Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia

INGENUITY IN DESIGN, ENGINEERING, AND MANUFACTURING

SPOTLIGHT ON HEAVY VEHICLES IN AUSTRALIA

The envy of industry around the world, Australia’s high-productivity heavy vehicles are ready to undertake any and every task imaginable thanks to their ingenuity in design, engineering, and manufacturing Writer: Jack Salter | Project Manager: Deane Anderton

Australia is a world leader in many aspects of heavy vehicle transport.

The country has a thriving and robust local industry that comprises hundreds of forward-thinking manufacturers and suppliers of innovative trailers, trucks, and other specialised vehicles, components, equipment, and technology.

This is in addition to the product assembly of global heavy vehicle brands such as Mack, Kenworth, DAF Trucks, SEA Electric, Hyzon, and Volvo. The latter is Australia’s largest heavy vehicle powerhouse and the sole truck manufacturer to have been awarded the

AUSTRALIA

prestigious Australia Made certification.

Heavy vehicles in the country are manufactured to withstand Australia’s climate and operating challenges. Indeed, customers Down Under must contend with heavier loads, greater distances, and changeable weather, from the hot, dusty Outback to the Snowy Mountains.

These tricky conditions mean that heavy vehicles have to work harder in Australia than just about anywhere else in the world and are therefore tailored accordingly.

Australia also boasts many unique truck and trailer combinations that simply do not exist in any other country.

It is well known that Australia has pushed the boundaries

in truck and trailer size, gross mass, and configuration. Decades ago, it even broke new ground in terms of the roads that vehicles drive on as, unlike many other developed countries, much of Australia is thinly populated and features incredible distances between its centres of population, both large and small.

This creates a complex infrastructure when it comes to providing an expansive yet reliable network of sealed roads, suitable for both light and heavy vehicles.

SKILLS SHORTAGE

Australia’s heavy vehicle industry directly employs over

70,000 people, who are responsible for designing, manufacturing, servicing, and repairing some of the world’s most efficient, safe, innovative, and technologically advanced vehicles.

The sector’s vast workforce is also involved in the importation, distribution, modification, and sale of these impressive vehicles, as well as their components, equipment, and technology.

A career in the heavy vehicle sector requires far more than just a singular skillset. As vital cogs in the machinery that allows the industry to keep Australia moving, it’s about how individual contributions fit into the bigger picture.

However, the heavy vehicle industry in Australia continues to suffer critical shortages of skilled labour. This is not an anomaly, either, as labour market skill shortages are as deep as they are wide across the country.

The current pipeline of workers is struggling to keep pace with growing demand in the sector, with an order book extending well into 2024 that needs filling. The

work does not end there, as once those vehicles are on the road, they also need to be maintained.

Recent vacancy figures indicate that several thousands of motor mechanics, electricians, metal fitters, and machinists are required to address the shortage.

In Victoria, the state government is also injecting an extra AUD$1 million into training more heavy vehicle drivers to keep supply chains moving through a partnership with the Victorian Transport Association (VTA).

The partnership offers accredited training for aspiring heavy vehicle drivers and assists them in securing employment as part of VTA’s Driver Delivery programme, which has received continuous investment from the government since it was launched in 2016, resulting in the training and placement of nearly 400 skilled drivers on the roads.

In addition to improving road safety, the programme aims to tackle heavy vehicle driver shortages, tailored to attract and retain younger drivers for critical transport and logistics supply chains.

SHOWCASING THE INDUSTRY

Along with the Technical and Further Education (TAFE) network and other Registered Training Organisations (RTOs), a stream of skilled workers from the Australian school system is required to rectify the labour shortage.

There is an overwhelming need to disseminate career information to students, and the wider public for that matter, to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the sector, the roles on offer, its operational diversity, and the job needs of the future.

A variety of initiatives promote careers across the country’s heavy vehicle industry, including the Brisbane Truck Show, the southern hemisphere’s largest road transport event displaying the most comprehensive range of trucks, trailers, components, equipment, accessories, and technology in Australia.

With an incredibly rich, continuous history that dates back half a century, the Brisbane Truck Show has always been about coming together, sharing ideas, discussing challenges, and showcasing the innovative ways to address them.

A record number of pupils were hosted at last year’s running of the Brisbane Truck Show, with well over 1,600 students from over 50 schools in attendance.

Australia’s largest-ever showcase of commercial zeroemission heavy vehicles (ZEHVs) was also on display at the 2023 event, from both major original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) as well as a raft of new players.

The ZEHVs exhibited ranged from battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (HFCEVs) to more conventional trucks powered by renewable diesel, an advanced biofuel made from animal fats, vegetable oils, and agricultural waste.

Significant investment has been made towards increasing vehicle efficiency and reducing the emissions of diesel-powered vehicles to accompany the shift towards ZEHVs.

There are also calls for the Australian government to support the enablement of onshore renewable diesel refining, as the fuel is not currently commercially available in the country.

This is despite renewable diesel playing a critical role in decarbonisation, given its chemically identical properties to conventional diesel, which means that machinery using the fuel does not require modification and is widely supported by OEMs.

Access to domestically produced renewable diesel represents a significant and immediate opportunity to decarbonise a range of hard-to-abate sectors where alternative technologies are not readily available.

Diesel engines, traditionally the driving force behind the industry, have become a highly efficient and productive way of powering heavy vehicles since they were first

developed over a century ago.

However, as Australia reduces its environmental impact in line with international commitments to reduce carbon emissions, the push towards ZEHVs has gained huge momentum.

All levels of government are currently considering the development of a coordinated approach to decarbonising the heavy vehicle task, covering a range of issues both transport and non-transport related.

As progress is made towards decarbonisation, the industry may change, reprioritise, or develop new technologies.

Brisbane Truck Show

Crisis avoided with innovative Projecta INTELLI-START IS3000 & IS5000 Jump Starter Range

There’s an old saying in the road freight transport industry: ‘If the wheels aren’t turning you aren’t earning’. Vehicle downtime can cause delays, decrease productivity, and ruin reputations. If this is caused by something like a discharged battery, there’s a cost-effective solution on hand to give operators – whether owner drivers or fleet managers – some insurance.

Power-packed, the IS3000 and IS5000 Jump Starters are ideal for use on large industrial and commercial equipment including heavy-duty trucks, tractors, and agricultural equipment. Until now, there hasn’t been an easy or efficient means of jump-starting heavy equipment, with users often resulting to moving large batteries around on unwieldy trolleys to jump start the machines. With their easy portability, light weight (10.6kg and 13.5kg respectively) and patented Rapid Recharge Technology (RRT), the IS3000 and IS5000

industrial jump starters alleviate these pain points, adding convenience and efficiency for users. The IS Jump Starter range also reduces the risk of being caught out without charge when going to jump start a vehicle, as recharging the trolley rigs can often be forgotten.

Rapid Recharge Technology

By leaving the INTELLI-START Jump Starters connected to a vehicle’s battery once started, RRT can fully replenish the energy that was discharged during the starting process in just 40 seconds. This feature means that the INTELLI-START Jump Starters will then be ready to use in the next emergency without needing regular recharging –its clever technology that is unique to the Projecta INTELLI-START Jump Starter range.

