Dig Deeper: Smart Trailers Face a Huge Hurdle
Great Dane Makes FleetPulse Smart Trailer Platform Standard
Great Dane is making its FleetPulse smart trailer telematics platform standard, with the ability to add new smart sensors as they are developed.

Great Dane is future-proofing its trailers with standard FleetPulse telematics.
Photo: Great Dane
Great Dane is making its FleetPulse smart trailer platform standard on new dry and refrigerated Great Dane trailers, with an integrated CAN harness to prepare equipment for future smart technology adoption.
FleetPulse delivers real-time data and insights, including GPS location, mileage data, geofences, automated yard checks, tethered status, heading, speed, as well as proprietary trailer specifications and parts information.
The standard also includes built-in CAN harnessing so smart sensors can be added in the aftermarket and when new technology is introduced.
An optional upgrade to the full FleetPulsePro option provides access to a full suite of smart sensors available today. These include the ability to monitor and decipher ABS fault code alerts, tire inflation systems, door open status, light-out detection, mileage from tire rotations, cargo status, rear axle weight, and more.

Great Dane's FleetPulse delivers real-time data such as GPS location, mileage data, geofences, automated yard checks, tethered status, heading, speed, etc.
Illustration: Great Dane
FleetPulse’s real-time trailer-level data can put more predictability into maintenance schedules, according to the company, with real-time alerts from trailer health sensors creating greater productivity and return on investment.
This announcement comes as suppliers such as Hendrickson, TSE Brakes, and others are developing compelling sensors that will become commercially available over the coming years.
“One of the major hurdles to a connected vehicle future is that long trailer life can hinder the speed of innovation,” said Mike Molitor, Great Dane executive director of business development. “By equipping each Great Dane trailer with a FleetPulse device and CAN harnessing, we believe fleets are better positioned to take advantage of future technologies.”
More Equipment

Mack Defense Secures $47 Million to Continue Military Dump Truck Production
President Trump visited Mack Defense’s Macungie, Pennsylvania, facility on June 23 to tout a $47 million Heavy Dump Truck order.
Read More →
New (Antique) Trucks Take the Spotlight at the Mack Trucks Museum
The Mack Trucks Historical Museum has a slate of new historic vehicles on display this year.
Read More →
WEX, TFS Launch Equipment Financing Program for Trucking Fleets
The companies say the program uses technology to connect fleets with financing providers more efficiently than traditional lending channels.
Read More →
Historic, Vintage, and Antique Trucks at the 2026 ATHS Convention
More than 500 trucks were on display, indoors and out, at the 2026 American Historical Society annual convention in Springfield, Missouri.
Read More →
DTNA Software Update Gives Truckers More Time Before DEF Derates Take Effect
The changes reflect EPA guidance aimed at reducing downtime caused by emissions-system faults while maintaining compliance requirements.
Read More →
Great American Trucks: The International MaxxPro MRAP
Built from an International WorkStar chassis and powered by a MaxxForce diesel, the MaxxPro MRAP became one of the most important military trucks of the Iraq War era.
Read More →
New Mack Granite Cab Puts Driver Comfort Front and Center
Mack’s next-generation vocational truck features a roomier cab, premium seating, advanced steering technology, and a driver-focused interior designed with direct input from professional operators.
Read More →
Mack Unveils Fan-Selected Patriotic NASCAR Pioneer Wraps
Racing fans picked the patriotic design now featured on three Mack Pioneer trucks hauling NASCAR equipment across the country during the 2026 season.
Read More →
Michelin Expands X Line Grip D Tire Line
Michelin is expanding its X Line Grip D drive tire lineup with a new pre-mold retread and additional sizes, building on what the company says is strong fleet adoption of the tire's traction, mileage, and fuel-efficiency benefits.
Read More →
Engine Technology Forum Launches SCR, DEF Resource Center Amid Emissions Debate
The Engine Technology Forum’s new online hub aims to provide fleets, policymakers, and equipment owners with fact-based information about selective catalytic reduction technology, diesel exhaust fluid and emissions compliance.
Read More →
