News

NUFAM at the Karlsruhe Trade Fair Center will return in 2025. The ninth edition of the commercial vehicle trade fair will take place from September 25 to 28. As in previous years, it will take place over four days.

Visitors will then have the opportunity to view more than 400 exhibitors and their products from the entire spectrum of the commercial vehicle industry.

Since its inception in 2009, NUFAM has always been open from 10 am to 6 pm. This will change next year.

Evaluation brings clarity

After a comprehensive evaluation of visitor and exhibitor opinions and an intensive discussion between the NUFAM team and the advisory board of the commercial vehicle trade fair, it was decided to adjust the times.

NUFAM will therefore be open from September 25 to 28, 2025 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. "The freight forwarding and logistics industry in particular is up early and never sleeps. This is another reason why visitors have asked us to open earlier. We were happy to comply with this request. This will make NUFAM an even better platform for our visitors," says Jochen Bortfeld, Project Manager of NUFAM.

Telematics and Charging Infrastructure Forum: Free videos of expert presentations now available

During NUFAM, experts gave numerous presentations on specialised topics in the Telematics & Digital Services and Charging Infrastructure forums. These are now available to watch - in German only.

"Charging points - what can go wrong? What should you look out for?", "The future of hydrogen: how can vehicle fleets be gradually converted?" or "AI-based cargo space analysis for optimised capacity utilisation" - experts gave presentations on these and other topics during NUFAM - The Commercial Vehicle Trade Fair. They did so as part of the Telematics & Digital Services and Charging Infrastructure forums.

19 selected presentations are now available to watch - completely free of charge. The videos are available on the new NUFAM YouTube channel. You will find two playlists there - Telematics and Charging Infrastructure.

Aftermovie

There you will also find the aftermovie for NUFAM, in which you can get compact impressions of the past commercial vehicle trade fair in just over a minute.

Around 420 exhibitors, more than ever before, will be presenting themselves and their products from 21 to 24 September at NUFAM - the commercial vehicle trade fair on around 80,000 square metres at Messe Karlsruhe. The exhibitors cover the entire range of the commercial vehicle sector.

A.I.matics

NUFAM 2023 will be a great opportunity to showcase A.I.matics as a solution provider for the safety factor of commercial vehicles. We believe that our blind spot A.I. video detection alerts technology will reduce pedestrian fatalities in commercial vehicles.

Afhymat

Making its debut at NUFAM will be Afhymat, a French family-owned company specialising in hydraulic kits and aluminium bodies for transport companies. At NUFAM, the company will present for the first time its model of vacuum pump units for cleaning construction site toilets.

Air Products

Air Products has been developing hydrogen refuelling solutions for more than 30 years. According to the company, it carries out around 1.5 million hydrogen refuellings a year. In 2026, the company aims to supply 650 tonnes of renewable energy per day to power vehicles around the world, avoiding three million tonnes of CO2 emissions annually. At NUFAM, Air Products will present its concepts for hydrogen supply solutions and liquid hydrogen filling stations.

AI-Ko

The AL-KO Vehicle Technology Group is a fast-growing global technology group and a business unit of DexKo Global. With high-quality chassis and suspension components for trailers, recreational and commercial vehicles as well as construction and agricultural vehicles, the group of companies stands for functionality, comfort and innovative strength for more driving safety.

Autohaus Ebert

NUFAM, one of the leading commercial vehicle trade fairs, offers us the opportunity to present our Mercedes-Benz Pössl Campstar, especially to regional customers, and thus to make new contacts. As the oldest Mercedes Benz dealership in the Rhine-Neckar region, we are absolutely convinced of the concept of camping with your own vehicle and see NUFAM as the ideal platform to present our product highlight.

Azur

The Alliance for the Future of Tyres (AZuR), together with 56 partners from industry, trade and science, is committed to a climate-friendly tyre recycling economy. Used commercial vehicle brand tyres are to be 100 percent reused or recycled in an environmentally friendly way. This conserves natural resources and saves millions of tonnes of waste and CO2 emissions. The AZuR partner initiative ZARE guarantees the safe disposal and best possible recycling of used commercial vehicle tyres by certified specialist companies.

Beijing Smarter Eye Technology

Beijing Smarter Eye Technology was founded in 2014 and is the first company to develop and manufacture a binocular ADAS stereo camera in China. To date, our cameras have been installed in over 100,000 commercial vehicles in China, including trucks, buses, mining vehicles, taxis and other specialised vehicles.

BG Verkehr

One of BG Verkehr's focal points at the trade fair is the topic of distraction in road traffic. With virtual reality (VR) goggles and special software, male and female truck drivers can test their attention in virtual city traffic. They can try out how they react in certain situations. The VR goggles are a result of the campaign "Steer instead of distract", which the prevention experts of the employers' liability insurance association have been working on for the past year.

Binotto Group

With over 60 years of experience in the industry, Binotto Group 2023 is making its debut at NUFAM. They specialise in the design and production of hydraulic cylinders. They stand for high quality standards, reliability and state-of-the-art manufacturing processes.

Bohnenkamp

Over the past decades, Bohnenkamp has established itself as a full-range supplier of tyres and wheels, also in the truck and transport sector, as an absolutely reliable partner. Beyond the product range and the enormous availability of even large quantities, the company has earned a good reputation with its impressive service. In addition to the individual configuration of complete wheels and fitting, Bohnenkamp offers a comprehensive 360-degree service for its specialist dealers.

Burgers Carosserie

The recently announced increase in toll charges in Germany presents a significant challenge for companies in the logistics sector. In response to this pressing issue, Burgers and Karosseriewerk Meyer proudly present the groundbreaking and innovative double-decker solution that promises to reduce costs while optimising logistics operations.

City Box

Whether refrigerated bodies, flatbeds or special boxes - at cityBOX you will find the perfect solution for your individual requirements. As an internationally active manufacturer, we are present everywhere and always have partners in your vicinity. As a Europe-wide company, we use the excellent platform of NUFAM to draw German market attention to our first-class products. In this way, we set a clear signal on the market and offer you innovative solutions that set standards.

Courage Technologies

COURAGE Technologies SL is the manufacturer of 100% electric COURAGE transport refrigeration systems with their own battery with autonomy of 6-8 hours in continuous operation. Cooling completely independent of the electric/diesel vehicle. There will be an industry premiere at NUFAM: New introduction of electric COURAGE CTF3 mono- and multi-temperature cooling machines for chassis with 3.5t refrigerated box.

CSA ClimaVan Solutions

CSA ClimaVan Solutions Automotive GmbH will be presenting its products in the field of pharmaceutical equipment at NUFAM. As a specialist for temperature-controlled load compartment fittings, the company offers the classic GDP.VAN® pharmaceutical fitting and the GDP.VAN PLUS® pharmaceutical fitting for the transport of medicines in an extended temperature range. The trade fair offers a great opportunity to inspire commercial vehicle salesmen and key accounts. Visit CSA at the large VanSelect joint stand and get an extensive impression of our products in the field of temperature-controlled load compartment equipment.

Daken

Daken is a leading innovator in the field of truck&trailer accessories. Daken is looking forward to showcasing its latest range of high quality toolboxes, fire extinguisher cabinets and other accessories in plastic, steel and aluminium, carefully manufactured to meet the evolving needs and demands of the market.

Dekra

At NUFAM the DEKRA Academy will be presenting, among other things, instruction on the topics of electric drive and hydrogen drive. Both areas are currently gaining in importance in the commercial vehicle sector. For work on the high-voltage system of such vehicles, precise specifications apply with regard to the qualifications of the respective employees. The DEKRA Academy offers the appropriate training programmes in each case.

Deutsche Automobil Treuhand

Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT) is an internationally active company in the automotive industry that collects, supplements, compiles, processes and structures comprehensive motor vehicle data and then makes it available to the market nationwide via a wide range of media and software solutions.

DKV Mobility

Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT) is an internationally active company in the automotive industry that collects, complements, prepares, structures and then makes comprehensive vehicle data available to the market via a wide range of media and software solutions.

Dolezych

When it comes to safe lifting and transporting, there is no way around Dolezych. This year at NUFAM, the Dortmund-based manufacturer of rope, lifting, sling and load-securing equipment will once again be presenting newly developed solutions for safe transport.

Dometic

Protect the environment, save fuel, avoid breakdowns, more comfort on board: Dometic Go Power solar systems for commercial vehicles. At NUFAM 2023, Dometic will present innovative solar power solutions for commercial vehicles under the Go Power brand. Go Power solar systems have enjoyed a first-class reputation in North America for decades. Since Dometic acquired the manufacturer Valterra Products LLC in 2021, the technology, which has proven itself millions of times over, is now also available to customers in Europe.

Cooperative State University BW Ravensburg

The DHBW will be presenting current research projects and findings from the Centre for Digitalisation in Mobility Systems at NUFAM. With the exhibits on the DHBW stand and the DHBW contributions in the Telematics Forum, we are reacting to current changes in the industry that are leading to high cost pressure and demand new solutions for optimising capacity utilisation. Our live demos in the area of autonomous driving address, among other things, the problem area of driver shortages.

EasySub

Holistic subsidy consulting for the first time at NUFAM: Government subsidies as a sensible building block for a climate-neutral future in the logistics industry. For many companies, obtaining government subsidies is still neither intuitive nor practical in terms of time. At NUFAM, the energy and subsidy experts from easysub plus will be demonstrating the most important subsidy programmes for the logistics sector directly at the stand and will be able to estimate the possible subsidy amount by means of a free subsidy check.

