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Fleet Owner

May 2012

In the May issue of Fleet Owner, editors examine the Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) safety-compliance program as well as what is holding back electric and hybrid sales. Also in the issue is a recap of the 2012 Mid-America Trucking Show.

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Editor's Page

May 10, 2012

Commentary

Fleet Owner

1,000 days of delay

Congress has chosen to kick the can down the road one more time, passing a 90-day extension of federal highway funding rather than hashing out a real multi-year transportation bill. This is the ninth temporary extension, and if it runs out in June we will have gone 1,000 days without a reauthorization bill. While the last-minute extension allows the government to continue collecting fuel taxes and disbursing funds for projects...More

Features

May 10, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Turning the tables: Scoring CSA

Based on the grading by truck fleet executives, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) safetycompliance program at best ranks a “Gentleman’s C.” Put another way, fleets rank the two-year-old program highly for all its intents and purposes—but poorly for its forethought and for how slowly its deficits are being addressed yet alone corrected. Indeed, at the moment trucking is awaiting final word of “planned improvements” FMCSA will make to CSA....More
May 4, 2012

News

Fleet Owner

Talk of the Show

Judging by the record crowds and the number of new trucks and products introduced at the 2012 Mid- America Trucking Show, trucking has not only recovered from the economic downturn, but it’s preparing for a bright future. Not only were there significant new truck models on the show floor, but there was much positive news about developments promising to lower fuel costs for the industry and boost truck productivity....More
May 10, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Sparking sales

As gasoline and diesel prices surpassed $4/gal. across the U.S. this spring, the natural assumption would be that sales of alternative-powered vehicles, especially those utilizing electricity for some or all of their power, would have risen as quickly as the fuel prices. Instead, more hurdles than ever before seem to be arising for all-electric, hybrid diesel- and gasoline-electric powered trucks, largely due to the still-high upfront costs for such vehicles....More
May 10, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Idling: Shutting ’em down 2

The best way to save fuel and the environment— and avoid costly fines for violating anti-idling laws—is to turn those engines off whenever possible. Shutting down engines is not only better for the environment and your fuel budget, it’s also the law in most states, and fines for non-compliance can be large—reaching $5,000 plus jail time in some locations. As demands to reduce heavy-duty truck idling increase, fleet executives and owner-operators continue to look for the best idle reduction technologies available....More

Management

May 10, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Gap funding

Just days before highway funding authorization was set to expire, the U.S. House and Senate settled their differences long enough to pass a 90-day extension of the transportation bill. Had an extension not been reached by March 31, the U.S. Dept. of Transportation would have been unable to collect fuel taxes amounting to some $110 million per day....More
May 10, 2012

Commentary

Fleet Owner

The value equation

It shouldn’t surprise any carrier out there that today’s trucking employee wants something more from a job than just a steady paycheck; they want to feel valued for what they do, day in and day out. While respect has anecdotally been linked to employee happiness, new data is now proving just how important it really is to employee loyalty and well-being....More
Mar. 21, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

ATA criticizes FMCSA’s crash accountability decision 1

American Trucking Assns.’ leaders expressed “serious concern” over the recent decision by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to continue to hold the trucking industry responsible in its CSA program for every truck-involved crash, including those which the truck driver could not have prevented....More
Apr. 6, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Slowdown in job creation shouldn’t worry trucking yet 8

A less-than-stellar employment increase of 120,000 jobs for the month of March should not be too much cause for concern for the trucking industry, as three-month rolling average for job creation continues to signal growth for the U.S. economy, albeit at a very slow pace. “A one-month downshift in the rate of job creation isn’t too much cause for concern at this point,” Eric Starks, president of FTR Associates, told Fleet Owner....More
Mar. 28, 2012

Article

Analysts agree trucking on the upswing 1

NEW YORK. Trucking and the companies that supply its tractors and trailer are “on the happy side of the cycle,” according to Kenny Veith, president of ACT Research. “Trucker are making money and have freight to haul” and North America manufacturers will produce 300,000 Class 8 trucks this year, he said at the 2012 Truck Summit sponsored by the financial services provider Jefferies and Co....More
Apr. 6, 2012

News

Fleet Owner

Bill aims to replace truck excise tax with fuel tax hike 5

A bill proposed in the House of Representatives would repeal the retail sales excise tax on heavy trucks and replace the revenue with what is touted by trucking lobbyists as a “small” or “modest” increase in the diesel fuel tax rate of 6.3 cents per gallon. HR 4321 was introduced by Rep. Jim Gerlach (R-PA) and is cosponsored by Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-OR). The bill has been referred to the House Ways and Means Committee, of which Rep. Gerlach is a Member....More
Mar. 19, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

