In New Zealand, light commercial trailers are vital to many businesses and industries, used to transport goods and equipment safely and efficiently. When it comes to designing and building trailers, one of the key decisions that manufacturers need to make is the Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) of the trailer. While there are many options available, I would argue that building 3.5t GVM trailers is a better choice than 2.5t GVM trailers.
Previously in New Zealand we built 2.5t GVM trailers as going over this specification required the addition of hydraulic or electric braking systems with in-cab controllers. These could be time-consuming to install, expensive, and problematic. Often a vehicle would be paired with a trailer limiting flexibility within a towing fleet, or the trailer's braking system would need to be adjusted every time the load was changed.
Trailer legislation changed in 2020 to allow European mechanical override systems certified to ECER13, this popular system removed the need for wired in-cab controllers, hydraulics, and blue tooth paired trailers making 3.5t GVM trailers simpler, quicker and cheaper to build
Modern vehicles are increasingly capable of towing heavier loads. Many modern vehicles can now tow up to 3.5 tonnes, which means that building 3.5t GVM trailers makes more sense in terms of compatibility with the towing vehicles. By building trailers that match the towing capacity of modern vehicles, trailer manufacturers can ensure that their products are in high demand and can be used by a wide range of customers.
Furthermore, the cost-effectiveness of 3.5t trailers is also worth considering. While 2.5t trailers may be cheaper to build, they may not be as cost-effective in the long run. With a 3.5t trailer, it is possible to transport larger quantities of goods or equipment in a single trip, reducing the need for multiple trips and the associated costs of fuel, labor, and time.
There are also safety benefits to building 3.5t GVM trailers. When transporting heavy loads, it is important to ensure that the trailer is stable and secure, and that the towing vehicle is capable of handling the weight. By building trailers that match the towing capacity of modern vehicles, manufacturers can ensure that their products are designed to the highest safety standards.
Of course, it is important to note that building 3.5t GVM trailers requires careful consideration of the materials, design features, and user-friendliness. It is essential to ensure that the trailer is structurally sound and that it can withstand the rigours of regular use. Additionally, features that make the trailer easier to use for the end user, such as mechanical override brakes, should also be taken into account. Constructing a trailer that is not only safe and efficient but also user-friendly can increase the appeal of the product and make it a more attractive option for businesses and individuals. By carefully designing and building trailers that meet both safety and user-friendliness requirements, manufacturers can ensure that their products are in high demand and can meet the needs of a wide range of customers.
Building 3.5t GVM trailers makes sense in New Zealand, given the towing capabilities of modern vehicles. The extra payload capacity of 3.5t trailers provides significant benefits in terms of flexibility, productivity, and cost-effectiveness, making them a more attractive option for businesses and individuals. By carefully designing and building trailers to meet these requirements, manufacturers can ensure that their products are in high demand and can meet the needs of a wide range of customers.