Edelstahlhaus GmbH

The manufacturer of storage boxes Edelstahlhaus GmbH will present proven and new solutions for additional storage space on commercial vehicles at NUFAM. Among other things, Edelstahlhaus offers storage boxes produced in Germany, the ADE storage boxes. These ADE boxes will be the focus of the exhibition.

Elexon

As an industry leader in the logistics sector, the Aachen-based loading infrastructure specialist elexon is known for developing innovations. At this year's NUFAM, the charging infrastructure experts will again showcase product solutions that e-mobility users and operators need now and in the future. These include a DC charging station with a performance of up to 480 kW including modularity of the charging capacity from 80 kW to 480 kW. Charging capacity, charging points and communication can be individually adapted.

Etesia

After more than 30 years of developing, manufacturing and selling professional mowing equipment, ETESIA SAS has now broken new ground with the introduction of the ET-Lander. ETESIA is now also a car manufacturer with the multifunctional N1 battery vehicle. Thus, the NUFAM fair in Karlsruhe , with its proximity to the ETESIA site in Wissembourg , offers the appropriate sales platform for our new product .

Euromaster

According to its own information, Euromaster is Europe's largest service network for vehicle fleets. "For Euromaster, NUFAM offers the ideal opportunity to talk to its customers and interested parties and to convince them of our broad product and service portfolio," says Julian Schlitter, Marketing Manager at Euromaster.

Europmaqiunas

The latest innovations in roadside assistance equipment will be presented. Also the new Thunder-400 car charger with a maximum power of 27 Kva III, suitable for emergency charging of electric vehicles, as well as for compressed air. All this with the smallest size and lightest weight on the market.

E-Works Mobility

About E-Works Mobility: E-Works Mobility is a pioneer in the electrification of commercial vehicles and has established itself as a groundbreaking company on the European stage. With a strong focus on the circular economy, E-Works Mobility transforms conventional commercial vehicles into sustainable, high-performance electric vehicles.

Fassi

FASSI is the market leader among Italian manufacturers of knuckle boom cranes. With its product range and the number of cranes sold, the company is one of the world's leading manufacturers in the lifting equipment sector. The entire range is exported and distributed all over the world thanks to an efficient and widespread distribution network. Choosing a FASSi crane is a real investment that pays off in the long term: High quality of the product, market value and quality of service. The sales and service network in Germany comprises almost 100 partners. In addition to our regional workshops, our after-sales department and our spare parts supply at the centrally located company headquarters in Gründau-Rothenbergen are also responsible for customer support. FASSI's professionalism is aimed at meeting the various market requirements.

F&B Commercial Vehicle Technology

F&B is one of the leading vehicle conversion companies in Germany and sees itself as an interface between truck manufacturers and the body industry. In this process, the relevant add-on parts on the truck frame are arranged and relocated in such a way that the body assembly at the body manufacturer can be carried out without any problems and, if possible, without collision of truck add-on parts and body components. This saves time and money for all parties involved in the order and production process

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Fabri-Moll

Fabri-Moll - as one of the largest original equipment manufacturers - offers its customers from the transport and logistics sector a wide range of innovative and highly efficient solutions. Today, the company from Finnentrop is one of the leading addresses in the production and labelling of a wide variety of commercial vehicle tarpaulins.

FAHR-ZEIT

Since 1972 FAHR-ZEIT has been the market-leading specialist for professional drivers with a C / CE driving licence in local transport. FAHR-ZEIT provides drivers with the appropriate qualifications for a wide range of industries and special requirements - at 29 locations in Germany.

Falken Tyre Europe

Falken has prepared something very special for transport professionals: Falken's modern and advanced truck and commercial vehicle tyres not only offer improved mileage, but also exceptional load-bearing capacity and stability.

Faun

ENGINIUS is Europe's first vehicle manufacturer with an EU type approval for electrically powered trucks with hydrogen fuel cell system (FCEV). 100 BLUEPOWER hydrogen refuse collection vehicles are already in use. In addition to cities such as Berlin, Duisburg, Bochum and Brussels, the first BLUEPOWER refuse truck is now also driving in the UK.

Ford Trucks

F-Trucks Deutschland GmbH has been an official Ford Trucks general importer for almost two years and will be represented at NUFAM for the first time. Four F-MAX 500 tractor units will be presented at the main entrance and at stand E113 in hall 1. One of the exhibits is equipped with the exclusively eligible special #Living equipment. The interior designed by F-Trucks Germany partner Dietrich GmbH with lounge corner, washbasin, microwave, entertainment package and more offers exciting solutions for the industry topic of drivers.

Frielitz

Locking beam "Fritz" sets standards in the transport industry. The continuous development of technologies in the field of load securing plays a decisive role in efficiency and safety in the transport industry. Frielitz Fahrzeugbau und Zubehör from Gechingen in the northern Black Forest is known for its innovative and patented solutions in this field.

FSP Group of Companies

The FSP group of companies, which is part of TÜV Rheinland, has also been involved in the official inspection of heavy-duty vehicles since it was founded over 30 years ago. Every FSP test engineer is trained for this and meets the requirements of the authorities through annual further training to maintain competence. In addition, FSP also offers damage and value appraisals for lorries and buses, which can be carried out in various stages of completion, including analytical examinations with ultrasound or X-rays. Whether it is a leasing return or an accident appraisal, there is a suitable type of appraisal for every need.

GEFA

GEFA BANK will once again be presenting its extensive services as one of the most important financing and service partners for the transport industry at this year's NUFAM. Entrepreneurs will learn from specialised advisors how they can realise planned investments in new commercial vehicles with tailor-made leasing, credit and hire-purchase financing.

Geocept

The software company GEOCEPT GmbH, founded in Karlsruhe in 2006, is a specialist for professional GPS tracking solutions, tacho download, fleet management, truck navigation and route planning. The following new products will be presented at NUFAM 2023: Bluetooth Beacon Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS), Trailer Tracker with Plug&Play connection cable for every EBS and Ex-certified tracker housing for hazardous goods vehicles.

Gergen

GERGEN will present an Apollo 2.0 series roll-off tipper and an ADONIS 6.0 series skip loader with a TTA 13 ADONIS trailer. These are the latest evolutionary stage of the respective product series with a multitude of innovative and also well-known equipment options. A particularly outstanding feature of the GERGEN roll-off tippers is the electronic-free control system with its very.

Glasurit

As part of the NUFAM trade fair in Karlsruhe, Glasurit will be presenting its entire product range as well as the latest innovations in the field of vehicle painting. Together with the exhibitor 4wheel24 from Hasloch, specialised in special vehicle construction, two exclusive expedition vehicles with special paintwork will be on display. At the exhibition stand in Hall 2, D205, visitors will be able to find out more about Glasurit's high-quality range of products and services in addition to the paint structure.

Gleichauf

Gleichauf GmbH, a certified Continental dealer based in Villingen-Schwenningen, will present the new intelligent tachograph for the first time at the NUFAM trade fair in Karlsruhe. The version of the intelligent tachograph specified by the EU Mobility Package 1 brings new and partly modified functions and provides reliable data for more efficient controls in international freight transport.

Goliath Trans-Lining

In a Maxus eDeliver 3, provided by Ebert Automobile, we show all interested parties our multiple award-winning foodstuff extension, the Trans-Clean® hygienic extension. The load compartment extension for HACCP-compliant food transport without temperature control. In a Renault Master, we will be showing our Trans-Cool fresh produce extension, which was launched this year. It turns your van into a refrigerated vehicle for foodstuffs in the temperature range from 0°C to +15°C in accordance with the Food Hygiene Ordinance & DIN 1815.

GP JOULE

GP JOULE is an integrated energy supplier active in all areas of the energy value chain: from generation to utilisation - and from consulting to financing and project planning to construction and service. GP JOULE generates and markets wind and solar power, green hydrogen and heat, and uses the energy where it is most effective: in electric and hydrogen mobility, in households and in industry.

GPSauge

We want to set new impulses at NUFAM and show that the potential of telematics is far from exhausted. In doing so, we respond with our telematics solutions to the increasing demands for efficiency, sustainability and transparency in the transport and logistics industry.

Graf Hardenberg

Graf Hardenberg is one of the most successful car dealership groups in Germany. With over 1,600 employees at 17 locations and 34 businesses in Baden-Württemberg and Rhineland-Palatinate, we represent the ten strong brands Volkswagen, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, Audi, ŠKODA, SEAT, CUPRA, Porsche, Ford, Vespa and Harley-Davidson. We also specialise in key accounts and fleet management.

Grantex

GRANTEX HELLENIC BRAKES INDUSTRY was founded in 1958 and has successfully manufactured friction materials (brake pads, disc brake linings, etc.) for all types of heavy and light commercial vehicles as well as for industrial applications until today. We are the only company in our sector in Greece and one of the few in Europe.

GTÜ

GTÜ Gesellschaft für Technische Überwachung mbH is the largest officially recognised motor vehicle inspection organisation of freelance motor vehicle experts in Germany, making it one of the largest expert organisations of all. It sees itself as a comprehensive network of experts. 2,500 self-employed and full-time experts and over 2,600 test engineers and their qualified staff are available at around 10,300 test centres in garages and car dealerships, as well as at more than 800 GTÜ-authorised partners' own test centres. The GTÜ test engineers work in the interests of road safety and environmental protection.

Lower Franconia Chamber of Trade

For more than 16 years, the Vehicle Academy, an educational centre of the Lower Franconia Chamber of Crafts, has been offering the "Automotive Technician Master Course with a Focus on Commercial Vehicles", which is unique in southern Germany. At our information counter in Hall 2, Stand E 212, interested parties can obtain non-binding advice on the attractive funding opportunities up to a level of 96%.