UPS to purchase TNT Express

United Parcel Service’s $6.77 billion all-cash plan to buy out Europe-based rival TNT Express N.V. won’t alter the U.S. trucking landscape much at all, according to experts. Rather, the impact of this deal will be most keenly be felt in the global air freight markets and in Europe....More
Apr. 20, 2012

Article

Carriers re-adjusting for the long-term

A slow-growth economy, high fuel prices, and shifting freight patterns are leading many carriers large and small to readjust their long-term strategies so they are “balanced” better for the future....More
Mar. 29, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Cargo theft risk may be higher than thought

The risk of cargo theft in the U.S. may be a lot higher than previously thought, according to recent analysis by Cargonet, a two-year old joint venture between Verisk Analytics and the National Insurance Crime Bureau....More
Apr. 3, 2012

News

Fleet Owner

ACT Research: Class 8 orders softer

Preliminary figures on net truck orders for March released today by ACT Research Co. LLC (ACT) showed that Class 8 orders “came in below expectations for a second consecutive month.” According to ACT, the final numbers, which will be released mid-April, will approach 20,000 units for heavy duty Class 8 trucks and 13,500 for médium-duty Class 5-7 vehicles. The research firm noted that its preliminary net order numbers are typically accurate to within 5% of actual....More
May 10, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Building a green shop

Managers: Gary Anderson and Harry T. Markarian Titles: Executive vice presidentmaintenance and regional director of maintenance-Northeast, respectively Fleet: J.B. Hunt Transportation Services Operation: Nationwide freight hauler operating a fleet of 10,000 tractors plus 60,000 trailers and containers...More
May 10, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Balancing act

Handling more than 2.5 billion lbs. of freight annually, including more than 1.3 billion lbs. for its parent company, the Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations trucking fleet traveled more than 35 million mi. in 2011 alone. “Whether it’s shipments to our customers, returns from stores and dealers, tires from plants to distribution centers, raw materials to plants, or loads under our for-hire authority,” says Ron D....More
May 7, 2012

Article

Fleets Online: Paying for safety

COMPANY: H.T. Hackney Co., Knoxville, TN OPERATION: Wholesale grocer, furniture and bottled water distributor PROBLEM: Ed Meyer, director of transportation, will tell you that finding ways to improve his fleet’s safety profile has been and remains an overarching goal within H.T. Hackney....More
Apr. 16, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Kenworth delivers 250,000th T800 2

Trican Well Service recently took delivery of the 250,000th T800 produced by Kenworth Truck Co. A celebration of the milestone truck was held at the Kenworth assembly line in Renton, WA. Trican is a provider of oil and gas pumping services. It is located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada with worldwide operations in Canada, the U.S., Russia, Kazakhstan, Australia, and North Africa....More

Running Green

May 10, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Sparking sales

As gasoline and diesel prices surpassed $4/gal. across the U.S. this spring, the natural assumption would be that sales of alternative-powered vehicles, especially those utilizing electricity for some or all of their power, would have risen as quickly as the fuel prices. Instead, more hurdles than ever before seem to be arising for all-electric, hybrid diesel- and gasoline-electric powered trucks, largely due to the still-high upfront costs for such vehicles....More
Apr. 2, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Azure Dynamics files for bankruptcy, halts production

Azure Dynamics, which counts Ford Motor Co. as its biggest customer, has filed for bankruptcy protection in the U.S. and Canada. The filing followed a rejection by the Ontario Securities Commission (OSC) for a public stock offering that would have raised needed capital for operations, Mike Elwood, vice president-marketing, told Fleet Owner....More
Mar. 19, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Document assists in hybrid electric decision-making

Eaton Corp. has released an educational fact sheet to assist those considering hybrid-electric power when making their decision. The one-page, two-sided document is available free of charge at www.roadranger.com....More
Mar. 29, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Green Truck Assn. forms technology councils

The Green Truck Assn. (GTA), an affiliate division of NTEA, announced it has formed three new technology councils designed to provide more representation within the organization. The Sustainable Integration Technology Council will work to advance the integration of, and resolve the technical communications for green technology upfitters....More
Mar. 14, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

CARB offering lease-to-own truck financing

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is offering a lease-to-own financing program that encourages small-business owners to replace their older diesel trucks with cleaner new equipment. Officials said the objective is to encourage early compliance with CARB’s on-road diesel vehicle and tractor-trailer greenhouse gas regulations....More
Apr. 2, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Via Motors wins Work Truck Show Green Award