The IS3000 is suitable for both 12V and 24V electrical systems and provides 1000A clamp

power for 12V systems and 850A for 24V electrical set-ups, along with 3000 peak amps – it’s enough to start petrol and diesel engines up to 12L displacement in 12V machines and all 24V engines.

The larger IS5000 has even greater clamp power, an impressive 1500A in 12V electrical systems and 1000A for 24V systems – in both cases peak amps are 5000. This output is sufficient to breathe life into petrol and diesel engines up to 16L capacity in equipment with 12V systems, and unlimited capacity in the case of vehicles with 24V electrics. The two jump starters also offer ‘no battery’ operation and can jump start vehicles without a starter battery.

Both the IS3000 and IS5000 Jump Starters feature a strong exterior casing that uses a steel chassis and rubber over-moulded construction with integrated handle and concealed cable storage. Also, these products ensure reliability and safety, utilising ‘no solder’, high current connections and solid 3mm clamp teeth, while an advanced allin-one protection system prevents surges, short circuits and overheating in these units.

For greater convenience, both models also boast auto sensing clamp connection, while operating this equipment is also simple via the intuitive LCD display with real time updates.

When it is finally time to recharge the IS3000 and IS5000, this is done using the included docking station, which provides hassle-free benchtop charging. Owners can also rest easy knowing that the INTELLI-START range is equipped with premium LiFePO4 batteries, the safest lithium technology available.

Additionally, the units feature an advanced, ‘all-inone’ protection system that prevents surges, short circuits, and overheating.

The IS3000 and IS5000 also deliver excellent longevity for users because they’re designed to deliver up to 2000 battery cycles, around four times more than competitor Lithium Cobalt based jump starters.

Other Projecta INTELLI-START models in the lineup include the IS920, IS1220, IS1400, IS1500, and IS2000. All INTELLI-START variants are Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS)-compliant, and Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) certified, and feature the globally patented RRT.

The latest additions to the INTELLI-START Jump Starter range are available from leading automotive and transportation outlets nationwide and are covered by a generous two-year product replacement or refund warranty.

NARVA Ultima Connect+ Controller offers complete lighting control

The new Ultima Connect+ Controller has arrived, offering owners of the recently launched Ultima LED Light Bar range, the ability to further maximise the performance of their light bars, by adjusting the beam shape and intensity to suit the environment and driving conditions.

An optional extra across the new Ultima LED Light Bar line-up, the controller offers further lighting adjustment with three preset, customisable driving modes.

For highway driving, the beam can be set for maximum distance with less spread to avoid road sign flare. In regional and rural areas, the distance can be reduced with a focus on maximum spread allowing possible hazards such as wandering livestock or wildlife, providing additional safety.

Ultima Connect+ Controller also allows drivers to alter brightness (main and aux controls), provides a boost mode that delivers 15 percent more power

for 30 seconds, and with its LIN Bus technology, acts as a single point of control for all Ultima Connect+ enabled products.

The controller’s generously sized buttons make it easy to use on bumpy roads and corrugations, while multiple mounting options and single wire installation provide easy fitment across a wide range of vehicles.

The Ultima Connect+ Controller is the perfect companion to the Ultima LED Light Bar range, which include eight- and 24-inch models that can be combined to also provide 40- and 48-inch bar configurations. With Ultima, owners can also select from both hybrid and flood beam light bar options depending on their preference. Together, Narva offers buyers customisation options like never before.

Narva’s new Ultima Connect+ Controller, Ultima LED Light Bars and associated accessories are available nationwide from leading automotive, four-wheel drive and transportation outlets.

SUSTAINABILITY IMPROVEMENTS

For decades, improvements have been made to the environmental footprint of the country’s heavy vehicle industry.

The Australian government estimates that since 1990, heavy vehicle noxious emissions standards have reduced carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrocarbon (HC) emissions by over 80 percent.

This is despite the fact there are now approximately 60 percent more heavy vehicles on the road, and the total distance travelled has almost doubled.

However, even though the industry provides some of the world’s most efficient, safe, innovative, and technologically advanced vehicles, there remain significant barriers to the adoption of ZEHVs.

Some of these barriers include vehicle design rules, a lack of electric truck recharging and hydrogen refuelling infrastructure, and a temporary but significantly higher upfront cost.

The industry has made a compelling case for the removal of such obstacles for heavy vehicles operating across Australia. Therefore, its position on the regulatory changes needed to support next-generation ZEHVs is clear, but urgent action is required by the government and its policy and regulatory agencies.

This includes a need to review heavy vehicle axle weight limits, a position that is unilaterally supported by industry

associations, manufacturers, and suppliers to the road freight transport sector.

The sheer volume of industry and stakeholder discussions on ZEHVs is overwhelming, yet current axle load limitations are one key theme that has emerged.

If low truck axle load limits are not addressed, it will strangle efforts to further decarbonise freight transport, preventing the industry from contributing to mandated domestic emissions reductions targets. Although Australia has a legislated commitment to net zero emissions, there is no plan for reducing emissions from road freight transport.

Electric trucks typically weigh more than their diesel counterparts, limited by high front axle loads, which means the existing weight limit in Australia has presented an industry-wide roadblock for the adoption of zeroemission technology.

INCREASING WEIGHT LIMITS

One of the main reasons why Australia has lower load axle limits than other developed countries is due to its sprayed seal road structures.

An interesting departure from other road structure designs, sprayed seals are effectively a thin layer of bitumen that is sprayed as a hot liquid onto a compacted base layer, which is then covered with a layer of aggregate to form the road surface.

Brisbane Truck Show

Often, the base layer beneath the bitumen is unbound, which means that it may be treated with a stabilising agent such as cement, but sometimes it is not treated at all.

The result is a relatively cheap, flexible road type that is easy to construct and suitable for roads carrying several thousand vehicles a day. Usage of sprayed seals therefore grew rapidly after their introduction in the early 20th century, and they now account for around 70 percent of the total length of all sealed roads in Australia.

On the other hand, sprayed seals are very thin and susceptible to increases in applied load, unlike other rigid road structure types such as asphalt and concrete.

This is disadvantageous for ZEHVs in Australia, which have higher tare weights than conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) trucks due to the equipment comprising the electric drivetrain, such as the battery in the electric motor.

For HFCEVs, the problem is exacerbated even further when you add in the weight of the fuel cell and the hydrogen storage and delivery system.

A number of actions are required to address this issue, including research into next-generation sprayed seals to support higher axle loads.

Allowing heavier electric and hydrogen trucks across the whole of Australia will be vital in opening access to new low-emission heavy vehicles and ZEHVs, which alongside

WIRELESS CHARGING FOR HEAVY VEHICLES

Heavy vehicles could soon be able to charge wirelessly as they drive on the highway thanks to a new AUD$3 million grant from the Australian government.

The world-first project, led by the Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, aims to implement an embedded dynamic wireless charging technology into roads, unlocking the uptake of electric heavy vehicles.

It is claimed that electrifying heavy vehicles could save Australia AUD$324 billion by 2050, while contributing to a greener, safer, and more efficient transport sector.

The AUD$8.2 million prototype for embedding advanced wireless charging infrastructure on regional roads is funded by the Australian government’s Cooperative Research Centres Projects (CRC-P) Grants scheme, which supports short-term collaborative research projects.