Wide awake at 80

Board member and spokesman of the prevention association "Hellwach mit 80 km/h e.V.": "This is our second time at NUFAM. We have a unique opportunity here to meet not only the drivers, but all the players involved in the supply chain, in order to convince them to work together to curb truck accidents at the end of traffic jams."

Humbaur

Humbaur is one of the biggest in the world of trailers and vehicle bodies. The owner-managed family business offers around 420 different standard trailer models for commercial and private customers and 230 models of its FlexBox vehicle bodies. With 600 employees, around 60,000 trailers p.a. are produced at the Gersthofen site. The expert for trailers and transport solutions from 750 kg to 50 t total weight is active nationally and internationally and also manufactures special and customised solutions. More than 500 dealers in Germany and 26 European countries offer competent contact persons directly at the doorstep.

Institute for Continuing Education, Knowledge and Technology Transfer

ALFRIED stands for automated and networked driving (AVF) in logistics at the Friedrichshafen test site. The project, funded by the BMDV, deals with the challenges of inner-city goods transport and factory traffic in a complex transport system. Such traffic is often perceived as a hindrance or even a danger for other road users. Improved traffic flow can increase traffic efficiency for the safety of all road users, reduce congestion and achieve positive environmental effects for affected residents. AVF and Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) provide solutions for this.

JIT Play

"From the industry, for the industry", JITpay™ has developed innovative products to solve the problem of long payment terms in the industry. As a financial service provider specialising in the transport industry, JITpay™ takes care of the entire service settlement for the contractor. This involves the use of a modern, digital factoring programme, which enables transport contractors to receive immediate payouts of their receivables and clients to benefit from flexible payment terms.

Jonescu

Jonesco has been making tough, reliable mudguards for commercial vehicles for over 50 years and will be showing examples from its well-known X-Gard and HighGard ranges. HighGard are tough, versatile and affordable extruded mudguards available in a wide range of sizes. X-Gard is the premium option, robust rotationally moulded mudguards that are also available as flat-tops and tandems.

Jost

JOST makes the demanding job of a truck driver easier with the latest safety technology and smart assistance systems for commercial vehicles. At NUFAM 2023, the international public will experience the portfolio in the hall and on the open-air site. Highlights include the KKS automatic coupling system with the new retrofittable KKS-U Connector and the King Pin Finder.

Junge

As one of the market-leading body manufacturers, Junge Fahrzeugbau GmbH will also be represented as a co-exhibitor with several exhibits on various exhibition stands. The most diverse body solutions from the LIGHTSTAR, LOADSTAR and BIKESTAR product ranges for distribution transport up to the last mile will be presented to the trade public.

Jungheinrich

For 70 years, Jungheinrich has been driving the development of innovative and sustainable products and solutions for all aspects of material flow as one of the world's leading solution providers for intralogistics. As a pioneer in its industry, the Hamburg-based family-owned company is committed to shaping the warehouse of the future.

Kempf vehicle construction

KEMPF's vehicles offer a multitude of advantages which leave nothing to be desired in terms of functionality, reliability and profitability. Whether on construction sites, in the agricultural sector or in the recycling industry, the steel or aluminium skips are versatile in use.

KFI Cargo Control

KFI Cargo Control GmbH is one of the leading suppliers in the field of load securing and lifting technology. Among the special highlights at NUFAM are individualised lashing straps with logo printing and customised labelling.

ReFuels

Synthetic fuels from renewable energies, so-called reFuels, promise a CO2 reduction of up to 90 percent compared to conventional fuels. They can be produced in large quantities and can already be used in almost all vehicles, especially in heavy-duty traffic. Researchers at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) have proven this in large-scale projects. The InnoFuels platform is intended to network the many national and European research projects on the further development, production and application of power-to-liquid and biofuels, to identify synergies and thus help to accelerate the production of larger quantities of electricity-based liquid fuels in particular.

Kögel

Kögel is one of the leading trailer manufacturers in Europe. With its commercial vehicles and transport solutions for the haulage and construction industries, the company has been offering engineering-driven quality "Made in Germany" for more than 85 years. Kögel sees itself as responsible for making transport and logistics processes environmentally and climate-friendly in agreement with politicians and customers.

Königsberg landing protection district

The Königsberg Load Securing Circle e.V. KLSK® emerged from the idea of bringing experts from different areas of load securing to one table to exchange experiences. In 2002, the Königsberg Load Safety Circle e.V. KLSK®, which is recognized as a non-profit organization, was founded. Absolute neutrality is the club's top priority. The aim of the KLSK® is not to market products. Our only goal is to increase road safety. However, there are technical aids that support the achievement of the club's goal but are not available or not available on the market. These are manufactured or commissioned and sold by the club itself.

Kress

KRESS Fahrzeugbau GmbH is a medium-sized family business that has specialized in the development and production of economical, efficient refrigerated vehicles and refrigerated bodies in premium quality for 20 years. In Meckesheim near Heidelberg, around 500 refrigerated vans, refrigerated trucks and refrigerated trailers are specified and completely manufactured every year. KRESS works with all renowned commercial vehicle manufacturers.

Crown

As a holistic mobility consultant, KRONE relies on an overall view of the mobility needs of its customers. As one of the pioneers in innovation and sustainability, the company will present its current portfolio at NUFAM 2023. A highlight is the Profi Liner in the 5th generation, where KRONE highlights the solutions in the area of load securing. In addition, the family-owned company is driving the trailer service forward with a comprehensive service package consisting of financing, flexible service modules, spare parts service and 24-hour emergency call.

KRPAN

The company PIŠEK-Vitli KRPAN was founded in 1977 and is today one of the world's most recognized companies in the forestry machinery industry. Our main product is the forest rope winch. The production program also includes other forestry machines, such as forestry trailers with cranes, wood splitters, fuelwood conditioners, circular saws with conveyor belts, firewood bundlers, tractor tipping boxes, heavy timber cranes, grabs and other forestry machines.

Langendorf

Langendorf GmbH was founded in 1889 and is based in Waltrop (eastern Ruhr area). Around 400 employees produce more than 1,500 vehicles per year. The product range includes inner loaders for the transport of finished elements made of concrete, brick or wood, inner loaders for flat glass as well as double-deck inner loaders with box body, semi-trailers with steel or aluminium hollows, tipping bodies for motor cars, low-loader trailers and low-loader semi-trailers. In addition, Waltrop designs and manufactures a wide variety of special bodies according to customer specifications. Langendorf Service GmbH, which bundles all maintenance and repairs, and Langendorf Trading GmbH, which sells and rents used vehicles throughout Europe, are also part of the group.

Logi Apps

With the LogiApps software developed by Silvasti Software, you can manage and improve the operations of your transport company. The cloud-based operating model is the ERP solution not only for large transport companies but especially for small and medium-sized transport companies a modern and cost-effective tool with many advantages.

Logicline

LogicLine is Europe’s leading supplier of load securing systems for platform vehicles and pick-ups – sophisticated transport boxes, load carriers, tarpaulin bodies and a wide range of accessories. For more than 15 years, the medium-sized Austrian company has been developing and manufacturing systems for legally compliant and safe transport of tools and materials.

Mansio

At NuFam 2023 three Aachen innovators – MANSIO GmbH, PEM Motion GmbH and the FIR at RWTH Aachen – will present an innovative transport system for road freight transport and a smart theft protection system for trailers. The MANSIO transport system is based on the principle of encounter traffic: in the course of a transport, a truck hands over its semi-trailer (“trailer”) to another truck and returns to the region of origin with the trailer of another haulier. With this solution, freight forwarders can reduce their transport costs, maintain their independence, improve working conditions for the transport staff and, in the long term, make an active contribution to environmental protection.

Martin Knirsch Motor vehicles

With more than 50 years of experience, we develop and deliver custom-made commercial vehicles. We rely on the brands SCANIA, Schwarzmüller and Hüffermann, which are among the technologically leading companies in the transport industry and meet the highest demands in terms of longevity, reliability and cost-effectiveness. With our four workshop locations and two service partners from Karlsruhe to Freiburg, we offer our customers a service network with a high quality standard.

Martins

MARTINS is a global leader in tyre and wheel equipment solutions. Known for innovation and quality, the company offers a wide range of products, including tire stands, tire inflatable cages, tire balance beads, wheel nut indicators and tire handling devices. Their expertise and commitment have made them a reliable partner in the industry.

Meiller

Since 1850, the Munich-based family company MEILLER has developed from a blacksmith to a globally active group. Characterized by continuous growth, MEILLER has steadily expanded its range of services and expertise and has developed as a system supplier for innovative and high-quality tipping bodies into the market leader in the construction, waste management and commercial vehicle industries.

Mekom

Founded in 1976, Prinx Chengshan is a modern tyre manufacturer whose portfolio includes passenger car/SUV/4x4 as well as transporter tyres, truck tyres and bus tyres. The four renowned tyre brands Austone, Fortune, PRINX and Chengshan are sold. Prinx Chengshan Europe is exhibiting at NUFAM together with its wholesale partner Küke. In Karlsruhe, the tire manufacturer concentrates on its truck range and presents only bestsellers and new developments.

Mekratronics

At this year's NUFAM, the highlights at the MEKRAtronics booth are intelligent vision systems that make driving and manoeuvring of commercial vehicles safer. From the classic rear-view camera system to radar-based cornering assistance systems to AI-supported person recognition, MERKAtronics offers a variety of tailor-made solutions for the commercial vehicle industry.

