ZF enhancing trailer safety with WABCO OptiTire
ZF Aftermarket, via its WABCO brand, is bringing increased attention to OptiTire, its advanced tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) designed specifically for trailers. Now available both as an OE fitment and retrofit solution in the independent aftermarket, OptiTire has quickly established itself as a key solution for modern fleets.
As part of ZF’s continued commitment to innovation and road safety, OptiTire addresses some of the industry’s most pressing concerns: breakdown prevention, operational efficiency and environmental impact.
Developed in alignment with the UN ECE-R 141 General Safety Regulation — which mandates TPMS on all new vehicles in Europe from July 2024 — ZF says OptiTire combines sophisticated pressure and temperature monitoring technology with flexible installation options.
Whether using internal strap-mounted or valve-mounted sensors, the system fits all rim sizes and trailer configurations, allowing seamless integration into existing fleets without the need for complex retrofitting.
Maintaining optimal tyre pressure can improve fuel economy by up to two per cent and reduce CO₂ emissions, while also extending tyre life and minimising the risk of blowouts. Even minor pressure losses can accelerate tyre wear and compromise safety.
OptiTire enables early detection of deflation or slow punctures, which ZF says gives operators the ability to act before issues become costly failures.
Real-time alerts are available to drivers through the truck dashboard, ZF’s OptiLink smartphone app, or the SmartBoard trailer interface. Meanwhile, fleet managers benefit from SCALAR trailer telematics integration, which offers a central platform for live updates, usage insights and comprehensive visibility into trailer health and performance.
The system is scalable, monitoring up to 20 rolling wheels (plus spares), and can be expanded with additional ECUs, making it suitable for even the most complex trailer configurations.
OptiTire also supports quicker installations, reduced workshop time and lower total cost of ownership, according to ZF.
Supported by WABCO’s full aftermarket programme — including sensors, ECUs, cabling and accessories — the company says OptiTire is a future-ready investment for fleets looking to maximise uptime, meet compliance, and drive safety forward.
Mark Hallam, marketing manager UK and Ireland, ZF Aftermarket, commented: “ZF Aftermarket is committed to supporting commercial fleets with innovative solutions that not only improve safety and reliability but also make sound environmental and financial sense.
“OptiTire brings together years of OE-level engineering, compliance readiness and real-world fleet insight, offering our customers a smart and sustainable TPMS they can trust.”