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July 2012

The July 2012 issue of FleetOwner gives readers a first look at the 2013 models of Class 1-8 model vehicles. A look at cell phone policies, run-flat protection and a special supplement on fuel economy are also included in this issue. 

Editor's Page

  • Jul. 11, 2012
    Commentary
    Fleet Owner

    A tired approach

    We continue to wait for final resolution on hours-of-service rules and related requirements for electronic logs, two issues that seem to defy closure. They’ll be here one day soon, we’re assured, but when they do get here, will drivers be less fatigued and will trucking be safer? Or will all this effort and argument prove to be an enormous waste of time and money?...More

Commentary

  • Jul. 11, 2012
    Commentary
    Fleet Owner

    Time to compromise 1

    There’s politics. And then there’s leadership. We are surfeit in politics, drowning in it simply put, in this country in this day and age. Where once the United States not only survived, but prevailed over far worst circumstances than it faces today largely through the efforts of leaders of every political stripe who would come together as needed for the common good, we are now stuck with truckloads of politicians who at nearly every crossroad choose raw partisanship over necessary compromise....More
  • Jul. 11, 2012
    Commentary
    Fleet Owner

    Working with CSA 1

    Two years after being rolled out, it is safe to say that a majority of stakeholders in trucking have some serious concerns regarding CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability). As the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) continues to work through the development of this safety enforcement tool, its action, or lack thereof, on certain issues has instilled doubts in the program that perhaps did not exist before and have dampened the general attitude towards its integrity as a whole. Fresh from the 2012 TCA Safety & Security Div....More
  • Jul. 11, 2012
    Article

    Safety first 2

    NPTC’s National Safety Conference, scheduled for Sept. 13- 14, 2012, at the Hyatt Dulles in Herndon, VA, is an intense, concentrated overview of key issues of interest and importance to running private fleet operations at an exceptionally high standard of safety. The program includes an update on federal regulations; private fleet case studies; a recap of several leading safety technologies; a recognition ceremony honoring top performing drivers; safety-in-the round breakout sessions; liability mitigation strategies; data mining and predictive modeling; and best safety practices....More
  • Jul. 10, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Run-flat prevention

    In every line of work, there are always some inevitable problems that appear to be without a solution. Saying these are the costs of doing business is simply easier than saying there has to be a solution, but we just can’t figure it out. When it comes to preventing run-flat tires in the trucking industry, the search for nirvana has led us to travel numerous roads, most of them with obstacles that cannot be avoided....More
  • Jul. 11, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Get in the groove

    What’s the difference between a ‘rut’ and a ‘groove’ when it comes to trucking? Being in a ‘rut’ would indicate stagnation. In other words, you’re spinning your wheels, causing your trucking business to seemingly stay in one place without moving forward. Your business is either barely meeting the goals you’ve set or not meeting the revenue needs required to grow....More

Features

  • Jul. 11, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    First Look: 2013 New Models

    Truck makers are making a serious run at 2013— in most cases loading their commercial vehicle lineups with an array of new models and a host of new features and options that enhance everything from powertrain performance to driver comfort....More
  • Jul. 11, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    2013 New Models Class 1-3 1

    Ford While only minor changes are being made to the venerable F-150 pickups for the 2013 model year, Ford is planning to make big changes to its line of light-duty commercial vans. The company will gradually phase out the E-Series and replace it with an all-new Transit van platform, which will be introduced with a diesel engine option for the 2013 model year....More
  • Jul. 11, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    2013 New Models Class 4-7

    Ford Ford Motor Co.’s medium-duty lineup for the 2013 model year will feature a gasoline powertrain spec for the F-650 truck. It includes the 6.8L, 375-hp. V10 Triton engine, which cranks out 457 lbs.-ft. of torque, and a 6-spd. 6R140 automatic transmission with double overdrive gears. The transmission is the same one used in the diesel-powered version of the F-650, the OEM notes. It is capable of running on gasoline, CNG or propane....More
  • Jul. 11, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    2013 New Models Class 8

    Autocar Autocar LLC’s latest model, the E3 Advanced Series hybrid cab/chassis model, was rolled out last year. The truck is aimed specifically at the refuse market, and the OEM positions the E3 cab/chassis hybrid model as “the industry’s lowest emission, fully functional Class 8 truck available today.” ...More
  • Jul. 11, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Fuel for thought 1

    When you think about it, fleets don’t really ask for much when it comes to managing their drivers’ fuel purchasing. The lowest available price per gallon; few out-of-route miles to get to the pumps; absolute transparency concerning purchase transactions; and accurate, real-time data reporting are all that is required. How hard is that?...More
  • Jul. 11, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Put down the phone 49