Merkol

Securing the cargo is a key aspect in transport. Merkol offers a wide range of products for load securing, including lashing belts, anti-slip mats and special fastening systems. These products ensure reliable and safe cargo securing to get goods and goods safely to their destination.

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Thermal Transport Europe GmbH

MTTE, which was founded in 2018 in Osnabrück, started with the aim of bringing environmentally friendly and service-friendly transport refrigeration systems to the market for a quieter and more efficient cold chain. MTTE is a joint venture between Mitsubishi and the chiller specialist HEIFO, which has been the general importer of Japanese Mitsubishi chillers since 1998.

MLV Systems

With mlv.Guide you can master your everyday transport processes much easier: efficiently, time-saving and always with a good overview. Everything in one place: consistent and secure, quickly findable and without cluttering in common office programs with countless files. Nothing is lost or forgotten. With mlv.Guide, every important detail, appointment or re-planning is always well under control, regardless of whether customer requirements, vehicle maintenance or a suitable connection tour.

Nadler road technology

amtec manufactures a comprehensive range of thermocontainers, thermo troughs and asphalt distributors. The sturdy Hardox superstructures guarantee high payload, perfect insulation and effective condensation protection. A special highlight of amtec is the SBS safety control system.

Neovaria

With its own demonstration vehicle, the Neovaria OHG presents two product groups in particular. The BEKS drawer system and grooved stone fittings. The BEKS drawer system is based on a unique pull-out mechanism that does not require lateral telescopic rails and is therefore virtually maintenance-free. The system consists of lightweight and durable materials, is modular, can be combined in height and width as desired and can be expanded with a variety of accessories. Our groove fittings offer a drill-free mounting solution for all common Van seat rails. The groove stones are designed to fix vehicle fixtures, dog boxes, bicycle racks or similar and can be shifted in the respective seat rail in the existing grid dimension.

NEV Commercial Vehicle Engineering GmbH

NEV Nutzfahrzeug-Technik GmbH was founded in 2007 in Hagenbach and currently has 22 employees. Since its foundation, there has been a close cooperation with F&B Nutzfahrzeug-Technik GmbH, a conversion partner of Daimler Truck AG for over 25 years. Many of the designs developed at NEV have already been realized there in close cooperation. External customers also benefit from our design and development services.

Padoan

Padoan Deutschland GmbH presents the commercial vehicle tanks of Padoan Srl, hydraulic tractor equipment and hydraulic components at NUFAM 2023. The special features of the products are the excellent quality and price-performance ratio of the individual components as well as the configuration of the tractor hydraulics exclusively according to customer and application requirements

PHP Lawyers

PHP is highly specialized and develops targeted, legally secure service solutions for car dealerships, fleets and mobility service providers. With a highly competent team of transport experts, insurance specialists and specialized lawyers as well as a strong partner network. PHP ensures clarity, security and creates added value in all phases of damage management.

PlugVan

At NUFAM 2023, the Berlin-based start-up PlugVan will be presenting its flexible modules for 3.5-ton vehicles, vans and trailers. With the modules, the vehicles can be converted into a camper, a mobile workshop, a goods transporter or a mobile office. The conversion takes 5 minutes and can be done by one person. Just slide in and without any changes to the base vehicle.

Pneuhage

The Karlsruhe Tyre Trading Group Pneuhage has been involved as an exhibitor for the trade fair since the very first NUFAM. Sustainable products and services will also be presented at this year’s participation in the dm-Arena on stand A409. Both have been part of the company's philosophy since it was founded 70 years ago. The aim of the family business has always been long-term customer satisfaction through consumption and resource-optimizing tire concepts.

Pommier

POMMIER, expert and multi-specialist in equipment for European bodybuilders, is a supplier of reference solutions in 5 product areas: couplings, protection devices, fastenings, openings and lighting. At NUFAM 2023, POMMIER will present the remote-controlled handle TORSEO 16-UL HMO at its stand.

Radolid

RADOLID is your partner for high-quality plastic wheel nut caps. As a market leader, our task is to continuously develop our products to meet the high demands of our customers. Therefore, we offer you a high degree of individualization of our wheel nut caps type KSW.

Rapid lightweight construction

With its unique plastic welding technology in Central Europe, RAPID Leichtbau GmbH manufactures lightweight, sturdy and individually designed case bodies from welded sandwich panels for all transporter and truck manufacturers. “So that our customers can carry out their transports even more efficiently, cost-effectively and with less wear!” RAPID is a certified partner for trunk bodies of Fiat, Ford, Iveco, MAN, Mercedes-Benz Trucks, Mercedes-Benz Vans, Nissan, Opel, Renault and Volkswagen.

Tyre central Becker

The Reifenzentrale Becker GmbH, headquartered in Bitburg, was founded in 1949. What started as a small business back then is now a well-established wholesaler with attached tyre and spare parts dealers. With a highly motivated team and state-of-the-art technology, the Becker Tyre Centre serves its customers from four locations (Bitburg, Badem, Daun and Ormont). Since 2015, the company has been the exclusive sales partner for torque truck tires in the DACH region.

Reiff Tyres

The renowned mobility provider REIFF Süddeutschland Reifen und KFZ-Technik GmbH uses the stage of NUFAM 2023 to present pioneering mobility concepts. The trade fair in Karlsruhe offers the company an ideal platform to draw visitors’ attention to the sustainable mobility of tomorrow.

Renault Trucks

At this year's NUFAM, Renault Trucks, together with its distribution partner Tiropatrans and body manufacturers Orten Fahrzeugbau and VanSelect, will be presenting its concentrated expertise in the field of electromobility: the Renault Trucks E-Tech D & D Wide series for distribution transport, the Renault Trucks E-Tech C for heavy construction site transport and the Renault Trucks E-Tech Master for the Last Mile. These electric vehicles illustrate in which segments the use of electric vehicles is already possible today.

Rennie Expert

Which actor in freight forwarding is responsible for what? And how can you counteract problems with authorities or transport damage? The manufacturer-independent expert team around Christian Rennie and Christian Schmid is keen to help you clarify this issue, to act in an organized and protected manner, but also to create arguments for good discussions with other involved persons.

Rigdon

RIGDON is a medium-sized company with around 100 employees. RIGDON operates one of the largest independent tire retreading plants in Germany in Günzburg, Swabia. We renew tires from small solid rubber tires to cars, trucks and large tires with up to 3 meters in diameter. RIGDON also has 2 service branches in Günzburg and Neu-Ulm.

Ronal

From 21-24 September 2023, SPEEDLINE TRUCK, part of the RONAL GROUP, will be exhibiting its product range of aluminium wheels for trucks, buses and trailers for the first time at the NUFAM commercial vehicle trade fair in Karlsruhe. Also, some wheels from the RONAL passenger car.

S&G Automotive

For the eighth time this year, NUFAM – the commercial vehicle fair will take place in Karlsruhe. Once again this year, the five leading Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicle Centers from Baden-Württemberg will combine their combined expertise at a common stand! Wackenhut GmbH & Co. KG, Kestenholz GmbH, Riess GmbH & Co. KG and Südstern - Bölle AG & Co. KG will join forces with the founding member of NUFAM S&G Automobil AG.

SAF Netherlands

Solutions for chassis, axle systems and electronic brake system modules: Since the successful acquisition of the Swedish brake system specialist Haldex by SAF-HOLLAND, the two companies have continued to grow together and will present themselves on a single stand at NUFAM 2023. In Hall 2, Stand C203, visitors will learn how to meet the growth areas of the future together and how the industry will benefit from the merger. A highlight in Karlsruhe: Both SAF-HOLLAND and Haldex have answers to the EU regulation on tyre pressure monitoring.

Satlog

At NUFAM 2023, SATLOG will showcase its new integration solution consisting of truck tablet, person recognition with AI camera and video recording. “The aim was to give the driver a good feeling that he has all the information available on a monitor in the vehicle and is thus alerted even when people are in the shunting area of the truck, e.g. during waste disposal or on construction site operations,” says Dr. Jürgen Stausberg, Managing Director of SATLOG GmbH.

Schoon Vehicle Systems

As wide-ranging as the tasks of the individual industries, the requirements for the fleet used are as diverse as the requirements. For more than 60 years Schoon Fahrzeugsysteme from Wiesmoor has specialized in customer-specific assembly, disassembly and conversion of chassis, vans and pick-ups up to 7.5 tons gross weight. Everything is done from a single source.

Schwanheimer industrial glue

We have been producing our products in our factory in Schwanheim (Baden Württemberg) for over 40 years. We are the only adhesive manufacturer that produces adhesives in Germany. This ensures a unique and consistent quality of the products “Made in Germany”. Our adhesives are stable for several years because they do not contain any solvents. Thus, there is no drying out or permanently glued tips as with commercial products. Our adhesive reacts to oxygen deprivation and thus adheres to all perfectly fitting surfaces (irrespective of material).

Service company German craftsmanship

Interested craftsmen from all trades will have the opportunity to get personal advice from SDH contacts at the exhibition stand and to find out about SDH membership, current discounts on company cars and special promotions tailored to the craft. True to the slogan “We move the craft”, the SDH mediates attractive car discounts to craft businesses through direct framework contracts with 26 well-known automobile manufacturers via so-called call-in vouchers.

Skirion

New sliding door kit for temperature controlled vehicles. A practical solution for delivery and the last mile in urban areas, allowing lateral loading and unloading in confined spaces, thanks to the horizontal displacement that leads to a complete opening of the door. Mounting is possible for both opening directions, with a simple and easy to install mechanism with pre-assembled modules.

