Or rather, what should you consider when choosing a new combination? The truck itself is one thing, but it is the vehicle combination, i.e. the truck and trailer together, that determines the degree of flexibility and customisation for your transport needs. A wealth of options exists, and making the right choice is not easy.
Or rather, what should you consider when choosing a new combination? The truck itself is one thing, but it is the vehicle combination, i.e. the truck and trailer together, that determines the degree of flexibility and customisation for your transport needs. A wealth of options exists, and making the right choice is not easy.
Good idea to think it over
When designing a new vehicle combination, it makes sense to start with the customer’s functional specifications and requests. As an experienced tech manager, you are knowledgeable about most of the technology and solutions required to meet customer needs. But sometimes it can be a good idea to broaden your perspective a little and ask whether there might also be other factors – direct or indirect – that should actually influence the choices you make.
What will the regulations be like tomorrow?
Something that could influence your choice is the regulatory framework. You are obviously aware of the various local regulations that apply in the countries in which the vehicle is intended to be used, but are you aware of any forthcoming changes to the laws? And, if so, when they will come into force?
If you are aware of the changes to laws coming into effect, you can also make sure that the vehicles are adapted to meet the expected changes. One current example is the underrun protection regulations. The new, stricter regulations in the forthcoming UNECE R58 Revision 3 may require you to already start thinking about the choice of underrun protection. How long will the transition period be between the current and forthcoming regulations, and how will this affect vehicle owners?
We have compiled a few tips that could be worth taking into consideration when designing a new vehicle combination. Feel free to download them.