Via Motors was awarded the NTEA Work Truck Show 2012 Green Award for its full-size extended range electric vehicle work trucks. The trucks have up to 40 mi. of all-electric range using lithium ion batteries, and can drive unlimited miles using VIA’s onboard electric generator or “range extender,” Via said. Charging is done overnight through a typical 110V household outlet....More
Mar. 29, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Aura Systems introduces electric refrigeration system

El Segundo, CA-based Aura Systems has introduced an electric refrigeration system for trailers that can be retrofitted onto any existing trailer with shore power standby capability. The system uses the AuraGen generator mounted on a tractor and an interface box integrated on the trailer, the company said. It will provide up to 20 kW of electric power in either 240V AC 3 phase or 480V AC 3 phase configurations. There is a quick connect/disconnect cable included....More
May 10, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Green Fleet of the Month: MPG boost

As fleets look for alternative fuels and/or power solutions to reduce fuel usage and cut emissions, one Minnesotabased fleet found a more cost-effective option that has almost doubled its mpg. Deli Express, a fleet of 240 vehicles and part of the larger Eden Prairie, MN-based E.A. Sween Co., is having success with the low-cab-forward NPR Eco-Max truck from Isuzu Commercial Truck of America....More

Equipment

Apr. 9, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Ram rolls out new pickup

Chrysler’s Ram Trucks divisionunveiled a completely overhauled design for the 2013 Ram 1500 pickup last week at the New York Auto Show – a design aimed at significantly improving the vehicle’s fuel economy profile without compromising on performance. [To watch a video of the unveiling at the show, click here.]...More
Apr. 2, 2012

News

Fleet Owner

PTO designed for Allison TC10 transmission

According to Parker Chelsea, its new Chelsea 590 Series power-take-off unit (PTO) was designed specifically for use with the Allison TC10 automatic transmission. The coaxial designed rear-mount PTO boasts power density for performance and a compact housing that helps eliminate clearance issues, said the manufacturer. In addition, high-capacity bearings and gear designs provide torque ratings up to 660 lbs- ft....More
Apr. 3, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Greases reformulated for added protection, performance

Amsoil synthetic multi-purpose grease and synthetic water-resistant grease have been reformulated to provide improved protection and performance, Amsoil said. According to Amsoil, both are formulated with calcium sulfonate complex thickeners, which allow for improved extreme-pressure properties, corrosion resistance, oxidation resistance, high-temperature stability and water resistance....More
Mar. 30, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Premium topcoat system speeds painting process

Sherwin-Williams has released a new topcoat system that it said can speed the prime-to-finished product process by up to 65%, and save 75% on related energy costs at the same time. The Genesis HP premium single-stage is a two-component urethane topcoat that offers quicker process times with no baking required. According to the company, when used with a Genesis primer, the new topcoat delivers a premium finish that is out of dust in as little as eight minutes and tape-free within 30 to 40 minutes. ...More
Apr. 2, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Noregon adds Sprinter coverage to diagnostics systems

Noregon Systems has updated its PC-based diagnostics program to include 2007-2012 Sprinter 2500 and 3500 vehicle coverage. Version 5.2 of the JPRO Commercial Fleet Diagnostics software now includes a coverage module for Dodge, Freightliner, and Mercedes-Benz model Sprinters. The Sprinter module requires the use of either the Noregon JPRO DLA+ or DLA+ Wireless adapters....More
Mar. 30, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Extended warranty program for Snap-On diagnostic tools

Snap-On is offering an extended warranty program for its diagnostic tools, allowing an additional 12, 24, or 36 months of coverage. The program covers Ethos, Vantage Pro, Solus Pro, Solus Ultra, Modis, Verus, Verus Wireless and Verdict products. All new diagnostic tool purchases as well as any diagnostic tool under its original 12-month warranty are eligible....More
Apr. 4, 2012

gallery

Nissan rolls out NV200 Taxi in NYC
Mar. 26, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

New family of fixed-axle trailer suspensions released

Reyco Granning has introduced the RideMaster line of fixed-axle air-ride trailer suspensions. The new products include two integrated axle models with narrow bushings and three wide-bushing U-bolt axle connection models. Any of the suspensions can be spec’d for loads ranging from 20,000 to 30,000 lbs. per axle and with customization options for bushing widths and mounting options....More
Apr. 5, 2012

News

Fleet Owner

Isuzu enhances certified used-truck program

Isuzu Commercial Truck of America, Inc. has announced a “major enhancement” to its Isuzu Gold Star coverage program for used Isuzu trucks. In addition to existing 3-month/10,000-mile, 6-month/20,000-mile and 12-month/30,000-mile coverage for major powertrain components, Isuzu dealers will now offer powertrain component coverage for 24 months/50,000 miles (whichever comes first) on qualified vehicles....More
Mar. 15, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Tank-truck component provider launches website