Sonax

Since 1950, the family-owned company in Neuburg an der Donau has been developing and producing high-performance products with the highest quality standards “Made in Germany”. In addition to numerous articles for car care, the range also includes a comprehensive range of special products for commercial vehicles. Many of the cleaning and care products are also available in the usual container sizes for commercial vehicles. Sonax has been the market leader in automotive care products in Germany for many years and at the same time one of the international leaders in this field with representatives in more than 110 countries worldwide.

Sörensen

This year, Sörensen will be exhibiting at the NUFAM commercial vehicle trade fair for the first time. As a partner of the VanSelect commercial vehicle portal, the Hamburg-based loading platform manufacturer will be exhibiting at the joint stand C302 in Hall 3. At the VanSelect stand, a total of four different Sörensen side panels will be presented. One of these is the X1A 750 – the top seller.

SpanSet

SpanSet GmbH & Co. KG, Übach-Palenberg, is a leading manufacturer of lifting and load securing technology as well as personal protective equipment for height securing. Own companies in 22 countries on five continents offer customers worldwide service. At SpanSet GmbH & Co KG in Übach-Palenberg, more than 160 employees weave, dye and assemble approx. 750,000 meters of webbing and fabric hoses per month. In addition to the production and marketing of high-quality technical textiles, a comprehensive range of services complements the product range. This includes inspection and repair services, consulting, expert opinions, certifications and technical seminars.

Speedywash

At this year's NUFAM, brush washing system specialist Speedywash will present a small selection from its 20 version portfolio of mobile brush washing systems with the Standard, Basic Diesel and Battery Easydrive models. The cable- and hose-bound standard as well as the Basic Diesel, equipped with water tank and diesel engine on board, are affordable entry-level models that already pay off in small fleets with a few vehicles.

Sharpener

In 1872, Johann Spitzer laid the foundation stone for today's corporate group. That year, he registered his company for the production and sale of agricultural goods in the Commercial Register. Today the company presents itself as an internationally active group and is one of the leading manufacturers of silo vehicles and bodies in Europe. The extensive know-how that Spitzer can draw on for the development and production of customer-oriented vehicles goes back a long way. Because Spitzer was the pioneer in this special segment: the first silo vehicle to come on the market bore the Spitzer label.

Terberg Special Vehicles

Terberg Spezialfahrzeuge GmbH, headquartered in Hamburg, Germany, is a subsidiary of the Dutch family-owned company Terberg. The company was founded in 1869 in Benschop, NL, and is still wholly family owned. The Royal Terberg Group today comprises a number of operating companies serving different parts of the vehicle-related market. These robust vehicles are active in ports, distribution centres, heavy industry, tunnelling areas, marshalling yards and airports in over 130 countries. Terberg Spezialfahrzeuge oversees the distribution of the vehicles manufactured in the Netherlands for the D-A-CH region. The portfolio also includes spare parts and accessories as well as a comprehensive service in the area of vehicle repair and rental as well as the brokerage of used vehicles.

Tirecheck

TireCheck is a full-service provider of networked tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS). At NUFAM, the company will present its complete product range and inform visitors about the technical requirements of the upcoming European legislation on RDKS for commercial vehicles. At the same time, TireCheck offers you the right solutions to equip all commercial vehicles in accordance with the regulations.

Transport-refrigeration-distribution

Transport-Kälte-Vertrieb GmbH has been your reliable and competent partner in the field of transport refrigeration for over 50 years. In Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria, the company represents the well-known brands Thermo King and Frigoblock in the sales and service sector. With numerous innovative products, telematics and pharmaceutical expertise as well as more than 80 mobile service technicians, tkv* provides you with customer- and user-oriented solutions for transport refrigeration. The tkv* mobile service comes to you on site and actively helps you save resources.

TYNe

ShareX Mobility AG had the idea to set up so-called last-mile logistics hubs close to the town so that only one environmentally friendly vehicle could deliver the goods to customers from there. Compact vehicles are required for this last mile logistics. It is a good coincidence that ShareX has held intensive discussions with Albert Weber Holding GmbH in Markdorf since 2021 about the strategic market entry of a small e-transporter. This collaboration between two Swabian-based companies resulted in the TYNe, which is now being presented at NUFAM Karlsruhe.

Van Clewe

With GRIPTEX we present sustainable and durable anti-slip materials for load securing. Our product portfolio includes various anti-slip mats and a belt protector. The special thing about our products is that we use a textile backing material, which is rubberized. The textile base gives the products an enormous tear resistance and the applied coating the anti-slip function and a coating that does not break, crumble or abrasion.

Van Select

VanSelect GmbH & Co. KG, based in Hollenstedt, Lower Saxony, was founded in 2015 and sees itself as a network of people, companies, products and data. In addition to networking events and trade fairs, VanSelect deals with IT systems to digitize the sale of prefabricated and converted commercial vehicles and to simplify it for the retail trade.

VauQaudrat

At this year's NUFAM trade fair in Karlsruhe the company VauQuadrat from Offenburg in southern Baden will also participate. As a co-exhibitor at Weber at DM-Arena stand 406, the current V2 and V3 depth induction units will be presented – especially for commercial vehicle workshops in the application for buses, trucks, agricultural machinery or municipal technology.

Versus Omega

Versus-Omega presents numerous products for curtainsider bodies. Versus has different systems in the program for this. Starting with the sliding roof and sliding tarpaulin systems (Omega and Penta), through the roof lift systems (Axces) up to complete superstructure kits (kits).

WD-40

The WD-40® Company Limited Branch Germany develops and markets maintenance and care products for industry and crafts as well as for hobby and household. The WD-40® multifunction product has proven itself millions of times in many areas of application and has been convincing for over 60 years by its quality and versatility. In addition, the WD-40 SPECIALIST® products for the automotive and commercial vehicle industry offer targeted solutions such as special material compatibility and temperature resistance, which were developed in extensive tests and in collaboration with professional users.

Webfleet

Webfleet is Bridgestone’s globally proven fleet management solution. More than 60,000 companies around the world use them to improve the efficiency of their fleets, make their drivers’ daily work easier, make their operations safer, comply with regulations and act more sustainably. For more than 20 years, Webfleet has provided fleet managers with data-driven insights to optimize their operations.

Wex

WEX is one of the largest fuel card providers in Europe. With tailor-made fuel card solutions such as the Esso Card™, the company is precisely tailored to the fuel needs of its customers and helps to improve the performance and efficiency of any fleet – regardless of company size.

Wielton

Wielton, one of the TOP 3 manufacturers of semi-trailers and truck bodies in Europe, will present 8 innovative products at NUFAM. From 21 to 24 September, visitors will be able to see the new products of the Polish manufacturer in the exhibition hall, including the Scrap Master tipper, the Recycle Master sliding hook semi-trailer and the Curtain Swap Master swap bridge as well as the range of vehicle configurations. In addition, solutions and products of the Aberg brand will be on display.

Wingliner

The ease of use of our truck body kits is unbeatable thanks to Wingliner technology. We make your deliveries faster, more convenient and safer – and are therefore the ultimate alternative to classic van bodies. Or rather: the alternative without alternatives. Fully automatic & adaptable, we always adapt to the requirements of our customers. The Wingliner System is a patented hydraulic opening system for trucks. It combines robustness with flexibility, reliability with comfort. And it's also fast: it opens every truck in 10 seconds at the touch of a button.

Winkler Group of Companies

The winkler Group is one of the leading wholesalers of commercial vehicle spare parts in Europe. Around 1,600 employees at more than 40 locations in Germany, Austria, Latvia, Poland, the Czech Republic, Switzerland and Slovakia provide individual support to commercial vehicle owners, workshops, bus and agricultural companies. From three of the largest central warehouses for commercial vehicle parts in Europe with more than 200,000 spare parts, the goods reach the customer as quickly as possible via a sophisticated logistics and delivery concept.

Wistra

At NUFAM, Wistra GmbH Cargo Control, which specialises in the development and manufacture of cargo securing devices, is presenting the easy-to-use “Control+” intermediate wall lock, which informs the user with a force-clamping indicator when the required preload force has been reached. In addition to the “Control+”, Wistra is showing its extended range in Karlsruhe with many other innovations, which has been supplemented with various edge protection corners, for example. Other novelties such as the Multi-Beam bar and the clamping pin presented last year are now available to order.

WPK Commercial Vehicle Parts

WPK Nutzfahrzeugteile GmbH is one of the leading suppliers when it comes to plastic parts, hydraulic parts, metal parts, lighting and safety products for commercial vehicles. At NUFAM, the company will be presenting a rear bumper with lighting attachment.

Würth

Würth Truck Lease GmbH, a member of the internationally renowned Würth Group, will once again present itself at NUFAM this year in order to strengthen its presence as a reliable partner in the commercial vehicle and transport industry. From 21 to 24 September, visitors will have the opportunity to find out about different financing solutions and to get in touch with the experts on site.

Zeliox

Zeliox is a leading provider of power solutions for commercial vehicles dedicated to providing reliable and sustainable power systems. With a focus on innovation and customer satisfaction, the Zeliox ECO is distinguished by its remarkable features that meet the needs of commercial vehicle owners and operators.

ZF Group

ZF is a globally active technology group and supplies systems for the mobility of passenger cars, commercial vehicles and industrial technology. ZF lets vehicles see, think and act: In the four technology fields of Vehicle Motion Control, Integrated Safety, Automated Driving and Electromobility, ZF offers comprehensive product and software solutions for established vehicle manufacturers as well as emerging providers of transport and mobility services. ZF electrifies vehicles of a wide range of categories and contributes with its products to reducing emissions, protecting the climate and making mobility safer.

