Equipment & Tech Archives

NEXT Logistics clinches third Fleet Safety Award from WMCA

Dana Guthrie - September 23, 2024

MARSHFIELD, Wis — NEXT Logistics, part of the Nelson-Jameson family of companies, has won a Fleet Safety Award from the Wisconsin Motor Carrier Association (WMCA) for the third consecutive year. “With a commitment to continuous training as well as efficient systems and expert logistics to ensure customers receive their orders on time and securely – the throughline for NEXT Logistics and Nelson-Jameson is safety,” said Mike Rindy, Nelson-Jameson president. “Receiving this safety award for the third consecutive year validates our commitment to employee safety and an accident-free workplace, at home and on the road.” According to a company media release, the award honors the safest truckload fleets in Wisconsin. NEXT qualified for a Fleet Safety Award for Division 2 with 545,507 accident-free miles in Wisconsin, nearly 60,000 more than the company drove the previous year. The extraordinary record exemplifies the company’s extensive safety training, job shadowing, and regular safety check-ins with employees to stress the importance of safety in the workplace. WMCA is a non-profit trade association representing the interests of Wisconsin’s truck and transportation owners. With more than 1,400 members, including Nelson-Jameson, the WMCA is affiliated with the American Trucking Associations (ATA) in Washington, D.C. The award was presented at WMCA’s annual Safety Luncheon.

Brandt brings rust-resistant trailers to the US heartland

Dana Guthrie - September 19, 2024

REGINA, Saskatchewan, Canada — Brandt is expanding its reach to provide products in the U.S. Midwest, something the company says is good news for drivers frustrated by rusting trailers because of road salt. According to a company press release, Brandt and LVI Supply have partnered to make the rust-resistant Work Ready trailers available in the area. “Our trailers are built for the most extreme conditions, so they are a perfect solution for anyone hauling equipment or materials in the Midwest,” said Jason Klassen, Brandt senior vice president sales-manufactured products. “Teaming up with LVI Supply will help us reach even more customers with these superior products.” According to the release, Brandt Work Ready trailers are purpose built with durable components to maximize service life. They have the toughest powder-coat paint finish in the industry, plus galvanized coatings to outlast any condition. Trailers also come with a best-in-class two-year bumper-to-bumper warranty and five-year structural warranty supported by Brandt. LVI Supply was founded in 2015 to provide a sustainable resource for hydraulic supply for customers in heavy industries throughout northern Minnesota, according to the release. The company now serves the entire upper Midwest region with top-quality hydraulic and industrial brands. “Most trailers around here will rust within the first year and need to be repainted. So, one of the biggest selling points for Brandt trailers is the quality and durability of their coating to prevent that rust,” said Jason LaValley, CEO and president of LVI Supply. “Brandt builds robust, reliable equipment that delivers higher value for our customers, and we’re proud to sell these premium trailers.”

