JOST India Enhancing TCO of Trailer Owners

“Our high-performance components and advanced solutions are designed to increase efficiency and reduce downtime during transportation.
Pradeep Gorur Sheshagiri, Managing Director, JOST India

What technological innovations in components are making Heavy Haul Trailers/Trucks more compatible with India’s road infrastructure?

To help build India’s road infrastructure, the CV OEMs are coming out with game changing variants such as the 4 x 2, Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) 55T tractor, which offers low capital and high returns. On the trailer side, manufacturers are developing modular suspension versions to increase payload capacity and are creating robust trailer models.

Regulatory changes, like the Tractor-Trailer interchangeability, are leading India toward a trajectory similar to that of Europe or the US regions. Overall, it is an exciting time ahead for this segment. Initiatives by the government and private sector in the infrastructure front for developing highways and the announcement of mega projects are not only creating demand, but also bringing a positive sentiment in the industry.

What advanced solutions does JOST offer?

JOST Advanced systems product portfolio ensures driver comfort, convenience while ensuring maximum safety. Our SKS sensor coupling system monitors the locking status and the coupling height. In addition, the coupling can be opened pneumatically from the driver's cab by remote control. This eliminates unnecessary manoeuvring and handling for the operator on the truck - a big relief. Three sensors ensure optimum safety during coupling. Two of the sensors permanently monitor the locking status and display it in the driver's cab, while a third sensor shows the correct coupling height in the driver's cab.

The JOST Kingpin Finder supports the coupling process for more safety, efficiency and comfort. By displaying a live camera image in the driver's cab of the truck when reversing, the coupling process is made much easier. The camera is integrated into the fifth wheel for optimum protection even under tough operating conditions. The intuitive handling of the system supports the driver when changing trailers. In combination with the sensor solutions, JOST offers the ideal safety package.

With the Modul E-Drive electric landing gear, JOST is setting a new standard in terms of comfort, work safety and cost-effectiveness in the commercial vehicle industry: Physically strenuous hand cranking is no longer necessary, even if the landing gear is difficult to access. It proves particularly useful in tight manoeuvring conditions frequent coupling and uncoupling of the trailer. In addition to the proven JOST Modul quality, the Modul E-Drive has other features like improving day-to-day availability of the truck fleet.

TRITRONIC is a trailer management system with radio remote control for heavy-duty transporters. Special transport vehicles are often equipped with hydraulic steering. Due to the extreme dimensions, additional steering is often necessary, which can be easily operated using the TRITRONIC remote control. After manual tracking, the vehicle must be aligned again with the tractor. This is done automatically with TRITRONIC.

What are the challenges in deploying advanced technologies in a price conscious market like India?

The major challenge is the price acceptability, which is in turn linked with affordability due to the freight rates, which have remained almost dormant for a long time, despite the increase in demand for goods movement.

Fleet owners can be convinced that they are getting the most out of their trailers and components in terms of productivity, reliability, and safety if they see a more payload per trip. Plus, if interchangeability of tractor and trailer kicks-in to the fully utilised state, the total cost of ownership could be significantly reduced, thereby improving returns.

Fleet owners must also look at critical component parts when purchasing a trailer for heavy haul. Reliable systems like kingpins and fifth wheels eliminate risk of road accidents. High performance components like axles and suspensions ensure minimum downtime. Tractor-trailers and the cargo are of very high value. Fleet owners should therefore consider an optimum serviceable design to ensure lower running costs of proprietary products like Fifth Wheels, Kingpins, Axles, Suspensions, and Landing Gear.

KKS-U Advantages

The KKS-U is an innovative installation variation of the KKS, enhancing the efficiency, safety, and simplicity of logistics operations. Let's delve into the technical improvements and features of the system:

Wedge Design: The redesigned wedge retains the familiar KKS connector, ensuring compatibility with existing systems. The integration of a high-quality JOST kingpin enhances durability and performance. The wedge rotates during cornering, allowing for optimal maneuverability.

Spiral Spring: The spiral spring is a crucial component housing both air and electric lines. It ensures the safe and reliable transmission of these lines from the KKS connector to the trailer. This design facilitates flexibility during cornering, reducing wear and tear on the lines.

Cable Box: The cable box securely stores electric lines, safeguarding them during transportation. During cornering, the cable box seamlessly feeds the electric lines into the spiral spring, preventing damage or entanglement.

Simple Installation: The installation process of the KKS-U is streamlined for ease and efficiency. The three-part system allows for straightforward assembly, minimizing downtime during installation or maintenance.

Integration with JOST Fifth Wheel: The JOST fifth wheel, coupled with the KKS connector, forms a robust sub-system for connecting the kingpin securely. The integration ensures a quick and secure connection, providing instant access to air and electricity on the trailer.

Electric Landing Leg Model E Drive: The inclusion of the electric landing leg model E drive adds versatility and functionality to the system. This component contributes to the overall efficiency and automation of trailer operations.

Enhanced Safety Features: The KKS system significantly improves safety by eliminating the need for drivers to climb on the catwalk between the truck and trailer. A sensor integrated into the fifth wheel reduces the risk of trailer detachment, enhancing overall safety during transport.

Accident Reduction: The KKS plays a pivotal role in accident reduction by addressing safety concerns and minimizing potential risks. The elimination of manual tasks and the incorporation of safety sensors contribute to a safer work environment.

In summary, the KKS-U represents a technologically advanced and comprehensive solution in the logistics sector. Its combination of design improvements, safety features, and simplified installation makes it an essential component for modern transportation systems, ultimately contributing to increased efficiency and reduced accidents in the industry.