Phillips Connect Launches New Smart Trailer Products
The company introduced sensor-based tools in Charlotte to help fleets monitor trailer lighting and tire health.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Trucks
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Phillips Connect released its new Insights and TrailerSignal products to provide real-time sensor data on trailer lighting and tire performance. These tools aim to minimize roadside equipment defects that frequently lead to commercial vehicle violations.
Why it matters
By providing instant feedback on critical components, the products seek to reduce the high volume of out-of-service violations related to trailer tires and lighting. This technology allows fleets to proactively address maintenance issues before trailers reach the road.
The 2026 International Roadcheck recorded 2,914 tire violations and 1,659 lighting violations, representing 20.9% and 11.9% of out-of-service totals respectively. TrailerSignal offers light visibility from 50 feet and requires no complex wiring.
The players
Phillips Connect
Headquartered in Irvine, California, this company specializes in smart trailer technology and fleet management solutions.
Mark Wallin
He serves as the president and general manager of Phillips Connect, overseeing the firm's strategic direction.
The details
Insights identifies specific faulty electrical circuits and monitors tire pressure to detect leaks or automatic inflation system failures. Meanwhile, the solar-powered TrailerSignal alerts drivers to trailer status via a visible light display on the nose of the unit.
Timeline
October 18, 2026: Phillips Connect launched Insights and TrailerSignal in Charlotte, North Carolina.
2026: International Roadcheck violations were recorded.
March 2026: Phillips Connect expanded its brake and liftgate data capabilities.
May 2026: Mark Wallin was named president and general manager of the company.
Roadmap
The introduction of sensor-based monitoring marks a significant step in the transition toward automated fleet maintenance and away from manual inspection legacy systems. By integrating data into digital apps, Phillips Connect is positioning its hardware to compete in the growing market for real-time telematics.
Fleets adopting these tools may see a reduction in roadside repair costs and fewer out-of-service delays during inspections. Maintenance teams can access the sensor data through the Connect1 platform and associated mobile apps to streamline their daily shop operations.
The takeaway
Reliable trailer monitoring helps fleet managers mitigate the financial and logistical risks associated with recurring equipment violations. Implementing solar-powered sensors can serve as an effective upgrade for older trailers that lack integrated diagnostics.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest innovations in fleet equipment by visiting the Trucks section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by FreightWaves.
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