Civacon, a provider of tank-truck components and systems, has launched a new website at www.civacon.com. The new site has a customer-friendly feel with improved navigation features, Civacon said. In addition to product information, the site includes a navigation bar providing access to products, brands and applications. A “resources” section includes product literature and videos in one place. There is also a news and events section as well as one-click access to tech support....More
Mar. 20, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Welding reel designed to optimize space limitations

Hannay Reels has released the N400 Series gas welding reel for welding operations where space is a concern. The reel handles ¼ in. or 3/8 in. oxygen/gas dual hose in lengths of up to 100 ft., and features two swivel joint inlets and two outlet risers to handle twin gas welding hose....More
Jan. 9, 2012

article

Fleet Owner

Mitsubishi Fuso offering low financing for new truck purchases

Mitsubishi Fuso Truck of America is offering 0.9% APR financing on new 2012 Canter FE Series medium-duty commercial trucks...More
Apr. 11, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Wix Filters publishes 2012 Master Catalogs 1

Wix Filters has published its 2012 Master Catalogs, covering more than 5,000 products, including dimensions, thread sizes, gasket information and application summaries. The catalogs are the 2012 Passenger Car/Light Truck Application Catalog; HD Trucks, Buses & Off-Road Vehicles Application Catalog; and Interchange-Product Numeric Catalog....More
Apr. 12, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Trojan Battery launches video tutorial series

To assist its customers in understanding deep-cycle battery technologies, Trojan Battery Co. has produced a series of video tutorials. The first one in the Trojan Tips series is now available at http://www.trojanbattery.com/. The videos will focus on providing in-depth information on deep-cycle battery technologies, maintenance and safety practices, and charging procedures....More
Apr. 3, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Digital camera, receiver system allows for easy expansion

A new digital wireless camera and receiver system allows for easy expansion, including connecting a Voyager wireless camera to an existing wired monitor....More
Apr. 2, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Ryder Fuel Services creates nationwide service network

To help alleviate concerns regarding service management, Ryder Fuel Services has created a nationwide service network of certified contractors trained to keep a fueling site’s petroleum storage and dispensing systems working smoothly and providing increased efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The service allows onsite personnel to focus on core responsibilities while ensuring that a fueling location’s equipment is operational and that repairs, when needed, are made by trained personnel, the company said....More
Mar. 20, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Repair and maintenance parts program for medium-duty trucks

A new repair and maintenance program designed especially for medium-duty commercial trucks has been launched. The new Diamond Value Parts program from Mitsubishi Fuso Truck of America (MFTA) will supply authorized dealers and service points with a parts line that provides quality at affordable pricing, the company said. All parts that are part of the program are intended for use after expiration of the Fuso warranty....More
Mar. 27, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Ford to offer diesel power for full-sized Transit van in 2013 2

When Ford Motor Co. begins building the new full-size Transit cargo and passenger van in 2013, it plans to offer a diesel powertrain as an option to the vehicle’s standard 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 gasoline engine....More
Mar. 16, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

New storage system for pickups 3

A new storage system designed for pickups provides easy access to equipment while maximizing storage space inside beds and improving security. The Pickup Pack, from Highway Products, includes a gull wing saddle box, two lockable low side boxes, a flat or dome center hatch, a headache rack, and a removable ladder rack. When closed, the hatch locks the tailgate, making the bed area secure and weather resistant, the company said....More
May 10, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

What's new in: Refrigeration 2

Keeping product at the proper temperature has always been a challenge for fleets. Keeping fuel usage down is a continuing concern. Now, the Federal Drug Administration’s Food Safety Modernization Act, which will require stricter oversight of the refrigerated transportation industry, is adding yet another concern for refrigerated fleets. Helping fleets control operating costs, achieve sustainability goals, and meet emissions regulations are areas where Thermo King, an Ingersoll Rand brand, is focusing attention....More

Mid-America Trucking Show

May 4, 2012

News

Fleet Owner

Talk of the Show

Judging by the record crowds and the number of new trucks and products introduced at the 2012 Mid- America Trucking Show, trucking has not only recovered from the economic downturn, but it’s preparing for a bright future. Not only were there significant new truck models on the show floor, but there was much positive news about developments promising to lower fuel costs for the industry and boost truck productivity....More
May 10, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Powertrain future detailed at Fleet Forum

What technologies do OEMs believe will help heavy trucks comply with federal fuel economy/ greenhouse gas (GHG) mandates due to go into effect less than two years from now? And do fleets face penalties if their vehicles are not in compliance with those rules? Those were just two of the questions posed during the inaugural “Fleet Forum” event, held at the 2012 Mid- America Trucking Show in Louisville, KY, last month. Fleet Owner was a cosponsor of the Fleet Forum....More
Mar. 22, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Fleets like advanced lubes, APUs

