Road train

Road train (25)

Australian road train headed by Volvo NH15

Another Bloody Road Train - panoramio

Permitted Longer Combination Vehicles on the National Highway System 2017 22Oct2018

UPS Freight truck, Motor Cargo & Overnite trailers

A B-double unloading timber at Pellets Asturias, Tineo, on 7 Nov 2019

Road train or land train is a trucking vehicle of a type used in rural and remote areas of Australia, Europe, and the United States to move freight efficiently. The concept involves having several trailers or semi-trailers attached in a line behind a prime mover. Road trains are used primarily for transporting bulky goods or commodities across long distances, where rail or pipeline transport is not available or economical.

Overview

A road train consists of a relatively standard tractor unit, but instead of towing one trailer or semi-trailer, it tows two or more of them. In Australia, where the concept is most developed and integrated into the logistics system, road trains can be over 50 meters long and are known colloquially as "long combinations" or "multi-combination vehicles". They play a crucial role in the transportation of goods across the vast and sparsely populated interior of the country, often referred to as the Outback.

History

The concept of road trains can be traced back to the early 20th century, but it was in the 1930s in Australia that the road train as it is known today began to take shape. The development was driven by the need to transport cattle and other goods across long distances in areas without rail infrastructure. Over the decades, the technology and regulations surrounding road trains have evolved, allowing for longer combinations and more efficient transport methods.

Types

There are several types of road trains, categorized by the number of trailers they pull:

• B-double: Consists of a prime mover towing two trailers, with the second trailer connected to the first by a fifth wheel coupling.
• Triple road train: A configuration with three trailers.
• AB-triple: A variation of the triple road train, where the first two trailers are connected like a B-double and the third is attached to the second with a fifth wheel coupling.
• Quad road train: The largest standard road train configuration, consisting of four trailers.

Regulations

The operation of road trains is subject to specific regulations that vary by country and sometimes within regions of a country. These regulations can include limits on overall length, weight, and the number of trailers, as well as requirements for special driving qualifications. In Australia, for example, road train operators must have a specific license endorsement to drive these vehicles.

Advantages and Disadvantages

The primary advantage of road trains is their efficiency in transporting large volumes of goods over long distances, reducing the cost per unit of freight. However, their size and weight can cause significant wear and tear on road surfaces, and they require special handling skills to operate safely, particularly in adverse weather conditions or in areas with narrow roads.

Safety

Safety is a significant concern with road trains, as their length and mass can lead to increased stopping distances and challenges in maneuvering. Various safety measures, such as advanced braking systems, high-visibility markings, and restrictions on where and when road trains can operate, have been implemented to mitigate these risks.

Future Developments

Technological advancements, including automated driving systems and platooning, may influence the future operation of road trains. These technologies have the potential to improve safety and efficiency but will require adjustments in regulations and infrastructure to accommodate new types of road trains.