How Geotab’s Electronic Work Diaries are driving success for Australian fleet managers

David Brown, Associate Vice President Sales, ANZ, Global Channel, Geotab

Whether you’re managing a fleet of cars or heavy trucks, Geotab’s Electronic Work Diary (EWD) helps keep a finger on the pulse of every vehicle movement and activity. This innovative system monitors and records the work and rest times of heavy vehicle operators, ensuring they are aligned to legal requirements. Here’s why you should get your fleet onboard:

Fatigue Management for Compliance and Accuracy

Heavy trucks that cover long distances are legally obligated to adhere to regulations regarding driver fatigue. EWDs assist fleet managers in maintaining compliance with national heavy vehicle regulations by accurately recording driver work and rest time. By automating data entry and streamlining the record-keeping process, EWDs not only reduce errors but also alleviate the administrative burden on both drivers and fleet managers.

Achieve Real-time Monitoring and Efficient Reporting

EWDs offer real-time visibility into driver activities, a critical aspect of workplace safety. Through real-time monitoring, fleet managers can ensure the safety and accountability of all staff.

Monitoring driving hours, rest breaks and compliance status in real-time allows for the proactive management and timely interventions to address potential issues.

EWDs also facilitate efficient reporting by quickly generating data for audits, compliance checks and internal reviews, thereby relieving pressure on fleet managers.

Gain Data Insights for Optimization

EWDs offer a great deal of valuable insights into driver behavior, vehicle performance, idling times, fuel consumption and overall fleet efficiency. The information collected is presented in an easyto-understand format, which empowers fleet managers to maximise the utility of the data. For mixed fleets that contain both EVs and internal combustion engines (ICE), fleet managers can extract specific details about each vehicle. Additionally, they can also advance their business by optimising routes, vehicle maintenance.

Easy installation and integration with telematics

Additionally, EWDs provide a comprehensive fleet management solution through seamless integration with telematics. Fleet managers have the flexibility to tailor their user interface platform to align with their business needs. This customisation involves building upon the base plan, which provides essential details such as location, speed and driver identification. The effortless and non-intrusive integration between the EWD and telematics solutions makes it easy to adopt and scale as needed to fit any fleet.

Cost competitive pricing tailored to companies of every size

In summary, integrating Electronic Work Diaries into fleet management reflects a company’s commitment to safety, technological advancements and operational efficiency. They empower fleets to align seamlessly with evolving regulations and industry standards. For fleet managers, EWDs play a pivotal role in ensuring compliance, alleviating administrative burdens, improving safety and providing valuable data to optimise overall fleet management practices.

Harness fleet asset data for efficiency, cost control, and safety with Geotab’s unrivalled fleet management solution

From in-vehicles coaching to advanced collision prevention, we have a comprehensive ecosystem of driver safety solutions to manage any heavy truck fleet in the country.

One platform for optimal fleet performance powered by AI and data intelligence. Unlock actionable insights and recommendations to boost fleet efficiency, compliance, safety, and sustainability.

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Our pillars of innovation: data points processed daily v globally connected ehicles

Productivity

Track, route and dispatch drivers to ensure a productive fleet

Optimisation

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Drive efficiency & cost savings in fuel efficiency and planned fleet maintenance

Safety

Analyse and encourage safe driver behaviour with reports and in-vehicle coaching

Sustainability

Reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions, or integrate EVs and electrify your fleet

Compliance

Comply with regulations likes Australia Standard HoS rules and be audit-ready for safety reviews

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Our open platform lets you integrate hardware or software options to drive performance

Go further with Geotab: geotab.com/au

reducing environmental impact are also expected to provide other benefits such as reduced maintenance and greater permitted operating hours – currently restricted in some areas due to noise.

In March 2024, the Queensland government formalised a long-awaited change to maximum axle weight limits, allowing heavy vehicles to operate with a steer axle weight of up to eight tonnes (t) on selected roads in the southeast of the state.

The announcement puts Queensland on the map as a leader in future electric truck manufacturing, and ZEHVs will make a significant contribution to the state’s own emissions reduction targets.

The change means Queensland has become the fourth state to allow heavy-duty electric trucks on its roads.

It follows trials of higher mass limits for ZEHVs in New South Wales and South Australia, as well as the granting of a three-year permit to Volvo for the operation of a battery electric prime mover and semi-trailer combination on a network of state-owned roads.

Despite these promising reforms in individual states, the ongoing contribution of the heavy vehicle industry to Australia’s economy and emissions reduction targets remains at stake, and there is a need for the federal government to accelerate truck axle mass regulatory reforms at all levels.

The nation has everything it needs to meet emissions reduction targets, creating more local jobs and additional investment opportunities in the process.

The only missing piece of the puzzle is the regulatory framework to support the heavy vehicle industry, which seeks to transition to ZEHVs using technology that is currently available.

The process of changing some areas of heavy vehicle regulation, including mass and dimension requirements, demands careful analysis and requires time and attention.

To address this, a ‘maturity model’ is applied by regulators which uses the full range of tools available to support the industry, while the process of making regulatory change is followed.

LIFE-SAVING INNOVATIONS

As well as regulatory reform, there is a significant focus on innovations, several of which have more than proven to save time, money, and most importantly, lives.

Sophisticated fleet management systems (FMS), for example, allow information associated with heavy vehicles and other related assets to be visualised, monitored, and managed.

More businesses have turned to FMS as technology has advanced, as they provide numerous benefits such as complete visibility across operations, streamlined day-to-day tasks, improved maintenance planning, and the identification of deeper issues that impact fleet and business performance, to name a few.

Fleet management has transformed as the evidently positive impacts an efficient fleet can have on key variables such as people, vehicles, and operations are realised by adopters of the technology.

Cost savings are widely agreed to be the key driver behind developing a fully functioning FMS, which can also include the management of drivers, the environment, and compliance.

The latter is just as important and a fundamental necessity for safe and successful fleets, most of which have the same issues to address in terms of compliance.

Brisbane Truck Show

For example, vehicles must be safe, maintained, and properly equipped for the nature of their use to ensure roadworthiness, as well as being suitably taxed and insured. This requires a robust service and maintenance system, regular internal inspection policies, and the strict management of warranties and policies.

Risk assessments, meanwhile, involve considering the risks of routes that drivers are asked to travel, operations they need to undertake, and compliance with safe and legal driving times.

Drivers also require licences that are up to date and comply with the vehicle they are at the wheel of. From a health and safety point of view, they additionally need to drive and conduct themselves appropriately on the road.

Ultimately, however, employers are responsible for the health and safety of their drivers. Whilst this involves many of the aforementioned issues, it is a fundamental starting point when maintaining compliance as part of FMS.

In most cases, this involves investing in software and establishing a database that collates all-important compliance factors, such as key dates, requirements, and criteria, and can trigger action through notifications and alerts.

Fleet compliance is ultimately a continuous process that demands visibility, organisation, and consistent policies to avoid fines, penalties, safety violations, excessive admin costs, and significant delays or disruption.

SAFETY STANDARDS

In-vehicle monitoring systems (IVMS) are another innovation that is considered integral to achieving effective and successful fleet management.