LOUISVILLE, KY. American fleet managers believe advanced engine oil lubricants, auxiliary power units (APUs) and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) are the most important powertrain technologies for their operations, according to a new survey by the global research firm Frost and Sullivan. Those rankings are being driven by the fleets’ need to reduce downtime and fuel consumption, according to Sandeep Kar, global director of commercial vehicle research....More
Mar. 22, 2012

gallery

Peterbilt 579 unveiling at the Mid-America Truck Show 2
Mar. 22, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

The Kenworth T680: four years in the making

LOUISVILLE, KY. The new T-680 highway tractor unveiled by Kenworth Truck Co. here at the 2012 Mid America Trucking Show this week is a vehicle that’s been four years in the making, according to Preston Feight, the company’s chief engineer....More
Mar. 22, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Continental shows advanced tire pressure monitoring system

LOUISVILLE, KY. Continental Tire the Americas unveiled a commercial-vehicle specific advanced tire pressure monitoring system this week at the Mid-America Trucking Show here. ContiPressureCheck continually monitors the pressure and temperature of each tire, providing real-time tire status and warning of potential problems, including underinflation, Continental said....More
Mar. 23, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Bridgestone unveils ultra fuel-efficient, environmentally friendly tires/retreads

LOUISVILLE, KY. Bridgestone Commercial Solutions unveiled its brand new line of “Ecopia” truck tires and Bandag “FuelTech” retread solutions at the Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS) this week. Customers and the press crowded the Bandag exhibit here to get a first look at what Scott Damon, vice president marketing for Bridgestone Commercial Solutions, called “one of the largest product launches in [the company’s] history.”...More
Mar. 22, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Meritor debuts new axle series

LOUISVILLE, KY. Meritor, Inc. introduced the first member of its SoloDrive Series axle family, which features 6x2 tandem rear axles, here at the Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS) last night. Dubbed the FUELite, the new axle is designed to deliver nearly 400 lbs. in weight savings and approximately a 2% increase in fuel efficiency when compared to a traditional 6x4 configuration. ...More
Mar. 22, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Volvo adds another natural gas-powered day cab

LOUISVILLE, KY. Volvo Trucks rolled out a natural gas-powered VNL day cab truck here this morning at the Mid-America Truck Show. The addition to the Volvo line, declared Ron Huibers, president, Volvo Trucks North American Sales & Marketing, further solidifies the OEM’s position as a fuel-efficiency leader....More
Mar. 22, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

ATDynamics says demand increasing for TrailerTail

LOUISVILLE, KY. With some 8,000 of its TrailerTail rear-door trailer aerodynamic products expected to be in highway operation by this summer, ATDynamics believes it is on track for fulfilling one of its strategic missions: getting 50,000 of these fuel-saving systems into active trucking use by 2014....More
Mar. 22, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Mack unleashes Super Econodyne integrated powertrain plus customer-support package 2

LOUISVILLE, KY. Mack Trucks Inc. debuted its new Mack Pedigree (signifying all-Mack componentry) Super Econodyne integrated powertrain as well as its new Pedigree Uptime Protection integrated service-and-support package here today at the Mid-America Trucking Show. “Mack recognized more than 112 years ago that components designed to work together provide superior performance,” said John Walsh, Mack vice president, marketing. “The new...More
Jun. 1, 2011

article

Fleet Owner

Cummins meets GHG reduction targets

Global engine maker Cummins Inc. said that it has exceeded a 25% greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction commitment as part of its involvement in the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Climate Leaders Program...More
Mar. 26, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Dana unveils new weight-saving driveshaft, axle housing

LOUISVILLE, KY. Dana Holding Corporation displayed its new Spicer SelecTTrac housing option on its Pro-40 tandem axle at the Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS). The housing was developed for customers who want the flexibility to convert between wide-base, single tires with low off-set wheels and standard dual wheels with a single housing. ...More
Mar. 22, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Navistar rolls out severe-duty low-cab-forward truck

LOUISVILLE, KY. Navistar debuted its new International LoadStar, a low-cab-forward work truck aimed at severe-duty applications last evening here at the Mid-America Trucking Show. According to the OEM, the LoadStar was “designed from the ground up with input from drivers and fleet managers” and is targeted at applications in the waste, concrete pumping and airplane-refueling markets among others. ...More
Mar. 22, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Self-steer suspension/axle system introduced

