SAF-HOLLAND is presenting SAF FUSION, a new suspension family for applications up to 11 tonnes, at IAA Transportation 2026. It complements SAF INTRA and SAF MODUL with a solution designed specifically for the mid-load range. Compared with the SAF solution previously used for these applications, SAF FUSION reduces weight by more than 40 kg per axle; on a three-axle unit, the saving is at least 120 kg. Series production for initial applications is scheduled to begin in the second quarter of 2028.
Closing the gap between INTRA and MODUL
With SAF INTRA, SAF-HOLLAND offers a suspension system designed for conventional 9-tonne applications. SAF MODUL covers a broader spectrum up to 14 tonnes and provides greater load reserves. For demanding applications that SAF INTRA cannot cover, SAF MODUL has therefore sometimes had to be used. SAF FUSION is positioned precisely between the two: the new family is designed for applications up to 11 tonnes and is also intended to cover demanding 9-tonne configurations, for example with twin tyres.
“With SAF FUSION, the added value created by bringing our brands together becomes very tangible. We combine a suspension concept from Assali Stefen that has proven itself in the market with SAF’s axle expertise and develop it into a new family that specifically complements our portfolio between INTRA and MODUL,” explains Alexandre Charpiot, President EMEA at SAF-HOLLAND. “For our customers, this primarily means lower weight and greater flexibility for different vehicle concepts.”
SAF FUSION brings together two proven concepts
The technical basis is a suspension concept from Assali Stefen that has been used in the market for years. SAF-HOLLAND is further developing this concept, adapting it to its own standards and combining it with proven SAF components. The axle tube as well as the brake, wheel and wheel bearing components come from the SAF portfolio. The basic idea behind the two-piece trailing arm concept comes from Assali Stefen. While the front section is standardised, the rear section can be adapted to different vehicle and application concepts.
At least 120 kilograms less weight in a three-axle unit
A key development focus for SAF FUSION is weight. Compared with the SAF solution previously used for these applications, the new suspension saves more than 40 kg per axle. On a three-axle unit, this adds up to a weight advantage of at least 120 kg. Particularly for transport tasks where low unladen weight is crucial, SAF-HOLLAND is therefore providing an alternative tailored to the required load range.
Another feature is a patented, maintenance-free connection between the suspension and axle tube. With clamped connections, the fasteners must be checked and retightened regularly in accordance with the maintenance schedule, depending on the application. With SAF FUSION, this maintenance step is no longer required at the axle connection. The design therefore combines the weight advantage with reduced maintenance requirements at this interface.
Standardised interfaces for different vehicle concepts
Alongside the technical development, SAF-HOLLAND is adapting the original Assali Stefen concept to the established dimensions and geometries of the SAF portfolio. One development objective is to standardise the interfaces to the vehicle frame between SAF FUSION and SAF MODUL. The hanger bracket and air spring are to be designed so that trailer manufacturers can work with vehicle-side interfaces that are as uniform as possible for different load requirements.
The development objective covers different axle types and tyre configurations for applications up to 11 tonnes, including rigid axles and steering axles as well as single and twin tyres. Typical fields of application include low loaders, timber transporters, tankers, heavy-duty tippers and centre-axle trailers. Following the planned start of series production for initial applications in the second quarter of 2028, the suspension family is to be expanded step by step with additional variants.