    Cell phones are everywhere, so it’s no surprise that many, if not most, drivers of trucks large, small and in between carry cell phones. According to a recent survey, eight out of 10 commercial vehicle drivers have either a personal or company-owned cell phone or other portable electronic communications device. They have simply become an integral part of every mobile worker’s business and personal life. It’s also no surprise that using one of these devices while driving poses a potential safety risk....More
  • Jul. 11, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Save now, save later

    For the first time, heavy- and medium-duty trucks will have to reach government-mandated fuel economy standards starting in 2014. Those standards will become even more stringent by 2018. What will this mean to fleets? Most likely it will limit the number of components truck buyers will be able to specify in the future, which can be viewed both positively and negatively, according to industry experts....More

Management

  • Jun. 6, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Election year will stall regulatory activity, says Sandberg 1

    San Diego. Annette Sandberg, principal of TransSafe Consulting, LLC and former Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) administrator, advised attendees at Qualcomm’s Vision 2012 Management Conference here today, to expect a lull in federal regulatory activity from August until early 2012. The good news concerning regulations is that this is an election year, so not much will happen, she told the packed opening session of the conference....More
  • May 17, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    FMCSA presents Strategic Plan

    The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has presented a 2012-2016 Strategic Plan that will focus the agency’s resources on three core principals: raising the bar to enter the motor carrier industry; maintaining high safety standards to remain in the industry; and removing high-risk carriers, drivers, and service providers from operation....More
  • Jun. 1, 2012
    News
    Fleet Owner

    Ernst & Young: Six trends shaping the global truck market

    Per the latest “mega trends” report on the commercial vehicle (CV) market released by Ernst & Young’s Global Automotive Center, the global CV industry is “at an important crossroad with globalization, technology development, regulations and emerging markets set to change the face of the industry in the next decade.”...More
  • Jul. 10, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Class 8 orders remain weak 2

    Preliminary data for June continues the recent trend of weakening Class 8 orders, according to data provided by FTR Associates. The firm noted that orders for June were down 8% from May and 23% from June 2011. In fact, FTR said, the net orders of 16,195 units are the lowest order numbers since September 2010....More
  • May 16, 2012
    Article

    Marking the “devolution” of highway funding 1

    As Congress continues to debate a variety of surface transportation funding bills – most notably the two-year Senate sponsored Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21) – several groups believe such federal-directed efforts are almost becoming moot as highway funding issues are increasingly “devolving” to the states....More
  • May 21, 2012
    Article

    Wrestling with driver retention

    Saul Gonzalez will tell you that driver retention is one of the most important issues facing the truckload industry right now – affecting everything from equipment choice, pay and benefits, even the type of freight carriers choose to haul. And it’s an issue that will affect the industry long term, he stressed....More

Running Green

  • May 16, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Propane message “starting to resonate”

    Long Beach, CA. Compared to a year ago, the propane message is “starting to resonate,” according to Todd A. Mouw, vice president sales and marketing for Roush CleanTech. Fleet Owner had the opportunity to talk with Mouw as the Alternative Clean Transportation Expo (ACT 2012) kicked off here in Long Beach Tuesday morning....More
  • May 22, 2012
    News
    Fleet Owner

    Charting its green course, Volvo Trucks reveals upcoming LNG engine

    At a news conference held during the weekend Miami stopover of the Volvo Ocean Race, Volvo Trucks North America (VTNA) revealed much about its strategy—dubbed “Blue Power” -- to further green its powertrain offerings....More
  • May 21, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Cummins Crosspoint to license NITE technology

    Cummins Crosspoint has signed an agreement to allow it to license Bergstrom’s NITE no-idle technology for use in its own battery-powered no-idle systems. The agreement relates primarily to battery-powered APU product technologies, although potential future collaborations are possible, Bergstrom said....More
  • May 14, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Frito-Lay hits milestone with all-electric vehicles, plans to purchase 100 more 8

    PepsiCo’s Frito-Lay North America division has ordered 100 additional Newton 2000 all-electric vehicles this year from Smith Electric Vehicles. The new order comes after the company announced it has surpassed one million miles driven by its fleet of 176 all-electric vehicles....More
  • Jun. 4, 2012
    News
    Fleet Owner

    GE opens Innovation Center for alt-fuel vehicles

    GE Capital Fleet Services has opened its Vehicle Innovation Center, which it calls a world-class facility that provides businesses, industry groups and researchers with a first-hand experience with alternative-fuel vehicles and enabling GE technologies. GE said the first-of-its-kind center reinforces its commitment to the deployment of more efficient vehicles in its fleet and in customer fleets....More
  • May 2, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Mack shows natural gas TerraPro models at Waste Expo

