When you’re in the market for a semi trailer, it’s easy to focus on the big-ticket items: the suspension, the body, the chassis. But what about the trailer wheels? Too often, they get pushed to the bottom of the checklist. 

Here’s the thing—your choice of wheels doesn’t just influence how your trailer looks. It has a direct impact on performance, safety, operating costs, and ultimately, your business’s profitability. 

Supporting the Load: The Real Business Benefit

Trailer wheels do more than roll. They carry the entire load of your trailer, including your payload. That makes them one of the most important profit drivers in your operation.

• More Payload, More Profit
  Alcoa® Wheels are up to half the weight of steel wheels. Less wheel weight means you can carry more freight without breaching weight limits. Every extra kilogram of payload adds up to extra dollars in your pocket.
• Reduce Tyre Wear
  Lightweight aluminium wheels help distribute weight more evenly and run cooler, which means your tyres last longer. Considering tyres are one of the biggest ongoing costs for fleets, this can save thousands over time.
• Lower Maintenance, Less Downtime
  With less strain on tyres, suspension, and brakes, your trailer stays on the road longer. Less downtime means more time earning and fewer maintenance headaches.

In short: the right wheels don’t just support your trailer—they support your bottom line

The Direct Impact on Performance

Trailer wheels aren’t just passengers. They actively shape how your trailer behaves on the road. From precise turns to smooth acceleration and safe braking, they’re working quietly behind the scenes every kilometre.

Choosing premium trailer parts like Alcoa® means investing in a smoother, safer, and more reliable driving experience. And that translates into real savings in both time and money.

Appearance That Reflects Your Business

Of course, wheels aren’t all about function. They also make a statement. A polished set of Alcoa® Wheels signals professionalism, quality, and pride in your fleet. It’s a simple way to elevate your brand image while gaining all the performance benefits.

Why Choose Alcoa® Wheels?

Because they tick every box:

• Greater payload capacity
• Longer tyre life
• Reduced downtime
• Strong, reliable performance
• A polished, professional image

When you’re buying a semi trailer from Maxitrans, Vawdrey, etc, don’t let wheels be an afterthought. They’re not just accessories—they’re business assets. And when it comes to maximising payload, reducing costs, and projecting quality, there’s no better choice than Alcoa® Wheels.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Contact our team today to learn more about how Alcoa® Wheels can improve your trailer’s performance and boost your bottom line. We’re here to help you find the perfect fit for your fleet.

If you’ve ever shopped for wheels, you’ve probably noticed a price gap between aluminium and traditional steel ones. It’s a fair question many drivers and fleet owners ask — why do aluminium wheels cost more? Are they worth the extra investment?

The short answer is yes, and here’s why.

1️. The Material Matters

Aluminium itself is a higher-value material than steel rims. Not only is it more expensive to source, but it also offers key performance benefits that steel can’t match. Aluminium is naturally lightweight, highly corrosion-resistant, and versatile in both design and finish. That means you’re not just paying for what it’s made from — you’re investing in what it delivers on the road.

At Alcoa® Wheels, we don’t settle for average. We use only the highest quality aluminium to manufacture our wheels—engineered for superior strength, weight reduction, and corrosion resistance. This premium-grade material naturally costs more than steel, but it delivers benefits that go extend far beyond the surface

From improved performance and fuel savings to long-term durability, it’s not just about the material cost—it’s about what that material can do for your fleet.

2️. Built Through Advanced, Ethical Manufacturing

Producing an Alcoa® forged aluminium wheel isn’t a quick or simple task. Our wheels are created using a specialised forging process—applying immense pressure to solid aluminium billets to create a dense, high-strength wheel structure.

This forging method requires advanced technology, skilled labour, and higher energy use—but it results in a product that’s lighter, stronger, and more resilient than a stamped or cast alternative.

Just as importantly, all our manufacturing processes follow ethical practices. From material sourcing to energy efficiency and labour standards, we’re committed to responsible, sustainable operations that align with global best practices. When you invest in our wheels, you’re supporting a supply chain that values people, planet, and performance.

3️. Strength Without the Weight

One of the standout benefits of aluminium rims is their ability to deliver exceptional strength without the bulk.

