Utility Trailer Manufacturing Co. is making light emitting diode (LED) lighting a standard feature on all its refrigerated and dry van trailers as well as on its tandem and tridem axle flatbeds. “In our continuing efforts to provide ways to improve driver safety and lower maintenance costs, we will be incorporating 100% LED lighting as a standard feature on our trailers,” said Craig Bennett, Utility’s senior vp-sales and marketing.
He added that Utility also plans to use a new LED mid-ship clearance light that will function as a turn signal on its trailers as well. “This new light will provide greater visibility for all drivers on the road and lower maintenance costs due to the extended service life of LED lights,” Bennett said, noting that completing the company’s transition to all LED lighting on its trailer models also includes changing the license plate light to an LED lamp.
Grote Industries developed the new side/turn signal LED that Utility is using, he said.
“Up until now, LED turn signal lights in the mid-trailer position generally provided rearward illumination only,” Bennett pointed out. “By combining the mid-trailer turn indicator with the marker function, plus a new lens design that provides visibility both forward and backward, it gives the truck driver an at-a-glance reassurance that the lamp is operating as it flashes when the turn signal is on and also cautions other drivers on the road when the tractor-trailer is making a wide turn.”
