is also known for its capabilities in handling timesensitive cargo and cold-chain perishables.

In line with this, Singapore’s reputation as

MARKET REPORT

Logistical planning was crucial for the first wave of Covid-19 vaccines to reach Asia.

a cold-chain logistics expert paves the way for its ambitions to become a hub for vaccine transport.

Located at the crossroads of major shipping routes, Singapore’s seaport will also continue to facilitate trade connectivity by sea. The upcoming Tuas mega port will further enhance Singapore’s capability to serve as a trans-shipment hub for the world’s trade flows.

With no natural resources, Singapore has always leveraged technology to stay ahead in terms of transport and logistics.

The Tuas mega port for example — slated to be fully operational by 2040 — will be able to process 65 million TEUs as the world’s largest fully automated terminal.

The smart port will harness advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and the Internet of Things (IoT) to deliver green and sustainable solutions. These include driverless automated guided vehicles, smart sensors to detect shipping anomalies such as piracy, and data analytics to predict traffic congestion spots.

Earlier this year, the Singapore Government also announced a S$15 billion (€9.35 billion) framework to attract tech-driven investments into the marine freight business. These include funding for start-ups in areas like environmental sustainability, data processing and cybersecurity.

The use of technology drills down to even small details that can make a big difference. Last year, DHL Express Singapore launched its WhatsApp Digital Assistant to address customers’ international shipping queries instantly, allowing them to receive curated shipping information and track their shipments on the go.

Several other digital transformation projects were also implemented before the pandemic hit.

“We introduced Robotic Process Automation (RPA) to deliver better customer service by reducing waiting times,” said Ong. “Our customers can also arrange contactless deliveries at their convenience via our On-Demand Delivery platform that is accessible anytime, anywhere.”

Having a strong network of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) has also boosted

Free trade agreements, global connectivity and technology has strengthened Singapore’s logistics capabilities.

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Singapore’s draw for some of the world’s leading companies and start-ups hoping to base their operations in the region.

Singapore has Asia’s most extensive network of Free Trade Areas, covering 60 per cent of the world’s gross domestic product. The country’s 13 bilateral and 11 regional FTAs include some of the largest combined trade agreements — as part of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) — in the ASEAN-China, ASEAN-India, and ASEAN-Hong Kong trade blocs.

In April 2021, Singapore also became the first participating country to ratify the 15-member Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), which accounts for 30 per cent of the global economy.

“Singapore’s pursuit of free trade agreements — both bilateral as well as multilateral agreements — ensures that Singapore sits in the middle of the free flow of movement of goods through key partners around the region and beyond,” said Ong. This provides Singapore-based businesses with access to preferential markets, free or reduced import tariffs, and enhanced intellectual property regulations.

Having excellent infrastructure and connectivity has helped Singapore achieve world-class logistics standards.

The logistics sector remains a key pillar of the country’s economy, contributing almost S$6.8 billion (€4.2 billion) or 1.4 percent of Singapore’s GDP in 2019.

Having keen foresight, according to Ong, has been the key differentiator for Singapore.

“In Singapore, the government thinks in terms of generations rather than just five to 10 years,” he said. “As a result, the investment in infrastructure in Singapore has been significant — whether it is the seaport or the airport.”

Ong cited the next-generation Port at Tuas, which is set be a game-changer in port and supply chain operations. This is in light of the state-of-the-art technology that will come into play, such as autonomous truck platooning and next-generation gate systems that will ease traffic and increase port efficiency.

While the Covid-19 pandemic has been a litmus test for the local logistics sector, Ong claims Singapore has stepped up boldly to the challenge, with an eye on the future.

“Singapore needs to continue to invest in air connectivity for freighters to ensure we maintain our position as one of the most connected countries in the world,” he said. “What this pandemic has shown is that investing in the physical networks is as important as investing in the digital networks to grow logistics.”

Meanwhile, transport and logistics company, CEVA Logistics, has opened a new site in Singapore as part of its global healthcare solution.

CEVA’s latest cold station lies within the Free Trade Zone of the Airport Logistics Park of Singapore, facilitating seamless regional distribution in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region and providing in-transit storage, value-add services and quick turnaround times for connecting to global markets.

CEVA’s growing network of cold stations is in direct service of its Temperature Sensitive Solution, a pharmaceutical logistics offering ensuring that temperaturesensitive shipments across ambient and chilled conditions are maintained in their optimal environments throughout shipment.

The CEVA Logistics temperature-controlled solution required capital investment in specialised airfreight facilities around the world, and with the support of its parent company, the CMA CGM Group, a world leader in shipping and logistics, CEVA remains committed to operating a network of more than 40 such airfreight stations by the end of 2021. Additional stations in Atlanta,

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CEVA Logistics has also invested in its Covid-19 supply chain.

Chicago, Frankfurt, Madrid, Budapest and Mumbai are scheduled to open in the coming months. In all, the stations will allow CEVA to not only service major healthcare gateways in regional markets, like Asia Pacific, but also to supply more than 1,450 healthcare trade lanes globally.

To meet the demands of healthcare and pharmaceutical customers, the new station is composed of two distinct areas dedicated to temperature management of shipments within the ranges of 15 to 25 degrees Celsius and 2 to 8 degrees Celsius. CEVA will continue to focus on the spectrum of products requiring a range of 2 to 8 degrees Celsius, including certain Covid-19 vaccines, although the company provides solutions for other products, including vaccines requiring lower temperatures throughout transport.

“As CEVA’s first airfreight cold chain facility in Singapore, this is a timely investment for healthcare logistics,” said CEA Logistics Managing Director – Southeast Asia and Pacific, Elaine Low. “This air hub is now capable of supporting the regional distribution of vaccines and other pharmaceutical supplies that are critically needed in Southeast Asia at the moment. In addition, our healthcare customers will benefit from the range of value-added services, such as dry ice, relabelling and cross-stocking within the free trade zone.” www.globaltrailermag.com

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Brand new Aluminium doors Resistant up to

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SAF-HOLLAND DUBAI SUPPORTS THE

MIDDLE EAST & AFRICA DUBAI IS A STRATEGIC SALES POINT FOR SAF-HOLLAND ACCORDING TO MANAGING DIRECTOR, JEAN KHOURY. HE HAS BEEN WITH THE BUSINESS SINCE 1987 – POSTED IN DUBAI SINCE 2017 – AND IS ADAMANT THAT DEPENDING ON POLITICAL FRAMEWORK CONDITIONS, THE ARAB ECONOMIC REGION OF THE GULF COOPERATION COUNCIL HAS GREAT GROWTH POTENTIAL.

P

rior to joining SAF-Holland, Jean Khoury has held various positions in technology, including 14 years as the head of a design department and two years as a service manager. Today he is Managing Director of SAF-Holland’s Dubai branch. The firm is also celebrating 10 years of operation.

“We started in Dubai in 2011 as a sales location and have developed further in the following years in the direction of service and technical advice,” he said.

“Due to market requirements, our concept has changed constantly over the past ten years. Our location with twelve employees in Dubai covers 8,000 square metres, of which 2,000 square metres are covered warehouse and 200 square metres is office.”

SAF-Holland Dubai has operations in the Middle East that support the Arab region as well as Africa.

“Our customers benefit from our proximity, short delivery times, fast spare parts supply and direct sales of our products and systems,” said Khoury.