LOUISVILLE, KY. Built with the company’s lightweight Fusion Beam technology, the new self-steering integrated suspension/axle system from SAF-Holland offers fleets the ability to increase payload and improve fuel economy. The company introduced the product this week at the Mid-America Trucking Show here. The self-steer axle provides a wheel cut of 20 deg. or 25-to-30 deg, depending on model. SAF integral disc brake technology is standard, with drum brake configurations and other options planned, SAF-Holland said....More
Mar. 27, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Chevron introduces natural-gas specific oil

LOUISVILLE, KY. Chevron Lubricants has introduced a new oil designed for use in compressed natural gas (CNG), liquefied natural gas (LNG) and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) engines. The announcement was made last week as part of the Mid-America Trucking Show. The premium Delo 400 NG SAE 15W-40 oil, formulated with Chevron’s ISOSYN technology, is designed to provide long drain performance, the company said....More
Mar. 22, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Western Star adding lightweight specs, adding second shift

LOUISVILLE, KY. Western Star Trucks, brother to Freightliner LLC and a fellow division of Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA), said demand for its models has increased to the point where a second shift is being added to the Portland, OR, production facility that builds its trucks....More
Mar. 26, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Truck Lite shows off LED headlamps & pigtails

Truck Lite Co. LLC brought several of its light emitting diode (LED) headlamps and trailer “pigtail” lights for commercial vehicles to the 2012 Mid America Trucking Show. The company showed off its 7-inch round DOT approved LED headlamp – first introduced in 2009 – along with a 5-inch by 7-inch square LED headlamp model rolled out in February this year....More
Mar. 26, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

WABCO expanding North American CV role

LOUISVILLE, KY. WABCO Holdings Inc., (NYSE: WBC) a Tier-One supplier to the global commercial vehicle industry, explained its expanding presence in the North American commercial-vehicle (CV) market at a news conference held here Friday at the Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS). The company also detailed products it regards as “technology breakthroughs” that it said will help truck, bus and trailer makers increase vehicle safety and efficiency as well as improve driver effectiveness and environmental sustainability....More
Mar. 21, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Yokohama debuts drive tire

LOUISVILLE, KY. Yokohama Tire Corp. has unveiled a new drive tire, which is part of its Zenvironment technology line of fuel-efficient tires. The 709ZL made its debut today at the Mid-America Trucking Show here. Available in sizes 295/75R22.5 and 11R22.5, the new tire combines Yokohama’s technological breakthroughs in casing design, rubber compounding and tread design, the company said....More
Mar. 31, 2011

article

Fleet Owner

Carrier Transicold introduces APX refrigeration control system

LOUISVILLE, KY. Carrier Transicold chose the Mid-America Trucking Show to unveil its newest control system for transport refrigeration units (TRUs). Called the APX, the system uses distributed electronics, features a bigger, brighter display with simplified user interface; greater memory; and an expanded range of applications for unit customization...More
Mar. 23, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

New mechanical detachable gooseneck trailer

LOUISVILLE, KY. A lighter and more durable mechanical detachable gooseneck trailer (MG) was introduced this week at the Mid-America Trucking Show here by Trail King. The MG features aluminum cross members and outer rails as standard equipment, improving corrosion resistance. The aluminum also reduces the weight of the trailer up to 1,000 lbs. compared to previous models....More
Mar. 20, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Corner protection product

LOUISVILLE, KY. A new corner protection product has been introduced here this week by Bartleet Trading International. VeeBoards2Go is a compact-size package of 20 VeeBoards stacked together in a “carry-pack” for easy transfer and storage. Made from high density polyethylene, VeeBoards help protect cargo from strap damage, reduce damaged claims, and reduce wear and tear on straps, the company said. They are available in lengths from 12 in. to 78 in. ...More
Mar. 26, 2012

News

Fleet Owner

Aerofficient adds sliding trailer side fairing

LOUISVILLE, KY. Aerofficient announced that production of its new Slider side fairing for on-highway trailers will begin in April at a news conference here on Friday during the Mid-America Trucking Show. The company said the unique, patent pending system automatically expands or contracts when the trailer's axles are moved to fill the gap between the trailing edge of a standard “fixed” trailer side fairing and the trailer’s tires....More
Mar. 21, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Update results in AOBRD compliance for Garmin device

LOUISVILLE, KY. Garmin made two announcements here this morning at the Mid-America Trucking Show. The company said that its Garmin dēzl 560 device has received a software update, allowing it to comply with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulations for automatic onboard recording devices (AOBRD)....More
Mar. 22, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Inspection bypass, toll payment services offered in new service 1

LOUISVILLE, KY. A new service from Drivewyze Inc. will enable inspection station bypass and toll-payment services for users. The Drivewyze service leverages a web- and GPS-based technology platform for its operation. The system also adds visual and auditory notifications to assist drivers in making good decisions while on the road, Drivewyze said....More
Mar. 22, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Michelin offers new X One retread, super regional tire

