TRUCK REVIEWS Trailer Technology TAKING THE EBS LEAD

In the 20th century, there were only three lines you had to hook up to a trailer – one electrics lead and two air hoses.

But in the past couple of decades, on more and more trailers, there has been a fourth plug at the front. Initially it was for ABS – anti-lock braking system – and more recently for the superior EBS – electronic braking system.

EBS – or “brake by wire” – has anti-lock braking, and it can also speed up brake application as well as reduce uneven brake application and brake wear.

But EBS might also have a combination of traction control, stability control, load sensing and most significantly for new regulations this year, anti-roll functions.

However, some EBS systems don’t incorporate all those amazing abilities, including roll stability.