Mechanics of implementing an IT solution
With the integration of electronics into heavy-duty trucks, the hard-working fleet equipment we cover in every issue is more than just a complex engineering marvel of mechanics. Tablets and smartphones now sit beside grease and wrenches as fleets leverage new hardware and software plugged into the vehicles. Improving efficiency today goes beyond the mechanics and
Leveraging the efficiency of air and coolant heaters
One of the biggest demands for power comes in the form of heating sleeper cabs. Espar manufactures diesel-fueled bunk/cab heaters, as well as engine pre-heating options. Espar options are available through every truck manufacturer and are utilized by manufacturers like Thermo King and Bergstrom. “Fleets are starting to realize these same idle-reduction savings opportunities also
Idling control options insight
When considering idling-reduction options, a start-stop solution that manages idle time could be ideal for fleets. Idle Smart is an automated engine start-stop system that provides year-round cab comfort and maintains fleet uptime by keeping batteries charged and engines warm. Compatible with most makes and models, Idle Smart’s system continuously monitors interior and ambient temperatures to
Implementing idling-reduction solutions to save money, meet regulations
As truck equipment advances to meet high-efficiency expectations, increased regulations demand more attention from fleet managers who already have their hands full meeting schedules and keeping trucks running. Idle regulations, for example, can be one of the most challenging regulations to keep up with, as they vary from city to city and state to state.
Trucking trends that drive innovation: ZF unveils the Innovation Truck, new truck equipment prototypes
With the rapid evolution of heavy-duty truck equipment, we here at Fleet Equipment often wish we had a crystal ball or the ability to generate the 1.21 gigawatts that makes time travel possible to foresee the trucking industry future. While we’re still working on that, we have the next best thing: The opportunity to take
Alternative fuel infrastructure and application
For fleet managers, putting an alternative fuel truck—specifically natural gas—to work depends on two major factors: Infrastructure and application. According to the U.S. Department of Energy Alternative Fuels Data Center, there are currently 713 public and 666 private CNG fueling stations and 54 public and 41 private LNG fueling stations in the U.S. The Department
How an alternative fuel vehicle fits into your fleet
In just a few short years, trucks powered by alternative fuels have gone from a rare sight on the road to a growing trend that has seen serious investment by big fleets. Today’s biggest alternative fuel contender is natural gas. While many OEs offer liquid natural gas (LNG) and compressed natural gas (CNG), CNG has
FTR Shippers Conditions Index remains in low territory
FTR’s Shippers Conditions Index (SCI) for May remained basically unchanged from the previous month at a current reading of -7.5 reflecting a continuing tight capacity situation with utilization rates holding between 98% and 99%. Increases in labor costs and purchased transportation will drive shippers’ cost upwards throughout the remainder of the year. Spot rates for
Trailer net orders up 45% for first half of 2014
June net orders of 22,000 were off 1% month over month, but up 42% year over year. Year-to-date net orders of 156,000 are up 45% over the same period last year. This information was included in the most recent State of the Industry: U.S. Trailers published by ACT Research Co. “Strength in June came from
Alcoa Wheels launches social media photo sharing contest
Alcoa Wheels announces the creation and launch of its first social media photo sharing campaign and contest. The campaign and contest kicks off this week and ends Sept. 15, 2014. Alcoa Wheels encourages social media followers and contestants to follow the company on Twitter (@AlcoaWheels) and now on Instagram (@AlcoaWheels); snap eligible photos of their trucks
Fueling the future: Alternative fuels are becoming mainstream
If you’re a regular reader of this heavy-duty column, you’re likely starting to see an emerging theme: There is no one-size-fits-all, magic bullet solution to improving your fleet’s efficiency. It’s a collection of equipment integration, maintenance best practices and technology, working in concert to save money and boost the bottom line. Alternative fuels continue to
What are the lighter-weight wheel options?
For fleets that want to roll efficiently, there’s no shortage of lighter-weight wheel options. For a fleet that has hundreds of pieces of equipment moving along many routes, increased load capacity can add up quickly. Aluminum wheels are typically a lighter option than steel; one of the lightest weight options was launched in March at