Abstract: A trailer system with independent propulsion and control is configured to be towed by a lead vehicle. The trailer system includes a steerable first axle connected to a pair of first wheels, a second axle connected to a pair of second wheels, at least one electric traction motor configured to drive the steerable first axle, and a high voltage battery system configured to power the at least one electric traction motor. A trailer control system (TCS) includes a controller configured to steer, accelerate, and brake the first and/or second wheels. A trailer sensor suite is in signal communication with the TCS. The TCS is configured for signal communication with a lead vehicle sensor suite, and is configured to control driving and/or operation of the trailer system based on one or more signals from the trailer sensor suite and the lead vehicle sensor suite.

Abstract: A tow bar system for an independently steered and powered trailer includes a front tow bar configured to removably couple to a hitch of a lead vehicle, a rear tow bar configured to removably couple to a hitch of the trailer, and a damper system disposed between the front tow bar and the rear tow bar. The damper system is configured to absorb compressive and tensile loads occurring during steering, accelerating, and braking of the independently steered and powered trailer.