Ambient, chilled and FMCG supply-chain specialist Fowler Welch is to trial three new extended length, high-volume, 15.65m trailers in a Government-backed bid to bring greater efficiencies to the Logistics industry.
The tri-axle, rear-steer, curtain-side trailer, the first of its kind in the UK to receive full EN12642XL approval, was designed and manufactured by UK trailer builder, SDC.
The new trailer will mean an additional four pallets per load, which, for Fowler Welch's high-volume customers, will offer operational and environmental benefits.
The first trailer is on its way to Fowler Welch's flagship Heywood distribution centre, for an initial period of 'rear-steer' training. Two further trailers are in build with SDC and will also embark on road trials out of Heywood.
"An extra four pallets per load has obvious operational advantages but, trials are necessary in order to study the real-world effect on fuel economy and rear-steer manoeuvrability," comments Paul Allera, national fleet manager at Fowler Welch.
"We are certainly excited at the prospect," he continues. "SDC remains our number one trailer supplier, providing us a real one-stop-shop service. A full trailer refurbishment service is also provided, alongside a national parts supply that fits in conveniently with our own network of sites."