“We also advise on vehicle safety and integrate new products, for example disc brake technology, despite the outdated road traffic approval specifications.

“From Dubai, we offer products tailored to the local market, for example the 20-tonne leaf suspension from YORK, swivel boogies YORK up to 40 tonnes, air suspensions INTRADISC, INTRADRUM as well as MODUL and fifth wheels from Holland and V.Orlandi. We also have couplings from V.orlandi, landing gears and spare parts from SAF-Holland as well as from our second brand Sauer Quality Parts in our range.”

Like its global counterparts, SAF-Holland Dubai is poised to support local industry.

“The difference is that we serve the vehicle builders and end customers locally with our own team,” said Khoury. “With our location in Dubai, we are closer to

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Jean Khoury is Managing Director of SAF-Holland in Dubai.

the customers and can offer a faster service in the area of aftermarket, workshop support and technical consultation.”

Although the licensing conditions and regulations in the United Arab Emirates presents SAF-Holland with some challenges, overall, Khoury and his team are very positive about the future.

“The fleets in the United Arab Emirates are often privately owned and conservatively managed,” he said. “This guarantees continuity in business relations and is a good basis for long-term cooperation and partnership.” www.safholland.com

Valk Welding Group Tel. +31 (0)78 69 170 11 info@valkwelding.com www.valkwelding.com

Watch our videos

Flexible automation of your welding production The engineering team at Valk Welding develops customized solu�ons according to specific requirements to achieve the highest produc�on efficiency. Both small and medium-sized companies throughout Europe use these solu�ons to improve both welding quality and flexibility. Valk Welding has also become one of the largest independent suppliers of welding consumables in Europe. For example, Valk Welding supplies over 600 tons of (solid) welding wire every month.

• • • • • • •

Complete welding robot systems from one supplier In-house so�ware for cost-effec�ve automa�on of small series including complete produc�on monitoring Welding consumables and wire guide systems Efficient offline programming especially for arc welding In-house camera technology with adap�ve welding Very high quality welding thanks to unique welding technology and high quality welding wires Full service from a to z

CARGOMATIC, T H E U LT I M A T E G R E E N LOG I STI C S S O LUTI O N AN ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLIER AND AUTONOMOUS 24VDC SOLUTION IS AVAILABLE FOR THE CARGOMATIC LOGISTICS TRANSPORT SYSTEM.

T

wo high power lightweight battery cells are mounted under the trailer, the battery driven CargoMatic has a range of 15 loading/unloading cycles and can recharge during the transport journey by the alternator of the truck. The driver has an app available that shows the load status and other functionalities in real time. There is also the possibility to set an alarm to warn the if the battery threatens to get too low a voltage.

In addition to autonomous unloading, the noise level is very low and unloading can also take place at night in residential areas.

The CargoMatic realises the JIT delivery of all energy cells for the Volkswagen ID3 and ID4 Volkswagen has opted for trailers with the CargoMatic chain drive system, complete with an integrated and fully automated load security system.

This guarantees and streamlines the supply chain of its energy cells for the VW ID3 and ID4 models. Without the intervention of a forklift truck, the energy cells are unloaded in the assembly factory and then transported into production fully automatically. Because the energy cells are placed on a special transport frame with an extreme heigh weight (up to 6,000kg per transport frame) the CargoMatic is designed with HD triplex transport chains running on a special extreme stable and strong aluminium chain support. For the total load only two tracks are needed, the result of the light own weight of the system is more payload.

Special design – heavy duty chain support for extremely heavy loads.

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Perfectly positioned and aligned, trailers are loaded within two minutes.

CargoMatic anti-slip slat

With the application of the patented antislip slat, the vehicle meets the applicable safety requirements and load securing.

As the applications are increasingly used more intensively, CargoMatic has developed a new anti-slip solution in which the anti-slip cord is provided with many resistance ribs and where the cord can be slid into the slat without having to be glued or fixed. This is especially ideal in case of a possible replacement of the cord. To be able to transport plastic pallets, IBS on steel frame or steel crates in a safe matter the anti-slip slat is an absolute must.

B U I LT T O T A S K

 “CARGOMATIC HAS DEVELOPED A NEW CONTROL MODULE, WHICH IS EQUIPPED WITH THE MOST MODERN CONTROL TECHNOLOGY AND IS EASY TO OPER ATE BY THE DRIVER OR OPER ATOR VIA A COLOUR DISPLAY.” CargoMatic 2.0

CargoMatic has developed a new control module, which is equipped with the most modern control technology and is easy to operate by the driver or operator via a colour display. Setting default values is the familiar push of a button. The sequence of steps is also visible and the driver can easily see whether the trailer is full. Any malfunctions, for example by a dirty censor, are indicated with the location being mapped so that cleaning can be done quickly and adequately.

It is also possible for the supplier to remotely view the system to give instructions or to offer problem solving

Patented anti-slip slat, an innovative solution for load securement.

Control with a full colour touchscreen and possibilities for ‘over-the-air’ software updates.

even so called ‘over-the-air’ software updates are now possible. This makes costly travel times a thing of the past. The CargoMatic 2.0 is the only automatic loading and unloading system available market which is designed for the circumstances where it is used, under a trailer exposed to extreme vibrations and temperatures in a range of -40 till + 60 degrees Celsius. www.cargomatic.nl

Battery powered autonomous loading/unloading of 30 tonnes.

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AUTOMATIC

FANTASTIC VALK WELDING’S STATE-OF-THE-ART WELDING TECHNOLOGY PLAYS A KEY ROLE IN THE PRODUCTION OF KÖGEL’S CHASSIS.

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erman OEM, Kögel, has produced superstructures for commercial vehicles as well as trailers and semi-trailers for trucks since its founding in 1934. The Kögel subsidiary in Choceň, Czech Republic, manufactures chassis frames for all product models of the brand Kögel.

In order to meet the strict production standards and high quality standards of the parent company in Germany, the business turns to robotic welding specialist Valk Welding.

Last year, the partnership resulted in the implementation of a 54-metre-long fully robotic welding line for the production of complete chassis frames.

With a total length of up to 14 metres, a weight of over a tonne and extremely high demands on the strength and quality of the entire welded structure, chassis frame production requires truly advanced know-how and corresponding progressive production technology, which is no longer possible without robotic welding.

Three robotic workstations from Valk Welding

The Choceň plant with more than 80 years of tradition, which has been part of the Kögel Group since 1996, meets all the above-mentioned attributes

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of progressivity precisely be-cause its production reflects current trends and is constantly being modernised. In Choceň, they have over 15 years of experience with robotic welding, when in 2006 they bought the company’s first small welding robot, which started the era of robotic welding.

According to Aleš Hájek, head of production at Kögel in Chocen, the path of robotisation of welding at Kögel is largely linked to Valk Welding, although the first oldest robot was from a competing brand.

“In 2006, Valk Welding only started to establish itself in the Czech Republic, when we chose a robot from another company, but in the meantime Valk Welding gradually grew and took the lead. Therefore, when we chose a partner for another robotic workplace in 2015, Valk Welding have already included Welding in the tender.”

