Great Dane has introduced a new smart trailer concept that the company says will keep drivers and fleet managers informed about basic pre-trip inspection checks and alert notifications while on the road. The data monitored includes tire inflation, weight distribution, door sensors, lights, GPS location and more. Data from this system can be received through an onboard LCD display, a Bluetooth connection with a mobile app and desktop computer software.
“We are excited to launch our smart trailer concept in beta at TMC to get customer input and continue the development of the device,” said Dennis Skaradzinski, chief engineer for Great Dane. “Prototypes are currently being tested with multiple fleet customers. The results of the testing will help Great Dane develop a final product that truly meets our customers’ needs.”
Great Dane’s conceptual telematics device is the result of an action item developed by the Future Trailer Committee, which was chaired by Great Dane representatives, at the TMC exhibition in 2011. The task was to develop an automated pre-trip inspection device to assist drivers with quicker turnaround at trailer pickup. This action item was part of a five-year plan set forth by the committee.
