In Summary:

A new theory is expected, quite properly, to overcome a large number of objections and even then some of the advocates of the old are never to be convinced.

The Semi-trailer Industry has been successful because it is adaptable. Gt. Dane, Utility, Wabash and others are able to respond to the demands of their customers and to incorporate into their product such innovations as multi-axles, single tires, air ride suspensions, sliders, refrigeration and finally to offer storage and warehousing. All this without destroying the essential elements of design so that it can nevertheless be modified to accommodate a wide variety of applications.

The success of this existing semi-trailer design is now at risk; its flexibility of length, width and height, not to mention Gross Carrying Weight, having hit the wall, is now becoming an impediment to that very adaptability, the low hanging fruit have all been picked. In addition, the existing semi-trailer is the cause of most tractor jackknifes which needs to be prevented. Many anti-jackknife devices have been tried without success, some better than others, even the trailer air brake hand control has been eliminated. Now finally, there is a trailer designed to guarantee the tractor cab will not impact the trailer in a full jackknife and that is the “ACCORD” Semi-trailer.

THE ACCORD semi-trailer is our 21st century iteration of the original successful design with zero “GAP” and no jackknife possible beyond 52 degrees. The ACCORD story is about to open a new chapter and a new theory, a design concept on which to build. This new semi-trailer can be longer, yet is shorter in forward length, more maneuverable with added flexibility, characteristics that will benefit shipper warehouse footprint, the transport company cargo capacity and protect the driver. With its increased cubic capacity, maneuverability fuel and tire savings there is a lesser need for a proliferation of aerodynamic devices. The ACCORD semi-trailer remains adaptable as a Van, Curtain-side or Container chassis, a new “articulated” platform offering opportunity for improved ROI.

Expensive tractors will no longer face the potential write-off, the result of a jackknife. This design concept could, in fact, save insurance companies and owners many millions of dollars, possible lives. EU and US State forward length requirements are redundant with this design and EPA, NHTSA phase ll rules infer a lesser impact.

So whats not to love……non-disruptive maybe nevertheless, who said progress was easy. Call me personally, let us assist you and your team engineer the new “ACCORD” Semi-trailer into your fleet today. Better still, let’s talk to your accountants they will understand the why this new design will generate more revenue for your company.

N. R. CURRY