Dexter and Bosch have collaborated to develop a platform that offers new, technologically oriented towing products. The Dexter Tow Assist provides anti-lock braking (ABS), an odometer function, as well as automotive-compatible sway mitigation. The system is installation-friendly for OEMs. This new product will be launched at the NATDA Show held in St. Louis, running Sept. 5-7, and will be available to manufacturers in October.
Dexter Tow Assist provides trailer anti-lock braking. The Dexter Tow Assist provides mileage tracking with the built-in odometer function. Users can perform critical maintenance at precise intervals while keeping track of the trailer or an entire fleet. Continually monitoring a trailer, Dexter Tow Assist’s sway mitigation keeps the trailer in-line without any driver input. The system knows when to apply braking, maintaining trailer stability, without significantly reducing speed or skidding the tires.
“Dependably and affordably bringing ABS, sway and mileage tracking to the trailer space is long overdue,” said Bryan Thursby, executive VP of sales and marketing at Dexter. “Similar technologies have been adopted in automobiles for decades. … Embracing these advancements is sure to save lives and provide safer and more enjoyable towing experiences, all while capturing maintenance details and helping to ensure well-functioning operation of the trailers equipped with Dexter Tow Assist.”
Dexter will offer the tow assist system on a 12-inch by 2-inch electric brake platform in late 2019. Initial sales efforts will focus on OEM implementation, with aftermarket upgrade kits to follow. The system incorporates a Tow Assist control module, power-axle wiring harnesses, indicator light, 12-inch by 2-inch Nev-R-Adjust brake fitted with wheel speed sensor. The Tow Assist system will be offered on both D70 Sprung and No. 12 Torflex axles rated up to 7,000 pounds. Ongoing development will focus to output additional brakes and drum sizes in 2020.