    Mack Trucks is showing three natural gas TerraPro models this week at Waste Expo 2012 in Las Vegas. Two cabover models and one low-entry model, all equipped with Cummins Westport ISL-G natural gas engines, are part of Mack’s booth, which also includes a tandem-steer version of the TerraPro cabover as well....More
  • Jun. 7, 2012
    News
    Fleet Owner

    Shell plans to sell LNG at U.S. truckstops 8

    Shell Oil Co. and its affiliates have signed a memorandum of understanding with TravelCenters of America LLC (TA) to sell liquefied natural gas (LNG) via TA’s existing nationwide network of full-service fueling centers....More
  • Jun. 4, 2012
    News
    Fleet Owner

    Eaton makes enhancements to hybrid power system

    Eaton Corp. has announced several enhancements it said will increase the fuel economy, performance and payback of its hybrid power system for commercial vehicles. The improvements include a new high-capacity battery, a new single-phase 115-volt AC Auxiliary Power Generator (APG), a higher capacity clutch to expand applications up to 860 lb-ft of torque, and a new remanufactured battery for aftermarket purchase....More
  • Jul. 11, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Green Fleet of the Month: Filtered savings

    Being able to extend oil drains can be a real cost-saver for fleets. But to go as many as five years between oil changes on a vehicle that is used daily seemed only a pipe dream not long ago. For Ron Kleintop and the Miami-Dade County (FL) municipal fleet, though, that is a reality thanks to the bypass oil filtration system from Puradyn Filter Technologies....More

Equipment

  • May 30, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Next-generation Cascadia boosts fuel economy 5%

    Washington, DC. The next generation of Freightliner Trucks’ over-the-road Cascadia tractor will achieve 5% better fuel economy than the current model and 7% better than the first generation EPA-2010 compliant model, according to officials of Daimler Trucks North America....More
  • May 31, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Diamond-coated, micro-round files

    Innovative Products of America has released a new set of files in a custom leather-type holster. The female bullet connector cleaner set (#8042) features super-hard, diamond-coated round micro-files ranging from 0.030 to 0.120 in....More
  • Jun. 5, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Modular air ride suspension line released

    A new line of modular air ride suspensions (MARS) has been released by AXN Heavy Duty. The line was developed in partnership with AXN’s European partner, VDL Weweler. The line includes weldless axle connections that use formed retention grooves as well as a smooth ride and low cost of ownership, said AXN....More
  • May 18, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Cat unveils 15L C15 engine 3

    Owners of the Cat CT660 vocational truck now have a third engine choice with the release of the 15L CT15 engine. The CT15 joins the CT11 and CT13 as available options on the truck. The CT15 offers as much as 550 hp. and 1,850 lbs.-ft. of torque....More
  • May 31, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    65-ton modular trailer available

    Talbert Manufacturing has created the 2+3+2 65-ton HRG East Coast trailer, a modular-designed trailer with a flip extension to accommodate a tandem-axle jeep dolly. Talbert, a specialty-built trailer and transport system provider, said the trailer is designed for flexibility and versatility. The HRG hydraulic gooseneck trailer is ideal for a variety of markets including general construction, heavy-haul trucking and oilfields, the company said....More
  • Jun. 11, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Replacement drum brake for meeting new federal standards

    A new commercial-vehicle drum brake block from Abex Commercial Grade Friction meets Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 121 reduced stopping distance (RSD) requirements. Abex products are manufactured by Federal-Mogul. The new product is available through leading replacement parts distributors....More
  • May 29, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Kenworth details lineup, including T680 and new cabovers

    KIRKLAND, WA. During a press briefing on Friday morning at its Kirkland, WA, headquarters, Kenworth assistant general manager-sales & marketing Preston Feight announced that the company’s new T680 tractor has begun production. The tractor began rolling off the line on Monday, May 21....More
  • Jun. 8, 2012
    Article

    Bosch adds to medium-duty brake pad line

    Component maker Bosch is adding 24 new models of brake pads to its QuietCast series, designed for medium duty truck operations....More
  • Jun. 8, 2012
    News
    Fleet Owner

    Bendix ESP named Peterbilt standard offering

    Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC has announced that its ESP (Electronic Stability Program) full-stability system with Automatic Traction Control (ATC) has became standard on the majority of PeterbiltMotors Co.’s Class 8 trucks and tractors, including the newly announced Model 579....More

