App happy: Taking advantage of an ecosystem of integrated business applications
When Geotab, a provider of telematics technology, announced the launch of the first version of the Geotab Marketplace, it billed the complement to its MyGeotab platform as a way to provide “an extensive ecosystem of valuable business-focused applications and add-ons to the users of its GPS fleet management and vehicle tracking solutions.” “Geotab recognizes that customers
The future of manual transmissions
Automated manual transmissions (AMTs) are becoming a bigger part of the trucking market than ever, and the growth of AMTs is showing no sign of slowing down. Yet, it should be no surprise that AMTs are catching on given the importance of spec’ing for consistent fuel efficiency, plus the driver retention benefits. It also improves
Omnitracs partners with Drivewyze
Omnitracs, LLC, has announced a new partnership with Drivewyze Inc., which will equip Omnitracs mobile computing platforms with Drivewyze PreClear Weigh Station Bypass services. Through the integration of the Drivewyze PreClear bypass solution, commercial truck drivers are able to bypass weigh stations up to 98% of the time depending on the operators’ safety scores. “By providing the Drivewyze
Five truck trend takeaways from November
A look at the five biggest takeaways from the month of November in the world of heavy-duty trucks.
Detroit to produce new medium-duty engines, DT12 AMT in Michigan production facility
Daimler Trucks announced a $375 million investment to enable production of the new DD5 and DD8 medium duty engines at Detroit brand headquarters and manufacturing facility in Redford, Mich. Additionally, Daimler Trucks’ powertrain celebrated the production commencement of its automated manual transmission (AMT), the DT12. With the launch , the company is delivering on the
Matchmaking and downspeeding
Choosing an engine, transmission and axles that are specifically matched to work together for optimum performance is a fast emerging trend. When I say “optimum performance,” I mean maximum fuel efficiency with the right horsepower engines, coupled with an automated manual transmission that shifts at exactly the right RPM, and an axle with the best
The importance of oil filtration
Lube oil is one of those crucial aspects of truck engine life. It keeps the engine running by reducing friction, removes heat from the engine, and carries debris to the filters. Thus it makes sense that the engine’s filtration system would be similarly important. The filter prevents dirt, carbon, and metal particles from doing damage
The latest innovations in tractor tire inflation
All indicators lead in the same direction. A 2013 report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says that under-inflation is the leading cause of tire failure. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) cites defective tires as a leading factor in crashes involving commercial vehicles. A 2010 Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC) report
JB Poindexter acquires Reading Truck Body
J. B. Poindexter & Co. Inc. (JBPCO) announced the acquisition of Reading Truck Body, manufacturers of vocational work truck bodies. Reading Truck Body includes a manufacturing plant in Reading, Pa., as well as five company-owned installation facilities operating as Reading Equipment & Distribution, LLC. It will operate as an independent business unit within JBPCO, led
Wix Filters, Microban announce category-exclusive partnership
Wix Filters, a manufacturer of filtration products, announced a category-exclusive partnership with Microban, a provider of antimicrobial solutions. Beginning in the first quarter of 2016, Wix cabin air filters will feature lifetime Microban product protection, fighting odor-causing bacteria, mold and mildew. “Wix prides itself on constantly innovating and bringing the best products to its customers,” said