JB Hunt kicks off Clean Energy demo truck program with Cummins X15N

Bruce Guthrie - September 18, 2024

In a joint press release issued recently by Clean Energy Fuels Corp. announced that it is launching a program to allow heavy-duty fleets to operate a truck equipped with the new Cummins X15N engine. The first company to participate in the program is industry leader J.B. Hunt Transport Inc., one of the largest commercial fleet operators with extensive logistics and transportation services in North America. The 2025 Peterbilt 579 day cab tractor, branded in Clean Energy’s signature green and equipped with Cummins’ 15-liter X15N natural gas engine, will be available for fleets to test on their normal routes in up to two-week intervals. The fleets operating the demo truck will be able to utilize Clean Energy’s fueling infrastructure which consists of over 600 stations across North America, 200 of which have public tractor-trailer access, the release stated. “We are honored to have our esteemed collaborators at J.B. Hunt kick off our X15N demo truck program. J.B. Hunt is committed to reducing its carbon footprint, and trialing our new renewable natural gas truck will allow them to experience the engine’s impressive capabilities which can meet any demand and has the potential to decarbonize part of its operations,” said Andrew Littlefair, president and CEO of Clean Energy. “As a solutions-driven industry leader, we are constantly exploring and testing opportunities that have the potential to deliver value for customers who are looking to reduce carbon emissions in their supply chain,” said Greer Woodruff, executive vice president of safety, sustainability and maintenance at J.B. Hunt. “We are excited to be the first carrier in Clean Energy’s pilot program and to get hands-on experience with the Cummins X15N tractor. Vehicles powered by renewable natural gas produce significantly less carbon emissions throughout their lifecycle and are more compatible with today’s available infrastructure than most competing emissions reduction technologies. The new technology and supporting fuel network in this pilot have the potential to be a viable, cost-effective solution for customers wanting to decrease their carbon footprint in the near term.” J.B. Hunt has worked closely with OEMs, fuel suppliers and infrastructure developers for more than 15 years to study the economic and operational viability of natural-gas powered vehicles and their potential impact on GHG reductions. Today, J.B. Hunt operates more than 180 renewable natural gas-powered vehicles on behalf of customers. Alternative powered vehicles and the adoption of biogenic fuels are two essential components for the company to achieve its ambitious goal to reduce its carbon emissions intensity 32% by 2034 from a baseline year of 2019. In 2023, J.B. Hunt surpassed the halfway mark for reaching its ambitious goal. Complementary to achieving its goal, the company’s intermodal service offering leads the industry in converting over-the-road shipments to rail, which on average reduces a shipment’s carbon footprint by 65% versus highway truck transportation. The new Cummins X15N engine is currently being tested by some of the country’s biggest and most demanding fleets and orders have already begun. It is receiving high praise for its capability to haul heavy loads for a 700+ mile range and is delivering on similar power and torque to its diesel counterpart the X15. The X15N also has the ability to drastically reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions when powered by RNG. RNG is the cleanest commercial transportation fuel available and can have a negative carbon-intensity score allowing trucks to reduce their carbon emissions by up to 300% compared to diesel. This has made the new engine a gamechanger for heavy-duty fleets looking to reach sustainability goals and effectively decarbonize their operations immediately. Clean Energy’s X15N demo truck program is expected to run through 2025 or longer as demand and interest grows. The truck will make its way through large and medium size heavy-duty trucking companies in California, Arizona, Texas, Oklahoma, Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Florida and states in between. This fall, other industry carriers will follow J.B. Hunt to challenge the capabilities of the new engine running on low-carbon RNG. RNG is a biogenic fuel made entirely from organic waste at facilities like dairy farms. Agriculture accounts for over 10% of U.S. GHG emissions and the transportation sector accounts for another 28%, according to the EPA. Capturing methane from farm waste lowers these emissions. RNG, produced by that captured methane and used as a transportation fuel, significantly lowers GHG emissions on a lifecycle basis when compared to diesel. This allows RNG to be one of the only transportation fuels to receive a negative carbon-intensity score by the California Air Resources Board based on the reduction of emissions at the source and at the vehicle.

