Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) is increasing annual potential network capacity in the U.S and Canada by up to 3.5 million service hours, adding 700 new service bays across 40 locations. This includes 34 new facilities and six remodeled facilities spread out over 30 states and provinces from Texas to Quebec, all expected by the end of the year.
“This expansion represents an investment by DTNA’s dealer partners towards a mutual commitment to a 24-hour or less repair turnaround,” said Kevin Bangston, general manager of Dealer Network Development for DTNA. Bangston also noted the number of Freightliner trucks on the road have “grown quickly in the last five years.”
And the main focus is to keep those trucks moving—while more noticeably critical during the current COVID-19 pandemic—always has been of paramount importance to fleets.
“The need of our customers for maximum uptime has never been more apparent than it is in today’s environment,” Bangston said. “They are what makes the complex logistics and supply chain of our global economy work. When our customers do need service, DTNA and our dealers are committed to getting them back on the road as quickly as possible.”
The Southeast is set to see a major reinforcement, with 300 new service bays added to the region, 90 at one Texas dealer, Houston Freightliner & Western Star, which Bangston said "is a very strong customer focused dealer, who has been recognized as an Employer of Choice for several years in the Houston area."
In the Southeast, Nashville will also be getting significantly expanded service. In the Midwest, Kansas City, South Bend, Ind., and Columbus, Ohio, will also see increased capacity.
Truck Centers, Inc. in South Bend is moving to a new facility with 40 more bays to better serve truckers along the Interstate 80/90 corridor. Additional amenities will include lounges, showers, laundry areas and a shuttle service.
The upgrade could also aid recruitment of maintenance technicians, which are always in demand.
"We have continually invested in the long term, with the state of the art facilities, that increase safety and comfort for our technicians," said Michael Yates, Truck Centers vice chairman. "We hope with new facility to attract young men and women who are wanting to serve such a critical role in our industry, keeping customers trucks on the road.”
North of the border, Winnipeg will get a newly constructed 30-bay shop, and a 20-bay facility will be built in Montreal.
