Utility Trailer Manufacturing Company Sets New Standard for Brake Drums
Utility Trailer Manufacturing Company, a prominent name in the trailer manufacturing sector, has unveiled an exciting new standard for its product lineup. The company is now incorporating the innovative Trident composite steel shell brake drum, produced by Accuride, into all its trailer models. This enhancement results in a weight reduction of 24 pounds per wheel end, which adds up to a total of 96 pounds for dual axle trailers. With these lighter drums, fleets can optimize their payload capacities and lower their operating costs simultaneously.
Introducing the Trident Brake Drums
In 2020, Utility Trailer made a proactive decision to integrate the Trident brake drum as standard equipment in its flatbed models. Since the switch, customer feedback has shown notable performance improvements. Acknowledging the advantages this upgrade brings, Utility has now expanded this feature to their reefer and dry van customers. Starting with the 2026 models, all Utility reefers, dry vans, and flatbeds will come equipped with the Trident drum as a standard feature, reaffirming the company’s commitment to ongoing improvement.
Industry Endorsements and Commitment to Excellence
Mark Glasgow, Utility's Chief of Sales, emphasized the reliability of the Trident product, stating, "Our ongoing testing initiatives, conducted both in real-world situations and controlled lab environments, confirm that the Trident drums achieve the highest quality in the market. It’s no surprise they’ve proven successful on our flatbeds and as an option for our reefers and dry vans. While air disc brakes are well-regarded as the gold standard in trailer braking, steel shell drum brakes, especially the Trident, provide an outstanding alternative without any added costs. This allows fleets to benefit from excellent safety and performance at reduced expenses.”
Accuride's Contribution to Brake Technology
Scott Neill, Vice President of Sales - Trailer & Aftermarket for Accuride, shared his enthusiasm about the new integration. He commented, "We’re thrilled to meet Utility's high braking standards across all their models. Utility has been setting industry benchmarks for 110 years. By making the Trident drum standard on all models, they reaffirm their commitment to advancing braking technology and ensuring safety within their trailers.”
A Legacy of Craftsmanship in Trailer Manufacturing
Utility Trailer Manufacturing Company is notable for being the oldest privately owned and operated trailer manufacturer in America. Since its establishment in 1914, the company has focused on producing dry freight vans, flatbeds, refrigerated vans, and developing innovative aerodynamic technologies. Utility operates six manufacturing facilities across North America, producing the renowned 3000R series and the versatile 4000D-X Composite series at various sites in Virginia, Utah, and Arkansas.
Extensive Distribution and Market Presence
The company manufactures its 3000R multi-temp refrigerated trailers at plants in places such as Atkins, Virginia, Clearfield, Utah, and Piedras Negras, Mexico. Utility boasts a vast dealer network, with over 130 locations throughout the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and South America, ensuring wide accessibility for their products. Additionally, they are the exclusive distributor of Cargobull North America TRU products and telematics, with TRU options available solely on the 3000R trailers.
Accuride Corporation: A Leading Supplier in Wheel Systems
Accuride Corporation is a prominent supplier in the global commercial vehicle market. Headquartered in Livonia, Michigan, Accuride specializes in wheel end systems, manufacturing steel and aluminum wheels and related components for various vehicles. Their extensive product range caters to different industries, including automotive, agricultural, construction, and industrial equipment markets. The Accuride brand is well recognized, with various products marketed under names such as Accuride, Accuride Wheel End Solutions, Gunite, and KIC.
Dedication to Safety and Quality
Accuride's commitment to safety and quality aligns with Utility's longstanding mission to enhance trailer performance. This collaboration guarantees that customers receive state-of-the-art braking solutions that prioritize safety and efficiency, with the newly standardized Trident brake drums being a prime example. Together, these two companies are making significant strides in the trailer manufacturing landscape while keeping customer needs at the forefront.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Trident brake drum important?
The Trident brake drum lightens the weight on trailer axles, helping to boost payload capacity and enhance overall vehicle performance.
Which models will include the Trident brake as a standard feature?
The 2026 model Utility reefers, dry vans, and flatbeds will all come with the Trident brake drum included as standard equipment.
What advantages do lighter brake drums offer?
Lighter brake drums improve payload capacity, reduce operating costs, and enhance vehicle efficiency.
How long has Utility Trailer Manufacturing Company been in business?
Utility Trailer was founded in 1914, making it the oldest privately owned trailer manufacturer in the United States.
What other products are available from Accuride?
Accuride offers a variety of wheel end systems, including both steel and aluminum wheels, as well as various components for commercial vehicles and industrial applications.