18 speakers from business, law and science will present knowledge, research results and solutions in short ten-minute lectures on 21 and 22 September between 11 am and 2 pm. Afterwards, they will be available to answer questions from the audience.

Telematics systems of all kinds have long been part of the standard equipment of modern commercial vehicles. The range of applications now goes far beyond tracking and mobile order management. The spectrum ranges from tyre pressure and fill level measurement to intelligent dashcams and immobilisers that function depending on the blood alcohol level.

Avoiding empty runs

These and many other solutions will be presented, explained and discussed at the Digital Services & Telematics Forum. But that's not all: the Duale Hochschule Baden Württemberg Ravensburg will again contribute four interesting scientific papers. These will deal with methods for avoiding empty runs, artificial intelligence (AI) as a tool for demand forecasting or the actual economic added value of digitalisation in transport logistics.

The event kicks off on 21 September with a presentation by Geocept on the newly prescribed tyre pressure monitoring for trailers. Details and manufacturer-independent solutions will be presented. Reversing assistance systems and the legally compliant reading and archiving of tachographs are further topics on the packed agenda. The fact that artificial intelligence is already having an influence on fleet management will also be the subject of one of the many items on the agenda.

Further premieres

This year, for the first time, two lawyers from PHP Rechtsanwaltgesellschaft will be on the podium of the Forum to talk about forward-looking technologies in claims management. Other premieres include the topics "Fleet management of autonomous vehicles" and AI-based cargo space analysis for optimised utilisation by the two exhibitors Embotech and Luis Technology.

The almost unlimited technological possibilities of telematics will be demonstrated on Friday morning in a presentation by Mansio. It is about better working conditions for drivers and shorter transport times with staggered transports. A contribution by GPSoverIP deals with the uncompromising management of telematics devices from different manufacturers via a central platform.

More safety

The solution alcohol interlocks, which the exhibitor TruckWarn H3M will present, will meet with just as much interest. The background to this is the duty of care of fleet operators towards drivers, who can be prevented from driving under the influence of alcohol by means of special immobilisers. AddSecure, which has developed intelligent dashcams for this purpose, is also committed to more safety in road traffic. These will be presented on Friday at noon. Afterwards, Satlog GmbH will explain how telematics can be used to measure levels, prevent damage and reduce greenhouse gases. During the last sequences after the lunch break, Soprotec will also give an insight into technological change and show how telematics has changed logistics.

Conclusion: The Forum for Digital Services & Telematics will once again provide an interesting and varied overview of new technologies, legal framework conditions and current research results. The event thus underlines its importance as an integral part of the NUFAM supporting programme.

On Saturday, 23 September, nine short lectures will highlight various facets of the topic. The topics will be battery-electric drives, hydrogen and e-fuels. The forum will provide decision-making aids as to which type of alternative drive should be invested in. The competent speakers from the ranks of the NUFAM exhibitors will then be available to answer questions from the audience.

The eternal chicken-and-egg problem: In the technological shift from the internal combustion engine to climate-friendly alternatives, it is more topical than ever. Commercial vehicles in local and long-distance transport need a reliable infrastructure for refuelling or charging fuel or energy. For hydrogen, electricity and fuels based on renewable raw materials, this infrastructure is still being developed. Fleet operators are asking themselves which technology they should invest in today.

Part of the free supporting programme

Against this background, the commercial vehicle trade fair NUFAM is organising an extensive forum on this topic for the first time on 23 September. The event is part of the free supporting programme for all trade fair visitors. It will start at 10:30 and is expected to end at 12:45. The first contribution describes the progress in the development of the charging infrastructure for battery-powered trucks from the perspective of Volvo Group Trucks. Following Tesla's example, the manufacturers have finally taken action themselves and are investing in their own public filling stations.

Another presentation is dedicated to setting up one's own charging points at the depot. Mirko Wendler, member of the Research Association for Road Traffic Technology, draws attention to stumbling blocks and gives tips for investing in your own charging station.

Free hydrogen filling stations

Finally, the sixth item on the programme is about hydrogen. Dennis Wetzig from Air Products GmbH explains how vehicle fleets can be converted step by step. AirProducts is a provider of complete solutions for hydrogen as an energy carrier. This includes company filling stations, which are made available to customers free of charge.

Another highlight of the forum is the contribution of GP Joule Connect GmbH, which will be about charging infrastructure for e-mobility and hydrogen in heavy-duty transport. Further details are not yet known. GP Joule Connect helps implement projects in the field of new mobility. The range of services revolves around the core products of mobility consulting, charging infrastructure and charging networks.

E-fuels must not be missing

Ulrich Knöll from Inlocon AG will show in his presentation which companies can be considered as suppliers for the charging infrastructure. Inlocon operates various specialist portals that focus on different procurement markets. In a comprehensive consideration of alternative drives, however, the aspect of e-fuels must not be missing. Andreas Deul from Wirtz Energie und Mineralöl GmbH explains how e-fuels can bring about an intelligent change in transport. Among other things, his company is a supplier of fuels based on renewable raw materials.

Conclusion. The Forum Charging Infrastructure provides a good overview of the current possibilities for operating vehicles with alternative drives. NUFAM thus underlines its claim to present practical solutions with high utility value together with its exhibitors.

Loading and waiting times

The likelihood of having to wait for a free spot before the already lengthy refuelling process during a holiday trip has increased. Only Tesla drivers can relax on extended trips, because this clientele can rely on a well-developed network of so-called Super Chargers. This is all the more astonishing because Tesla finances its charging stations entirely out of its own pocket without subsidies.

The joint charging network Ionity of the long-established car manufacturers, on the other hand, is subsidised with tax money. The money comes from the EU's Connecting Europe Facility for Transport (CEF-T) programme. Ionity is a joint venture of the car manufacturers BMW, Ford, Hyundai, Mercedes and Volkswagen with Audi and Porsche.

Important role of the state

Without subsidies, the industry might have set out even later to build its own charging station network. This clearly shows that the state plays an important role in the development of infrastructures. This applies not only to the allocation of subsidies, but also to the creation of legal framework conditions. In this regard, the EU Parliament followed up on 27 March and set the pace for network expansion in the so-called AFIR Regulation (Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation). The compromise that was fought for stipulates that by 2025 drivers should find charging stations at intervals of 60 kilometres along the most important transport axes in the EU. By 2030, this will apply throughout the entire EU. For trucks and buses, a charging station density at intervals of 120 kilometres will initially suffice.

Two-track

However, the EU regulation also shows that the policy is not single-track. The compromise provides for hydrogen filling stations to be built at intervals of 200 kilometres. However, not only the availability but also the actual use of charging stations will improve. The goal is to make charging electric cars as easy as refuelling a combustion engine. For example, the ad hoc prices at the stations must be uniformly indicated in kilowatt hours or per kilogramme in the future. In addition, drivers should be able to choose whether they want to pay on site with their EC card, contactless or with the help of QR codes.

Charging at home and at the employer

Apart from the public filling station network for electricity and hydrogen, the filling stations installed in company ovens, company car parks and private garages will play a major role. Corresponding solutions for electricity and hydrogen will also be on show at NUFAM. The number of suppliers is growing because the market is attracting large growth rates: Those who can comfortably recharge their cars at home or during working hours will only need the public charging stations on business or holiday trips.

In view of narrow margins and high risks, transport companies have to calculate very precisely and keep their costs as low as possible. It is therefore all the more astonishing that some 15 years after the establishment of the corresponding EU regulation, the state de minimis subsidies are still not being used by all hauliers. One can only speculate about the reasons for this restraint. What is certain is that De-Minimis is not a friendly donation by the legislator, but compensation for toll payments made. It is a funding programme of the Federal Office for Logistics and Mobility (BALM).

A lot of money is at stake

The maximum subsidy amount is 33,000 EUR per company. Fleet operators receive a subsidy of EUR 2,000 per heavy goods vehicle weighing 7.5 tonnes or more. All vehicles subject to tolls that were registered to the applicant by 1 December of the previous year are taken into account. However, the subsidy covers a maximum of 80 percent of the eligible expenditure. This makes it clear that de minimis initially involves investments. Vehicle-related measures and measures to increase efficiency are eligible for funding. The BALM has drawn up a so-called positive list of eligible measures.

For example, driver assistance systems, telematics solutions as well as hardware and software for connecting the truck to the company are eligible for funding. But also on-board refrigerators, window wind deflectors, rain sensors or hands-free devices are on the extensive list. The same applies to winter and all-season tyres, throw chains and additional headlights for rear manoeuvring. The complete list with all categories and many examples can be downloaded HERE.

Observe rules

A grant is only certain once a notice of grant has been issued. It should also be noted that measures are only eligible for funding if they are carried out within 5 months of receipt of the notification of funding at the latest.

Those who do not have time for the administrative work involved can also hand over these activities to external consultants. Many institutions offer their services on the internet, such as the Landesverband Bayerischer Transport- und Logistikunternehmen (LBT), bavaria-deminimis Fördergeldberatung or easysub plus GmbH. It is possible to get to know them personally at NUFAM, because easysub plus and bavaria-deminimis Fördergeldberatung are among the exhibitors. Those who use the services of an external consultant usually have to pay a service fee. However, this is still cheaper than foregoing the subsidy.

Observe deadline

A different approach is taken by traders whose assortment includes the items promoted by BALM. For example, anyone who spends at least 70 percent of the promised subsidies at Hofmeister & Meincke GmbH is assisted by them free of charge in applying for the money. So there is no reason for transport companies and other fleet operators to do without De-Minimis. The funding period for this year's De-Minimis programme runs until 2 October - nine days after the last day of visitors to the NUFAM commercial vehicle trade fair.

