Global logistics provider Agility is the first logistics company in Abu Dhabi to operate double-trailer trucks, which will improve operational efficiencies and reduce emissions by cutting the number of trips.

Agility operates an extensive fleet of trailers in Abu Dhabi. About 50 of those are now double-trailer trucks.

In the first six months of operation, Agility’s fleet management data demonstrates that double trailers reduce fuel use by 26% per container, eliminating about 2,500 metric tons of CO2 emissions per year. 

Houssam Mahmoud, Chief Executive Officer for Agility Abu Dhabi, said: “In addition to being environmentally friendly, the double trailers will positively impact productivity – and that’s good for both Agility and our customers. We are able to pass a lot of these benefits to our customer by providing greater flexibility and a significant reduction in the number of required trips.”

Acquiring the permit to operate double-trailer trucks took six months of proposals, trials, accident simulations, and safety demonstrations.

Agility worked together with a local automotive distributor to develop the safest possible solution for the market, including Active Brake Assist 4, proximity control, and lane assist. Agility conducted a transport route survey to identify any routes that might be risky or challenging for drivers.

Agility insisted on lane assist capability for the vehicles, and proposed it to the supplier after determining that drivers would need help to navigate sharp round-a-bouts.  

In the United Arab Emirates, Agility has linked driver incentive pay to safety, rather than speed of operations, and has voluntarily provided extensive third-party training on double trailers.