A forged aluminium wheel can often be up to 47% lighter than a comparable steel wheel while still offering greater load-carrying capacity and superior impact resistance. That weight savings doesn’t just look good on paper — it translates into tangible operational benefits:

• Lower fuel consumption
• Improved payload capacity
• Easier handling and ride quality

In the long run, these advantages can offset the initial price difference through reduced running costs and better vehicle efficiency.

4️. Longevity That Pays Off

Aluminium wheels aren’t just a short-term investment. With proper care and maintenance, they can easily last 10 years or more — outperforming many steel alternatives, which are prone to rust, chipping, and frequent refinishing.

Modern surface treatments like Dura-Bright® technology on forged aluminium wheels help prevent corrosion, pitting, and dulling, reducing the need for constant upkeep and extending their service life even further.

5️. They Look as Good as They Perform

Let’s not forget one of the more noticeable advantages: looks. Aluminium wheels offer a polished, high-end appearance that elevates the look of any vehicle, whether it’s a high-performance truck, a show trailer, or a hardworking fleet unit. Their sleek designs and premium finishes are often preferred by operators who value both form and function on the road.

The Takeaway

• ✅ Superior materials
• ✅ Advanced forging processes
• ✅ Long-lasting strength and durability
• ✅ Fuel-saving lightweight design
• ✅ Low-maintenance corrosion resistance
• ✅ Stylish, professional appearance

When you consider the full lifespan, operational savings, and added value aluminium wheels bring, the investment isn’t just justified — it’s smart business.

If you’re ready to upgrade your fleet or vehicle, consider the long-term gains of forged aluminium. They might cost more today, but they’ll save you time, money, and headaches for years to come.

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AI-driven fleet management is one of the hottest topics of 2025. Everywhere you turn, industries are buzzing about it. Some are all in, others are sceptical, and plenty is just plain curious. But for trucking, the question isn’t if AI should be used—it’s how we can use it to drive efficiency, safety, and savings.

Think about it—AI (Artificial Intelligence) can analyse data in ways humans simply can’t. It can spot patterns, predict issues before they happen, and help fleets make smarter decisions in real time. Here’s what that looks like in action:

Predictive Maintenance

AI analyses wheel and tyre performance, flagging potential failures before they happen. No more surprise breakdowns on the highway. FedEx, for example, uses AI to monitor its fleet and predict when maintenance is needed—keeping trucks moving and avoiding costly repairs.

Fuel Optimization

AI tracks driving habits and route conditions to help cut fuel consumption. If a driver’s idling too much or taking inefficient routes, AI makes recommendations that can save thousands in fuel costs. UPS famously used AI and data analytics to optimize delivery routes, finding that avoiding left turns (not right turns!) reduced fuel consumption, improved efficiency, and lowered accident risks. Their ORION system (On-Road Integrated Optimization and Navigation) plans the most efficient routes while minimizing time-wasting left turns at intersections.

Downtime Reduction

AI can schedule maintenance when least disruptive, ensuring trucks stay on the road and avoid costly delays. AI-powered systems also help fleets reroute trucks in real time based on traffic and weather, just like FedEx does to improve on-time deliveries.

AI + Smart Equipment = Maximum Results

To fully capitalise on AI, fleets need a rock-solid foundation—equipment built for performance and durability. That’s where smart truck rims choices make a real difference:

• Ultra ONE® ULT36X wheels with MagnaForce® alloy – The lightest and strongest Alcoa Aluminium Wheel, helping fleets cut weight and have greater fuel economy. Find More:  Lightweight solution.
• Dura-Bright® wheels—No more constant polishing. These wheels stay sharp with minimal maintenance, saving you time and money! Explore advanced surface treatment.
• Wheel Accessories – Designed for durability and performance, helping fleets reduce maintenance time, save fuel, and keep their trucks looking top-notch. Discover new wheel accessories

AI can crunch numbers, predict failures, and optimise routes—but it works best when paired with the right equipment. Lightweight, corrosion-resistant wheels don’t just support AI-driven insights—they turn them into real-world savings. Want to dig deeper into how AI is changing trucking? Check out this article on how fleets are using AI in 2025: Fleet Owner Article.

Make Sure It’s An Alcoa^® Wheel

Choosing the right Alcoa wheels for your truck and trailer might seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! Whether purchasing a new Truck or Trailer, upgrading original equipment or shopping for wheels online, this guide will walk you through the essentials to find the perfect fit.