Background

Incidentally, the term de minimis originates from the European Union's competition law. Competition in trade between EU member states should not be distorted. Therefore, state subsidies to companies are generally prohibited. They represent an economic advantage for the receiving company compared to competitors who do not receive the subsidy.

However, EU law allows exceptions to the prohibition. This applies in particular to subsidies whose amount is so small that a noticeable distortion of competition can be ruled out. These so-called de minimis subsidies do not have to be notified to the EU Commission or approved.

Biogas, electricity or hydrogen: fleet operators who want to say goodbye to fossil fuels will find several solutions on the market. The extent to which the new technologies prove themselves in practice is being tested in numerous trials by well-known logistics service providers and shippers. Even today, it is quite conceivable that the western world will become largely independent of oil in the medium term.

NUFAM shows the state of the art

The alternative drive systems become tangible not least at trade fairs. There is no manufacturer who does not intensively deal with the topic and develop corresponding products. This year's NUFAM commercial vehicle fair is the next big platform where you can see, feel and experience the state of the art.

Iveco S-Way with natural gas or LNG

Iveco offers, for example, the Iveco S-Way, which can run on natural gas or LNG. The truck is considered the first natural gas-powered truck developed specifically for international long-haul transport. In the 4x2 LNG version, it offers a range of up to 1,600 km. Among the customers is Edeka Minden-Hannover, whose fleet is to be completely powered by bio-LNG by the end of 2025. In 2022 alone, the company ordered 150 Iveco S-Way LNG. Another 125 will be added in 2023. Thanks to the first bio-LNG filling station on the premises of the Edeka logistics centre in Lauenau, the trucks are almost CO2-neutral on the road. Bio-LNG is the only scalable renewable fuel today.

50 percent less energy costs

Ford Trucks, Ford's only global brand for heavy commercial vehicles, will also present its innovations in Karlsruhe. The US company assumes that every second truck sold in Europe will be emission-free by 2030. Accordingly, the company already presented its first fully electric truck last year. The trucks, with gross weights of 18 to 26 tonnes, are expected to cut energy costs by almost half compared to current levels. Maintenance costs are also expected to drop by two-thirds, as electric vehicles have fewer moving parts to maintain. Ford expects the e-truck to have a lower total cost of ownership than diesel vehicles over a four-year period.

When it comes to electric-powered commercial vehicles, Renault Trucks is not to be left out. With its E-Tech range of vehicles, the French offer a range of up to 560 km, realised with 6 battery packs of 94-kWh each. In addition to the distribution vehicles based on the D series, Renault also has an electric variant of the Master van in its range.

Supplying cities emission-free

Where the big companies cannot yet offer solutions, the medium-sized conversion specialists come into play. At NUFAM, the company Orten Electric-Trucks will be demonstrating its expertise. Orten sees itself as a retrofitter for city logistics - in other words, for emission-free delivery to urban traffic areas. The Orten Electric Trucks product range is designed with this in mind. This includes a complete range of electrified van solutions in the 4.25 to 7.49 t gross vehicle weight range, which can be driven with the B driving licence and the old class 3 driving licence. In addition, Orten has been working on the topic of hydrogen for some time. Together with its partner Efa-S Zell, for example, a 26-tonne Actros was converted to hydrogen propulsion.

Purely electric refrigeration

Exhibitor Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Thermal Transport Europe also shows that refrigerated transport and electric drive do not have to be a contradiction in terms. The Japanese company is presenting its all-electric TE 30 cooling system, which works in purely electric vehicles but can also be used in diesel-powered vehicles. The TE 30 works autonomously and thus independently of the vehicle's drive and electrics. The vehicle engine can be switched off completely - the cooling continues to run reliably.

Pioneer in sustainable refrigerated bodies

TBV Kühlfahrzeuge GmbH will also be demonstrating its know-how in the field of electric mobility at NUFAM. TBV is considered a pioneer in sustainable refrigerated bodies and vehicles. Back in 2016, TBV developed the first electric refrigeration system available in Germany whose operation was supported by solar energy. Since 2018, the system has also been available for the deep-freeze sector.

In general, TBV has specialised in the development of self-sufficient electric cooling systems whose energy supply does not access the vehicle's energy storage. Field-tested applications exist, for example, for the StreetScooter, the Nissan NV 200 e and the Mercedes e-Vito.

Addax: conspicuous appearance

The Belgian manufacturer of electric commercial vehicles, Addax Motors, will be among the eye-catchers at the NUFAM trade fair. The Addax MT is designed for narrow streets and corners in an urban and industrial environment. The MT can be individually adapted to the customer's needs. The Addax MTN already meets the strict safety standards of vehicle class N1 and the MTX model has a 50 cm longer chassis compared to the MTN.

Synthetic fuels from renewable energies, so-called reFuels, promise up to 90 percent CO2 reduction compared to conventional fuels. They can be produced in large quantities and can already be used in almost all vehicles today. Researchers at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) have proven this in large-scale projects.

reFuels thematic focus at NUFAM

The new InnoFuels platform is now intended to network the many national and European research projects on the further development, production and application of power-to-liquid and biofuels, to identify synergies and thus help to accelerate the production of larger quantities of electricity-based liquid fuels in particular. The topic of reFuels will also play an important role during the commercial vehicle trade fair NUFAM - some exhibitors will present their solutions in this regard and on Saturday, 23 September, the trade fair invites you to the Forum Charging Infrastructure.

Synthetic fuels by the tonne

"We have already shown that reFuels work for old and today's cars as well as for commercial vehicles or locomotives," emphasises Olaf Toedter from KIT's Institute for Piston Engines, who coordinates InnoFuels. "We have also been able to produce tons of reFuels that are within the existing fuel standards for petrol and diesel fuels. Now, with the InnoFuels platform, we want to bundle all available information on reFuels, work together in teams with experts from science, industry and politics to develop overall solutions and prepare guidelines and recommendations for research and action."

So far, electricity-based fuels have mainly been produced on a research scale. If there are to be increasing blending quotas of these fuels in the future and if sufficient reFuels are to be available for aviation and shipping, much larger quantities will have to be produced on an industrial scale.

Producers need clarity

In addition to technical issues, the InnoFuels platform will also discuss the optimal design of rules and economic framework conditions for the widespread mass production of reFuels. For a rapid market ramp-up, potential producers would need clarity and long-term certainty as to whether renewable electricity-based fuels would count towards the European Union's greenhouse gas reduction quotas, Toedter notes. The energy expert is one of the speakers who will discuss the question of which type of drive fleet managers and manufacturers should invest in during the Media Day in the run-up to NUFAM on 22 June.

5.2 million for three and a half years

The InnoFuels project is scheduled to run for 3.5 years. The Federal Ministry of Transport is funding it with about 5.2 million euros. The project partners include the KIT with the Institutes for Piston Machinery and Catalysis Research. The Mineralölraffinerie Oberrhein (MiRO), the Zentrum für Sonnenenergie- und Wasserstoff-Forschung Baden-Württemberg (ZSW) and many other renowned companies and institutions are also involved. Among them are the e-Mobil BW State Agency for New Mobility Solutions and Automotive Baden-Württemberg, Infraserv Höchst, the German Aerospace Center, CENA Hessen, Deutsche Lufthansa, the University of Rostock, Rolls-Royce Solutions, Porsche and Volkswagen.

Bridge between knowledge and application

As "The Research University in the Helmholtz Association", KIT creates and communicates knowledge for society and the environment. The aim is to make significant contributions to global challenges in the fields of energy, mobility and information. To this end, around 9,800 employees work together on a broad disciplinary basis in the natural sciences, engineering, economics, humanities and social sciences. KIT prepares its 22,300 students for responsible tasks in society, industry and science through research-oriented university studies. KIT's innovative activities bridge the gap between knowledge and application for the benefit of society, economic prosperity and the preservation of our natural resources. KIT is one of Germany's universities of excellence.

Warn of dangers

At Kögel, the corresponding products have been brought together under the "Kögel Telematics" brand. The range offers a series of telematics solutions specially developed for trailers and semi-trailers from the Burtenbach-based vehicle manufacturer. With these, important data of the towed unit can be recorded in real time and called up in Kögel's own portal. In addition, Kögel Telematics warns the fleet operator of unusual events. This includes when the tyre pressure deviates from the target value. Due to the high influence of tyre condition on the safety and fuel consumption of a truck, all newly registered trailers in the EU must be equipped with a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) from July 2024.

Interfaces facilitate retrieval

The Krone Telematics division of Fahrzeugwerk Bernard Krone has also recognised the importance of interfaces. This makes it even easier for customers to retrieve their telematics data from anywhere. For this purpose, Krone uses an open and downward compatible standard push interface for all partners. There are currently more than 250 outgoing interfaces - and the trend is rising. The new services also include "Self Service", which enables easier and more transparent data transmission to all connected systems.

Here, the customer can determine which data from vehicles is released for which period of time. A transparency report is also generated to protect the data. This prevents accidental data leaks or the misuse of telematics data.

Telematics in rented trailers

Telematics in trailers is not only an issue for purchased vehicles, but also for rented trailers. The TIP Group has founded a digital service division for this under the name "TIP Insight". Various telematics services for the entire fleet can be found there. TIP Insight includes the installation of telematics devices, sensors and other peripherals and their display and analysis on a user-friendly platform. The functionality on the platform ranges from simple track & trace with geo-fencing to performance-based alerts on the screen. Here, the spectrum ranges from the performance of the brake system, to the opening of the rear doors, to the tyre pressure and the temperature of a cooling unit.

