Transport giants Knights of Old have invested in two Palletforce-branded 'super trailers' as part of a government trial to spur economic growth, reduce lorry miles and cut air pollution.
The two trailers will be used as part of Knights of Old's operations with the UK's leading palletised freight network and will begin service this week - one based out of Kettering, and the other Hitchin.
Each trailer is 15.65metres long, two metres longer than current maximum lengths, and Knights of Old has been given special permission to operate them as part of a Department for Transport 10-year trial.
In practice this means the double-deck trailers have 13% more loading space and will each be able to carry an extra eight full-size pallets on their nightly journeys to and from the Palletforce distribution hub, in the Midlands.
The new trailers have been welcomed by Michael Conroy, Chief Executive Officer of Palletforce, who said: "These new trailers are set to reduce lorry miles, congestion and air pollution and are another smart way to help the UK compete globally. We're proud to be working with Knights of Old on trialling something that will benefit the future of our industry."
Knights of Old, which has a head office in Kettering, Northamptonshire, has invested in nine of the new trailers across its entire operations.
Knights of Old drivers have also had to undergo specialist driver training as the trailers have two steering rear axles that ensure the turning circle stays within permitted limits.
Ian Beattie, Knights of Old Managing Director added: "This investment allows us to continue with our carbon reduction policy, cutting pollution and making our roads less congested.
"It is also an excellent opportunity for Knights of Old and Palletforce to work together on yet another innovation within our industry, and we are looking forward to seeing the results during the Department for Transport's trial period."