The key to safer road traffic

One of the main features of tow trucks is their ability to safely and efficiently handle crashed or disabled vehicles. In cases of traffic accidents or mechanical breakdowns, quickly removing damaged vehicles is essential for restoring traffic flow and minimizing congestion. To achieve this, specialized structures and equipment are used, such as hydraulic arms, winches, and stabilization systems, which enable precise and safe handling.

The history of tow and recovery vehicles dates back to the early days of automobilism. Before specialized tow vehicles existed, it was common to use animals or many people to pull stuck vehicles out of mud or snow. However, with the rise of automobiles, the need for a more efficient solution became increasingly apparent.

The first tow truck was invented in 1916 by Ernest Holmes Sr., a mechanic from Chattanooga, Tennessee. He was inspired by a challenging attempt to pull his friend's car out of a riverbed, which took eight hours and required the help of eight men. Holmes then modified a 1913 Cadillac, equipping it with a crane and pulley system, creating the first functional prototype of a tow truck. This vehicle, known as the "Holmes 485," became the model for future tow trucks and helped establish industry standards.

During World War II, tow trucks became essential for repairing and recovering damaged military vehicles, leading to significant advancements in this technology. Hydraulic systems were introduced during this period, allowing for more efficient lifting and handling of heavy vehicles. These innovations gradually made their way into the civilian sector, where towing services became an important part of road infrastructure.

Today, tow trucks are equipped with advanced technologies, such as GPS systems, cameras, and safety features that enhance the efficiency and safety of operations. There are various types of tow trucks, including flatbed trucks, hook-and-chain trucks, and integrated vehicles that combine multiple functions into one vehicle. These modern machines can efficiently handle a wide range of tasks, from simple towing of personal vehicles to complex recovery of large trucks.

In Slovakia, one of the leading manufacturers of tow and recovery vehicles is ESSEL. This company specializes in producing top-quality superstructures for tow and recovery vehicles designed for various types of operations. ESSEL offers a wide range of products, including vehicles for rescuing damaged cars, towing platforms, and additional equipment such as hydraulic cranes and manipulators.

One of ESSEL's most notable products is its heavy-duty tow trucks, capable of handling even the most challenging tasks. These vehicles are equipped with advanced technologies that enable efficient and safe recovery of vehicles from various situations, whether it’s a highway accident or getting stuck in hard-to-reach terrain. Other products include specialized superstructures for city services, ideal for towing improperly parked vehicles.

ESSEL focuses not only on the quality of its products but also on providing comprehensive services for its customers. The company offers customization options for its vehicles to meet specific client needs, including a selection of different types of equipment and accessories.

Thanks to a combination of innovative solutions, high-quality materials, and years of experience, ESSEL is a leader in tow and recovery technologies in Slovakia. Their products are used not only in the domestic market but also abroad, where they have earned a reputation for reliability and efficiency.

In conclusion, we would like to mention that we had the opportunity to visit ESSEL in person with the "Made in Slovakia" project. This visit allowed us to witness firsthand the high level of quality and innovative technologies that ESSEL offers. From demonstrations of precise manufacturing to meetings and interviews with experts, our experience only confirmed that this is a top local manufacturer we can be proud of, even internationally.

You can watch everything in the reportage video we prepared for you in collaboration with ESSEL, and we believe there’s definitely something to look forward to. We hope the report video will give you an in-depth look at why ESSEL stands at the forefront of the industry and why it has earned the trust of customers both in Slovakia and abroad.