TRAILER DESIGN

 “IN 2006, VALK WELDING ONLY STARTED TO ESTABLISH ITSELF IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC, WHEN WE CHOSE A ROBOT FROM ANOTHER COMPANY, BUT IN THE MEANTIME VALK WELDING GR ADUALLY GREW AND TOOK THE LEAD. THEREFORE, WHEN WE CHOSE A PARTNER FOR ANOTHER ROBOTIC WORKPLACE IN 2015, VALK WELDING HAVE ALREADY INCLUDED WELDING IN THE TENDER.” Aleš Hájek Kögel, Head of Production

Kögel facility in Choceň, Czech Republic.

The result was the purchase of a mediumsized robotic welding station located on the carriage and designed for welding larger subassemblies of chassis frames. The fact that in 2017 Kögel bought another identical workstation from Valk Welding and in 2019 even the third the same one proves that the company’s choice of robotic station and cooperation with Valk Welding proved successful.

“The mutual cooperation developed very positively, the result was three robotic work-places for welding subassemblies of chassis frames,” said Hájek – summarising the situation until 2019.

After the subassemblies, the complete chassis

A few years ago, Kögel arose the need to increase production capacity.

“The Kögel company is growing, we

produce a larger number of products every year, we are able to reach more and more customers, which has created the need to increase production capacity,” said Hájek.

As the Czech plant produces chassis frames as the only one for the entire Kögel Group, this would not be possible without the investment in expanding production capacity in Choceň. Due to the previous experience with the operation of robotic workplaces, the possibility of robotics and automation once again came to the fore.

“We also solved it by increasing the number of welders in production,” said Hájek. “However, the problem was the lack of qualified welders in the Czech Republic, we had to find foreign staff, which was not good for the company. Communication, but especially the ability to read technical and production documentation. And what is especially important: we need to adhere to the high quality of welds, a set quality standard.”

This is a key priority for Kögel. explains the production manager and adds that, based on these facts, they decided to develop a project for an automatic line for welding complete chassis frames.

Valk Welding met the criteria the best

The automatic welding line project was launched in early 2019 and the line was set for June 2020.

“We contacted three robotic welding suppliers for the project,” said Hájek.

“After providing the tender conditions, one of the companies immediately resigned due to the size and size of the project and so two companies remained.”

He adds that the choice of supplier had precisely defined criteria and the spatial possibilities were a significant limiting factor in the design of the technology. They did not build a new hall in Choceň for this purpose, they wanted to use the existing one, which of course they reconstructed. They renovated the high-load floors, the electrical installation and gas distribution were completely replaced to meet the high demands of the automated line, and a completely new LED lighting was also implemented.

In the preparatory phase of the project, a very intensive verification of

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the quality of welds from both potential suppliers on the chassis frame itself took place, together with a verification of the percentage availability of welds by specific robots. The service network, spare parts warehouses, speed and availability of service in the event of a breakdown were also important in the decision-making process, and training of operators, operators and programmers was another factor. Kögel also considered whether the bidding companies had sufficient experience to handle a project of this size as a general contractor. After evaluating all the set criteria, Valk Welding emerged as the winner of this tender.

Timely implementation despite the pandemic

The implementation of the project began in 2019. The implementation team that built the line was completely Czech, which was a nice bonus.

“The cooperation was at a high level and without the language barriers that a competing supplier would face,” the production manager of Valk Welding said, adding that this proved to be a great advantage during the outbreak, when delivery and completion dates seemed unattainable, but Thanks to the fact that the team was Czech, it was able to continue working under strict security measures even when the borders were closed.

Valk Welding robots working on trailer chassis.

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He also appreciates Valk Welding’s role as a general contractor. “Even when awarding the project, we wanted to have the guarantee of one general contractor so that we could communicate with a representative of one company in future negotiations. Valk Welding really proved itself to us in this respect as well.”

The first test operation of the automated welding line began in May 2020 and standard operation was launched at the turn of August and September.

Offline programming and modular concepts

Currently, the line in Choceň operates in two shifts. The three-shift operation has not yet come into play, due to the global economic slowdown and sales due to the pandemic

TRAILER DESIGN

and the fact that Kögel is using this time to improve the logistics of the line’s inbound supply.

“At the moment, we are not going to full capacity yet, but we are ready for it. In three-shift operation, the line will allow us to produce 44-45 frames a day in 24 hours,” said Hájek. “We can operate the line with one person per shift. All six robots and all automatic processes running on it are supervised by one production operator,” he said – adding the savings are welcome but even more important is the issue of weld quality.

“The output from the welding robotic line is as for welds, of constant high quality, there are no fluctuations in the quality of welds as in manual human welding, and that is the most important thing for us. It has been confirmed

Automation since 2019.

to us that we can increase our production capacity while maintaining or even improving the quality standard.”

With the implementation of the line, Kögel has moved to a new level in the field of robotic welding. While so far it has been able to robotically weld only partial subassemblies of frames, the new line allows it to weld complete chassis frames of semi-trailers and trailers. The overall efficiency of the production process is further enhanced by the offline programming of robotic stations offered by Valk Welding.

Unlike previously implemented robotic workstations, where the program for a new product had to be programmed directly on the robot, the line has the option of offline programming. So, there is no downtime for programming, because the programmer prepares a program for welding a new type of chassis frame on his computer and transfers it to the line – deployed only after its completion.

And how does Kögel’s production manager see the future of robotics and cooperation with Valk Welding?

“When entering the project, we Kögel. thought ahead and with our partner Valk Welding we designed a modular line,” said Hájek. “This means that if we need to further increase our production capacity, we can add another workstation with three robots. We have a pre-prepared hall, the possibility of extension they also have conveyors, we can easily expand the line with another module. We are See Valk Welding’s robotic ready to grow.” systems at Wielton. www.koegel.com

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TIP

EMBRACES

ELECTRO

WITH MORE THAN 50 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE, TIP TRAILER SERVICES IS A LEADING EQUIPMENT AND SERVICES PROVIDER FOR TRANSPORTATION BUSINESSES. AS A STRATEGIC PARTNER TO ITS CUSTOMERS, IT NOW OFFERS ELECTRIC LIGHT COMMERCIAL VEHICLES FOR LAST MILE DELIVERY IN EUROPE. TIP DEPUTY CEO, ARJEN KRAAIJ, ELABORATES ON TIP’S PLANS IN AN INTERVIEW WITH GLOBAL TRAILER.

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IP Trailers Services strives to deliver connected solutions while promoting sustainable supply chains in an urban environment that is increasingly characterised by strict regulations and zero emission policies. With unique positioning in geographic, asset and service scope, TIP has expanded its portfolio to include electric Light Commercial Vehicles (eLCVs). This value proposition now includes the entire service spectrum from infrastructure planning, charging station and supervision to vehicle maintenance and more.

TIP Deputy CEO, Arjen Kraaij, details the company’s latest investments in electromobility.

Q: We understand that TIP is planning to introduce new vehicles to its fleet. What

services we provide around the vehicles. We support our customers holistically in the integration of clean vehicles in their fleet – from the selection of vehicles and charging solutions to the planning and monitoring of infrastructure, vehicle maintenance and 24/7 roadside assistance. With this step, we are now expanding our portfolio into the area of sustainable last mile delivery and thus significantly increase the value chain for our customers.

exactly do you have in mind?

A: Yes, that’s right. Starting in September 2021, we are offering our customers also electric light commercial vehicles (eLCVs). We are integrating around 300 vehicles into our existing fleets. These vehicles are available across Europe, with focus on France, Spain, Italy, Germany and UK. We will further expand the number of vehicles over time. A key component of our offering is the customized

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Q: This is a significant step for a player that has been known primarily for lease and rental of heavy commercial vehicles. Why has TIP decided to take this step now?

