Australian freight carrier, Simon National Carriers, has deployed four Performance-Based Standards (PBS) Super B-doubles.
The Vawdrey Titeliner combinations are operating under PBS Level 2 at Higher Mass Limits (HML).
With Gross Combination Masses (GCM) of 65 tonnes and payloads of 48 tonnes, they have significantly increased productivity for Simon National Carriers.
Simon National Carriers National Transport and Distribution Manager, Mick West, told Trailer the Super B-double PBS configurations have been able to move more freight with less trucks – also lowering emissions.
“It’s a win-win situation,” he said.
“The sheer payload that we can get on these units is incredible.
“They’re certainly proving to be good combinations for us at the moment.”
The 18-pallet A trailer and 22-pallet B trailer combinations are being used to transport general freight throughout the east coast.
Their operations are also set to expand into Queensland.
Simons National Carriers National Fleet Manager, Scott Horwood, told Trailer the Super B-doubles have made great impressions so far due to their exceptional on-road handling.
“There’s a lot of benefits that we’re seeing with them,” he said.
“The drivers love the Super B-doubles because they handle a lot better, especially around roundabouts, compared to conventional B-doubles.”
BPW Transpec axles and running gear have majorly contributed to this factor.
“The BPW Transpec steerable axles and running gear certainly make these units stand out,” West said.
“When you get something new, the experienced drivers will be the first to tell you if there’s something that they don’t like about it.
“But our drivers are all coming forward and putting their hands up for the Super B-doubles. That’s telling us something.”
The four Super B-doubles join a fleet of 66 Vawdrey trailers at Simon National Carriers which are predominantly Titeliners.
Based on their performance so far, Simon National Carriers is planning to invest in additional Super B-double units.
“We’re always looking into technology and trying to stay ahead of the game,” West told Trailer.
“You’ve got to invest money to keep your fleet up to date and moving forward.
“You don’t replace old equipment with new vehicles that are smaller if you can get bigger ones for not much more cost and have a lot more efficiencies. So, it all made sense for us to purchase these trailers and go from there.
“We’ll continue to use them based on what we’re seeing and how well they’re moving freight.”