IVMS consists of electronic devices installed in a vehicle to monitor driver activities and identify potentially dangerous behaviours, such as excessive speed, harsh braking, and rapid acceleration.

In response, these sophisticated systems can provide warnings and evidence of a wide range of undesirable driving practices. Other behaviours that are monitored include tailgating, rough cornering, and driver drowsiness.

The technology is therefore crucial to the monitoring, maintenance, and improvement of road and driver safety standards in heavy vehicles, which pose significant risks to public safety due to their sheer size and weight as minor errors can have more serious consequences compared to light vehicles.

PIONEERING ENGINEERING AND MANUFACTURING EXCELLENCE.

With a legacy rooted in a commitment to excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction, Krueger Transport Equipment has spent the last 45 years making Industry Awarded Semi-Trailers that are built for the Australian Industry and Environment.

Australia’s transportation industry asserts its dominance by moving more tonnes per kilometre (t/km) than its global competitors annually. In recent years, the sector has witnessed a surge in performance-based standards (PBS) adoption and the integration of electric vehicles (EVs) and hydrogen technologies as part of its ongoing expansion.

Kevin Dennis, CEO of Krueger Transport Equipment (Krueger), acknowledges, “Australia’s transport industry has a legacy of pushing boundaries, making it the most respected, productive, and efficient transportation landscape worldwide.”

As Krueger, a pioneer in innovative semi-trailer design, gears up for its 46th year in business, it remains committed to the foundational principles that have defined its brand. “2024 promises to be another dynamic year for Krueger as we continue to enhance our products,” Dennis affirms. “This commitment stems from decades of engineering expertise and a relentless pursuit of excellence that defines the Krueger trailer.

“In the product realm, we are poised to ramp up production of our newly introduced K-Van range (Dry van) by year-end, following successful pilot runs with key clients. This expansion into a new market

segment solidifies our position as a major player through broadening our product portfolio.”

Furthermore, strategic investments in cutting-edge technologies, such as a laser cutting facility, has revolutionised Krueger’s manufacturing processes. “By the conclusion of 2023 and into early 2024, we are already reaping significant benefits and efficiencies from these investments,” notes Dennis. “Our newly implemented laser cutting machine and facility has notably enhanced quality and time efficiency, translating into improved manufacturing standards and reduced production times. This ultimately results in delivering more high-quality Krueger trailers to the market.”

ENGINEERED TO LAST.

Hearing from John Krueger, Founder of Krueger Transport, and Adis Selmic, Manager - Projects & Production Engineering, they shed light into the past, present and future of the core of Krueger’s business, engineering and design.

When you first started Krueger, what was your intention in building semi-trailers?

John Krueger, Founder (JK): It all started 48 years ago at the kitchen table when I conceptualised my first design. I’d been a truck driver for many years and driven Skeletal Trailers. During this time, I’d encountered numerous safety challenges and operational difficulties with various trailer brands, notably the dangers and weekly accidents and incidents you would hear about posed by poorly designed 20-foot container skeletal trailers.

The first trailer I built was for my own use as an owner-driver, which took me six to nine months to construct in my own driveway and my intention was to increase my rig’s capacity from carrying one 20-foot (ft) container to two, doubling my trip’s efficiency.

A crucial aspect of the trailer design was to stop the issues around manoeuvrability under load, which caused dangerous and sometimes fatal incidents on

the roads, as well as a safe and efficient decoupling of the trailer from the truck at the dock point, which in those days had huge issues with trailers sinking on poor footed ground or diving headfirst as the weight was not evenly spread lifting the rear of the trailer and trapping workers or forklifts and destroying cargo. It was a huge amount of work, but ultimately it was a huge success, literally. This catalysed a change in the industry, and we began Krueger Transport Equipment. My journey as an owner-driver gave me such an understanding of the complexities in trailer design, safety aspects and maximising productivity. When we first started producing trailers as Krueger Transport Equipment, for the first 10 years, I spent more time in the field analysing our product to keep innovating. Our designs where not without their critics, as industry and competitors spent years disparaging the designs. Then years later they eventually copied my designs, as customers became more and more frustrated with outdated ideas and continual issues and incidents from their products.

Today, Krueger stands as a pioneer in establishing fresh industry benchmarks within Australia. This distinction is attributed to our pioneering role in

solving the problems of the industry and innovating and executing various aspects and elements of trailer design. This also meant consistent recognition through multiple industry accolades.

Our commitment to innovation is underscored by the number of successful patents we have all designed to address safety in load cartage and restraint issues as well as occupational health and safety.

How has the company’s engineering and design process evolved over the last 45 years?

JK: I don’t think much has changed outside of the use of technology and changes to transport regulations. The innovation hasn’t stopped. Since its inception, Krueger has prioritised R&D, laying the groundwork for our stringent policies and procedures. By adhering to rigorous standards, we ensure that only the highest quality materials are used in the manufacturing of our trailers and that we stay up to date with the latest trends, techniques, and processes to ensure the safety and well-being of our customers.

I still am heavily involved in the engineering process and the conceptualisation of answers to customers problems and feedback. Over the

years, our engineering team’s dedication to quality remains unwavering. It’s what has and continues to distinguish us in the industry and has made Krueger synonymous with excellence. Whether it’s engineering, manufacturing, design, or delivery – innovation and quality are at the forefront of everything we manufacture.

From an engineering and manufacturing perspective, what differentiates Krueger from the competition?

Adis Selmic, Manager of Products and Production Engineering: Before my time at Krueger, John Krueger was extremely hands on in creating the strategy and

procedures within the engineering department, and these are the core values that my team and I work by today.

What sets Krueger apart from the competition is our unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation, regardless of the design’s complexity. Our engineering team works tirelessly on new ideas and continuous improvements, ensuring that each trailer we produce is of the highest quality and safety.

ENGINEERED FOR AUSTRALIAN CONDITIONS.

HEAVY VEHICLE INDUSTRY AUSTRALIA

Vehicle operators and other road users have an increased chance of detecting, avoiding, and surviving crashes thanks to advanced safety technologies, which will continue to be developed in the short-to-medium term and must be monitored by transport regulators.

As well as fleet management, compliance, monitoring, and safety systems, electronic work diaries (EWDs) are another innovation that is used to record the work and rest times of heavy vehicle drivers.

EWDs are approved by Australia’s National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR), whose vision is to cultivate a safe, efficient, and productive heavy vehicle industry that serves the needs of the country.

The devices can be used as an alternative to keeping records in a written work diary. Drivers, transport operators, record keepers, and authorised officers still have the same obligations as they do for a written work diary when they are using EWDs, however they can automate many of these functions, making day-to-day operations faster and easier.

Transport operators have the option to either develop their own device, buy one off-the-shelf, or adopt an EWD that can be integrated with other regulatory systems.

In any case, the technology must meet specified performance requirements to be approved for operation, whilst appropriate training is needed for transport operators as well as drivers to inform them of the correct use of their EWD.

At all times, EWD approval holders, record keepers, and drivers must ensure that the devices function in accordance with the standards and conditions set by NHVR.

Information collected by an EWD can be provided to numerous recipients, such as the driver to check that the record information is correct, the driver’s record keeper to fulfil record-keeping obligations, and an authorised officer to confirm the driver is complying with work and rest regulations.

