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Key Aspects:
- Lightweight in the medium load range: SAF FUSION closes the gap between SAF INTRA and SAF MODUL. Compared with the SAF solution previously used for such applications, the new axle family saves more than 40 kg per axle or at least 120 kg in a three-axle unit.
- Proven technology combined: SAF-HOLLAND is further developing an axle concept from Assali Stefen that has been in use on the market for years and combining it with tried-and-tested SAF components.
- Flexibility for vehicle manufacturers: The two-part steering arm concept allows for variant flexibility. The patented connection between the axle and the axle tube is maintenance-free. Interfaces with the vehicle frame are to be standardised.
Closing the gap between INTRA and MODUL
With SAF INTRA, SAF-HOLLAND offers a chassis designed for classic 9-tonne applications. SAF MODUL covers a broader range up to 14 tonnes and higher load capacities. For demanding applications that SAF INTRA cannot cover, it has therefore sometimes been necessary to rely on SAF MODUL. SAF FUSION fits precisely into this gap: the new range is designed for applications up to 11 tonnes and is intended to cover even demanding 9-tonne configurations, for example with twin tyres.
“SAF FUSION clearly demonstrates the added value created by the integration of our brands. We are combining Assali Stefen’s market-proven chassis concept with SAF’s expertise in axles to develop a new range that specifically complements our portfolio between INTRA and MODUL,” explains Alexandre Charpiot, President EMEA at SAFHOLLAND. “For our customers, this means, above all, lower weight and greater flexibility for a variety of vehicle designs.”
SAF FUSION is the result of two established concepts.
The technical basis is a chassis concept from Assali Stefen, which has been in use on the market for years. SAF-HOLLAND is further developing this concept, adapting it to its own standards and combining it with proven SAF components. The axle tube, as well as the brake, wheel and wheel bearing components, are sourced from the SAF portfolio. The basic idea behind the two-piece steering knuckle design comes from Assali Stefen. Whilst the front section is standardised, the rear design can be adapted to different vehicle and operational concepts.
At least 120 kilograms lighter in the three-axle unit
Weight is a key focus of development for SAF FUSION. Compared with the SAF solution previously used for such applications, the new chassis saves more than 40 kg per axle. For a three-axle unit, this weight saving therefore totals at least 120 kg. Particularly for transport tasks where a low kerb weight is crucial, SAF-HOLLAND thus offers an alternative tailored to the required load range.
Added to this is a patented, maintenance-free connection between the chassis and the axle tube. With clamped connections, the fastenings must be checked and retightened regularly in accordance with the maintenance schedule, depending on usage. With SAF FUSION, this maintenance step is no longer required at the axle connection. The design thus combines the weight advantage with reduced maintenance requirements at this interface.
Standardised interfaces for different vehicle designs
In parallel with technical development, SAF-HOLLAND is adapting the original Assali-Stefen concept to the established dimensions and geometries of the SAF portfolio. One development objective is to standardise the interfaces between the vehicle frame and the SAF FUSION and SAF MODUL systems. The support block and air spring are to be designed in such a way that trailer manufacturers can work with vehicle-side interfaces that are as uniform as possible, even when dealing with different load requirements.
This development objective covers various axle types and tyre configurations in the range up to 11 tonnes, including rigid and steered axles, as well as single and twin tyres. Typical applications include low-loaders, timber transporters, tankers, heavy-duty tippers and centre-axle trailers. Following the planned start of series production for the first applications in the second quarter of 2028, the chassis family is to be gradually expanded to include further variants.