By the way: Krone, Kögel and TIP are exhibitors at NUFAM.

Focus on sustainability and safety

This starts with the use of raw materials and the production process and ends with subsequent recycling. A good example is provided by the tyre manufacturer Prometeon, which will present its newly developed 02 series commercial vehicle tyres at NUFAM. Prometeon was founded in 2017 as a spin-off from Pirelli. In developing the 02 series, the focus was on compounding and manufacturing as well as sustainability and safety.

The result is impressive. At the same time, it shows what progress the tyre industry can realise between two product generations. Compared to their predecessors, the new Prometeon tyres have consistently better performance values. Rolling resistance, for example, has been reduced by an average of 18 percent, while mileage has been increased by about 10 percent. In addition, all products can be regrooved and retreaded, which significantly extends the tyre's service life.

Regrooving up to twice

Regrooving the tread of commercial vehicle tyres is much easier than retreading. Any tyre marked Regroovable (regroovable) can be used for this purpose. These have a particularly high basic rubber thickness and can be regrooved up to twice. A commercial vehicle tyre can be regrooved by up to 23 mm in width and up to 12 mm in depth with a heatable tyre tread cutter. Depending on the tyre type and area of use, this can increase mileage by up to 30 percent. In addition, regrooved tyres can achieve fuel savings of about 5 percent due to lower rolling resistance. Even after regrooving, the tyre can be retreaded

With HVO, Germany could achieve its CO2 targets, because the alternative fuel is processed by many modern trucks without complaint. In conventional diesel engines, it can be used pure or blended with conventional diesel fuel. Due to the ethanol content, however, minor modifications to the fuel systems may be necessary.

Manufacturers give approvals

Some major manufacturers, such as Scania and Volvo Trucks, have already approved all truck models for HVO. The same applies to Iveco S-Way and X-Way with Cursor 11 and Cursor 13 engines as well as to the Iveco T-Way with C13 engine. No technical conversions or special adaptations are required for these models.

The biofuel is also suitable for various forklift trucks. Linde has approved HVO for both the current and most predecessor series in the payload range from 1.4 to 18 tonnes. Hyster provides a retrofit kit for HVO use in its large and empty container stackers as well as reach stackers.

In addition, the eco-fuel is already being produced industrially - for example by Neste in Finland or Eni in Italy. Nevertheless, the supposed climate saver is not allowed to be sold at petrol stations in Germany because it has not yet been approved. So far, HVO may only be added to conventional diesel at a maximum of 26 percent.

Still much debate

HVO is a paraffinic fuel that must meet the requirements of DIN EN 15940. This standard would first have to be included in the Federal Immission Control Ordinance so that the fuels grouped under it could be sold at every public petrol pump. Until that happens, there will be many discussions in Berlin, because HVO also has its downsides.

Environmental associations, for example, voice criticism that palm oil is also processed into HVO, which not least promotes deforestation of the rainforest. However, the EU has long since reacted to this argument: HVO based on palm oil may neither be produced nor imported in Europe. It is possible, however, that the increased use of vegetable oils and slaughterhouse waste for HVO production will lead to supply bottlenecks at other points in the economic cycle. One example of this is power plants, which often burn residues from animal processing. If these become scarce, they have to be replaced by other products, which may then have a fossil origin.

Difference to biodiesel

In addition to slaughterhouse waste, HVO can be obtained from algae or old kitchen fats. This is why HVO is sometimes confused with biodiesel. Both fuels are based on organic or renewable biomass. The difference lies in the chemical composition and production. While biodiesel is produced by esterification, HVO is produced by hydrogenating fats and oils into hydrocarbons through a catalytic reaction with hydrogen, which places lower demands on the origin and quality of the feedstock. These, in turn, ultimately determine the price of HVO, which currently rarely reaches the level of fossil diesel and is usually higher.

Against this background, many fleet operators will probably be able to get over the fact that it will take some time before HVO is generally approved for use at public filling stations. On the other hand, owners of company filling stations can react immediately and flexibly by filling not only their trucks but also their forklift trucks. The company's carbon footprint benefits immediately.

HVO exhibitors as guests at NUFAM

HVO is also an important topic at NUFAM 2023. Exhibitors such as Wirtz Energie + Mineralöl GmbH or Iveco Süd-West Nutzfahrzeuge GmbH will be available for in-depth discussions. Click HERE for the complete list of exhibitors of 2021. The list of exhibitors for 2023 will be available in a few weeks.

The dilemma: the number of handling terminals needed for this can hardly be increased within the next few years. It follows that the existing capacities must be used much more efficiently. In addition to the large seaports, transhipment facilities in the hinterland are therefore also working on time window booking systems.

Digitalisation can make a major contribution to saving our planet. This is the conclusion of the study "Climate Effects of Digitalisation" published by the Bitkom association. The targeted and accelerated use of digital solutions alone could reduce CO2 emissions by around 50 percent (120 megatonnes) within the next ten years. This value is close to the climate target defined by the German government in 2019: according to this, CO2 emissions are to be reduced by 55 percent by 2030.

High load fluctuations

The modal shift from road to rail and water is an important building block here. The transhipment of goods between rail, (inland) waterways and HGVs takes place at ports and CT terminals distributed throughout Germany and Europe. Currently, high load fluctuations can be observed there. This is due, among other things, to peaks in truck arrivals or delays in train and ship arrivals. As a result, there are longer waiting times for trucks in and in front of the terminals when truck arrivals and high utilisation rates for rail and shipping transshipments overlap.

In order to improve the flow design, more and more terminals are introducing time slot booking systems (ZFBS) to smooth peak loads. The Port of Hamburg already made a start here in 2017. The terminal operators define time windows in which haulage companies can deliver and collect loading units. However, the first effect of the ZFBS is to smooth out the load from the terminal's point of view. For the haulage companies, they lead to an increase in the complexity of transport planning and thus to the shifting of inefficiencies between the actors.

Flexible and collaborative

A consortium led by TriCon Container-Terminal Nürnberg GmbH is therefore developing a flexible and collaborative time slot booking system for efficient cargo handling in CT terminals in the hinterland as part of a research project called "Flexiking". The aim of Flexiking is to develop a flexible and collaborative ZFBS. This concept is flexible in that it continuously takes into account the respective framework conditions when providing handling windows at the transshipment point per period. On this basis, more or fewer time slots are released, unbooked time slots are removed from the system or the length of the time slot is adjusted.

More flexibility

The concept is collaborative in that it provides a mechanism for both parties to renegotiate previously allocated time slots. The collaborative system is intended to incorporate the interests and degrees of freedom of the terminal as well as those of the haulage companies. In the event of changes in the general conditions, a dynamic adjustment of the time slot booking is possible by mutually agreeing to reschedule time slots.

Projects like Flexiking make it clear to what extent modern IT solutions can help reduce CO2 emissions. A study conducted by Accenture on behalf of the digital association Bitkom has already shown how great the influence of digitalisation actually is. According to this study, technology can contribute almost half of Germany's ability to meet its climate targets by 2030.

With modern telematics solutions, drivers and vehicles become an integrated part of the digital supply chain. Every change in position and consignment status is transmitted in real time to the transport management or ERP system. Deviations from the plan are displayed immediately and give sufficient time to react. Invoices can be generated and sent electronically immediately after delivery. Pick-up orders and return freight are specifically transmitted to the most suitable truck that is nearby with sufficient loading space reserves. Instead of time-consuming phone calls, the driver receives clearly understandable messages on his mobile device, which are automatically translated into his native language if necessary.

Modern solutions for maximum transparency

But telematics can do much more: not only drivers and dispatchers are networked with each other, but also customers and recipients. With geofencing, automatic e-mails or other message formats are generated that provide early information about arrival times. In any case, modern solutions ensure maximum transparency about the delivery process, so that customer enquiries can be answered quickly and without having to ask the driver.

However, telematics is not only the basic technology for modern, mobile order management. Another essential aspect of telematics is the evaluation and optimisation of driving style. The transmission of engine speeds and braking behaviour provides information for targeted follow-up training, which can reduce diesel consumption and minimise wear and tear. No less important is the monitoring of driving and rest times. The legal obligation to read out the digital tachograph is turned into a valuable source of information by telematics, which makes the scheduling and management of large fleets much easier. Thus, the technology not only supports dispatching, but also fleet management.

Telematics Forum as part of NUFAM

No wonder that telematics is a fixed and growing exhibition area of commercial vehicle trade fairs. This can also be observed during the NUFAM in Karlsruhe, which is organising the Telematics Forum for the third time on the first two days of the trade fair on 21 and 22 September.

Telematics: A term and its history

• 45 years: This is the age of the term "telematics", which was coined in 1978 by Simon Nora and Alain Minc as part of a study on the computerisation of society. It is an artificial word made up of the terms telecommunication and informatics.
• In the transport industry, it took more than 20 years before the first hauliers, transporters and logistics service providers sensed the potential of telematics to improve their own processes. Around the turn of the millennium, there were the first simple telematics solutions with which the current vehicle positions could be determined and information sent in SMS format.
• The benefits were limited and the costs high. Mobile phone charges were billed per short message and the required hardware for the cab cost mid four-digit amounts. The Benefon is legendary as one of the first mobile phones with an integrated GPS function - presented at CeBIT 2001, which was the largest trade fair in the world at the time with over 8,100 exhibitors from 62 countries and around 800,000 visitors.