Report: European trailer makers to decline 50% by 2008

The recently published European Truck-Trailer Report says the widening European Community in 2004 will trigger trailer market expansion and consolidation will halve the number of trailer makers in Western Europe by 2008, according to CV News. Legal moves will have a big effect on the industry, with Swedish truck makers trying for longer and heavier truck-trailer rigs. Whole vehicle type approval will also affect smaller firms which may find it tough to meet standards.