Traction Air, TRT‘s central tyre inflation system, has undergone a complete evolution in technology and look. This new advanced Traction Air CTI system called E Series is based on an extensive research and development project by TRT, based in Scandinavia.

TRT has always ensured that as technology in vehicles and operations has advanced, so too has the capability of Traction Air. Traction Air was developed more than 22 years ago by TRT, with the first installations on road trains in the Australian Outback. Traction Air is installed on more than 4000 vehicles throughout New Zealand, Australia and the Asia Pacific region. 

However, TRT has not focused on CTI solutions for other regions until now.

“About four years ago we looked at CTI in Europe, and in particular Scandinavia,” says national sales manager Gavin Halley. “With some of the most extreme operating environments, we wanted to understand how, and if, Traction Air could be adapted for any conditions.

“With a bit of TRT blue sky thinking, an investment in research, development and product testing in New Zealand and Sweden over the past two and a half years, we have created a new CTI system with greater capabilities, that integrates with the vehicle using a common BUS protocols. This new CTI system is designed for European conditions, which has a direct spinoff for our loyal local customers.”

The new system offers multi-channel options from single axle to drive, steer, and trailer axle solutions. To add this variability, TRT has had to develop a completely new CTI system from the ECU and software to the wheel ends and pressure cells. For example, the pressure cell is now made of stainless steel to withstand salt roads of European winters, and thermal switches for operation in -40°.

To celebrate the new Traction Air E Series and all of the new advances in technology, TRT has also designed a new look for Traction Air.

The new Traction Air E Series is still autonomous, but allowances have been made in the design for it to be interfaced with the vehicle and other third party applications in the future.

“This new system does not replace the current system the G Series; this is a new option for our customers to consider. While some fleets may choose to migrate to the new E Series, we will be fully supporting both systems for the foreseeable future.” 

TRT distribute Traction Air CTI – E Series through axle manufacturer Bevola, in Scandinavia and works directly within the UK markets. There are a number of commercial installations in progress. This new system will be made available to Australian and New Zealand customers in the coming months.