Balancing act: Sleepers keep drivers comfortable while the fleet stays efficient
Driver retention is one of the biggest issues facing fleets today. There simply aren’t enough drivers to go around, and it’s impacting the bottom line. With that being the case, fleets have been going out of their way to provide drivers with all the creature comforts they require, in order to ensure that they stay
Peterbilt names its North American ‘Dealer of the Year’
Citing impressive growth in medium- and heavy-duty truck sales, parts and service growth, and the addition of three new locations, Peterbilt Motors Co. named The Larson Group its 2015 North American Dealer of the Year. “On behalf of everyone at The Larson Group Peterbilt, we are honored to receive Peterbilt’s highest dealer recognition,” said Glenn
Peterbilt installs its first production PACCAR MX-11 engine
Peterbilt’s first new PACCAR MX-11 engine was installed recently in the company’s newest vocational truck, the Model 567 in a set-forward front axle configuration. This first engine and truck were presented to North Dakota-based contractor Knife River, who drove it off the assembly line at Peterbilt’s Denton, Texas, manufacturing facility. “The PACCAR MX-11 will bring new
Peterbilt’s Denton plant celebrates 35 years
The end of 2015 marks the 35th anniversary of Peterbilt Motors Co.‘s Denton, Texas plant, which produced its first truck in 1980. “The value Peterbilt’s Denton plant has brought through the years to the company, our employees, customers, dealers and the community is immeasurable,” said Darrin Siver, a Peterbilt general manager and PACCAR vice president.
Peterbilt enhances SmartAir no-idle system
Peterbilt has announced new enhancements to its SmartAir no-idle system with new auto-start technology that helps keep main and auxiliary batteries charged while running the air-conditioning system and using electric-powered devices. The auto-start technology is available as a factory-installed option with Model 579s equipped with SmartAir and either a 72- or 80-in. sleeper. It is fully
The truck equipment trend of the year
It’s been the talk of the industry all year. Its importance goes beyond monetary savings by preserving equipment and mitigating collisions. This year, Fleet Equipment crowns advanced safety systems as its 2015 Truck Equipment Trend of the Year. “Fleets are asking about safety systems; the percentage of orders for a collision mitigation radar system for
Peterbilt introduces its 2016 merchandise collection
More than 50 new items have been added to the 2016 Peterbilt gift and merchandise collection, helping customers and enthusiasts find Peterbilt-logoed apparel, headwear and a wide assortment other items and accessories, Peterbilt Motors Co. recently announced. “Peterbilt merchandise is a great way to show off Peterbilt pride and loyalty and we’re excited to offer
Blue Flash Express breaks the driver turnover cycle
For Blue Flash Express Vice President of Operations Jason Aguillard it was about stopping a cycle—new trucks with the right specs would lower maintenance and fuel expenses, improve retention and cut the cost of recruiting and training drivers. “Now we have more money to increase pay for drivers, which further enhances the company as a
Peterbilt begins 58-in. sleeper production
Peterbilt’s new 58-in. sleeper is now in production for Models 579 and 567. The sleeper is available in low- and mid-roof configurations, the the company says it can reduce weight by up to 100 lbs. “Peterbilt’s 58-in. sleeper is ideal for short- and regional-haul operations where less weight and a shorter wheelbase are critical,” said Robert Woodall,
Peterbilt begins production on RollTek protection system
Peterbilt Motors Co. has begun production on the RollTek protection system integrated with the premium Atlas II driver seats for on-highway Model 579 and vocational Model 567. “The RollTek safety system helps protect drivers in the event of a rollover,” said Scott Newhouse, Peterbilt’s chief engineer. “A sensor located under the seat constantly monitors the angular position
Prime Inc. orders 900 Peterbilt model 579s
Prime Inc., one of North America’s largest carriers with refrigerated, flatbed, tanker and intermodal divisions, has ordered 900 Peterbilt Model 579s equipped with PACCAR MX-13 engines. “Peterbilt is a great business partner with a long history of providing Prime with vehicle and support solutions that help us build on our reputation as the industry’s most
The perfect combination: The Zen of creating the optimum downsped engine/axle/drivetrain mix
Most truck engines, today, run at around 1,450 RPM at cruising speed to provide the 200 HP needed at the wheel-end. Engine downspeeding allows the truck to operate consistently in a more efficient range, generally between 1,100 to 1,200 RPM, while maintaining the same 200 HP at the wheel end. As a result, fuel efficiency