A: Well, we see a growing demand from

FINAL MILE

MOBILITY

guided by smart services. At the same time, with our new service and asset offer, we can help our customers to sustainably transform their freight transport across their entire fleet. The TIP offer provides the first scalable solution with sustainable drive technologies at maximum flexibility and risk reduction with regard to investment and volume forecasting. This is how we are living our vision to be the trusted partner for our customers, delivering connected solutions and powering sustainable supply chains.

Q: Which customers will you target first with the new offering? Which market segments do you have in mind?

our customers for sustainable and smart solutions, especially in last mile delivery. In fact, the pressure from the authorities, but also from the public, is leading to a speed of transformation that no one could have imagined just two years ago. This market readiness, combined with the now truly mature technical solutions that eLCVs offer today, opens up a window of opportunity that we are seizing with full conviction.

Q: How does this decision fit into TIP’s strategy?

A: Our focus is to strengthen our leadership position by continuously delivering value to our customers around the world. This also includes helping to shape the transformation towards sustainable and intelligent freight transport, not only for our customers but also for ourselves. We are convinced that we have a socially and environmental responsibility.

We see the integration of eLCVs as another step in a fundamental shift across our entire portfolio towards sustainable powertrains

A: The market of our customers is changing and increasingly demands new solutions in the field of green and digital. This applies first and foremost to last mile delivery. We have therefore decided to diversify our portfolio once again with the introduction of the eLCVs and the associated service spectrum. Our offer is aimed at logistics operators looking for a reliable partner on the road to sustainable and green transport.

Q: What business volume are you aiming for with this step?

A: Not only driven by e-commerce, last mile delivery is a clear growth market.

However, it is also a highly volatile market whose development is very difficult to predict. It is precisely this unpredictability in volume that we would like to mitigate with our offer for our customers. For us, this also means that we cannot predict the exact development of our decision down to the last detail. Right now, we expect that in the future the area of eLCVs will account for about five percent of our total turnover but the overall portfolio of clean vehicles will surely become significant over time.

Q: Are there plans to further diversify your portfolio in the area of last mile delivery, for example with eCargobikes or drones?

A: We see ourselves as a strategic partner for our customers. As such, we are always looking for the best solutions that we can offer our customers. With the introduction of eLCVs, we have once again expanded our offer and we will continue to do so in the future. So of course, further portfolio diversifications are conceivable for example with the extension of the eLCV range to larger capacities and other e-trucks sizes and alternative fuel vehicles – but especially drones are still a very long way off for us. www.tipeurope.com

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SPAIN

IN A DAY

AFTER MORE THAN 30 YEARS IN THE TRAILER MANUFACTURING MARKET, LECITRAILER HAS ESTABLISHED ITSELF AS A LEADING BRAND IN EUROPE, PROVIDING CUSTOMISABLE TRANSPORT SOLUTIONS WITH PRODUCTS THAT EPITOMISE QUALITY, ROBUSTNESS, DURABILITY AND LIGHTNESS. AT THE SOLUTRANS TRADE FAIR IN LYON, FRANCE, THIS SPANISH OEM IS SET TO SHOWCASE ITS PORTFOLIO.

Factory in Zaragoza, Spain.

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he world’s top players in the commercial and urban vehicle industry – nearly 60,000 professionals along with 900 exhibitors and brands – will be in attendance for this year’s Solutrans event. It is the 16th edition and Spain-based OEM, Lecitrailer, will be among those exhibiting from 16-20 November 2021 at Lyon Eurexpo in France.

Lecitrailer will be presenting a low bed for machinery transport, a container carrier, an Evolution reefer for distribution (specially designed for the French market), and a rigid dry freight van. In addition to manufacturing trailers and semi-trailers, Lecitrailer has the capacity to produce bodywork rigids for both curtainsiders and vans.

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“We manufacture strong, durable and fully customisable vehicles to the requirements of our customers,” said Lecitrailer Export Director, Guillermo Maestre. “Since our foundation we have been committed to quality, to the continuous improvement of our products and services, to customer service and to increasing the production capacity of our plant. Our desire to improve, together with the introduction in international markets, has led us to make continuous investments in R+D+i as well as in production processes, with the clear and firm objective of obtaining a personalised product with high added value.

The recent inauguration of Lecitrailer’s KTL plant, the largest and most modern in Europe, ensures a uniform layer of 50-micron KTL primer (e-coat) on the entire surface of the chassis, the highest chassis protection on the market.”

The OEM holds its aftersales products in high regard.

“Our products are still under our care until the owner decides to replace, and even then, we try to take care for their second life,” said Maestre. “We are the only manufacturer in Europe with seven service bases of our own with a combined surface area of 500,000 square metres, located in Zaragoza, Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Valencia, Lyon and soon we will open a new one in Mangualde, Portugal.

All bases are equipped with the best technical means to carry out any workshop intervention on all makes and models of trailers and semi-trailers. Moreover, in all of them, our customers can also find second-hand vehicles, semi-trailers rental and original spare parts of all brands.”

This year, Lecitrailer is paying close to

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Evolution distribution reefer.

attention to its new generation of reefer vehicles, Evolution – a complete range of innovative solutions for refrigerated transport. The OEM has been manufacturing complete reefer vehicles (chassis and bodies) for more than nine years.

“Throughout these years, research and investment in R&D and innovation capacity has been constant in this family of products, making continuous improvements that have led to the launch of Evolution, an updated and modern reefer vehicle, twice as robust and strong as the previous version,” said Maestre. “Its structure has been very carefully designed, including more vertical glass fibre reinforcement on the sides, and it is fitted with higher density polyester inside. The floor has been strengthened, tested and certified to optimise the most demanding stresses.

10,000 square metres of KTL plant.

The one-piece fibre panels and the thermal bridge installed in all Lecitrailer refrigerated vehicles prevent internal temperature fluctuations and reduce both the consumption of diesel oil for the cooling equipment as well as any possible damage and maintenance costs. To increase the reefer load capacity, it has been possible to obtain greater interior width between baseboards and panels without reducing the 65mm of side walls. The new rear frame is wider and strengthens the connection with the side walls. And since the refrigerated transport market in France requires vehicles more focused on distribution with lots of loading and unloading operations, we have developed, together with our distributors in France, the Evolution Distribution model, adapting the rear frame and adding special reinforcements for this market.”

In February 2021, Lecitrailer intensified its partnership with Tiger Trailers.

“In some markets, we like to go hand-in-hand with local people, to adapt our products to local market and their needs,” said Maestre. “We know each other since quite a while, during this time, joint work processes have been established in which the different departments of the two companies work closely together.

We have reinforced our cooperation recently, with a lot of complementary products, such as fridges, standard box vans (more mainland European type).

