SAF INNOVATIVE TRAILER SYSTEMS (RSFF)

The project concerns (i) the promoter’s European RDI activities over the period 2012-2015, and (ii) the construction and equipment of an engineering centre in Bessenbach (Germany).

The promoter’s R&D efforts address the ecological and safety requirements for trucks and trailer systems. Here it faces contradictory requirements, like reducing the weight of the component but at the same time enable them to increase the truck and trailer’s load capacity and safety. The R&D-efforts will reinforce the promoter’s technological competences and leadership.

The project part concerning the investments in research and development are expected to be carried out in existing facilities already authorised for the same purpose; the construction of an engineering centre included in the project is expected to be located in an existing industrial area. The project would therefore not require an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) under the Directive 85/337/EC, amended by Directives 97/11/EC and 2003/35/EC. It will however be verified during the project due diligence.

The promoter is a private company not operating in the Utilities sector, and is thus not covered by EU Directives on procurement.

The project may be financed under the Risk Sharing Finance Facility (RSFF), which is an innovative credit risk sharing scheme jointly set up by the European Commission and the European Investment Bank to improve access to debt financing for private companies or public institutions promoting activities with a higher financial risk profile in the fields of research, technological development, demonstration and innovation investments.