Iveco has confirmed the availability of a new 8x2 tridem model within its Stralis truck range, available with a choice of Hi-Street, Hi-Road or Hi-Way cabs.

A tridem configuration enables operators to benefit from the increased payload capacity of a four-axle rigid truck, whilst retaining the manoeuvrability typically associated with a three-axle rigid vehicle of the same wheelbase.

The tridem conversion is being carried out by System Truck in Italy, appointed by Iveco for its ability to carry out specialist chassis modifications to factory standards.

The base vehicle for the conversion is a 26-tonne Stralis 6x2 rigid, to which System Truck adds a central disc brake axle running on single wheels. The hydraulic system for steering the additional axle is completely independent and autonomous and does not alter the steering of the original vehicle in any way.

Plus, the second and fourth axles can be raised in unladen or partially laden conditions, to reduce tyre wear and rolling resistance.

Martin Flach, product director at Iveco, says: “The Stralis tridem is built for carrying uniform loads in applications where manoeuvrability is paramount. It’s ideally suited to fleets which need the capacity of an 8x4, but on jobs where there’s only room for a six-wheeler to deliver.

“Sitting behind the wheel, it’s quickly apparent that the Stralis tridem can turn far tighter than a standard eight-legger. Plus, for operators who want the flexibility of being able to pull a drawbar trailer, it affords the ability to run as a 44-tonne combination.”

The Stralis tridem is available with a choice of six wheelbase lengths from 4,200mm to 6,050mm, with the additional axle increasing the vehicle’s tare weight by approximately 900kg, depending on the specification selected.