In addition to providing industry with a suite of quality vehicles, and the flexibility of customisation at the production stage, Lecitrailer is committed to sustainability which has been reinforced with investments it has made to its KTL plant. The OEM also moved to more energy-efficient offices to comply with its own environmental policy. “We also actively collaborate with authorities, universities and administrations for the study of CO2 reduction,” said Maestre. “The duotrailer and megatrailer projects are gaining momentum in this space in which Lecitrailer is a pioneer.” www.lecitrailer.es

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COOL CHANGE

CARRIER TRANSICOLD, PART OF THE CARRIER GLOBAL CORPORATION, IS COMMITTED TO ADDRESSING THE WORLD’S MOST COMPLEX CHALLENGES INCLUDING THE SAFE TRANSPORT AND STORAGE OF FOOD, MEDICINES AND VACCINES. AT THIS YEAR’S SOLUTRANS TRADE FAIR, THE TRANSPORT REFRIGERATION SPECIALIST WILL SHOWCASE ITS LATEST DEVELOPMENTS IN THIS MARKET.

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n 2020, Carrier Transicold reaffirmed its commitment to reducing emissions, improving sustainability and increasing efficiency across the refrigerated transport sector with the launch of its first fully autonomous, all-electric engineless refrigerated trailer system, the Vector eCool.

The Vector eCool – according to Victor Calvo, President of Carrier Transicold International Truck & Trailer – represents a completely new approach to trailer refrigeration, one that will help customers future-proof their fleets in line with ever-tightening emissions regulations.

“The key to the Vector eCool is that it uses our existing ultra-efficient Vector refrigeration units, meaning you will get the same level of performance and reliability, just with no diesel engine and no emissions,” he said. “We have developed a new cutting-edge energy recovery and storage system which converts

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kinetic energy generated by the trailer’s axle and brakes into electricity, storing it in a battery pack that powers the refrigeration unit. This loop creates a fully autonomous system capable of meeting the refrigeration demands of any customer application, with the added bonus of no direct carbon dioxide or particulate emissions.

“Being fully-electric, there are no noxious gas, particulate matter or carbon dioxide emissions created by the eCool system,” said Calvo. “It has been designed to help our customers operate in urban environments, allowing them to meet all current emissions regulations across Europe. Without an engine, the system is also extremely quiet, operating below 60 decibels and therefore being PIEK compliant. We truly believe it to be the ultimate urban trailer solution, offering businesses a way to exceed their own sustainability targets, as well as those

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Carrier Transicold International Truck & Trailer President, Victor Calvo.

set by local governments.”

Carrier Transicold offers sustainable, electric options from small LCV to heavy trucks and trailers.

Developments in electrical refrigeration solutions continue following the recent introduction of a new ECO-DRIVE behind the cabin hydroelectric power module, the introduction of a wide range of battery packs

and the innovative inverter power box.

Meanwhile modern refrigerated transport operators are turning to a more data-driven approach with their cold chain solutions and in the years to come Calvo expects big data will reshape this industry.

“Connectivity within the cold chain is essential to help our customers make faster, data-driven decisions that will deliver a healthier, safer, and more sustainable cold chain,” he said. “Strong data capabilities will be more and more necessary and will considerably help our customers and all of us optimising the cold chain. Lynx Fleet, our new telematic offer, is the answer and will be able to provide essential capabilities, such as remotely controlling the refrigeration unit and preventing breakdowns.”

With more than 600 locations throughout EMEA, Carrier Transicold FAST FACT provides customers with the regions’ Carrier Transicold has partnered largest refrigerated truck and trailer with Bosch, LAMBERET and service network. It also provides STEF to explore the future of transport refrigeration systems flexible and tailored service contracts with the FresH2 project, a through its BluEdge service contract refrigerated transport solution for offer bolstered by telematics via Lynx semi-trailers whose refrigeration Fleet. unit, the Vector HE 19, is powered by a hydrogen fuel cell. The test There is more to follow as Carrier vehicle commenced the road test unveils its latest innovations at the phase in France on 6 September Solutrans trade fair in France, Eurexpo 2021. The system will be tested in real-life conditions at the STEF Lyon, Stand 4A122 from 16-20 Chambéry site as part of a food November 2021. www.carriertransicold.eu

distribution round.

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SOR CELEBRATES

50 YEARS OF INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE

SOR IBÉRICA, WHICH IS BASED IN SPAIN’S THIRD LARGEST CITY, VALENCIA, IS CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF INNOVATION AND REFRIGERATED TRAILER MANUFACTURING.

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ince 1970, Spanish OEM, SOR Ibérica, has achieved an incredible business trajectory. Key to this ongoing success is a willingness from the reefer specialist to engage directly with its customers while promoting professional development and industry best practice at all levels of the organisation. SOR proudly celebrates 50 years of operation.

“We are proud to be able to share our satisfaction with this achievement with all those who have undoubtedly helped us to achieve it,” said SOR. “Customers, supplier employees and shareholders have undoubtedly been essential to our growth and this will undoubtedly continue in the future.”

SOR, a manufacturer of car bodies and refrigerated vehicles, in Valencia, Spain, differentiates itself in the market with its strong customer service focus.

Continuous development of firm values backed by an ambitious team driven by a hard-working ethic has made the past 50 years of what is now an industrial heritage possible.

SOR Ibérica SAU was founded by a group of entrepreneurs in the December of 1970 to satisfy local demand for quality road transport equipment to cart fresh fruit, vegetables and ice cream from Valencian producers.

This project gained momentum in Spain and soon set its sights on international markets where the business was able to flourish.

SOR, from the beginning, specialised in the development and production of refrigerated vehicles and continues to do so. Equally constant is the OEM’s approach to supporting fleets with state-of-the-art equipment, tailoring its products for specific applications. The basis of SOR’s success is found in its collaborative efforts bolstered by firm principles – commitment, responsibility and professionalism.

Over the past 50 years, the company has consolidated its market presence due to

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SOR Export Director, Antoine Kapsa.

growth in vision, passion, entrepreneurship, motivation, strategy, perseverance, leadership and experience. Similarly, the company’s product portfolio has expanded by prioritising custom vehicles over standard production.

“We are very proud of the evolution of the company,” said SOR Group General Director, José Górriz. “We have managed to grow as a company in many ways, in staff, in values, in products and services. We have consolidated ourselves thanks to effort and teamwork, but above all, thanks to the trust that the most important part of the company,

SOLUTRANS PREVIEW

Modernisation and technology to face the future

SOR has made a great commitment that has led it to modernise its facilities and increase its production capacity. The objective has always been and will be to continue offering the market the most profitable refrigerated vehicles for its customers in every way, so its efforts are always focused on that objective.

The recent investment in a new production line, following the same hydraulic pressing technology, allows the business to grow volumes significantly and secures its place as one of the major players in the refrigerated vehicle industry in Europe.

Make easy and feasible what is impossible for others

SOR Group General Director, José Górriz.

our clients, have placed in us. Therefore, we do not tire of giving thanks for it. For this reason, we have been ‘moving together’ for 50 years.

The key to success

The SOR semi-trailer is, according to the OEM, the benchmark in Spain in terms of quality, tare, robustness, design, efficiency (K coefficient) and quality perceived by customers.

“At an international level, SOR has been able to quickly adapt to the very diverse operations / needs of customers in each market,” said SOR Export Manager, Antoine Kapsa. “In addition to supporting and creating long-term relationships with local distributors this allows us to be a very recognised brand in Europe and North Africa.”

SOR is always at least one step ahead in the development of refrigerated vehicles.

SOR units were among the first to participate in the initial articulated vehicle tests in Spain. Also, SOR reefers were reported to be the first with directional systems.