Consider the rim specification factors to determine which Alcoa wheels will fit your truck and trailer.

How to Read Alcoa Wheels Part Numbers

If you’ve ever looked at an Alcoa® Wheels part number and felt overwhelmed, don’t worry—you’re not alone! Here’s how to break it down step by step.

Part Number Basics: Every Alcoa® Wheels part number tells a story. It includes three main components.

• Wheel Family
• Polish and Surface Treatment
• Diameter & Width

Let’s dive into the details of the wheel specs

The First Two Digits: Size Matters

The first two digits represent the wheel’s diameter and width.

• Diameter
• (6) – 17.5”
• (7) – 19.5”
• (8) – 22.5”
• (9) – 24.5”
• Truck Rim Width
• (2) – 12.25”,
• (3) – 13.00”,
• (4) – 14”
• (7) – 7.50”
• (8) – 8.25”
• (9) – 9.00”

The following three digits in the wheel family: Reserved for use by the engineering department (could include letters)

The Sixth Digit – Polish Finish Options

Following the five digits of the wheel family is a single sixth digit, which is the Polish finish identifier. Our polish options are designed to give your wheels the look you want while offering added protection and longevity.

Polish options include:

• 1     Mirror polish steer/outside only
• 2     Mirror polish inside only
• 3     Mirror polish on both sides
• 7     LvLOne – both sides as applicable
• 0     Brush finish – both sides as applicable

Final Digits – Surface Treatment: The Final Touch

Alcoa Wheels offers advanced surface treatments that prevent cracking, peeling, or corrosion. The final digits of the part number indicate these treatments:

• DB      Dura-Bright® Surface Treatment
• DF      Dura-Flange® Wear Protection
• BLK    Dura-Black™ Wheels Surface Treatment

Real-World Example

Here’s an example of a couple of common 22.5″ x 8.25″ wheels that are in the same family, with the first five digits being 88565. That’s the wheel family. Using the numbers referenced above, the first digit is an 8, which corresponds to a 22.5″ diameter, and the second digit is also an 8, which corresponds to an 8.25″ rim width. The third number, a 5, is reserved for engineering. The fourth number, a 6, corresponds to a 10 on the 285.75 hub pilot. The fifth number is reserved for engineering.

Taking that wheel family a step further, we add on a sixth digit for polish and final digits for an optional surface treatment. Both the 885657 and 885651DB in the example below are the same wheel family, just different finishes applied to the wheel.

This guide makes decoding rim specifications and choosing the best wheels for your truck and trailer a breeze. The key is understanding the three components of each Alcoa® Wheels part number: wheel family, polish finish, and surface treatment.

Got questions or need help picking the right wheels truck? Reach out to your trusted Alcoa Wheels supplier—they’ll steer you in the right direction.

Make Sure It’s An Alcoa^® Wheel

The Road Ahead for the Australian Truck Industry

As we gear up for 2025, the Australian truck industry is entering a phase of steady but slower growth. After rapid expansion, things are expected to calm down a bit. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t exciting opportunities on the horizon. This new phase brings some interesting changes and trends, especially regarding safety, sustainability, and the rise of electric trucks.

Let’s take a closer look at what we can expect in the years ahead and how Alcoa Wheels is set to keep driving innovation in the industry.

The Australian Trucking Industry: A Shift Ahead

The Australian trucking industry has been on a rollercoaster ride over the past few years, experiencing strong growth in truck build rates.

Safety: A Bigger Focus Than Ever

One thing we can count on in the coming years is a stronger focus on safety in the trucking industry. Safety will remain a top priority as the Australian government and transport sector continue to push for improvements. This includes everything from the trucks themselves to the infrastructure that supports them.

For Alcoa Wheels, this is where things get exciting. The company has always been at the forefront of wheel technology, and with safety taking centre stage, there’s a real opportunity to create new solutions that make trucks safer and more efficient.

Whether developing lighter, more durable wheels or introducing tech that helps reduce the risk of accidents, Alcoa is working to meet the industry’s changing needs.