LOUISVILLE, KY. A new pre-mold retreat for the Michelin X One wide single tire and a new drive tire for applications combining longer hauls with regional delivery characteristics have been introduced by Michelin Americas Truck Tires at the Mid-America Trucking Show. ...More
Mar. 23, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Transcraft debuts new low-deck trailer, improvements to Benson 524 flatbed

LOUISVILLE, KY. Transcraft Corp. displayed a redesigned Benson 524 flatbed, a new ultra-lightweight package, and a new low-deck trailer this week at the Mid-America Trucking Show. The Benson 524 flatbed now includes an enhanced rear impact guard for added protection, and two new integrated load securement features. A patent-pending side rail and patent-pending main beam top tee to support sliding J-hooks on the sides and center of the trailer will help keep loads secure, the company said....More
Apr. 2, 2012

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Fleet Owner

International ProStar offered as grand prize

International Used Truck Centers launched its “Get Used to International” ProStar MaxxForce sweepstakes at the Mid-America Trucking Show. Grand prize in the contest is a 2010 International ProStar used tractor powered by a MaxxForce 13 engine. There will also be weekly prizes of $250 Visa Award Cards. Complete details on the sweepstakes, eligibility and instructions on how to enter are available at www.internationalusedtrucks.com....More
Mar. 23, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Great Dane revamps trailer line

LOUISVILLE, KY. Great Dane announced it has completely redesigned its entire product line to meet the evolving needs of its customers by incorporating state-of-the-art technology, materials and features into its base models here this week at the Mid-America Trucking Show. Great Dane said its all-new Champion dry freight van has standard features that “boldly stand up to the challenges of everyday abuse and result in reduced maintenance costs, long service life and a solid return on investment.”...More
Oct. 16, 2009

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Fleet Owner

Bendix announces SmarTire availability

Bendix CVS has announced that its SmarTire Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is now available to truck fleets through the network of Bendix OES and independent aftermarket partners across North America...More
Mar. 22, 2012

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Fleet Owner

Rail-mounted CNG fuel systems unveiled

LOUISVILLE, KY. A new line of rail-mounted compressed natural gas fuel systems has been unveiled by Agility Fuel Systems, a designer and producer of alternative fuel storage and delivery systems. The line, available for Class 7 and Class 8 tractors, were introduced at the Mid-America Trucking Show....More
Mar. 20, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

CB radios with wireless technology introduced

LOUISVILLE, KY. To help meet distracted driving laws calling for hands-free calling, Cobra Electronics has released two new citizen’s band (CB) radios this week at the Mid-America Trucking Show....More
Mar. 28, 2012

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Selfless trucker named Arrow’s Back on the Road winner 1

Billy Basenberg needed a break, and he got one when Arrow Truck Sales named him its 5th anniversary Back on the Road winner last week at the Mid-America Trucking Show. The program rewards a driver with a one-year lease on a tractor and a one-year work agreement with Heartland Express....More
Mar. 21, 2012

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Fleet Owner

SmartWay trailer radial fills out line

LOUISVILLE, KY. GT Radial introduced a SmartWay verified radial trailer tire, giving the company a radial truck tire for every axle position. The GT979 FS, introduced today at the Mid-America Trucking Show here, joins the GT Radial GSL213 FS steer tire and GT669+ FS drive tire. Both of those tires received SmartWay verification in 2010....More
Mar. 20, 2012

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Fleet Owner

Enhanced trailer storage system on display

LOUISVILLE, KY. Kinedyne is displaying an enhanced version of its Kaptive Beam System at the Mid-America Trucking Show this year as well as recently released tarp ties. The Kaptive Beam System is a “double-decking” solution that creates a second deck inside the trailer, maximizing cargo space. The system uses tracks and beams to allow fleets to take advantage of weight limits by utilizing traditional dead space in a trailer....More
Mar. 22, 2012

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Fleet Owner

Lighter weight air-damping system

LOUISVILLE, KY. Firestone Industrial Products is showing its new Airide integrative air-damping system at the Mid-America Trucking Show this week. The Airide is a lighter-weight alternative to cab-mount suspension applications, the company said, offering the functionality of an air spring and shock absorber in a single part....More
Mar. 23, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Goodyear names 2011 Highway Hero

LOUISVILLE, KY. Throwing aside any risk to himself, Tennessee truck driver Mike Schiotis positioned himself between a woman and attacker with a gun on the side of a highway on Nov. 1, 2011. Schiotis eventually got the woman to safety and led police to her attacker and for that, he has been named the 29th Goodyear Highway Hero Award winner for 2011. Schiotis accepted his award today at the Mid-America Trucking Show....More

