Lightweight curtainsider for more payload especially for electric tractor units

June 2026 – With the new BERGERecotrail® PerformanceEco LTOe, Schmitz Cargobull offers a lightweight semi-trailer that is specifically designed for use with electric semi-trailer tractors. With its low dead weight of 4.8 tonnes and the adapted wheelbase, the vehicle enables a higher payload per trip without overloading the drive axle and fewer journeys with the same transport volume. The main advantage for transport companies is that the higher payload can reduce journeys by up to 10 per cent. At the same time, energy consumption, vehicle wear and CO2 emissions are reduced.

Designed for use with electric tractors

A typical problem in practice is the overloading of the drive axle when using heavy electric semi-trailer tractors. The PerformanceEco LTOe offers an effective solution here. The shortened wheelbase relieves the curtainsider's kingpin and the tractor's drive axle.

The result:

• Higher available payload without overloading the drive axle
• Better utilisation in electric mode
• More flexibility for demanding transports such as beverages and wood.

Lightweight construction with a focus on utility value

The weight saving of around 1.5 tonnes is based on the consistent BERGERecotrail® lightweight construction. The Reuleaux triangle in the long beam plays a central role, reducing material where it is statically possible without impairing strength and stability. For use, this means a permanently high payload, robust design and economical operation over the entire service life.

Efficient loading and unloading

The body of the PerformanceEco LTOe is certified for the transport of beverages (crates on single-layer pallets as well as barrel goods) and general cargo in accordance with DIN EN 12642 Code XL, DIN EN 12195-1 and VDI 2700, for maximum payload. Form-fitting loading shortens loading and unloading cycles and increases efficiency.

The vehicle can be optionally equipped with the POWER CURTAIN body from Schmitz Cargobull. The POWER CURTAIN body meets the requirements for efficiency and handling speed particularly well. Even without top slats, the certified body strength (according to DIN EN 12642 Code XL) is achieved by vertically and horizontally mounted reinforcements as well as an anti-theft fabric as standard. This means that the vehicle can be loaded and unloaded quickly and easily without time-consuming handling. This increases transport efficiency and occupational safety, allowing the driver to continue his journey faster and further optimise the transport process.

The special lightweight trailers of the BERGERecotrail® brand have been available from the Schmitz Cargobull sales network since the beginning of 2024. Access to the Europe-wide supply of spare parts in the Schmitz Cargobull Service Partner network, as well as the use of other Schmitz Cargobull services such as financing, insurance and the standard equipment of the trailers with the TrailerConnect® telematics system, including a tyre pressure monitoring system with autolocation function, is also guaranteed. TrailerConnect® telematics provides real-time information on the condition of vehicles and tyres, thus contributing to greater safety and transparency in fleet management.