In addition to the general duty to not drive a heavy vehicle whilst fatigued, drivers must comply with certain maximum work and minimum rest limits.

Parties in the supply chain have to undertake reasonably practicable measures to prevent drivers from exceeding these limits, similar to occupational health and safety laws.

This means that heavy vehicle drivers must be allowed to stop if they are at risk of exceeding the specified limits and make alternative arrangements.

AUTOMATION PROGRESS

The development of automation is also well underway, as evidenced by the work of the likes of Tesla, General Motors (GM), Google, and more in the light vehicle industry.

Despite the notable progress made in the light vehicles space, the application of automation in heavy vehicles is still in its infancy.

However, many of the systems required to automate heavy vehicles will derive from the developments in light vehicles, as well as the maturation of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).

ADAS for heavy vehicles primarily aims to help drivers avoid accidents or mitigate unavoidable collisions.

Such features include lane-keeping assist, which sends a signal to the driver when they have started to veer into

another lane. Blind spot monitoring likewise sounds an alert when the driver signals to change lanes with another vehicle in a blind spot alongside.

Adaptive cruise control is another ADAS feature that not only sets heavy vehicles to travel at a selected speed, but also detects and reacts to traffic pattern changes. Other ADAS technologies include rear crosstraffic monitoring, pedestrian detection, and accident avoidance.

In the past decade, ADAS in heavy vehicles has grown rapidly and continues to advance as more drivers rely on the systems to stay safe and achieve a new level of convenience.

However, ADAS is merely intended to support the driver, require constant human oversight, and does not make the vehicle completely ‘automated’ in and of itself. Rather, when these features are engaged, the driver ultimately remains responsible and must intervene if required to maintain safety.

In 2023, the National Transport Commission (NTC), which leads national land transport reform in support of all Australian governments to improve safety, productivity, environmental outcomes, and regulatory efficiency, published the third edition of its Guidelines for Trials of Automated Vehicles in Australia.

In the time since the first edition was published in 2017, automated vehicle trials have been conducted in every state and territory, with thousands of Australians experiencing the technology for themselves as a result.

As fully automated vehicles still cannot legally operate on public Australian roads due to existing legal barriers, organisations seeking to run trials require permits or exemptions from state and territory road transport agencies to do so.

Unlike light vehicles, which are regulated on a state-bystate basis, heavy vehicles are regulated under the Heavy

Vehicle National Law (HVNL), which is administered by NHVR. The Northern Territory and Western Australia do not currently apply HVNL, however, instead maintaining their own heavy vehicle regulations.

Innovations such as automated vehicles, ADAS, EWDs, FMS, and more, demonstrate the increasing pace of technological change within the sector.

Despite the abundant opportunities presented by new technologies, they also present substantial challenges to industry and regulators.

The inclusion of advanced systems such as EWDs, as well as other factors such as increasing automation and a shift towards reducing emissions, is driving a period of rapid change in the industry globally that will fundamentally alter heavy vehicles.

The likelihood is that heavy vehicles of the future will therefore look and operate very differently to those that have been used for some time in the industry.

Although Australia maintains a notable heavy vehicle manufacturing capability, the changes seen in global markets will naturally be reflected in the country. Indeed, whilst NHVR regulations reflect the unique nature of the local heavy vehicle industry to a certain degree, Australia is heavily influenced by global developments.

Local transport regulations are regularly updated to reflect these global developments.

For example, major changes loom for transport operators who rely on telematics devices for access or productivity benefits as they will need to upgrade their 3G devices to remain legally compliant.

Operators whose devices are not 4G compliant have been advised to speak with their application service provider about upgrading their fleet.

At the same time, both Queensland and New South Wales will enact changes to their telematics requirements from 1st June 2024.

Trailers and Low Loaders

STRENGTH IN DESIGN

As a division of The Davey Group, Rhino Trailers and Low Loaders designs and manufactures quality custom-built heavy haulage road transport equipment tailored for the Australian market. The Australian-owned and operated company, based in Toowoomba, Queensland, has a longstanding reputation for producing a diverse range of quality trailers and low loaders, known for their superior strength, thus reinforcing its motto ‘Strength in Design’.

THE RHINO RANGE

Rhino has a built many special purpose trailers for specific tasks over the years, particularly for the bulk transport, heavy haulage, general freight, intermodal, and livestock industries. The extensive tipper range includes high-tensile, light-weight steel and aluminium trailers, including hybrid models. These are available in high-volume single, B-double, road-train and PBS configurations. Drop-bed bulk tubs, made in aluminium and high-tensile light-weight steel, work well with light weight and high-volume products. Its range of Rhino (formally Lusty) low loaders covers deck wideners and full wideners on rows of four tyres as well as widening rows of eight low loaders with the accompanying rows of four and rows of eight dollies.

Rhino also manufactures tandem and triaxle converter dollies for tipper, drop deck, and skel

trailer road-train and A-Double combinations and tandem and triaxle tag trailers for plant and equipment. All are designed and constructed to handle the tough Australian conditions.

Recently added to the range is a newly developed drop deck machinery trailer that widens to 3.5 metres (m), with options to widen to 4.0m Rhino’s machinery trailers are bred from a combination of their proven drop deck trailer construction and their ever-reliable low-loader deck widening system, resulting in a market-leading solution for operators looking for a drop deck trailer that does it all.

KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE

The range has progressed during Rhino’s 30-year history, aided by the combined knowledge and expertise of companies Lusty Low Loader and AFM-O’Phee Trailers, which were purchased and consolidated into the Rhino brand by the parent company.

The company’s 40,000-square-metre (sqm) factory at Toowoomba is a one-stop outlet for all trailer requirements, featuring a comprehensive offering under one roof, including a protective coatings facility and facilities for servicing, modifications, and refurbishments.

With a team of over 200 highly skilled tradespeople and design engineers, the quality of the trailers is ensured, always at the forefront

and never compromised. Aside from its Integrated Management System (IMS) commitment, the technicians have always been striving for continual improvement, reviewing existing designs and manufacturing methods to allow existing and new customers to find the right match for their business, depending on their evolving needs and growth.

The Rhino team also focuses on reducing lead times through improved manufacturing processes.

CAPABILITIES AND FACILITIES

The capabilities of The Davey Group are not limited to road transport, with its divisions offering standard engineered products and design and construct capabilities servicing the mining, oil and gas, agriculture, and forestry sectors. The company specialises in delivering complete turnkey solutions, including large, complex industrial equipment, storage solutions, bulk materials handling, processing plants, structural steel buildings, and supporting plant infrastructure.

Its Toowoomba site also features a modern 1,500sqm abrasive blasting and protective coatings facility with a 23m x 6.2m x 6.2m environmentally

friendly abrasive blast chamber capable of using all types of material for surface preparation. The 13m wide x 42m long booth is suitable for all large equipment and machinery with industrial finishes, and a 24m long heated spray booth offers greater flexibility in applying quality coatings to commercial and industrial machinery and equipment to exact Australian Standards and International specifications.

The Davey Group’s Managing Director, Tony Davey, is particularly proud of this capability and noted that the protective coating division will underwrite delivery commitments on finished products –something it has successfully been doing since it was established.

As a result, this state-of-the-art facility is where Rhino gets its trailers painted, unifying two divisions of The Davey Group to deliver unbeatable products in quality, design, and construction.