Electric Trucks: The Road to a Greener Future

One of the most talked-about trends in the trucking industry is the rise of electric vehicles (EVs). While the electric truck market is still in its early stages, it’s clear that EVs are going to play a big role in the future of trucking. As both consumers and governments push for cleaner, greener transportation, electric trucks are beginning to make their mark.

This shift presents some exciting opportunities for Alcoa Wheels. Electric trucks come with their own set of challenges, particularly around weight and energy efficiency. That’s where Alcoa’s lightweight, durable, forged aluminium wheels come in. These wheels are a perfect fit for electric trucks, helping to maximise range and performance. As the green revolution picks up speed, Alcoa’s commitment to sustainability and innovation is right on track.

Innovation and Sustainability: A Winning Combination

As Ross Simmons points out, 2025 will be all about staying ahead of the game. Alcoa Wheels is going deep into the “innovation rabbit hole,” exploring new materials, technologies, and products that will add value for their customers. The company isn’t just focused on keeping up with industry trends—it’s looking for ways to shape them.

Sustainability will also be a key focus moving forward. Alcoa actively reduces the environmental impact of its products by using recycled materials and developing solutions that make the transport sector greener.. The Australian trucking industry is moving in the same direction, and Alcoa Wheels is ready to support that journey.

Strengthening the Supply Chain

With the expected slowdown in new truck builds, Alcoa Wheels knows it’s crucial to stay prepared for when the market picks up again. That means strengthening its supply chain to ensure reliable delivery of products when demand spikes. While lead times for new equipment are returning to normal, Alcoa Wheels is ensuring it can continue meeting the needs of the industry as it evolves.

Looking Ahead: Buckle Up for the Future

While the road ahead for the Australian trucking industry may be a little less fast-paced than in the past few years, there’s no shortage of exciting developments to look forward to. With a strong focus on safety, sustainability, and innovation, the industry is primed for steady growth and transformation in 2025 and beyond.

It’s an exciting time for Alcoa Wheels to continue pushing the envelope. With an eye on innovation, a commitment to sustainability, and a focus on providing top-tier products, the company is ready to keep driving the industry forward—no matter what the future holds. So, buckle up, because even though the pace might be slower, the journey ahead will surely be entire of exciting changes. And with Alcoa Wheels leading the way, the Australian trucking industry is in good hands.

Make Sure It’s An Alcoa^® Wheel

As we step into the new 2024, the enduring debate in the truck wheel industry persists—aluminium or steel wheels? This perennial topic sparks in-depth discussions among experts, exploring the nuances between these two metals and delving into their advantages, disadvantages, and manufacturing processes. As pioneers in aluminium wheel innovation, we confidently assert our preference for forged aluminium wheels, and here’s a comprehensive breakdown of why aluminium wheels prevail over steel. .

The Simple Solution: Lighter weight

Choosing lighter-weight forged aluminium wheels is the ultimate solution for enhancing overall fuel efficiency and, more crucially, reducing maintenance costs. Contrary to misconceptions, forged aluminium wheels are not akin to aluminium cans recycled through shredding. Their mechanical properties endow them with high yield strength and significant elongation, ensuring durability. As the industry emphasises low operating costs, the urgency for fleets to adopt solutions contributing to improved freight efficiency, reduced maintenance costs, and increased productivity has never been greater. Beyond being lighter than steel, forged aluminium wheels also boast superior strength and durability, increasing freight capacity and generating maintenance savings for heightened productivity and ultimately lower lifetime operating costs.

Fuel Efficiency and Weight Savings

When spec’ing wheels on new equipment, considering overall lifetime operating costs is paramount. Forged aluminium wheels facilitate quick and continuous payback through fuel savings and enhanced freight productivity, coupled with maintenance savings. Innovative technologies from wheel manufacturers contribute to increased weight loss, such as the significant reduction in wheel weight offered by forged aluminium wheels compared to their steel counterparts. See the last successfully tested fuel saving compared Aluminium wheel vs steel.

It’s a well-known fact that lighter trucks can legally carry more cargo. The latest Alcoa ULT36 Ultra One wheel, measuring 22.5″ x 8.25″ with a hub pilot and 285.75mm bolt circle, weighs only 16kg. This significant weight reduction enhances fuel efficiency. Forged aluminum wheels not only offer environmental benefits but also enable larger payloads, reducing the need for extra trips. Their infinite recyclability ensures they are never left in landfills.

