The stand of Nooteboom was full of innovations. The centre of attention there were the latest Manoovr MPL semi-low-loader with 10 axle lines and a Multidolly and the Pendel-X Euro low-loader with the latest generation IF fixed Interdolly.
The introduction of the Manoovr MPL semi low-loader in October 2015 was extremely successful. In a few months, more than 250 axle lines were sold across many countries in Europe. The advantages of the Manoovr are an extremely low load floor of 780mm, the high legal axle load of 12 tonnes/axle line, the generous suspension travel of 500mm, a tyre life that will last for at least 300.000 km and the favourable ‘total cost of ownership’.
Modular trailer
At bauma 2016 the Manoovr with 10 axle lines and a detachable Multidolly was a world first. With a total weight of 150 tonnes at 80 km/hr this MPL-150-37(V) is up to now the largest Manoovr semi low-loader with the highest payload in the programme. The MPL with Multidolly is an excellent alternative for some modular trailers. With important advantages such as its extremely easy operation, low dead weight and a single or double extendible load floor with optional extra width extension.
The steering of the rear axle assembly of the Manoovr can easily be adjusted when the floor is extended. Its steering can be adjusted hydraulically to ensure optimal steering behaviour in extended as well as retracted position. Whether extended or retracted, the trailer tracks the tractor perfectly and therefore tyre wear is kept to a minimum.
The main advantages of Manoovr MPL with detachable Multidolly are steering angle Multidolly 70 degrees, steplessly variable hydraulically fifth wheel load/axle load ratio from 18t to 30t with 12t/axle line, optimal steering in either extended or retracted position due to variable adjustment, optimal weight distribution front/rear and low dead weight and extremely strong load surface suitable for extreme loading.
Another Nooteboom novelty on bauma 2016 was the EURO Pendel-X low-loader with the latest fixed Interdolly, type IF, which is equipped with a simple mechanically adjustable fifth wheel load. The Interdolly and the hydraulic gooseneck form one unit, the main advantage being a considerable weight saving of around 1 tonne and a 35cm shorter assembly length of the Interdolly. The IF Interdolly is available with 1, 2 and 3 axle lines and with various neck lengths for a 6×4, 8×4 and 10×4 tractor.
The main advantages of fixed Interdolly IF are 1000 kg less dead weight, 35cm shorter length of the Interdolly, adjustable fifth wheel load (30t-18t), 70 degrees steering angle and easy operation.
Nooteboom eyeing windmill transport market in India
Interview with Mr. Johan Nieuwenhuis, Export Sales Manager, Nooteboom Trailers B.V.
How do you see the market for specialized transport evolving in India?
Building and construction activity is growing in India, so we certainly see a good market there. We have had some requests out of India, but it is a bit difficult to deliver our products because of the import duties in the country. The Indian Government should help customers by making import of products easier. Of course, this is a struggle for players like us, but the Indian market is growing for sure.
How important is the Indian market for Nooteboom from a global perspective?
Our main market is Europe, accounting for around 90 per cent of our sales. The rest comes from different export markets across the world. If India becomes a significant market, we can expect a little growth, and we will not be selling 100 units a year but are talking about only a few units a year.
What market position do you expect to achieve in India by the turn of the decade?
We produce special equipment such as long trailers for road transport. For a developing market like India, there is more demand for modular solutions to start with, following which demand for our kind of products would grow. We find the Indian market to be proactive but are not approaching it aggressively at the moment. We see the windmill market is coming up in a big way and, as one of the strongest players in this segment, are following it keenly. If this market expands significantly, we might have a local representative to give us the leads. These being very special products, we would like to have direct contact with our customers so that we could assist and guide them on how to get the best results using them. If the windmill market opens up, and if customers need long trailers, then India becomes very interesting for us.