QUALITY AND ISO CERTIFICATION

To further bolster its quality benchmark three years ago, the Group committed to developing and implementing an IMS to achieve certification in ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management Systems (QMSs), ISO 45001:2018 Safety Management Systems (SMSs), and ISO 14001:2015 Environmental Management Systems (EMSs).

A solid quality management system behind the doors means customers can count on improved standards and controls, performance, reliability, and overall quality of the products.

The Rhino team ensures complete customer satisfaction by following a steadfast quality policy that includes accurately capturing customer specifications; implementing, maintaining, and continually improving a third-party certified ISO 9001:2015 QMS; conducting in-process and final quality and test inspections; and adhering to all applicable statutory or regulatory requirements and internal processes.

HEAVY VEHICLE INDUSTRY AUSTRALIA INTERVIEW:

Todd Hacking, CEO of Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia (HVIA), discusses representing and advancing the interests of manufacturers and suppliers of heavy vehicles and their components, equipment, and technology

Membership of HVIA includes almost every major truck manufacturer and importer, most of Australia’s major trailer manufacturers, and an ever-growing list of their suppliers and distributors.

HVIA’s 300+ members reap the rewards through lowcost membership, opportunities to engage and contribute to industry policy development, and regular networking events and information forums across the country.

Members also benefit from advocacy to government and its regulatory agencies on national, regional, and local issues, technical and regulatory support, and world-class national events including the Brisbane Truck Show.

Committed to providing leading advice and assistance, whilst directing and influencing policy at all levels of government, HVIA delivers the best possible outcomes for members, the wider industry, and the community.

HVIA – AT A GLANCE

PURPOSE – To represent and advance the interests of the entire heavy vehicle industry.

MISSION – To advocate for a successful and sustainable heavy vehicle industry with a strong, unified voice.

VISION – An innovative and prosperous heavy vehicle industry, supporting the safest and most productive fleets.

Pictured centre: Todd Hacking, CEO of Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia

APAC Outlook (AO): Firstly, could you talk us through the origins, mission, and vision of HVIA?

Todd Hacking, CEO (TH): HVIA – then known as the Commercial Vehicle Industry Association of Queensland (CVIAQ) – began life in Queensland in 1968, initially to operate the Brisbane Truck Show, which was first held at Haulmark Trailers’ headquarters in Rocklea, Brisbane, featuring 21 transport industry exhibitors.

It was subsequently incorporated as a company in 1970 to represent and provide services for the Queensland heavy vehicle sector.

In 2015, CVIAQ became HVIA, with a purpose to represent and advance the interests of the nation’s entire heavy vehicle industry.

HVIA’s mission is to advocate for a successful and sustainable heavy vehicle industry with a strong, unified voice, while its vision is to promote an innovative and prosperous heavy vehicle industry, supporting the safest and most productive fleet.

To deliver on its mission and vision, the member-based organisation focuses on four key work programmes:

Advocacy: HVIA is committed to providing leading advice and assistance to its members and directing and influencing policy at all levels of government with a commitment to delivering the best possible outcomes for its members, the wider industry, and the community.

Member services: HVIA’s cost-effective membership includes a range of services, including:

• TechAssist – Technical and regulatory support.

• EmployerAssist – HR fact sheets, updates, and an industrial relations (IR) hotline.

• Jobs Hub – Promoting the industry’s diverse career paths.

• Training and education – Regular online and practical face-to-face courses.

Workforce developments: HVIA is committed to promoting the development of the industry through securing a highly skilled workforce to ensure viability and capacity to deliver innovation.

It does this through a variety of initiatives aimed at addressing the quality and relevance of apprenticeships and traineeships, delivery standards, and career promotion, including the National Apprentice Challenge, the National Apprentice of the Year Awards, and Schools to Industry Tours.

HVIA continues to promote careers in the industry through its highly successful Schools to Industry Tours, which are organised in conjunction with an ever-increasing network of secondary schools.

The tours provide students with a means to explore all the potential career options within the heavy vehicle industry and enable them to make informed decisions about their future careers.

National events: HVIA stages a number of world-class national events to provide a platform for its members and customers to come together, share ideas, discuss challenges, and showcase innovative ways to tackle them.

These include:

• The Brisbane Truck Show – The southern hemisphere’s largest road transport event.

• TruckShowX – Australia’s largest road transport decarbonisation event.

• HVIA National Awards – An annual gala dinner that presents a suite of leadership and innovation awards, acknowledging and celebrating the Australian heavy vehicle industry’s capacity to provide cutting-edge solutions for the road transport task.

• HVIA Executive Club – An exclusive quarterly event designed for industry leaders to convene on a regular basis to share knowledge and discuss common issues with their peers across the heavy vehicle industry.

• HVIA Member Forums - A regular interactive forum to inform members on current and emerging issues and opportunities, tap into the views of our membership, and provide an opportunity for members to get together with their peers.

• HVIA Connect – A new casual peer-to-peer networking event aimed at creating connections in an informative way.

HVIA Executive Club

Holmwood Highgate

Holmwood Highgate is a leading manufacturer of bulk liquid storage and transportation systems. With nearly eight decades of industry experience—the longest in Australia—we have built our reputation on a steadfast commitment to quality and reliability. As a second and third-generation family-owned and -operated business, we pride ourselves on our heritage and commitment to excellence. Our production facilities in Queensland and Victoria are staffed by a team of 250 skilled professionals dedicated to serving customers across Australia. Our workshop, certified by ISO, ensures the highest standards of quality are consistently met.

Trust in Our Quality and Reliability: It’s in Our DNA

AVIATION AND DEFENCE SECTORS

We distribute our aviation tankers worldwide, and our military-grade refuelling systems have garnered international interest. Distinguished clients include the Australian Defence Force, New Zealand Defence Force, Taiwan International Airport, and numerous domestic airports. In the military sector, Holmwood Engineering specialises in bespoke, military-grade solutions for fuel and water modules, earning us the prestigious

Land121 phases 3b and 5b military contracts.

Our collaborations with industry leaders such as Rheinmetall-MAN Military Vehicles Australia and Navistar PROnal underscore our commitment to excellence. Designed for a variety of operations, our military tankers and modules excel in forward deployment, critical missions, disaster relief, peacekeeping, and humanitarian missions. Adhering to 20-foot ISO container dimensions, they are easily transportable by road, rail, air, and sea.

INNOVATION AND PRODUCT EXPANSION

Our facility features one of the largest laser cutters in the Southern Hemisphere, enhancing our in-house capabilities and reducing wait times in fabrication. Furthermore, our commitment to sustainability is demonstrated through our recent solar system installation, which not only reduces our carbon footprint but also contributes to a cleaner, more sustainable future.

Hockney and Co., a venture owned by

Holmwood Highgate, offers an imported range of tankers, competitively priced and designed in Australia. Through our partnership with Giesse Cisterne, we provide custom-built pneumatic dry bulk tankers, ideal for transporting a variety of dry goods in both tipping and non-tipping configurations.

OUR COMPREHENSIVE RANGE

From 200-litre fuel tanks for your prime mover to multi-trailer Road Train

combinations, our fuel tanker configurations cater to every need. Our bitumen tankers, available as dog trailers in twin, tri, or quad axle configurations, showcase our versatility. Additionally, we specialise in producing mobile Aviation Refuellers, tailored to suit specific requirements.

