Unpacking NACFE’s confidence report on trailer aerodynamics
The North America Council for Freight Efficiency (NACFE), which partnered with the Carbon War Room (CWR) to form Trucking Efficiency, recently released a Confidence Report to provide an unbiased review of tractor aerodynamic technologies available on the market today, and to increase investment in cost-saving tractor aerodynamic technologies. Tractor aerodynamics increase fuel efficiency by lowering air
How paint finishes can add resale value
According to the paint finish experts at Sherwin-Williams, “in order to provide the best truck resale value, a fleet should use coatings engineered to stand up to harsh environmental effects such as rust and UV damage. The best specification option when taking durability and performance into consideration is a basecoat/clearcoat system that provides an extra
Spec’ing to optimize resale value
There are many factors that impact resale value for trucks. Dale Tower, vice president of remarketing for AmeriQuest Used Truck Services Inc., suggests that OEM selection, engine choices, horsepower, automated transmissions, APUs, SCR non SCR, super singles, chassis side fairings, single or double bunks (in sleepers) and even the color of trucks are all items that will
The Internet of Things, explained
The “Internet of Things” (IoT), simply explained, is a comprehensive way to manage data for greater productivity. It’s has been called the next mega-trend, and at its core are embedded software sensors placed in vehicles, machine tools, streetlights, and wind turbines—to name just a few devices in an ever-increasing list. The value of IoT is the
Easing ELD concerns
While the implementation of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s electronic logging device (ELD) rules will usher in significant changes for our industry, there are many potential benefits. Despite the startup costs and learning curves, fleets may be poised to see significant improvements. “As fleets adopt various solutions, one of the biggest areas of concern
Buying pre-owned trucks? No need to kick the tires
Purchasing a pre-owned truck should not be a contest. Buyers should have confidence in the equipment they are purchasing—with no surprises down the road. Inspections Some truck buyers do their own preliminary inspections prior to purchase. Many experienced fleets have a list of things to review prior to purchase—like checking axle configurations, engine and horsepower
Leasing alternative fuel trucks
“Ryder offers both compressed natural gas [CNG] and liquefied natural gas [LNG] heavy-duty vehicles for lease,” says Ryder’s Vice President of Supply Management and Global Fuel Products Scott Perry. “We have seen continued interest in utilizing CNG and LNG as a replacement for diesel technology, but the level of interest is suppressed compared to two years
Update: OEM alternative fuel offerings
Over the years, we have been witness to the ebb and flow of alternative fuels for on-highway vehicles, which has been driven the price and/or availability of oil. Typically, fleet applications drive the choice for specific alternative fuels. We asked truck original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) about the current alternative fuel trends and demands, and where fleets
Evolving technology and vehicle insurance
Companies that insure motor carriers, trucks and drivers are not all the same. Some sell through independent agents, others through their own sales staffs. Some specialize in commercial truck insurance, while others sell it as one of a secondary line of coverage. Some insurance companies specialize in specific niches within the motor-carrier industry, such as
Education, effort help you get the most from TPMS and ATIS
Understanding the difference between tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) and automatic tire inflation systems (ATIS), as well as proper maintenance for both systems, is an important part of supporting a well-run fleet. “The function of TPMS is to alert drivers when a tire is low, but the system does not add air to the low
Getting the most from tire suppliers
Fleet managers know all too well that tires are often one of their biggest expenses. Working with a trusted tire dealer can help fleets manage costs by obtaining quality products and services that are readily available—sometimes over several years (depending on the application)—and helping fleets choose the right tires and services for their specific needs. We
Tire management, service options: What you need to know
There are many tire management and service options available to fleets; we will go through just a few of these options with the advice of the major tire makers. Some of the most beneficial service options available to fleets come from tire dealers and their trained technicians, notes Bridgestone. The dealers use the right equipment
