Brazil’s largest trailer builder, Randon, celebrated delivery of the first semi-trailer (container chassis) equipped with its e-Sys electric drive axle system to the North American market.

At IAA Transportation 2024, held between 17-22 September in Hanover, Germany, Brazilian trailer and components firm Randoncorp presented products from its auto parts brands, including wheel-end components from Castertech, brake systems from Master Freios (a joint venture with Cummins), and axles, suspensions, and e-mobility products from Suspensys. However, the group’s most interesting showcase was invisible to the naked eye. In its axle products lay hidden a secret ingredient measurable only on the nanoscale: a niobium compound, which has the power to augment the mechanical properties of steel while considerably reducing its weight. It also improves the performance of other materials, enabling them to achieve their full potential.

In the last five years, Frasle says revenues associated with the sale of Controil extruded hoses, injected ducts and rubber components, such as bumpers, cushions and sealing items, have tripled.

Unveiling the latest grain trailer at Agrishow 2024, Randon says that the agricultural market sector accounts for 60% of on-road semi-trailer production.

Fras-le is a leader in friction materials and is a brand of the company, Frasle Mobility. It makes a complete portfolio of brake pads, linings and shoes for cars, motorcycles, heavy vehicles, among other applications, such as railway and industrial, serving OEMs and the aftermarket.

Investment is for initiatives in two primary locations: The Randon branded semi-trailer and railway wagon assembly plant in Caxias do Sul and the Motion Control manufacturing facility, also in Caxais do Sul, which operates under the Frasle Mobility brand name.

The NIONE additive contains nanoparticles of niobium pentoxide, which act to improve paint protection performance, increase corrosion resistance and protection against chemical attack.

The e-Sys is an electrical traction drive system for semi-trailer applications.

The Randon Group has changed its name as it transitions to being a global company with increasing focus on digital technology and financial services.

DB is a 30 year old technology company company with offices in Porto Alegre (RS) and São Paulo (SP).

The Randon Technological Centre occupies an area of more than 90 hectares in Farroupilha, in the south of Brazil. With 15 kilometres of test field, more than 20 types of tracks and a 2,200 m² building with laboratories, engineering, and administration offices.

Frasle Mobility is the name of a new business unit of Fras-le S.A. involved in development and manufacture of new composite materials for the transport industry.