For those interested in alternatives to petroleum-based products, we also produce chemical, tallow, and water tankers, as well as

Ammonium Nitrate Emulsion (ANE) tankers, engineered and built in Australia for the mining industry. Under the Narwhal brand, we offer mining service units ranging from 10,000 litres to over 70,000 litres, equipped to service mining equipment with all necessary fluids.

CHOOSE HOLMWOOD HIGHGATE

Our products are designed to meet the

rigorous demands of Australian conditions across diverse industries. With a focus on quality, compliance, and trust, we offer both Australian-made and imported products to efficiently meet your needs at competitive prices.

Opting for Holmwood Highgate means choosing unparalleled quality that stands the test of time.

TRUCKSHOWX

In response to the huge level of interest shown in the emerging technologies featured at the 2023 Brisbane Truck Show, from productionready vehicles powered by renewable diesel and batteries to hydrogen fuel cell prototypes, HVIA is staging an exciting new multi-day event in 2024 – TruckShowX.

To be held at the Royal Automobile Club of Victoria’s Cape Schanck Resort on Victoria’s beautiful Mornington Peninsula on 13th and 14th May, the two-day event will deliver expert advice and insights on the steps required to implement the ecosystem necessary to support the move to low and zero-emissions transport.

TruckShowX will feature keynote presentations from global leaders in ZEHV adoption, supported by practical case studies of local operators leading the decarbonisation effort.

There will also be a unique expo showcasing the latest low and zero-emission vehicles and related technologies, and a drive-day opportunity to get behind the wheel of these vehicles.

AO: What is your current take on the industry, and what makes Australia a world leader in many aspects of heavy vehicle transport?

TH: Road transport plays a critically important role in the Australian economy. The freight and logistics sector represents an estimated 8.6 percent of Australia’s GDP

and provides critical economy-wide linkages, especially for the construction, manufacturing, mining, hospitality, retail, and wholesale sectors.

The industry directly employs 70,000+ people and its fleet of approximately 600,000 registered trucks (500,000 rigid and 100,000 articulated vehicles) travel an estimated 250 billion tonne kilometres (btkm) per year – a figure that is forecast to grow to circa 400 btkm by 2050.

The critical role road transport plays in moving goods across Australia’s vast distances has underpinned an incredibly dynamic and innovative approach to the task, with the country recognised as a world leader in the development of higher-productivity truck and trailer combinations that can transport more freight with fewer truck movements, resulting in reduced fuel consumption, lower emissions, and better safety.

AO: What substantial challenges does the increasing pace of technological change present to the industry and regulators?

TH: Road transport is one of the most heavily regulated industries in Australia and operates within a very complex regulatory environment.

Additionally, there are major regulatory stakeholders at every level – state, federal, and local, each covering facets of transport operations such as access, weights and dimensions, licensing, safety, and other operational matters such as driving hours and speed.

In this environment, regulatory change does not keep pace with technology and innovation. This often leaves the industry unable to capitalise on opportunities to improve safety, productivity, and environmental outcomes.

Brisbane Truck Show

“HVIA’S MISSION IS TO ADVOCATE FOR A SUCCESSFUL AND SUSTAINABLE HEAVY VEHICLE INDUSTRY WITH A STRONG, UNIFIED VOICE”

– TODD HACKING, CEO, HEAVY VEHICLE INDUSTRY AUSTRALIA

The next-generation of low and zero-emissions heavy vehicles are a good example – some may not be able to be registered and operated in Australia without increases to steer and drive axle mass limits.

AO: Equally, how significant is the focus on innovation and regulatory reform to support the performance of the Australian economy into the future?

TH: Without a doubt, the biggest regulatory issue facing the industry currently is the lack of a truly national regulatory framework. HVNL is not recognised by every state and territory, which creates unnecessary duplication amongst regulators, and complicates operations for industry, for no benefit at all.

Furthermore, amongst those states that do recognise HVNL, there is disagreement on basic matters such as vehicle and axle configuration, and maximum axle mass limits, which leads to inconsistencies across state borders.

These matters unnecessarily restrict progress, and act as roadblocks towards innovation.

The industry urgently needs nationally harmonised regulations that both encourage and foster improvements at all levels.

AO: How does HVIA represent and advance the interests of manufacturers and suppliers of heavy vehicles and their components, equipment, and technology?

TH: HVIA represents and advances the interests of the entire industry involved in design, manufacture, importation, distribution, modification, certification, sale, service, and repair of on-road vehicles with gross vehicle mass or aggregate trailer mass over 3.5 t and their components, equipment, and technology.

Our members include every truck OEM, 49 of the top 50 trailer manufacturers, and every major component supplier, as well as heavy vehicle dealers, technology, equipment and component suppliers, segments of the repair and maintenance industry, and the engineers and consultants that support each of the above businesses.

HVIA seeks to promote an innovative and prosperous industry that supports a safe and productive heavy vehicle fleet operating for the benefit of all Australians by:

• Holding major industry events including Brisbane Truck Show, Australian Heavy Vehicle Industry Week, South Bank Truck Festival, and TruckShowX.

• Ensuring members are well-informed with a weekly newsletter (4,500+ subscribers) and quarterly ROADBOSS magazine (distribution of 12,000+).

• Recognising industry excellence through our annual awards night, including Apprentice of the Year.

• Establishing working groups to address prominent issues.

• Collaborating with other peak industry bodies to ensure a unified voice.

• Understanding industry’s views through state committees, industry forums, and regular contact.

• Advocating to government on behalf of industry.

• Encouraging people to participate in the industry.

• Supporting mental health with Healthy Heads in Trucks and Sheds.

TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR

TRANSPORTATION NEEDS WITH SINOTRUK

Sinotruk Australia is the sole importer and distributor of Sinotruk products in Australia.

Operating a service and dealer base from its Dandenong South headquarters, Sinotruk Australia is able to service the entire Australian market. Development of the Sinotruk brand for Australia started in 2019 to import and distribute a new range of trucks suitable for Australian demands and requirements, and its unique range of conditions.

WHAT WE DO

Sinotruk Australia delivers top performance in every discipline

Company executives are all senior foreign trade sales personnel, rich in professional knowledge and sales experience, familiar with foreign trade process, automobile, engineering machinery and accessories, etc.

Credibility is the company’s first tenet. We refuse to cheat or hide, and we guarantee to satisfy every customer.

PROFESSIONAL INTEGRITY QUALITY

The company ensures quality and has strict quality controls in the procurement process.

TO THE WORLD

Heavy Duty Truck specialises in the automobile, engineering machinery and accessories import and export business.

AO: How committed is HVIA to providing leading advice and assistance to members, and directing and influencing policy at all levels of government?

TH: HVIA is extremely committed to both providing advice, assistance, and support to members, as well as directing and influencing government policy at all levels.

The heavy vehicle industry is extremely intertwined, and to some degree, over-regulated. As such, ensuring HVIA members’ voices are heard by the right decision makers at the right time is just as important as the content of what is being said.

