Source: https://trans.info/en/10-axle-mega-truck-405201 10-axle mega-trailer truck to be tested on the roads of GermanyWith a length of 31.70 metres and ten axles, the vehicle combination—consisting of a tractor unit and two standard semi-trailers connected via a dolly axle—could revolutionize freight transport. Already in successful operation in Scandinavia and Spain, it is now being tested in Germany. We have inquired whether and when the 32-metre mega semi-trailer will be approved for use in Germany.In September 2024, a one-year pilot project was launched in Germany to trial a truck combination with a total length of 31.70 metres, known as the EcoDuo.The pilot test is being led by the Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) and is receiving scientific support from TÜV Rheinland. The EcoDuo itself is being provided by the vehicle manufacturer Schmitz Cargobull.The vehicle combination consists of a tractor unit and two standard semi-trailers connected via a dolly axle. Unlike long trucks, whose semi-trailer dimensions deviate from the norm, the standard semi-trailers used in the EcoDuo can be easily loaded onto rail transport. Double freight in a single tripSchmitz Cargobull has been advocating for years to have this vehicle combination approved for use on a positive network—i.e., a designated and approved road network—in Germany.During the test phase, global logistics service provider Sesé is operating the EcoDuo on a route from Volkswagen’s plant in Wolfsburg to the MegaHub Lehrte terminal near Hanover, 70 kilometres away. There, the semi-trailers are loaded onto the rail and transported 1,700 kilometres to Spain within the Kombiverkehr KG network. At the transshipment station in Barcelona, the individual semi-trailers are coupled together again to form an EcoDuo combination and then transported by road to their final destination by Sesé.TÜV Rheinland is conducting scientific assessments to evaluate the EcoDuo’s fuel consumption, load capacity, and suitability for everyday use. After the one-year trial, the results will be reviewed to determine whether the vehicle will be approved for regular operation in Germany. Successful deployment in Scandinavia and SpainWhile the EcoDuo is still undergoing trials in Germany, it has already been successfully implemented in Scandinavia—particularly in Sweden and Norway—and was approved for use in Spain in January 2024.The Spanish CEP transport company Furgo-Trayler purchased 25 EcoDuo trailers from Schmitz Cargobull in November last year. Advantages of the EcoDuo:
- Reduction in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions per tonne transported by up to 25%
- Integration of road and rail transport – two semi-trailers can be easily loaded onto the rail or ferry
- Reduced road congestion – doubling transport capacity while decreasing overall road traffic
- Mitigation of driver shortages – replacing two conventional trips, requiring only one driver