Truck-Lite moves into telematics

Truck-Lite announced its entry into the telematics market with the Road ready trailer monitoring and communications system. It calls it “the most complete trailer telematics solution in the industry.”

The heavy-duty lighting and visibility company based in Falconer, N.Y. unveiled the system at its annual meeting in Nashville. In a news release, Truck-Lite said the “system creates the industry’s  first true ‘smart’ trailer with its solar-powered master control unit.” It has a 10-year quick-charging battery that can keep its charge for 60 days without sunlight, the company said.

It was all a matter of listening to the customer, said Roger Elmer, director of research and technology development for Truck-Lite. “As a result, we’re able to provide innovative solutions to fleets’ concerns such as maintaining CSA scores, complying with the Food Safety Modernization Act, keeping assets secure and being more productive in general.”

The system has peel-and-stick sensors that communicate the master control unit, which relays information such as tire pressure, light-out detection and monitoring anti-lock brakes. It also monitors for unauthorized cargo openings and cargo fill/movement detection.

“Our primary focus is to help drivers and the fleets that they serve to operate in full compliance of all safety standards,” said Brian Kupchella, president and chief executive officer of Truck-Lite. “This product line is the result of multiple initiatives by Truck-Lite’s research group over the past 18 months, and this expansion into the telematics industry fits our mission.”

Partnership with NanoMech

Truck-Lite also announced a partnership with NanoMech Industries, which focuses on nanotechnology innovation.

NanoMech says its nononmanufacturing process can produce products that provide higher performance in certain areas, like lubricants and corrosion protection.

Through this partnership, Truck-Lite said it will introduce products designed to improve the level of performance increasing resistence to electrical malfunction, corrosion and oxidation.