Schmitz doubles UK trailer production

German trailer giant Schmitz Cargobull is doubling production at its recently-opened trailer assembly plant in Manchester.

Schmitz Cargobull UK and Ireland’s managing director of operations, Paul Avery, explained: “Operators are facing more demand from their customers, but at the same time having to deal with a shortage of vehicles.

“By working with our colleagues across Europe and due to the strength of the Schmitz Cargobull group, we have secured a strong supply of parts so we’re able to increase our build capacity in the UK and provide delivery before the end of December, which we know is what customers need…

“Our Manchester factory means we can also now provide one of the shortest lead times on the market for operators in the UK and Ireland, based on our capacity increase.

“We look forward to supporting existing customers, as well as working with new operators who will benefit from incredibly fast delivery as well as low total cost of ownership.”

Manchester’s unique product is the S.BO Pace: a lightweight, fully-modular box van semi-trailer targeted primarily at the parcel delivery and dry freight market.

It incorporates composite Struktoplast panels which mean each trailer weighs around 600kg less than competitor models.

Its design ensures the panels do not absorb moisture, even if damaged, so the tare weight of the trailer remains consistent over time, claims the manufacturer – ensuring the payload potential on day one is maintained for the entire life of the asset.

It also comes with a 12-month body warranty. The galvanised chassis has a 10-year warranty against rust-through and the axles have a six-year warranty.

Having proved popular in the UK and Ireland, the S.BO Pace is being launched in Europe and at the IAA show in Hannover from 20-25 September.