LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Utility Trailer celebrated its 90th anniversary at the Mid-America Trucking Show by announcing the expansion of its Virginia production plant as well as several new developments in its product line.

North America’s oldest continuously operated trailer manufacturer, Utility Trailer was founded in 1914 by two brothers in Los Angeles. Today, the company continues to grow. Utility is expanding its Smyth County, Virginia production plant to keep up with demand for its 3000R refrigerated trailers. The company is investing $11.5 million in the upgrades.

“Utility still embraces the values and vision laid forth by our founders in 1914,” said president Hal Bennett. “Those values guide how we conduct our business each day. Most important in those values are loyalty to our employees and their families, to our customers and our vendors and specifically to the state of Virginia and Smyth County who have supported us for many years. Deciding to expand here was the right thing to do.”

The company also announced it now offers a wide track system on its 3000D dry van. The system features Michelin’s X-One wide-base tires as well as a wide track suspension system including a Hendrickson air ride slider with wider suspension centers and longer axles.

The system can be coupled with steel or aluminum wheels and any standard wheel-ends and bearings.

While at the Mid-America Trucking Show, Utility Trailer also introduced the new 4000D-X series of dry vans.

The trailer features increased durability, productivity and versatility compared to the 3000D-X, according to Craig Bennett, senior vice-president of sales and marketing.

The 4000D-X is available in 101 1/4″ or 100″ interior widths and features traditional sheet and post construction.

The interior lining panels are attached to the side posts using recessed squeezed rivets to provide a snag-resistant surface.

The interior of the trailer provides 4,085 cubic feet of space but also has deeper side posts with increased stiffness for bulge loads. Galvanized, high strength interior lining panels are also used to avoid snagging.

“The new 4000D-X series represents the latest in durable, productive and versatile trailers,” said Craig Bennett.

In other news, Utility Trailer has also announced it will be using Kemlite’s ETR translucent roof panels for its dry vans.

The roofing material allows more natural light into the trailer, improving visibility. The company has also selected Hayes Lemmerz as the steel wheel supplier for all of its trailers.

For more information visit www.utilitytrailer.com