Fuel Economy Special Report

  • Jul. 11, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Save now, save later

    For the first time, heavy- and medium-duty trucks will have to reach government-mandated fuel economy standards starting in 2014. Those standards will become even more stringent by 2018. What will this mean to fleets? Most likely it will limit the number of components truck buyers will be able to specify in the future, which can be viewed both positively and negatively, according to industry experts....More
  • Jul. 16, 2012
    Article

    Group sues EPA over fuel economy regs

    A lawsuit challenging the Obama Administration’s greenhouse gas emissions standards for heavy- and mediumduty trucks was filed last November by the Pacific Legal Foundation (PL F) on behalf of small businesses and trade organizations whose members the foundation claims would be damaged by the regulations....More
  • Jul. 16, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    How truck fuel economy regs work 4

    Under the new rules announced by the Obama Administration last year, all medium- and heavy-duty trucks will be required to meet both fuel efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions standards for the first time beginning in 2014....More

2013 Models

  • Jul. 11, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    First Look: 2013 New Models

    Truck makers are making a serious run at 2013— in most cases loading their commercial vehicle lineups with an array of new models and a host of new features and options that enhance everything from powertrain performance to driver comfort....More
  • Jul. 11, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    2013 New Models Class 1-3 1

    Ford While only minor changes are being made to the venerable F-150 pickups for the 2013 model year, Ford is planning to make big changes to its line of light-duty commercial vans. The company will gradually phase out the E-Series and replace it with an all-new Transit van platform, which will be introduced with a diesel engine option for the 2013 model year....More
  • Jul. 11, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    2013 New Models Class 4-7

    Ford Ford Motor Co.’s medium-duty lineup for the 2013 model year will feature a gasoline powertrain spec for the F-650 truck. It includes the 6.8L, 375-hp. V10 Triton engine, which cranks out 457 lbs.-ft. of torque, and a 6-spd. 6R140 automatic transmission with double overdrive gears. The transmission is the same one used in the diesel-powered version of the F-650, the OEM notes. It is capable of running on gasoline, CNG or propane....More
  • Jul. 11, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    2013 New Models Class 8

    Autocar Autocar LLC’s latest model, the E3 Advanced Series hybrid cab/chassis model, was rolled out last year. The truck is aimed specifically at the refuse market, and the OEM positions the E3 cab/chassis hybrid model as “the industry’s lowest emission, fully functional Class 8 truck available today.” ...More

From the Issue

  • Jul. 11, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Handling Hydraulics

     ...More
  • Jul. 11, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    What's new in: Liftgates

    A liftgate can make life easier for drivers and shippers alike. Whether you need a liftgate for a Class 8, a straight truck or a delivery van, there are plenty of options available. Concern over corrosion due to highway deicers and other roadway chemicals remains a key issue for customers of liftgate manufacturers. Anthony Liftgates recently replaced its powder coat finishing system in favor of the metal polymerization corrosion protection process from PRP Industries....More
  • Jul. 11, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Moving & Storage: Visionary approach 1

    We steer our business based on nine core values, including ‘operational excellence’ as the primary driver, yet we are always seeking ways to improve our model,” says Gary Martin, executive vice president of administration at Clark & Reid Co., Billerica, MA. “We have some of the same challenges as other moving and storage companies and unique issues we work hard to address....More
  • May 25, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Kenworth delivers first urban-duty K370 truck

    Kenworth presents Coca-Cola Refreshments with first cabover model; presents T680 in special ride-and-drive event...More
  • Jul. 11, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Mom hits the dirt 1

    Seven weeks after becoming a new mother, defending Class 6 SCORE (Southern California Off Road Enthusiasts) champion Heidi Steele is back at work. Steele, who is sponsored by Yokohama Tire Corp., made her season debut at the 44th Tecate SCORE Baja 500, held June 1-3 in Ensenada, Baja, Mexico. Steele and co-driver/ Desert Assassins teammate Rene Brugger again tackled the tough Baja terrain in a Ford Ranger fitted with offthe- shelf Yokohama Geolandar M/T+ tires....More
  • Jul. 11, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Saluting those who sacrificed

      Employees of Mack Trucks honored fallen or missing members of the U.S. Armed forces during the “Rollin Thunder Ride for Freedom” rally held over Memorial Day weekend. Workers from the Mack Customer Center and Macungie Assembly operations, both located in Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley, caravanned to Hagerstown, MD, for a memorial ceremony at the company’s powertrain plant....More
  • Jul. 11, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Techs to watch

