According to the recently released N.A. Commercial Vehicle On-Highway Engine Outlook published by ACT Research and Rhein Associates, Class 8 production is expected to continue its growth trend into 2019, and diesel is still the dominant power source, but changes in demand for straight trucks and tractors will impact the type of diesel engines ordered.

“Tractors continue to be more impacted by cyclical demand than vocational trucks,” said Tom Rhein, president of Rhein Associates. “The truck share of Class 8 fell to just below 27% in 2018, and is forecast to reach a similar level in 2019. Average truck production from 2019-2023 is expected to increase nearly 8% over the average of the past five years, while average tractor production is forecast at almost 3% below the past five-year average.”

“Diesel power is under attack long-term for use in on-highway commercial vehicles,” said Kenny Vieth, president and senior analyst at ACT Research. “Alternative power is being developed, tested, and refined, even as diesel engines are transitioning to become more fuel efficient and clean. Emission regulations are one of the main drivers of alternative fuel adoption.”