Maintenance Advantages

Maintenance is crucial for fleet managers, especially concerning refurbishing, curbing damage, and tyre and brake life. Unlike steel wheels, aluminium wheels do not necessitate continuous refurbishing activities like rust removal, repainting, or touch-ups. Aluminium wheels, being unpainted, eliminate the need for spray paint and touch-ups. In harsh environments, where rust is a common issue for steel wheels, aluminium wheels offer a maintenance advantage by not requiring yearly tyre dismounting, painting, and remounting.

Forged aluminium wheel manufacturers often provide additional options for lowering operating and maintenance costs, including proprietary surface treatments integral to production. Alcoa DuraBright – advanced surface treatment ensures durability, preventing cracks, chips, or corrosion. Specially treated aluminium wheels do not require polishing. They are easy to clean with a simple soap and water scrub, contributing to lower maintenance costs and a longer-lasting, newer vehicle appearance.

The strength of forged aluminium wheels proves reliable even in the harshest environments, improving maintenance and extending equipment life. Additional surface treatments, such as those reducing rim flange wear, are advantageous for specific applications, such as heavy haul and shifting load scenarios.

Improved heat dissipation is another benefit, contributing to longer tyre and brake life. Aluminium’s superior heat dissipation, compared to steel, is particularly crucial in frequent stops and starts, as seen in refuse trucks. Aluminium wheels dissipate heat faster, preventing excessive wear on tires and brakes.

In instances of heat-related incidents, aluminium wheel manufacturers often incorporate heat indicator sensors on wheels to alert when excessive heat has passed through, ensuring timely maintenance.

Enhanced Image and a Smoother Ride

Forged aluminium wheels not only bring pride to fleets and operators but also offer a smoother ride. Being 100% CNC machined eliminates runout and vibrations, enhancing the overall comfort of the trip.

When making wheel choices, prioritizing value is critical. Forged aluminium wheels provide lifetime advantages over steel wheels. While steel wheels may be cheaper at purchase, their increasing maintenance requirements over time should be considered. The decision ultimately boils down to short-term versus long-term planning, navigating available choices to ensure value over the equipment’s lifespan.

For more information about truck and trailer wheels, contact Howmet Wheel Systems at 1800 955 191, email alcoawheels.sales@howmet.com, or visit alcoawheels.com.au. Stay updated by following Alcoa on: alcoawheelsaustralia

Alcoa^® Wheels, the global leader in aluminum wheel innovation, introduces two new products featuring revolutionary technology that reaffirms its position as the lightest aluminium truck wheel manufacturer in the industry the NEW Alcoa^® ULT36x, 22.5” x 8.25” wheel, and Alcoa^® ULA18x 22.5″ x 8.25″ Wheel. This revolutionary development holds immense promise for improved efficiency and sustainability in the trucking sector.

Enhanced efficiency with the lightest aluminium truck wheel

A standout achievement of the Alcoa ULT36x wheel lies in its lightweight design, which employs advanced materials and an innovative hand-hole-free structure. These wheels offer a significant reduction in weight without compromising performance. This breakthrough translates into higher efficiency and cost savings for trucking companies, as the increased payload capacity allows for optimized operations, reduced fuel consumption, and decreased carbon emissions.

The Alcoa® ULT36x wheel is 1.6 kg lighter than its predecessor, weighing just 16.3 kg. It is equipped with proprietary Magna Force® alloy, 17% stronger than the industry standard and has played a critical role in developing the ULT36x. Commercial fleet operators can achieve maximum efficiency and profitability with the ULT36x wheel, even in tough conditions.

Some of the highlights of the new wheel include:  

• Savings of up to 2L of fuel per 1,000 km when converting from steel to aluminium on all positions
• Exceptional strength with a 3,355kg. load rating
• Alcoa^® advanced finishes LvL One® and Mirror Polish
• Exclusive Alcoa^® Dura-Bright^® and Dura-Black^™ surface treatments
• Patent-pending wheel design – No hand holes, impact tested and designed for strength
• Maintenance friendly valve system: two 25mm valve access holes for dual mounting, and dual inflation
• Works with ATIS and Halo systems
• brings both inner and outer dual valve into wheel well for easy access

Innovation is the key

Innovation remains a driving force within the trucking industry, as demonstrated by the introduction of the Alcoa ULT36x wheel. Technological advancements play a pivotal role in improving safety and efficiency. By embracing these innovations, the industry exemplifies its commitment to continuous improvement.

