The new Goldhofer FT Series pivot-mounted pendulum axle combination offers excellent flexibility and investment security for the heavy haulage industry. This smart system unites semitrailers in the heavy payload class and heavy-duty module combinations, especially for on-road transportation. 

Thanks to its intelligent configuration and accessory packages, the FT Series can be combined with almost all Goldhofer modules. The ultimate benefit of this new type of vehicle is that transportation system changes can be made without any difficulties at any time. This allows a flexible response to changing market requirements and reduces the total cost of ownership in the long term.

According to Goldhofer, at the time of purchase, the FT Series can be adapted to individual requirements, thus avoiding the compromises that were often necessary in the past when placing an order. Basic width and bending moment, for example, can be individually specified for all standard bogies. 

The highlight of this transport system is a new wheel set. With its intelligent design, the new unit not only offers an optimised suspension stroke of 640 mm and a steering angle of 60 degrees, but also the flexibility to adapt to changing requirements – even after purchase. 

There are five different single and twin tyre options to choose from for a loading height of between 770 and 935 mm for axle loads of 22 to 26 t. Furthermore, to facilitate easy integration of the new FT Series into the existing fleet, the axle suspension cylinders can be specified for compatibility with Goldhofer’s entire heavy-duty portfolio. 

As a result, the FT Series can be used on a customised basis for combination with all existing module systems. “This enables customers to configure individual vehicle combinations for a perfect match with their momentary operational requirements,” said Robert Steinhauser, vice president sales & service transport technology at Goldhofer. “Existing vehicles are not replaced, but individually integrated into the new system.” 

Full integration is also possible with existing equipment such as cargo decks, goosenecks and turntables for long loads. The FT Series portfolio includes smart solutions such as rear bogies with an excavator boom recess, which are also optionally available with an extendable tele-spacer for lengthening the loading area on platform combinations.

Goldhofer pointed out that changing market requirements can necessitate major costs on new vehicles and business models, but this problem is solved by the FT Series. Future requirements are taken into account at the time of purchase as changes to the transportation system can be made at any time without any problems. 

The FT Series also opens up previously untapped business opportunities, added Goldhofer. For example, the scope for modifications to the bogies means greater access to the pre-owned vehicle market, while cooperation with new partners and cross-rental business are facilitated as well.

The pool of potential customers in the event of a sale and of owners in the event of future additions to the fleet are no longer limited to those with the ‘right’ vehicles, said Goldhofer, making it a big advantage in terms of the resale value of the fleet. 

“The overall concept of the FT Series leads to a sustainable reduction in total cost of ownership and provides our customers with the maximum flexibility for their future plan,” concluded Mr Steinhauser.