With the aim of improving the digital networking of tractor units and trailers, Krone and Platform Science – formerly Trimble Transport & Logistics – have announced a strategic partnership for the European market. According to the two companies, the cooperation will result in a fully integrated trailer telematics solution that does not require additional hardware, is manufacturer-independent, and is ready for use immediately upon vehicle delivery. It is also possible to retrofit older trailers and connect solar units.
“Our goal is to bring tractor units and trailers together. With Krone, we are now overcoming the last hurdle and making it easier than ever to use a telematics solution for the entire articulated truck,” says Lutz Siegert, Country Manager DACH & CEE at Platform Science.
And
Maximilian Birle, Head of Telematics & Digital Services at Krone, adds: “Our goal is the seamlessly integrated trailer. With Platform Science, we are creating a solution that is ready for use right upon delivery and fully visible in the customer's system – thereby relieving IT departments and significantly enhancing the digital value of our trailers.”
The two partners presented the joint solution for the first time at the transport logistic trade fair in Munich. The focus of the development is the seamless integration of vehicle data from both units: All information generated in the trailer and the tractor unit will be fed automatically and in real-time into the existing Transport Management System (TMS) of the respective logistics company – without manual approvals, additional installations, or
new interfaces.
This significantly reduces the workload for IT departments and fleet management. Users no longer need separate systems, duplicate administration, or additional contracts or contacts. Instead, the entire articulated truck combination will be centrally managed. The solution is particularly aimed at large, internationally operating fleet operators with mixed fleets.
Modular packages for different requirements
The system is offered in three tiered service packages. The basic package includes GPS tracking and classic track-and-trace functionalities. The premium package expands this basis with diagnostic data from the electronic braking system (EBS), information from the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), and signals from door sensors. For temperature-sensitive goods, the “Cool” premium package additionally offers full integration of the cold chain, including temperature history and sensor data.
A special
feature is the automatic activation upon vehicle delivery: The telematics is operationally ready from the factory and fully visible in the customer's digital infrastructure. This greatly simplifies rollout processes and accelerates the commissioning of new vehicles.
Open system with retrofit options
The solution is openly designed and can therefore be used for existing fleets with vehicles from different manufacturers. Retrofit solutions are available for existing vehicles. The integration of solar units to power the systems is also planned.
Visitors to the transport logistic in Munich can gain a direct impression of the new solution until June 5, 2025. Krone is presenting in Hall A6, Stand 201/302, Platform Science is in Hall B1, Stand 101/202. Both companies show live demonstrations of the new telematics functions there.