The Alcoa ULT36x wheel also incorporates the company’s vHub™ Bore Technology, which reduces hub-to-wheel contact area by up to 64% compared to other aluminum wheels, minimizing surface area for corrosion to form.

Advance Surface treatment

ULT36x will be available with Alcoa Dura-Bright® Wheels surface treatment, which acts like a force field around your wheels that repels dirt. So, when it’s time to clean, a simple soap and water wash gets you back on the road. No more polishing. Less time washing, more time driving.

Alcoa Dura-Bright® Wheels are manufactured using proprietary technology and production processes specifically tailored to achieve superior aesthetics, easy maintenance, and durability. Alcoa Dura-Bright® surface treatment penetrates the aluminium, forming a molecular bond that becomes part of the wheel itself. That means it will not crack, peel, or corrode like coated wheels, looking newer for longer.

These advancements showcased in the trucking industry signify a brighter and more prosperous future. The Alcoa ULT36x wheel marks a significant milestone in efficiency, sustainability, and safety. As the industry embraces these innovations, we can expect continued progress and collaboration in the sector.

For more information about the world’s lightest and strongest heavy-duty truck wheels, contact Howmet Wheel Systems at 1800 955 191, email alcoawheels.sales@howmet.com, or visit alcoawheels.com.au. Stay updated by following Alcoa on: alcoawheelsaustralia

Seventy-five years of dedication, innovation, and unwavering partnership—a milestone reflecting trust, progress, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Since our first forged aluminum wheel in 1948, Alcoa Wheels is more than a name; it’s a commitment.

Celebrating this remarkable anniversary, expressing gratitude to partners and friends.

People who believed in us, and revisiting the path that brought us to where we stand today.

Trusted on the road

In the heart of Alcoa Wheels’ story lies a narrative of evolution, powered by the belief that each innovation is an opportunity to serve our partners better.

“We’ve always viewed ourselves as the innovation leader in the heavy truck aluminium wheel market,” emphasises President Randall Scheps.

This outlook inspires us to stay attuned to our partners’ needs.

The foundation of this pursuit is a dialogue that extends beyond questions to tangible action.

Scheps elaborates, “We come back to our R&D team, and we say, okay, here’s what the fleets need; let’s go find a way that we solved the problem.”

This iterative process exemplifies our commitment to meeting expectations and exceeding them.

Our journey is more than industry recognition; it’s a story of partnerships that have thrived for decades.

Bobby Sooch, Operations Manager at Ausway Transport, attests to this partnership:  “We’ve used Alcoa wheels on all our trucks from day one, so it’s a 19-year partnership. Our trucks are 100 per cent on Alcoa wheels”. The significance of this statement isn’t just in numbers; it’s in the trust placed in our wheels day in and day out across countless miles.

James Yerbury, Managing Director at Robuk, adds another layer of appreciation: “Alcoa is great at always thinking ahead and always looking at ways to deliver better and lighter wheels.”

Our wheels aren’t just products; they’re embodiments of usability, sustainability, and visibility, representing a holistic commitment to a better tomorrow.

Sloanebuilt, a partner for over 35 years, encapsulates our impact: ‘Alcoa Wheels adds style and durability, delivering top-quality trailers.

Their words go beyond utility, embodying the essence of our collaborative blend of form and function.

This business is just such a gem

As we mark 75 years, Randall Scheps aptly sums up our journey: “We have a great manufacturing footprint, fantastic team around the world…this business is just such a gem.”

A gem that isn’t confined to the past but is a beacon guiding us towards an even brighter future.

Seventy-five years of Alcoa Wheels are not just a chronological achievement; they embody a narrative of innovation, collaboration, and trust.

As the journey continues, it’s clear that Alcoa Wheels isn’t just a name.

Alcoa Wheels is a legacy that drives not only the wheels of trucks, but also the wheels of progress and possibility.

Make Sure It’s An Alcoa^® Wheel

To spec your wheels, ring  1800 955 191 to talk with our wheel experts, or fill out a contact form and we will reach out to you to answer your questions and discuss your specifications