From Stability to Stopping Power: How the Range eTrailer System Redefines Truck Performance

When it comes to heavy-duty trucking, safety and stability aren’t optional — they’re the foundation of every mile driven. Range Energy’s latest innovation, the Range eTrailer System, delivers a major leap forward in dynamic stability, control, and performance for tractor-trailers. Backed by rigorous testing and measurable improvements, it’s set to change how fleets handle dynamic maneuvers, adverse weather, and emergency situations.

What is the Range eTrailer?

At its core, the Range eTrailer system combines an electric axle (eAxle) with advanced regenerative braking and precise drive torque control. Unlike traditional pneumatic ABS systems, the eTrailer actively manages traction and braking in real time — optimizing grip and stability for the conditions at hand.

The results: improved stopping distances, enhanced rollover resistance, and greater driver control — all without adding complexity to the driver’s workload.

Stopping Sooner, Staying Safer

One of the most critical safety factors for large trucks is stopping power. In testing, the Range eTrailer delivered:

• 4–10% shorter stopping distances on dry pavement — up to 23 feet saved from 60 mph.
  
• Over 10% shorter stops on packed snow — up to 13 feet saved from 45 mph.
  

This performance comes from the eAxle’s ability to extract more grip from the tires than pneumatic ABS alone, combined with a backup power supply that ensures trailer ABS remains fully functional even if the tractor’s electrical connection is lost.

Improving Rollover Resistance

Rollover events often occur during sudden maneuvers, like on highway offramps. These maneuvers are represented by J-turns on an automotive proving ground. Testing shows the Range eTrailer enables 3–10% higher achievable entry speeds in J-turn tests with a full payload. This added stability margin means that if a driver misjudges the speed going into a corner, they have a better chance of still making it through safely.

Early regenerative braking helps stabilize the vehicle, reducing the risk of outriggers touching down — and preventing dangerous rollovers before they start.

Boosting Dynamic Stability and Driver Confidence

High-speed obstacle avoidance maneuvers — such as double lane changes — are notoriously difficult, especially in poor weather. The Range eTrailer smooths stability interventions, reducing cab shake and vibrations.

In testing, it allowed:

• Higher entry speeds during double lane changes.
  
• Stability maintained on packed snow at up to 35 mph with an empty trailer.
  

The result? Drivers feel more in control, even in challenging conditions.

Proven in Every Season

Winter Performance
On snow and ice, the eTrailer excelled in:

• Straight-line acceleration and braking
  
• Braking and accelerating in turns
  
• Double and single lane changes
  
• Sinusoidal steering maneuvers
  

It even delivered a 5% higher cornering speed in J-turns on snow versus traditional trailers.

Summer Performance
Dry and wet pavement testing confirmed strong traction control across all payloads. With over 220 double lane changes and 230 J-turns completed, the eTrailer consistently prevented slip, improved maneuverability, and maintained stability.

Why It Matters

By cutting stopping distances, improving rollover resistance, and enhancing maneuver stability, the Range eTrailer directly addresses some of the leading causes of truck accidents. It also reduces driver fatigue and boosts confidence in challenging driving scenarios — critical factors in both safety and retention.

The Road Ahead

The Range eTrailer isn’t just a new product — it’s a safer, smarter way forward for the freight industry. Its combination of electric axle technology, regenerative braking, and torque control has been proven through rigorous real-world testing in every season.

As trucking continues to evolve, solutions like the Range eTrailer will be central to building safer roads, more efficient operations, and a better driving experience.

‍To learn more about how Range Energy’s eTrailer System can help your fleet improve safety, achieve greater efficiency and cost savings, complete our Pilot interest form to have a member of our team contact you to schedule a demo.