Commentary

May 10, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Finding fault with the process

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) recently postponed its plans to incorporate accident accountability into the crash BASIC score as part of the often-criticized CSA methodology. The delay itself certainly does not come as a surprise to most in the industry; however, the agency’s justification for deciding to halt progress on correcting CSA methodology was based on the recommendation of supposed safety advocacy groups....More
May 10, 2012

Article

Optimal results

Saint Joseph, MO-based Hillyard Inc., founded in 1907, was an early pioneer in maintenance products, most famously for wood gym floor finishes that were field-tested on a company gym floor, the largest of its kind west of the Mississippi. To showcase its high-quality products, founder N.S. Hillyard organized a company basketball team, which won back-to-back national AAU championships in the 1920s....More
May 10, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Natural fit

While overall freight volumes are expanding at moderate growth rates, some segments, like the oil and gas industries, are seeing strong growth rates. High oil prices (Chart A) stimulate oil exploration and drilling, while technology advancements result in the development of new natural gas fields, such as Marcellus Shale in Washington County, PA, and the result is improved freight volume activity....More
May 10, 2012

Commentary

Fleet Owner

FMCSA, CVSA and tread depth

If I had a quarter for every phone call that started with the words, “My customer got a ticket for…,” I would have a whole bunch of quarters. There seems to be some varying interpretations of the federal regulations on truck tire and wheel inspection, so I thought it was time to dedicate this month’s column to help clear up some of the confusion....More
May 10, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Small business review: Setting your market 1

Did it really pay for itself? As a frugal and wise business owner, this is a question you should not have to ask yourself. Because if all it did was pay for itself, it means you’ve covered expenses, but where’s the profit? Just covering costs only keeps you mired in the mud and doesn’t let you set up your future sustainability and growth....More

Info Tech

Apr. 10, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Real-time mapping of fleet data

Zonar and Esri have announced an integration that will provide real-time fleet data layered with sophisticated geographic map information. The combination will help companies determine capacity enhancements, improve fuel efficiency, optimize routes and share interactive transportation maps on the web, Zonar said....More
Mar. 20, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Automated toll reporting, management program launched

GE Capital Fleet Services has launched a new toll management program that is said to eliminate expense reports and increase visibility into and control over toll expenses. The service allows drivers to use electronic tolling lanes, thereby eliminating the need for the driver to submit an expense report. In the office, managers are able to take advantage of a single GE Capital Fleet Services’ managed program that reduces administrative tasks....More
Mar. 19, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Xata Turnpike now offering household carriers log simplification

Xata Corp. has released Xata Turnpike Multiple Management Authority, a new tracking tool designed for fleet managers of household goods carriers who supervise drivers hauling under multiple operating authorities....More
Apr. 6, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Qualcomm’s MCP50 available with monthly pricing plans

Qualcomm Enterprise Services is now selling its Mobile Computing Platform 50 (MCP50) with “flexible new monthly pricing plans” to help fleets meet budget projections, it said....More
Mar. 29, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

WebFleet Mobile now available for tablets

TomTom has released its WebFleet Mobile application for iPad and Android tablet devices....More
Mar. 27, 2012

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Fleet Owner

CoPilot Truck app for smartphones and tablets

ALK Technologies has released a new CoPilot Truck GPS navigation app for smartphones and tablets. This new app takes the company’s powerful CoPilot Truck navigation system and packages it for use on devices such as iPhones, iPads, and Android-powered devices, laptops and Windows Mobile rugged devices....More
Mar. 15, 2012

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Fleet Owner

CarrierWeb introduces two new EOBRs

CarrierWeb recently unveiled two new in-cab, touchscreen, electronic on-board recording devices (EOBRs) - the CarrierMate 2500 and CarrierMate 5700. Each features electronic logging, automatic dispatch, mapping and compliance alert notifications, plus the ability to monitor factors such as speed, mileage, driver activities, hours of service and position....More
Mar. 30, 2012

Article

Fleet Owner

Telogis acquires Maptuit

Telogis has purchased the assets of Maptuit, a provider of connected navigation for commercial feets. The purchase allows Telogis to expand its platform of Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) offerings, including fleet management navigation, multi-vehicle route optimization and planning, work order management and mobile integration. Terms were not disclosed....More
Apr. 12, 2012

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Fleet Owner

McLeod releases Version 11.0 of LoadMaster and PowerBroker

McLeod Software announced the release of its newest version of LoadMaster Enterprise and PowerBroker this week. The 11.0 version is designed to give carriers and brokers new tools to manage service levels in addition to new analysis and accounting tools. ...More

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