Equipment specialist, JOST Australia, yesterday demonstrated how the RO500 program is being developed for modern transport demands across truck-and-dog, B-double and A-double applications.
National Fleet Manager, Shane Harbridge, Regional Sales Manager, Graham Cox, and National Product and Innovation Manager, Joey Coles, presented at the Technical and Maintenance Conference at the Melbourne Showgrounds.
They spoke to operators and fleet representatives specifically about the latest developments in the RO500 program including accessory options, maintenance tools and automated features designed to make coupling safer, faster and easier for drivers.
A highlight of the session was a demonstration video hosted by Bob Martin, JOST Australia’s National Training Manager, outlining three key innovations now available with the RO500:
- Coupling sensor system which detects whether the coupling pin has correctly dropped into the tow eye, with visual and audible alerts to confirm a secure connection.
- Turn angle sensor which warns drivers when jackknife angles are reached to prevent damage to the coupling or drawbar.
- Drawbar finder camera, a reversing camera and in-cab monitor that align the tow eye and coupling automatically, reducing the need for repeated exits from the cab.
According to Harbridge, these technologies can now be fitted to both new and existing RO500 systems, with off-the-shelf retrofit kits available.
“The RO500 is pre-drilled and pre-set for accessories, so you can start with a standard coupling and add these safety features later without modification,” he said.
The system is already in use on A-double combinations, with wiring solutions connecting cameras and sensors through a second Susie coil. Wireless integration is under development for future models.
From a maintenance perspective, the RO500 has been engineered for simplicity. The head unit can be removed by undoing just four bolts, while the coupling pin and bush components are easily replaced without specialist tools.
JOST also showcased new gauges for checking wear on both coupling pins and tow eyes, designed to ensure compliance and safety under the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator’s (NHVR) Chain of Responsibility (CoR) framework.
The equipment specialist has also introduced heavy-duty bush options for road train and offroad use, along with adjustable handles which can be repositioned in six configurations to suit different chassis layouts.
JOST also previewed its air-operated RO500, offering an ergonomic alternative for tight or low-clearance setups. A lockable control box mounted on the side of the trailer allows for effortless activation of the coupling mechanism, reducing strain and the risk of manual handling injuries.
Harbridge highlighted JOST’s ongoing commitment to safety innovation.
“We’re continually developing systems that make drivers’ jobs easier while improving reliability and compliance,” he said.
“From sensor-assisted couplings to the next generation of fully automated connection systems, the RO500 program shows how far coupling technology has come.”
In related news, JOST is launching axles and suspensions in Australia.