“We have one of the best tares in the market, an enviable K value and a know-how acquired in the different markets of Europe that makes us the best bet,” said SOR. Looking towards the future

The world is in the process of changing both the needs of the final consumer and the needs of transport. SOR is prepared to meet new challenges: expansion of technical specifications, connectivity, online purchase distribution, last mile vehicles, reduction of the carbon footprint, without losing sight of it, improving the external image of vehicles by applying new technologies. of production.

“We have 50 years of industrial heritage that give us the energy and drive to continue with the same enthusiasm with which we started,” said SOR. “The objective is to be ‘the supplier of refrigerated vehicles chosen by customers’ both in Spain and in Europe because we are a safe, efficient and profitable bet. The results support us.”

To celebrate, SOR has launched its ‘Anniversary Trailer’ – a limited series of 50 vehicles with a truly special finish (which is in addition to the specific customer specification) and significant lettering. The OEM is only going to launch 50 units of this type for those clients who want to celebrate SOR’s 50 years of industrial heritage. www.soriberica.com

SOR leading the way in reefer innovation for half a century.

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SOLUTRA

CHAMPIONS THE ENERGY TRANSITION

UNDER THE PATRONAGE OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE FRENCH REPUBLIC, EMMANUEL MACRON, BIENNIAL TRADE FAIR SOLUTRANS 2021 IS THE PLACE TO BE FOR THE LATEST IN HEAVY AND LIGHT COMMERCIAL VEHICLE INNOVATION. HERE IS A GLIMPSE OF WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE SHOW WHICH WILL BE HELD 16-20 NOVEMBER 2021 AT LYON EUREXPO.

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oad transportation as we know it is changing. There is a revolution of sorts in how industry is harnessing energy to improve operational efficiency as well as minimise carbon footprints. Sweeping legislation on these matters across Europe has accelerated thought leadership and empowered innovators to address these challenges head-on. Right now, there are regulations in place to reduce harmful emissions as well as pressure on vehicle makers to consider hybrid concepts to transition away from diesel including hydrogen, biofeul and electric batteries.

This scratches the surface of what to expect from the conferences and professional discussions to be had at this year’s Solutrans, As a platform for innovation, the trade fair is once again conducting a range of initiatives. The Innovations Awards, organised by FFC, recognise outstanding innovations and performance of body-built vehicles. The awards will be presented at an evening function in a legendary venue, the Lyon Groupama Stadium. A new

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‘Digital Award’ will acknowledge the success of a company working in computer technology or connectivity as it applies to the sector.

The winners of the well-known international awards ‘International Truck of the Year’, ‘International Van of The Year’, and ‘International Pick up Award’ will also be revealed at the prestigious gala evening. look out for the presentation of the 2020 and 2021 Industry Personality of the Year Awards which pay tribute to an institutional figure for their actions and their commitment to the industry.

At this year’s Solutrans, Goldhofer will

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showcase the new friction-steered semi low loader »STEPSTAR« and a force-steered »MPA« 4 (1+3) semi-trailer designed specifically for the French market. What the two have in common is an impressive range of applications for transporting heavy loads, so that haulage companies can use them for a wide variety of transportation operations.

“Handling as much work as possible with a minimum number of vehicles is the recipe for success with smart fleets,” said Goldhofer Regional Sales Manager, Romuald Espinasse.

“So, we are delighted to be able to present these products to our customers.”

The self-steering, three- to five-axle »STEPSTAR« semi lowloaders offer a combination of low deadweight and high payload. They also feature a well designed loading area and full system for secure lashing.

In combination with the loadable »MEGA« gooseneck, total rig length can be utilised to the full, even when transporting high loads.

The loading area itself is fitted with the hardwearing flooring TRAFFIDECK GO codeveloped by Goldhofer. This not only saves weight compared with wood or rubber flooring but, with a thickness of just 8mm, it is also extremely thin and has a very high coefficient of friction for optimum load securing. The additional anti-slip sanding provides enhanced safety in all weather conditions.

For heavy haul companies one of the major drawcards of the »STEPSTAR« is its outstanding flexibility. The extra long and wide excavator arm recess is open to the rear. It is designed to take even very long and large excavator arms such as those used in the demolition business. This greatly increases the vehicle’s range of applications. It also comes with Goldhofer’s new generation of ramps, which have a very low ramp angle and are

easy to mount and remove, so they can also be used with other »STEPSTAR« lowloaders in the fleet.

“The »STEPSTAR« series meets our customers’ expectations in terms of quality and intelligent details at a competitive price,” said Espinasse. “The vehicles can be used for permit-free transportation throughout Europe with payloads of up to 26.3 tonnes and a gross rig length within the 16.5m limit.”

Specially designed for the French market, the »MPA« 4 (1+3) low loader semi-trailer makes light work of a wide range of heavy haul operations. With a low loading height of only 785mm, the robust and durable »MPA« 4 is the ideal solution for transporting high loads such as construction machinery, plant components and crane segments.

Meanwhile, CHEREAU will be presenting a new energy refrigerated semitrailer in line with the themes of ‘better preservation’ and ‘better consumption’ This trailer can be powered via mains thanks to a 380 volt socket or by a battery pack. The battery pack is recharged by an energy recovery axle (e-axle 24 Kw) or by the roof, which is entirely covered with solar panels. The body is equipped with VIP insulation (Vacuum Insulated Panels), vacuum insulation is the best insulation available and can save up to 25 per cent of energy in the refrigeration unit. Multiplexed, this vehicle is also equipped with the CHEREAU aerodynamic kit: the AeroTop-C which allows to save up to 0,3L/100 km and the AeroFlap-C allowing to save 0,7L/100 km or 1,1L/100 km when coupled.

In addition to hosting numerous exhibitors – including Kässbohrer, JOST, BPW, SAF-Holland, SAE-SMB, Assali Stefen, Lecitrailer and Takler Group – Solutrans will feature an outdoor demonstration zone. Here, attendees can see innovative equipment from heavy goods vehicles to light commercial vehicles and other systems in action. The track will also be supplemented with a 25km semi-urban route to enable test drives to take place in real-life conditions around the exhibition centre. The exhibitors will present, in actual conditions, an increasing number of ‘new energy’ vehicles. A new hall, Solutrans 4.0, will also be dedicated to disruptive innovation in the commercial vehicle sector with a view to offer insight to manufacturers, body builders and other industry professionals. www.solutrans.eu

Solutrans 2019 was the event organiser’s most successful edition in the show’s history, reporting 56,000 visits, an increase of nearly 11 per cent on 2017.

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AT TH E FO R E FR O NT O F

INNOVATION LEADING SEMI-TRAILER MANUFACTURER KÄSSBOHRER IS PARTICIPATING IN THE SOLUTRANS FAIR THAT WILL TAKE PLACE FROM 16-20 NOVEMBER IN LYON, FRANCE.

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perating from its new headquarters in Lyon, Kässbohrer will be ready to meet its customers – at Hall 4 of Solutrans Fair – to share its latest company developments in an exhibition of efficient and high quality vehicles.

As the world adjusts to the new normal after the Covid-19 precautions, Kässbohrer leaves behind the successful digital interactions with its customers such as the K-talk webinar sessions. The team couldn’t be more excited about physical meetings with customers at international fairs.