    NationaLease has announced the winners of its second annual Tech Challenge, a national competition for technicians working within its network. The top three winners of the Challenge will compete in the TMC SuperTech Competition, to be held in September. Taking top honor was Bob Mrzyglod of Aim NationaLease, Girard, OH. Coming in as first runner-up was Scott Wilson of Florida Truck Leasing, a NationaLease developing member, Apopka, FL. The second runner-up was Aaron Tucker, of Hogan Truck Leasing, a NationaLease member, St. Louis, MO....More
  • Jul. 16, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Talk about a fit trucker

    Formerly an owner-operator leased to Prime Inc. and now owner of driver-exercise firm Fitness Trucking, Siphiwe Baleka recently not only finished a grueling triathlon event, but helped transport 81 bicycles used by him and his competitors. Baleka, who finished eighth in the Men’s 40-44 division of the ITU San Diego Spring Triathlon, along with driver Mike Edwards delivered the race bikes from across the country....More

Info Tech

  • Jul. 11, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Put down the phone 49

    Cell phones are everywhere, so it’s no surprise that many, if not most, drivers of trucks large, small and in between carry cell phones. According to a recent survey, eight out of 10 commercial vehicle drivers have either a personal or company-owned cell phone or other portable electronic communications device. They have simply become an integral part of every mobile worker’s business and personal life. It’s also no surprise that using one of these devices while driving poses a potential safety risk....More
  • May 30, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Magellan expands commercial truck GPS line

    Magellan announced the newest addition to its family of commercial GPS devices, the compliance-ready Magellan RoadMate Commercial 9270T-LM GPS....More
  • Jun. 12, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    New transportation suite offers flexible reporting

    A new software transportation suite combines two popular programs in a scalable, flexible reporting solution. Intelek EDI Transportation Suite, from Intelek Technologies Corp., combines the company’s StripMiner EDI Screen Scraper software and its DiamondMine EDI transaction software....More
  • Jun. 6, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Battery-powered tracking device

    Mentor Engineering has released a new battery-operated tracking device to help businesses monitor assets more efficiently....More
  • Jun. 11, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Google Earth mapping added to onboard event recorder 2

    PeopleNet has added Google Earth mapping to its onboard recording events. Google Earth views will now be available within the PeopleNet Fleet Manager....More
  • Dec. 20, 2011
    article
    Fleet Owner

    Vigillo CSA tool reveals disparate state enforcement

    Vigillo, creator of Daylight, the CSA Platform for Transportation, has announced its IQLab division will be offering a Top Violations By State Excel workbook “to better assist motor carriers in managing disparate enforcement state to state.”...More
  • Jun. 8, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Qualcomm unveils new fleet safety and efficiency solutions 1

     San Diego. Qualcomm Inc. unveiled new solutions and product enhancements this week intended to further support driver safety and offer greater flexibility for private and for-hire fleets. The announcements came during the company’s biennial customer conference, Vision 2012, held here in its headquarters city. ...More
  • May 30, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Boost cell signals with the Sleek

    Ideal for field service workers who are constantly on the move, Wilson Electronics’ Sleek cell-phone signal booster helps to eliminate dead zones and makes communication with workers easier. The device, originally introduced in 2010 and sold exclusively as a consumer product, is part of Wilson’s push into the transportation vertical.  It can be used with a Bluetooth headset or other hands-free devices and is easily installed....More
  • May 16, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Performance data offered to drivers with new mobile app

    Driver performance and safety management provider GreenRoad has released a mobile app that it said will provide drivers with key performance data on their Apple iOS and Android mobile and tablet devices. The GreenRoad Central mobile app for drivers is now available for download from app stores. “The app gives drivers an easy way to keep engaged with our GreenRoad program when they’re off the road. Our team finds it easy and convenient to use,” said Al Lacombe, director of safety and training at Dupre Logistics....More
  • Jun. 7, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Real-time weather, information comes with new truck navigation solution

    Rand McNally has released its newest product in its GPS line of devices, this one enabled with WiFi connectivity to allow for real-time weather updates and other information....More
  • May 24, 2012
    News
    Fleet Owner

    Telogis, FleetCor partner on telematics/fuel-card integration

    Telogis, Inc., which specializes in location technology, information and services, and FleetCor Technologies, Inc., a global provider of fuel card and workforce payment products, have announced a global partnership “for the integration of telematics and fuel card reporting that will assist in bringing greater visibility to a business’ fueling activities, improve reporting, and help reduce unauthorized fuel card use with the ultimate goal of driving down total fuel expense.”...More
  • Jul. 11, 2012
    Article
    Fleet Owner

    Fleets online: Diesel simplified

     ...More
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