How to meet the demands of longer semi-trailers
CVW hears about how BPW’s self-steering axle is addressing the demands of Government approved longer semi-trailers.
As delivery routes tighten, fleet operators face increasing pressure to improve manoeuvrability, reduce environmental impact, and comply with evolving regulations. The BPW LL self-steering axle aims to offer fleet operators a proven and practical solution for longer semi-trailers (LSTs), helping operators enhance vehicle handling, extend tyre life, reduce fuel consumption, and simplify compliance with the latest regulatory demands.
In 2023, the Department of Transport (DfT) approved the use of even longer LSTs, adding a further 2.05 metres to increase the length of a UK semi-trailer from 13.6 to 15.65 metres. Since then, there has been a renewed focus on the need for efficient and compliant axle technology. LSTs support the government’s priority to drive further economic growth, cut emissions and strengthen supply chains. However, these benefits come with added operational responsibilities, including detailed route planning, enhanced driver training, and compliance with specific trailer configurations.
BPW’s solution
The BPW LL self-steering axle addresses these demands with a passive design that operates entirely without the need for external power or complex steering stabilisers. Unlike conventional active or control steering systems, the axle uses a simple yet effective mechanism where the axle beam and axle stub are connected through a kingpin system, with thrust washers. This offers trailers improved manoeuvrability in tight or narrow spaces and small delivery yards.
When driving straight (zero position), the crowns in the thrust washers keep the wheels in the correct and stable straightahead position. As a result, it has been highlighted that the life of the tyres on the front axle can increase by up to 50 per cent, while those on the rear axle can increase by as much as 70 per cent.
Self-locking
Engineered with real-world practicality in mind, the BPW LL self-steering axle also features an automatic self-locking facility that engages when reversing. To engage the mechanism, the trailer should be straightahead, allowing greater stability and ease of operation. Forces acting on the tyres when cornering are then distributed more evenly.
The BPW LL self-steering axle is available with steering angles of between 12 and 27 degrees, with the latter being suited for LSTs. Based on the proven beneficial principles of its existing self-steer, this increased steer angle enables a standard trailer license holder to consider a 27-degree steer axle.
Where the LL self-steering axle proves its real value is in the demands of day-today operations. Its improved manoeuvrability and reduced turning radius offer more straightforward vehicle handling, less tyre wear and lower fuel consumption. Over 100,000 kilometres, fleet operators can save as much as 1,000 litres of fuel and more than four tyres per vehicle – just work that out for your entire fleet!
The BPW LL self-steering axle says to continue to provide a robust and cost effective answer to the modern transport challenges posed by LSTs. With its intelligent design and long-standing reliability, it remains a key asset for fleet operators focused on smarter, greener and more compliant logistics.
