S.1 Electrical Study Group Position Paper: 2024-3 — Recommendations Regarding Technical Needs for Next Generation Tractor/Trailer Electrical and Data Connectivity

Developed by the Technology & Maintenance Council’s (TMC) S.1 Electrical Study Group Next Generation Tractor/Trailer Electrical Interface Task Force

ABSTRACT

The SAE J560 Tractor/Trailer Electrical Interface has served as the industry’s standard means of connectivity for more than 60 years. However, market-ready advancements in technologies that enable improved safety, efficiency, and durability cannot be applied due to the low-band- width and relatively low conductor count of the J560 connector. TMC’s S.1 Electrical Study Group and its Next Generation Tractor/Trailer Electrical Interface Task Force developed this position paper to provide a set of technical characteristics to facilitate advancement of trailer technology through modernizing the truck/trailer interface in a way that minimizes the burden on fleets and individual owner/operators, and allows for the best opportunity for successful industry adoption without causing unnecessary business disruption yet still provide the necessary expansions to accommodate future truck/trailer functionality. TMC recommends that the industry consider these criteria in development of TMC Recommended Practices and design and testing norms by industry standards organizations.