What’s trucking’s biggest equipment trend?
Without a doubt, the heavy-duty trucking industry took one of its biggest leaps forward in 2014 in terms of getting the latest equipment technologies into fleets and on the road. There was no shortage of efficiency solutions as truck OEs and suppliers showcased everything from downsped engines and integrated powertrains to aerodynamic packages and vehicle connectivity
Kenworth delivers one millionth truck
Kenworth Truck Co. celebrated its historic one millionth truck produced in the company’s 91 years during a special ceremony last month at Kenworth’s assembly plant in Chillicothe, Ohio. The milestone truck is a Kenworth T680 Advantage with the 455-HP Paccar MX-13 engine and factory-installed Kenworth aerodynamic package. The truck was presented to TransAm Trucking in
Detailing diesel truck engine programmers: An FAQ
Owners of a large number of trucks are already enjoying improved performance and economy by installing an engine programmer. But installing a programmer isn’t as easy as dropping in a magical chip. “I have seen a notable increase in fuel economy with the gauge tuner unit we have; about 15%,” said Joe Parks, general manager
Mckinney Trailer Rentals chooses SmartTruck Systems as trailer areo provider
Mckinney Trailer Rentals selected SmartTruck Systems as its exclusive trailer aerodynamic equipment provider when the trailer leasing company renewed its long-term partnership with SmartTruck. As part of the partnership, Mckinney will also begin evaluating the possible implementation of the new SmartTruck TopKit System and continue retrofitting its fleet with SmartTruck’s UT-1 Trailer UnderTray Systems. “SmartTruck’s
Michelin Truck dealer locator app update now available
Michelin Americas Truck Tires launched an upgraded version of its dealer locator app that offers drag and drop capability, type ahead functionality, more search options and one click access to all key dealer information. The new app is specifically designed for ease of use while on the road, said Michelin. “This new app is designed
Eaton introduces Dura-Kote plating technology
Eaton launched its Dura-Kote plating technology, which delivers a significantly higher level of corrosion resistance for Eaton’s carbon steel fluid conveyance products, according to Eaton. Eaton’s carbon steel fluid conveyance products have been rated for up to 1,000 hours of corrosion resistance, exceeding Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) J514 standards. The plating technology has been
FTR’s Trucking Conditions Index remains in positive territory
At a reading of 8.53, FTR‘s Trucking Conditions Index fell only slightly from September’s level reflecting still strong fundamentals for trucking firms. According to FTR, underlying capacity utilization is retreating from the dangerous 99% level reached earlier in 2014, and the market is expected to remain tight. FTR forecasts capacity to ease very modestly in 2015
Tire thoughts about future trucks
Since tires represent such a large expense for truck operators (normally the second largest non-labor cost behind only fuel), considerable thought is given to tires of the future; specifically, on ways to improve operating efficiencies influenced by tires. I’d like to share some admittedly subjective thoughts, based on my 50 years spent in this area.
Eaton expands UltraShift Plus automated transmission coverage
Eaton‘s UltraShift Plus automated transmissions coverage now includes enhancements that allow for compatibility with two-speed axles. Eaton noted that the UltraShift Plus is geared primarily to increase the appeal of UltraShift Plus among vocational customers, especially dump and heavy haul fleets. The new features include enhanced gear reduction capabilities to maximize on-/off-road capabilities, according to
Utility makes roll stability standard on 3000R refrigerated trailer
Utility Trailer Manufacturing Co. announced that it has added trailer roll stability protection from Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC on the 3000R base model refrigerated trailers as standard. According to the manufacturer, Utility is the first trailer manufacturer to include roll stability as standard on refrigerated trailers. “Trailer roll stability systems can dramatically improve a
November Class 5-8 preliminary orders healthy
Demand for commercial vehicles was healthy in November as 58,500 total North American Class 5-8 orders were booked, up 48% from a year ago, according to ACT Research. ACT added that over the past 12 months, North American Class 5-8 net orders have totaled 583,200 units, representing the strongest 12-month period of North American Class
Dana whitepaper explains managing higher torques associated with engine downspeeding
Dana Holding Corp. published a white paper for the commercial trucking industry that addresses the need for fleets and OE manufacturers to properly manage the higher driveline torques that are resulting from the increasing use of more fuel-efficient downsped engines. Titled “The Right Solution for Downsped Engines,” the paper is free and can be downloaded