Kiwi central tyre inflation system manufacturer TRT is introducing a new version of its Traction Air system to the European market.
TRT developed Traction Air 22 years ago, with the first installations on roadtrains in the Australian Outback.
Since then the system has been installed on 4000 vehicles in New Zealand, Australia and the Asia Pacific region.
TRT hasn't looked to market it further afield….until, four years ago, "we looked at CTI in Europe, and in particular Scandinavia," says TRT 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 condition.
"With a bit of TRT blue-sky thinking, an investment in research, development and product testing in NZ and Sweden over the past two and a half years, we have created a brand new CTI system – with greater capabilities…that integrates with the vehicle using common BUS protocols."
Its new Traction Air E Series is the result of that research project – designed for European conditions, but also, Halley says, with "a direct spinoff for our loyal local customers," as it's being introduced in TRT's existing markets as well. 
The company says that the central tyre inflation system has "undergone a complete evolution in technology and its look" – the new E Series multi-channel system offers options from single axle to drive, steer and trailer axle solutions. 
In addition to this versatility, the new Traction Air system has required TRT to develop a completely new 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 the challenge of Europe's salted roads. It's also capable of operating in temperatures down to -40°, Halley says.
In addition to its advanced technology, the Traction Air E Series also has a new look. 
The system is still autonomous, but allowances have been made in the design for it to be interfaced with the vehicle and with other third-party applications in the future.
Halley clarifies that the new system doesn't replace the current G Series Traction Air system: "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." 
In Scandinavia TRT is distributing Traction Air CTI - E Series through axle manufacturer Bevola, and is selling directly into the United Kingdom market. 
It says that a number of commercial installations in Europe are "in progress." 
Traction Air's website says that the new system has added safety through its GPS Speed Up feature, which it says is "at the cutting edge" of CTI control.
"In principle we use a GPS receiver to measure the ground speed and match this to stepped pressure intervals. As the truck increases speed the system pumps itself up. 
"This feature provides peace of mind for the fleet owner, knowing that the driver can no longer drive down the road with the tyre pressure at too low a setting for the speed of the vehicle." 
The system is fully programmable, it adds, and can be set for specific fleet requirements and operational terrain.