We know it’s not easy to keep up with everything that happens in the world of trucking. So here are the biggest stories from February focused on the latest truck trends, all in one place.

5. The latest axle technology is a key part of today’s powertrains

“If the engine is the heart of your powertrain and the transmission is the shifting brains behind the operation, then the axle is the muscle, propelling your truck down the highway. While the engine and transmission get much of the spotlight, the axle plays a key role in increasing efficiency—in both proprietary powertrains and those of your own spec.”

Editor Jason Morgan goes into detail about the latest in truck axle technology.

4. Trailers are becoming safer

Being part of the transportation industry means putting safety above all else. It is the equipment manufacturer’s job when designing trucks and trailers to minimize the potential for serious consequences to both the truck and the other vehicles on the road in the event of a crash.

With that in mind, many trailer manufacturers have recently decided to strengthen the designs of their rear underride guards. The newer designs are built to stop an automobile from sliding under the trailer in the event of a rear-impact crash.

3. You might want to consider wide base tires

If you run a fleet in a weight-sensitive application, you might want to consider wide base tires. A 2015 report from the North American Council for Freight Efficiency found that wide base tires intended for the over-the-road line-haul market will save significant amounts of fuel when compared to tires that are not designed for low rolling resistance. But the tires are more expensive, so first you need to be sure that they make sense for your fleet.

Editor At Large Carol Birkland has more on wide base tires here.

2. Predictive maintenance is giving small fleets access to large amounts of data

The cost of unplanned service for your trucks can add up in a hurry. You may have found yourself thinking: My fleet would be much better off if I could have known in advance that this would happen. That brings us to predictive maintenance.

This month’s Future Focus videos, below, supply an overview of predictive maintenance technology; while Senior Editor Alex Crissey looks into a key advantage of predictive maintenance: its ability to level the playing field between smaller and larger fleets.

1. The heavy-duty aftermarket is not an afterthought

“One key advantage that the heavy-duty aftermarket has over online retailers like Amazon—parts purchasing guidance. The logistics and management technology that is driving the aftermarket forward also aims to support the personal, handshake relationships that you have with your suppliers.”

Jason Morgan has more on why the heavy-duty market is not an afterthought.