Participating in the Solutrans fair since 2015, Kässbohrer will exhibit the finest examples of Europe’s widest product range, respectively non-tipping silo K.SSL, extendable heavy-duty platform low bed with 3 axles K.SPA M, dry freight box K.SBT 2 axle City Trailer and extendable Low Bed with 3 axles K.SLA. With its stable design with a low centre of gravity and load distribution, Kässbohrer’s non-tipping K.SSL is the perfect solution for the most efficient transportation which makes it the ideal fit for construction road transports.

While the light tare weight of 4.475kg of the K.SSL vehicle offers the best cost of ownership for Kässbohrer customers, its durability is also tested for various road conditions on 1,000,000 kilometres.

Kässbohrer’s ingeniously designed robust K.SPA M extendable Lowbed Platform made of S700MC steel has Code XL certified front panel with the highest

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resilience up to 22.5 tonnes. It is suitable for any operation vehicle offers multi-functional and flexible transportation capabilities with lashing rings that have 8 or 13 tons of capacity, pillar pockets on the side rave and on the platform, and container locks to have various load types.

Another vehicle that will be exhibited in the Kässbohrer stand is the extendable lowbed semi-trailer with three axles, K.SLA, that provides reliable performance in heavy good transportation. Tare weight of the vehicle, which starts from 11,500kg, ensures maximum loading flexibility in addition to the container locks on standard configuration. The exhibited product includes more than 40 ramp options for operational flexibility.

It is also possible to discover more about Kässbohrer’s Dry Freight Plywood Box K.SBT vehicle during the fair. The plywood box series

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stands out with its robustness through 20mm thick smooth plywood walls, 7.2-tonne forklift capacity phenol resin-coated plywood floor as standard, EN 12642 Code XL certificated upper structure and KTL Coated Steel Front Panel. K.SBT’s Aluminium Roller Shutter doors stand out for their high stability, straight-line design, and easy and quick loading/unloading operations.

With K-Finance, Kässbohrer offers financial solutions in cooperation with leading financial companies. In France and in Spain cooperation with BNP is established and Kässbohrer customers can take advantage of financial solutions from three to five years with competitive rates and flexible payment plans.

Kässbohrer takes care of its customer’s needs with its expert after-sales network as well as spare parts operations. Expanding its aftersales network to 674 points in Europe and Russia, all service candidates are carefully chosen to address maintenance and repair needs of the widest product range in Europe

only Kässbohrer offers, meticulous and continuous audits to sustain top-quality performance.

Kässbohrer spare parts operation, with 24-hour dispatch service and upgraded digital infrastructure to guarantee 90 per cent of parts availability at all times are realised through two of its headquarters in Ulm and Goch as well as the special spare parts depot in France covering the close-by countries. One email, spareparts@ kaessbohrer.com is easy to access for all as our dedicated team is always ready to assist our customers’ needs. Kässbohrer also works with its customers for digital system integrations to assist their operations.

Kässbohrer is looking forward to hosting its customers in Lyon, France. www.kaessbohrer.com

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WORLD EVENTS

AUTOMECHANIKA DUBAI 2021

14-16 DECEMBER 2021

TRANSPORT LOGISTIC CHINA 2022 15-17 JUNE 2022

Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai, UAE As the largest international automotive aftermarket trade show in the Middle East, Automechanika Dubai acts as the central trading link for markets that are difficult to reach connecting the wider Middle East, Africa, Asia and key CIS countries.

Shanghai New International Expo Centre, Shanghai, China Transport logistic China 2022 attendees can expect transport logistic China, one of Asia’s biggest trade fairs, to showcase the entire spectrum of logistics products, technologies and services.

www.automechanika-dubai.ae.messefrankfurt.com/dubai

www.transportlogistic-china.com

TRANSPORT SCANDINAVIA 2021

ELMIA LASTBIL 2022

16-18 SEPTEMBER 2021 Herning, Denmark Transport 2021 is an inspiring fair for all those with roots in the transport industry. This is the place to find new vehicles, new equipment, new services and new ideas. The Transport trade fair was launched in 1988. Since then more than 450,000 professionals from the transport industry have attended the event. www.transport-messen.dk

6 0 / G L O B A L TR A I L E R / I SS U E 6 1

24-27 AUGUST 2022 Jönköping, Sweden The national and international venue for the haulage and transport industry at Elmia, Jönköping. www.elmia.se/en/lastbil

KEEP A LOOK OUT International Cross-border eCommerce Supply Chain Fair 23-25 September Shenzhen, China www.ciefair.com

IAA COMMERCIAL VEHICLES SHOW 2022

SEPTEMBER 2022

InnoTrans 2022 20-23 September Berlin, Germany www.innotrans.com

Hannover, Germany One of the world’s leading trade fairs for mobility, transportation and logistics. www.iaa.de

BAUMA 2022

24-30 OCTOBER 2022 Munich, Germany The 33rd edition of the world’s leading trade fair for construction machinery, building material machines, mining machines, construction vehicles and construction equipment is set for late 2022. Bauma is reported to be one of the world’s largest events for the construction industry. www.bauma.de

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M E GATR E N D S

UK GOVERNMENT

GREEN LIGHTS LONGER SEMI-TRAILERS VEHICLES UP TO 15.65 METRES IN LENGTH ARE SET TO BE APPROVED FOR WIDESPREAD USE IN THE UNITED KINGDOM.

A

fter a successful trial and consultation, the Department for Transport (DfT) will now consider the use of longer-semi trailers (LSTs) on Britain’s roads outside trial conditions, and the environment-boosting vehicles could be rolled out sometime in 2022.

The news follows the DfT releasing a response to its consultation on the introduction of longer-semi trailers, for which a majority of respondents were in favour of their use.

It’s estimated LSTs could remove up to one in eight freight journeys by carrying the same amount of cargo in fewer lorries.

This would support the Government’s Transport Decarbonisation Plan by reducing mileage, congestion and carbon emissions given the nine-year trial found them to be safer, more economical and better for the environment.

Trial data demonstrated an 8 per cent average reduction in freight miles and a 6.2 per cent reduction in pollutants.

The announcement about steps to reduce the impact of the haulage sector on the environment comes as the UK prepares to host COP26 this November – the 26th UN Climate Change Conference.

“This Government is committed to fighting climate change and decarbonising our transport network, and we are working at pace to achieve net zero by 2050” said UK Transport Secretary Grant Shapps.

“Today’s announcement is a vital step forwards as we work to introduce more More efficient road transport will reduce the number of trucks needed on the road.

environmentally friendly freight to our roads and build back greener,” he said.

Final approval of LSTs for general use had been long anticipated by industry with rumours of the move first mooted back in February.

LSTs can be up to 15.650m long, effectively extending a standard trailer length by two metres.

Despite the maximum plated weight having not been increased, the additional length and subsequent volume is expected to afford carriers another four UK pallets on single decks and up to eight extra UK pallets on double deck variants.

Of those respondents who took part in the DfT survey, it is understood 57 per cent endorsed LSTs for general circulation as part of efforts to improve efficiency and reduce the impact on the environment.

Although LSTs conform to existing turning circle regulations, the extra length can make manoeuvring a challenge and potential new operators should be wary of yard space and local road infrastructure.

Despite some operational challenges, the 15 per cent additional volume that LSTs afford is too hard to ignore as the likelihood of reductions on freight miles will offset a small percentage of freight movement losses as a result of the current driver shortage crisis.

Savvy operators might also be presented an opportunity to de-fleet.

