2-Way Road Trains: the new transportation concept in surface-mining instead of Ultra Trucks.

Payloads from 475 to 2290 metric tons.

Operator cost savings from 40 - 560 %

Tyre costs savings more than 25 %

In-pit loading


ETF developed a new and innovative 2-way Road Train configuration for Off-Highway use.
The concept works the same as railway trains: the Road Train can be used in two directions (forward and reverse) like a normal train. This enables the use in narrow causeways and prevents complicated turning. Due to the system of two "locomotives" the haul road distance can be reduced.



ETF Road Trains can be used on the same haul roads where current Large Haul Trucks are operating with standard inclines and curves.

Two-way side-tippers are possible (Left and right tipping) depending on the products to be transported.

No driving distance limits as with current Large Haul Trucks.

Tyre problems solved:
The biggest problem with current road trains are the tyres. In case of a flat tyre the driver does not feel it. When he finds out, it is already too late; the tyre is total-loss.

ETF Road Trains are equipped with a Central Tyre Inflation System which keeps the tyre pressure at the right level during driving.

In case of a flat tyre, the driver gets a message on his display and the axle is automatically lifted to prevent total-loss of the tyre.

During empty haul 50% of all the tyres are lifted to reduce tyre costs. The tyre size 24.00R35 is also easier to obtain than the R63 sizes of Ultra Trucks.

Compared with Ultra Trucks the tyre costs are more than 25 % lower!

Enhanced steering:
All vehicles of the road train have All-Wheel-Steering therefore a short turning radius is achieved. In single lane use 9 m road with is sufficient.

If the road trains have to pass each other 25 m road width is needed. Complicated curves can be approachd without problems. See below.

Higher Technical availability:
ETF obtains a extremely high technical availability percentage by exchanging components instead of repairing it on the vehicle. This means that the road train can continue operating and the repairs of the components are done in the professional workshop. Axles, tyres, engines and bodies can be changed in 15 minutes! Due to its modular design, ETF can keep stock levels of spare parts very low.

Higher Usage:
Downtime for checking tyres pressure, topping up oils and cleaning lamps and mirrors belong to the past. All is done automatically during operation. Als no downtime for slippery roads, All-Wheel-Drive and ABS industrial brakes are coping with that.

Safer:
Collision accidents will be considerably reduced because there are fewer drivers on the road.

The Road Trains are standard equipped with:

ABS brakes and Traction Control on all professional wheels resulting in superb traction and steering on slippery roads. No jack-kniving;
Sleep Preventing System;
Sleep Deterent System;
Collision Warning System;
Industrial camera's on sides and rear;
Enhanced lighting;
Enhanced Ergonomics and HVAC system.
This is all done to reduce fatigue and make the driving of the Road Trains easier and safer.