TRT launches new Traction Air EM Series

In News5 MinutesBy NZ Trucking magazineNovember 3, 2023

TRT has announced the launch of its latest advancements in its Central Tyre Inflation System, the new Traction Air EM Series.

Traction Air was introduced over two decades ago to address the unique challenges posed by the rugged Australian Outback. Today, it is a part of more than 4000 vehicles primarily across New Zealand and Australia.

The latest system will be accessible to customers in Australia and New Zealand. Traction Air has also been distributed in Sweden and across Asia, making it available worldwide.

The concept of fitting central tyre Inflation systems on logging trucks in New Zealand was introduced through a well-established Canadian product called Redline, which had a strong presence in the Canadian logging industry. New Zealand’s forestry owners recognised the advantages of adjusting tyre pressures to reduce expenses on their forestry routes, all while improving the accessibility and safety of both their logging truck fleet and operators.

The development of Traction Air first began in 1997 when Bruce Carden saw an opportunity in the market to manufacture a more affordable and improved alternative to Redline. What followed was a journey marked by innovative brainstorming, significant investments in research and development, and product testing in New Zealand and Australia, ultimately the creation of the TRT-manufactured Central Tyre inflation System, Traction Air.

TRT’s first New Zealand Traction Air system was fitted to a Trevor Masters Kenworth Logging Truck in March 1997.

In 1999 TRT fitted their first Traction Air system in Australia. The first installation took place up the top end of Tasmania for Ken Padgent, who operated a Kenworth out of Scottsdale.

The fully loaded B Double weighed over 60 tonnes and had to start on a gravel haul road with roughly a 15% gradient.

Subsequently, Traction Air was installed on the world’s first Triple Road Train, which was operating out of Alice Springs. This rig had Traction Air systems on all 96 tyres.

In February 2010, G Series Traction Air was launched, featuring GPS Speed Up Control and dual transducer sensing for accuracy. In September 2019, TRT introduced the Traction Air E-Series in Australia and New Zealand.

 “As with all our TRT manufactured products, Traction Air has made significant strides in terms of design, capability, and functionality. said TRT’s Managing Director, Bruce Carden.

“The new Traction Air EM Series is yet another example demonstrating our commitment to delivering the best possible solutions for our valued customers.”

Transforming Fleet Management 

The Traction Air CTI-EM Series is set to redefine the standards of tyre pressure monitoring and control.

Designed to accommodate a variety of diverse conditions, this new system integrates CAN-BUS protocols that are interface capable with telematics.

Improved Design 

The new EM Series features a simplified and improved manifold design that optimises airflow and improves pressure distribution. This enables the system to perform more efficiently, delivering improved responsiveness for traction.

This innovative design enhances the efficiency of the system, resulting in improved tyre performance.

The new EM Series consists of the new versatile, high flow compact valves enabling increased air flow. The new series also comes with a user-friendly plug connection for convenience.

Simplified Installation 

The innovative pressure cell’s design is 50% more compact than the existing model, allowing for enhanced installation flexibility in tight spaces. This simplicity ensures that the system can be seamlessly integrated into a vehicle, regardless of its size or configuration.

Robust yet Lightweight Protection

The new pressure cell is housed in a robust yet lightweight composite cover, providing the necessary protection against environmental elements without adding unnecessary weight to your vehicle. It is self-purging to eliminate moisture and dust contaminants.