The trial is said to have highlighted an exceptional LST safety record that was arguably superior than standard length trailers. www.globaltrailermag.com

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FOR EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES: luke.applebee@primecreative.com.au FOR ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES: ashley.blachford@primecreative.com.au

OUT OF

PERSE VERANCE D [Story & Interview by Sebastian Grote]

avid Li, General Manager of CIMC Vehicles, the trailer building arm of China’s International Marine Container (CIMC) Group, isn’t quite what you’d expect of a man who has built a €1.93 billion industrial empire from the bottom up.

Distinctly humble in his bearing and refreshingly unpolished in his language, the industry veteran is enveloped in an aura of authenticity and adventure that is much more Silicon Valley than Shenzhen Special Economic Zone (the official jargon for a giant business incubation area the Chinese government has set up across the bay from Hong Kong to help local businesses connect more easily with the western world).

As such, there is nothing imperious about Li laying out his plan to build the world’s first international trailer building company – only genuine excitement in an idea so captivatingly grand that it would arguably suit an intrepid start-up more than an asset-rich manufacturing firm operating FAST FACT in a time of extreme economic volatility.

CIMC Vehicles’ US subsidiary, Understanding the phenomenon that is Vanguard, is currently finalising CIMC Vehicles is therefore not so much a construction of a second factory in question of mapping out the business itself Trenton, Georgia. The €32 million as it is one of getting to know the man manufacturing plant will eventually employ 400 people and produce behind it – a scenario akin to US start-up 10,000 semi-trailers annually.

Tesla, which is largely dependent on the

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A KEY TALKING POINT OF THE 2014 IAA COMMERCIAL VEHICLE SHOW, THE BRUISED RUSSIAN ECONOMY HAS FAILED TO TURN ITSELF AROUND IN TIME FOR THE NEXT EDITION OF THE ICONIC EVENT. WILL IT STILL CONTINUE TO OWN THE CONVERSATION, THOUGH? [ Story by Sebastian Grote ]

M

uddling through the longest recession since the turn of the century, Russia has racked up a sizeable budget deficit and is on track for yet another year of negative growth. Meanwhile, the prospect of fiscal relief is growing distant, with oil in a bear market after closing below $40 a barrel in August – theoretically making for a highly dramatic narrative in the lead-up to the largest transport industry gathering on the planet.

But if you ask Denis Krivtsov, head of Russian OEM, Tonar, the country’s fragile economic state doesn’t necessarily mean it will become as prominent a topic as it was in 2014, when the Ukraine conflict and the annexation of Crimea were still fresh in mind and the European Union (EU) put an abrupt hold on west-east trade.

According to Krivtsov, much of the western trailer community has since found

new growth potential in the heart of Europe and the still-sprawling east of the continent, leaving Russian businesses alone in dealing with what could be the most severe market slowdown in a decade or two. As a result, he says it is now up to the domestic transport equipment community to consolidate ahead of the parliamentary election in mid-September, which is hoped to give the battered economy a much-needed boost.

“The Russian economy hasn’t really improved much since the last instalment of IAA. In fact, many local businesses have since folded as they simply refused to learn from the last crisis,” he explains – pointing to the EU’s recent decision to prolong economic sanctions against Russia until 31 January 2017.

In August 2016, the Financial Times publically wondered whether Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos was intending to drive everyone else in US retail crazy. The reason: Bezos is on a mission to re-define the classic concept of retail logistics. Instead of outsourcing the whole process, he set up a complex in-house transport network that has been aggressively expanding its reach, capabilities and capacity in the logistics and distribution arena over the past year or so. As part of the process, the Seattlebased company is now operating thousands of trailers emblazoned with Amazon’s logos acrosss North America. In Europe, Amazon is expanding rapidly as well, potentially making it a key talking point of the next IAA.

PEOPLE TO WATCH

THE

ALEXANDER DOBRINDT, GERMAN FEDERAL GOVERNMENT

ELEMENT ALBEIT A SUBSTANTIAL BUSINESS EXPENSE, VISITING A TRADE SHOW LIKE IAA IS A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY TO MEET SOME OF THE MOST INFLUENTIAL PEOPLE IN COMMERCIAL ROAD TRANSPORT IN THE FLESH – A KEY ADVANTAGE IN THE DIGITAL AGE. [ Story by Sebastian Grote ]

F

rom wireless connectivity to electric mobility, the digital world is slowly infiltrating every aspect of commercial road transport. Yet although high technology is expected to dominate the conversation at this year’s IAA Commercial Vehicle Show in Germany (see page 52), it will be people that ultimately set the narrative. In fact, there is a distinct irony to the rise of technology in the manufacturing, according to best-selling US author, Daniel Pink, who has found that forging personal relationships is becoming ever more important as skill-sets evolve and demand more cognitive proficiency.

So-called ‘thought jobs’, as Pink puts it, require a higher level of creativity, problem-solving prowess and out-of-the-box thinking, meaning that in order for a business to be successful, leveraging the unique human element behind each employee is key.

FAST FACT According to Russian Economy Development Minister, Aleksey Ulyukaev, the country’s economy is set to grow in the near future, as “the situation in the real sector of economy is improving and the dynamics of industrial production are positive”.

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As such, he says fostering personal relationships in real life, for example in the context of a trade show, will ultimately help businesses become more profitable.

In line with Pink’s assumption, Global Trailer has selected ten prominent individuals that have the potential to put their mark on the 2016 edition of the largest global transport industry gathering – either by attending it or as the subject of intense discussion. www.globaltrailermag.com

Germany’s Federal Minister for Transport and Digital Infrastructure, Alexander Dobrindt, is slated to officially open the 66th IAA Commercial Vehicle Show in Hanover.

Dobrindt recently made headlines in Germany when he proposed self-driving vehicles in Germany should be fitted with a black box that is able to record specific details of an accident, much like in the aviation industry. According to newswire, Reuters, his proposal would require drivers to stay seated in front of the steering wheel, even tough they may not have to pay attention to traffic or actually steer. Despite that cautionary measure, Dobrindt approved six German cities – Hamburg, Munich, Ingolstadt, Düsseldorf, Dresden and Braunschweig – to become testing grounds for self-driving vehicles as part of a US$89 million (€80 million) project.

İIFFET TÜRKEN, KÄSSBOHRER As the Executive Board Member responsible for Business Development at German OEM Kässbohrer – which is part of the Tirsan Group, the largest trailer manufacturing company in Turkey – Türken is considered one of the most influential personalities in European trailer building, and one of the most powerful women in the global transport equipment industry. The now 44-year-old joined the Tirsan Group in 1996 after graduating from Bogaziçi University in Istanbul and has since been stirring up Europe’s trailer building landscape – helping establish the Kässbohrer brand amongst the top ten in Europe.

PETER SIJS, TIP TRAILER SERVICES Overseeing the procurement processes for a 71,000-unit strong fleet that covers some five billion kilometres every year, Sijs, Services and Sourcing Operations Leader Europe at TIP Trailer Services, is considered one of the most influential people in Europe’s transport equipment industry. Having to replace up to 15,000 trailers annually, TIP Trailer Services spends an average of €30 million per year on parts alone – prompting Sijs to work closely with component suppliers and OEMs to leverage the latest in technology and develop new strategies to create competitive advantages. Most recently, he collaborated with German braking specialist Knorr-Bremse on the development of the company’s awardwinning iTAP system with FleetRemote functionality.

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