We know it’s not easy to keep up with everything that happens in the world of trucking. So here are the biggest stories from May focused on the latest truck trends, all in one place.

5. Transmissions are making drivers comfortable and fleets profitable

“As automated manual transmissions (AMTs) rose through the build ranks of the OEMs, you often heard a similar refrain: ‘Once you get a driver behind the wheel of an AMT, they will not want to go back to a manual.’ Today, truck OEMs report that AMTs make up the majority of builds in on-highway applications. AMTs are also eating into large chunks of vocational builds, thanks to the creation of crawler gears and other features built for these hard-working applications.”

4. Summer is coming, meaning proper tire inflation is especially important

“A fleet manager’s job is focused on the little things. A tenth of an MPG here, an extended maintenance cycle there—across a fleet, these seemingly small points can add up to significant profits. The same goes for truck tire inflation: a few PSI in the right direction can go a long way, while a few PSI in the wrong direction is potentially disastrous. Tires are one of the most expensive components of the truck, and so the importance of keeping them in the ideal shape should come as no surprise, especially considering the substantial weight that air is supporting.”

With summer on the way, Senior Editor Alex Crissey goes over the importance of proper tire inflation.

3. Wheel end thermal events are on the rise

Recently, Fleet Equipment caught wind of wheel end thermal events that were seemingly caused by automatic slack adjusters locking up, increasing wheel end temperatures and risking asset losses. So we turned to the manufacturers for answers.

2. 5G networks can improve truck technology

Talk to anyone working on autonomous features, and they’ll tell you that 5G wireless networks are necessary for the autonomous future to become a reality. So what is 5G, when is it coming, and what does it all mean for fleets? Alex Crissey takes a look.

1. Application is driving the next era of truck safety systems

As applications begin to drive safety system advances, the opportunity to invest in new systems is being driven by the fleets. And safety isn’t optional. Jason Morgan takes a look at the improving capabilities of today’s safety systems, and how fleets will benefit.