I just returned from the Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS) and, after 20 years of attending, I still get excited looking at all the new trucks. There have been a lot of innovations in engines, components and truck styling in the last two decades, some of which have not been without their challenges and controversy, but the shiny chrome and high-gloss paint finishes of all the different trucks still draw big crowds and enthusiastic comments from those who come to see them.
This year MATS attendees got up close and personal with a number of brand-new, beautiful vehicles. Among them, the Navistar LoneStar, which sports a retro look, and the Mack Titan, “with the spirit of the really big dog.” Daimler Trucks of North America had its new aerodynamic Freightliner Cascadia on display, and announced spec packages that make it easy for fleets and owner-operators to participate in the SmartWay program.
Fueled by the rising cost of diesel and anti-idling laws nation-wide, “green” initiatives like the EPA SmartWay program and a variety of hybrid technologies were hot topics at MATS. To be SmartWay-certified, trucks must feature an engine that is model year 2007 or newer; fuel-tank side fairings on the tractor; integrated cab-high roof fairing; tractor-mounted cab side extenders; aerodynamic mirrors and bumpers; and low rolling-resistance tires.
The big news about hybrids is that most truck OEMs are going into assembly line production with one or more hybrid diesel electric medium-duty models this year and more road testing is being done on Class 8 hybrids. Freightliner displayed its Business Class M2e hybrid beverage truck, which is now in production.
Peterbilt announced that it has four hybrid offerings, two medium-duty trucks, one heavy-duty truck and one refuse hauler. The medium-duty diesel electric hybrid trucks will be produced this summer. Kenworth showed off its hybrid diesel electric utility vehicle at the show, which it will also be putting into production this summer.
In addition, several engine makers and truck OEMs were talking again about natural gas powered engines for trucks as a viable alternative fuel for some applications.
More than ever before, it seemed, the “truck talk” at the show was about meeting the customer’s need for more fuel-efficient trucks and providing alternatives that are economical and environmentally friendly. And, even though government regulations and rising fuel costs have forced some of these issues, there seemed to be a genuine interest on the part of OEMs and suppliers to step up to the plate with responsible alternative technologies, which is in everyone’s best interest.
The new trucks introduced this year at MATS were beautiful, technologically more sophisticated, had great lines and most were aerodynamically designed to reduce drag and increase fuel economy. Yes, they are more expensive, but alternatively fueled vehicles, hybrid choices and idle reducing technologies will provide greater fleet savings in the long run.