English
SAF-HOLLAND significantly increases the maneuverability of trailers in urban delivery traffic with the intelligent SAF Smart Steering Control steering axle. The pre-assembled combination of the SAF INTRA axle and the VSE auxiliary steering system simplifies integration into existing fleets, improves maneuvering capability, and reduces operating costs.
SAF-HOLLAND expands its portfolio with the new SAF Smart Steering Control – an intelligent steering axle solution developed specifically for the needs of delivery transport in densely built-up urban areas. The combination of the proven SAF INTRA self-steering axle with VSE’s single-circuit auxiliary steering system significantly improves trailer maneuverability – both when driving forward and reversing. The solution will be delivered pre-assembled from a single source and represents an important element of SAF-HOLLAND’s new service philosophy.
“With the SAF Smart Steering Control, we offer our customers a state-of-the-art, pre-assembled steering axle solution that maximizes maneuverability in urban environments while reducing operating costs,” explains Alexandre Charpiot, Vice President Sales EMEA at SAF-HOLLAND. “The system is a perfect example of how we bring our claim ‘We deliver the complete system for your trailer’ to life.”
Intelligent auxiliary steering for tight maneuvers
The SAF Smart Steering Control significantly increases maneuverability: up to 25 km/h, the steering system actively assists during maneuvering and tight cornering. Within the typical steering range, the axle behaves similarly to a forced-steering axle. The basis is a kingpin sensor that reliably transmits steering angles without requiring additional installation space on the fifth-wheel plate. An additional angle sensor on the axle precisely captures its position.
Efficiency and reduced tire wear
With optimized steering support, the axle substantially reduces maneuvering effort in dense inner-city traffic – a key advantage in time-critical distribution and collection operations. At the same time, tire wear and fuel consumption decrease noticeably, resulting in sustainable cost savings. Despite improved performance, system weight increases by only about 40 kg.
Complete system solution from a single source
The SAF Smart Steering Control is delivered fully pre-assembled – including all VSE components such as steering cylinders and sensors. Vehicle manufacturers and service partners benefit from reduced installation times, lower complexity, and significantly simplified integration into existing fleets. The axle is available in numerous configurations: with SAF TIRE PILOT or with various brackets and crossmembers from the INTRA program.
For demanding applications
The axle is ideally suited for tight cornering and demanding operating conditions, even off paved roads – such as in forestry, municipal operations, or on construction sites. In the INTRA IO version, the brake cylinders can be rotated upwards to protect them from damage and increase ground clearance. SAF Smart Steering Control is therefore the intelligent auxiliary steering solution for demanding distribution, collection, and off-road transport applications.