HVIA already has an incredible reputation as an association that is well in-tune with the views of its members and can identify where it is lacking. We also have a rigorous and fair process for establishing a policy position, which is informed and based on strong, reliable evidence.

We say what we mean, and we mean what we say, whilst having the evidence to back it up - which often ensures that when we speak, we are not only heard but listened to.

This is an immensely powerful position, but it is one that cannot be taken for granted. You only get one reputation and what can take a lifetime to create can be ruined in a

split second, so it is really important that HVIA’s legacy remains in place, and that the long-established systems and processes which has enabled the association to achieve a strong reputation are never compromised.

AO: How do you see the heavy vehicle industry in Australia developing over the next five years?

TH: HVIA is in an enviable position, due to its 55-year history, stable and loyal membership, and being respected by government and regulators at all levels for providing measured, considered, informed, and accurate advice.

The next five years present amazing opportunities as the HVIA restructure takes shape and we invest further in the association’s resources and capabilities. As we do so, every single decision is run through the lens of “will this make the industry better?” or “will this create value for our members?”.

There is a huge and exciting journey of decarbonisation ahead which, whilst only just beginning in the commercial realm, is extremely busy in ensuring accurate advice off the back of informed analysis and evidence-based decisions are made in the interest of establishing the regulatory environment for investment.

“HVIA STAGES A NUMBER OF WORLD-CLASS NATIONAL EVENTS TO PROVIDE A PLATFORM FOR ITS MEMBERS AND CUSTOMERS TO COME TOGETHER, SHARE IDEAS, DISCUSS CHALLENGES, AND SHOWCASE INNOVATIVE WAYS TO TACKLE THEM”

– TODD HACKING, CEO, HEAVY VEHICLE INDUSTRY AUSTRALIA

“THE NEXT FIVE YEARS PRESENTS AMAZING OPPORTUNITIES AS THE HVIA RESTRUCTURE TAKES SHAPE AND WE INVEST FURTHER IN THE ASSOCIATION’S RESOURCES AND CAPABILITIES”

– TODD HACKING, CEO, HEAVY VEHICLE INDUSTRY AUSTRALIA

This is not just a truck issue; there is an ecosystem of stakeholders – some of whom are transacting for the first time, and HVIA will play a role in ensuring the right environment exists to guarantee that the entire industry can thrive. This must be done in a considered and respectful way to ensure the association does not tread into the commercial sphere, which rightly belongs to the individual members and their suppliers.

HVIA will also need to be at the forefront of how this impacts issues like safety and skills development, which we have a goal to lead. Our vision is for a standalone automotive skills academy to grow a pipeline of the nextgeneration workforce.

HVIA has also long held the belief that the transport association landscape is cluttered and confusing, and that rationalisation would certainly simplify and improve industry outcomes. HVIA is keen to ensure that we are speaking with one unified voice or acting as collaboratively as possible so that the heavy vehicle supply chain

(downstream) and the freight task (upstream) are as safe and efficient as possible.

AO: Finally, what are HVIA’s key priorities to continue representing and advancing the interests of manufacturers and suppliers?

TH: The industry faces considerable headwinds – most notably with projected growth in the freight task, ongoing global supply chain sensitivities, skills and labour shortages, inflationary pressures, and the need to decarbonise and transition to net zero.

The heavy vehicle industry is among the few remaining local manufacturing industries. A diversity of skills – as well as government support to facilitate innovation – are needed for the sector to thrive.

Our members are always innovating and improving the safety of their fleets and require flexible and responsive regulations to allow that innovation.

BUILT TO LAST

Australian owned certified - #08186

Established in 1958 by Angelo Borg and Paul Muscat, Borcat Trailers (Borcat), offers lightweight, strong, and reliable products to our vast and loyal customer base, many of whom operate out of New South Wales (NSW).

Having sold the business in 2008, Borg has since passed, and, under new ownership, we have developed and expanded our product range.

Since Borcat’s inception, PBS vehicle combinations have been our staple, and PBS continues to make up 99 percent of our builds today.

The units we manufacture from our factory in Wetherill Park, Sydney, are made by a skilled team of highly trained tradespeople and apprentices. 2024 has seen Borcat take on the NSW Sales and Service Agency for Haulmark Gincor, whilst our provision of Gincor Werx Live Bottom trailer equipment sets us apart from the competition.

Many of our customers require additional options when it comes to trailer tippers for asphalt unloading. Borcat’s partnership with Haulmark / Gincor allows us

to offer horizontal uploading as an option to our NSW customer base, in both sales and service. At Borcat, we pride ourselves on our ability to adapt to industry changes. Borcat strives to offer customers a viable option for all their needs. As a family owned and operated company, we offer one-onone services to ensure that each customer receives what they require.

From tippers, to live bottom trailers, and other types of trailers, Borcat has a solution for all your trailer requirements.

We support the transition to net zero, but seek government assistance in building the value proposition, creating infrastructure, solving access issues, and researching the applicability of different propulsion technologies for various purposes.

We see a leadership role for federal government to harmonise the states, territories, and local government’s regulatory approaches, operating standards, and decarbonisation efforts.

HVIA TRAINING PROGRAMMES

HVIA’s training programmes help people to achieve their full potential in their career, workplace, and in the heavy vehicle industry. Through these programmes, thousands of trainees have sharpened their skills, elevated their knowledge of the heavy vehicle industry, and gained the unique opportunity to positively engage, support, and contribute to the future of Australia.

With three courses on offer, participants can start with the basics or dive straight into technical topics:

• Heavy Vehicles 101 – Explore the world of heavy vehicles with this immersive online course. Obtain a thorough overview of Australia’s heavy vehicle industry, regulations, and diverse range of vehicles. Master essential terminology and concepts tailored for both technical and non-technical roles.

• Load Restraint – Five practical and instructional modules to guide industry professionals on the best way to approach load restraint. Find out about the major considerations in understanding the load, the vehicle, and the equipment. Learn how to choose the right restraint method and calculate the required restraints.

• Tyre Management – Get in-depth instruction on the seven key principles of tyre management. Learn about the importance of pressure, tyre and wheel condition, and balance and alignment. Discover how to set inspection intervals, procedures, responsibilities, training, and equipment.

In this regard, HVIA seeks the following:

Manufacturing sovereignty

• Support via financial and tax incentives.

• Support for advanced manufacturing.

Skills and training

• Modernisation of VET and improved flexibility of the training system.

• Data-backed reports to understand current and future people/skills needs.

• Incentives for people to train in positions with identified shortages.

Higher productivity and efficiency

• Investment in infrastructure, such as battery charging or alternative refuelling stations.

• Cutting wait times for obtaining vehicle access route approval.

• Investment in road networks to improve access for higher-productivity vehicles.

Policy and regulation

• Leadership from the federal government on state/ territory regulatory harmonisation and a heavy vehicle net zero roadmap.

• Net zero transition assistance, such as tax incentives, R&D, trials, grants to invest in net zero vehicles, and priority Performance Based Standards (PBS) approval.

• Removal of barriers for uptake of high-productivity vehicles, such as mass limits.

Facilitating innovation

• Cutting red tape to reduce time to market for new vehicles.

• Streamlining importing procedures.

• Support for local manufacturing to take up new technologies.

Tel: (07) 3376 6266

hvia@hvia.asn.au

hvia.asn.au