Approaching its 140th anniversary, the family-owned Rolfo Group, based in Bra (Cuneo), showcased cutting-edge innovations at the IAA 2024 to meet evolving market demands and local safety regulations. Renowned for designing and manufacturing transport vehicles for cars and heavy-duty vehicles, including electric models, the company has responded to the rising demand for EV transporters and the corresponding payload challenges.
While the growing size of SUVs already posed challenges for traditional combustion vehicles, the advent of EVs has amplified these demands. Rolfo’s response is the new three-axle Ego 37 TF trailer with twin wheels. Compared to two-axle models, this trailer allows for a higher gross mass. The trailer’s galvanised chassis includes a fixed drawbar and three axles with twin wheels. Tyres are sized at 215/75 R17.5, and the fully loaded technical mass reaches 25.72 tonnes. A TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System) ensures constant tyre pressure monitoring, enhancing safety during transit. Additionally, the trailer features ten classic wheel chocks, two wide chocks, and two angled ones, complemented by lighting that includes fixtures for night-time loading.
The trailer’s upper deck is hydraulically extendable towards the rear, with a stroke of 1,900 mm. It is equipped with a lifting system, including a telescopic front column and an articulated rear arm, both operated by self-locking cylinders. Safety measures include guardrail posts and a central covering for secure operations, alongside side-mounted chock holders to facilitate load management.
Regarding weights and dimensions, the trailer’s unladen weight is 10,700 kg, with an overall length, including the tractor unit, of 18,750 mm. The vehicle width is 2,550 mm, while the lower deck is 2,380 mm wide and the upper deck 2,430 mm. The clearance between decks is 2,150 mm. Additional features include a 1,400 mm rear extension for the lower deck, a 1,700 mm extension for the upper deck, and a 1,400 mm extension for platform 5, with both front and rear sections extending 1,000 mm each. Platform 3 also features a 2,100 mm front extension.
Looking ahead, Rolfo is integrating artificial intelligence, automation, and digitalisation into its production processes. This strategic approach is reshaping manufacturing while enhancing product safety and quality. Among the key innovations is the aiRLoading app, designed to automate vehicle load planning. This AI-powered tool optimises loading configurations by adhering to height, length, and weight distribution limits, providing valuable assistance to drivers and logistics professionals.
In terms of safety, Rolfo premiered its Safety Zone Device: a pneumatic signalling system equipped with LED lights to improve driver safety during loading and unloading. This device creates a 60 cm safety zone around the perimeter of the transporter, offering an additional layer of protection alongside existing signalling measures. This technology is particularly beneficial during roadside operations, where other vehicles pose a constant risk.
Massimiliano Barberis
