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. Hino Trucks positions its XL Series in the Class 7, 8 markets for continued growth
Hino’s decision to come into the Class 7 and 8 markets—which haven’t seen new players with serious manufacturing muscle in some time—with new products wasn’t made lightly. In this month’s cover story, we talk with Glenn Ellis, Hino’s senior vice president of customer experience, on the details of the XL Series, connectivity, the truck market and more.
4. Fleets are making effective drive tire choices for everything from linehaul to severe service vehicles
Today, with manufacturers working to minimize tire performance trade-offs in drive tires, fleets can realize optimal, all-around performance by making effective drive tire choices. Senior Contributor Seth Skydel spoke with several tire manufacturers on the developments in the field and how fleets are benefiting.
3. Trailer manufacturers are combating corrosion
Among trailer manufacturers, there is an ongoing effort to address costly corrosion and moisture intrusion. Seth Skydel talked with several of the manufacturers on how they are going about this.
2. Don’t forget the basics when spec’ing advanced safety technology
Adoption of advanced collision mitigation technology is increasing every year as more and more fleets see the ROI benefits of the technology. It makes sense—when you think about how much just one accident can cost a fleet, both in equipment and legal costs, it’s easy to see the ROI.
But the thing about advanced technology is that you can’t forget about your spec’ing strategy basics; even the most incredible technology can be undermined by ignoring the little things.
If you’re investing in an advanced safety system, for example, it’s important to remember that the system relies on having the right brake spec to operate optimally. If the brakes aren’t being kept in good shape, all that ROI from the safety system goes out the window.
1. Tires are evolving in a data-driven world facing electrification, connectivity and more
There are plenty of questions still yet to be answered in terms of electric truck application and operation. Driver assistance systems continue to drive the industry down the road toward more automated trucks. And it’s all connected—not just through data, but also through its impact on fleet, OEM and supplier business cases. Editor Jason Morgan talked with Bridgestone President Eric Higgs on how tires fit into the new, digital-driven world.