Biden-Harris looking into EV charging infrastructure

Bruce Guthrie - September 18, 2024

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), along with the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation, announced via media release a Request for Information (RFI) from stakeholders about electric vehicle (EV) charging technologies and infrastructure needs for medium- and heavy-duty vehicles. According to the release, this RFI “supports the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to build a convenient, affordable, reliable and Made-in-America national EV charging network. Decarbonizing freight transportation by advancing the deployment of commercial zero-emission medium- and heavy-duty vehicles is a critical part of that strategy.” The RFI seeks input in four areas to support medium- and heavy-duty electric vehicles: 1) unique EV charger and station needs; 2) vehicle charging patterns; 3) charging technology and standardization, and 4) workforce, supply chain, and manufacturing to support charging of medium- and heavy-duty battery EVs in DOT vehicle classes four through eight, which include delivery vans, school buses, semi-tractor trucks, fire trucks, dump trucks, and tour buses. “This will inform how the federal government, including the Environmental Protection Agency and other agencies, can support the development and timely build-out of a national EV charging network that balances the needs of rapidly evolving technology and infrastructure investments in freight and a multimodal transportation system. The goal is to collect information on the potential type and need for setting federal standards,” the release stated. This follows the release of the National Zero Emission Freight Corridor Strategy earlier this year. “The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to decarbonizing freight transportation by prioritizing the deployment of zero-emission commercial medium- and heavy-duty vehicles,” said White House National Climate Advisor Ali Zaidi. “Building a robust, resilient and reliable national charging ecosystem for trucks – in collaboration with state and local stakeholders – is critical to ensuring the benefits of these vehicles reach the communities most impacted by transportation-related pollution and climate change.” “The electrification and sustainable buildout of our nation’s fleets is a critical priority for our nation’s sustainable transportation goals, to support the movement of goods and to connect communities,” said Acting Federal Highway Administrator Kristin White. “Getting information from the industry and communities impacted by future regulations is essential to helping the federal government understand how to support investments in vehicles like buses, trucks, vans, and larger vehicles to help us all move towards our Net Zero emissions goals.” In the National Blueprint for Decarbonization, the U.S. aims to have 30% of new medium- and heavy-duty vehicle sales be zero-emissions by 2030, and 100% by 2040. Under the Biden-Harris Administration, vehicle manufacturers and operators are using medium- and heavy-duty EVs at an increasing rate with over 160 models to choose from and more than 17,500 zero-emission trucks currently in operation – a nearly 10-fold increase from just three years ago. This trend in EV truck adoption is driven by a combination of factors, such as declining battery costs, and the growing recognition by vehicle manufacturers and operators of the economic and environmental benefits of electrification. Together, this momentum toward electrification is further advanced by corporate sustainability goals and innovative business models that prioritize operational efficiency and environmental stewardship. “Medium- and heavy-duty vehicle electrification is a crucial component of decarbonizing freight and reducing emissions that negatively affect health in many communities,” said Gabe Klein, Executive Director of the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation. “This RFI will build on the National Zero-Emission Freight Corridor Strategy released by the Joint Office earlier this year and will gain insights from stakeholders to continue to accelerate momentum toward a national fueling network for zero-emission freight.” Increased adoption of EV fleets, the need to address climate impacts, and the low costs of EV ownership create a well-timed backdrop for federal investments under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act. These investments support the build-out of electrical generation, distribution, and a charging network that will provide clean, affordable, and reliable energy to a transportation sector that accounts for 23% of greenhouse gas emissions despite accounting for just five percent of vehicles on the road. Comments must be received on or before November 12, 2024. Late-filed comments will be considered to the extent practicable. Instructions for submitting comments can be found in the Federal Register Notice. FHWA works closely with the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation, providing technical assistance on planning and implementation of a national network of EV chargers and zero-emission fueling infrastructure. Information on technical assistance from the Joint Office is available at driveelectric.gov.

Retail sales of used trucks fell below expectations for August, ACT says

Linda Garner-Bunch - September 16, 2024

COLUMBUS, Ind. — Volume growth of Class 8 same dealer used truck sales of +1.7% in August lagged behind expectations, according to a preliminary release of ACT Research’s State of the Industry: U.S. Classes 3-8 Used Trucks. According to the Sept. 16 release, the drop, which came after a better-than-expected July, is no surprise to analysts. “Stubbornly persistent softness in spot freight and freight rates, coupled with still high but improving inflation and interest rates, have failed to act as barriers to entry or dissuade truck buyers. Seasonality called for an increase of just over 9% month over month,” said Steve Tam, vice president at ACT Research. “Auction activity improved 21% from July, as did wholesale transactions, up 24%. Altogether, sales rose 12% from July.” ACT’s Classes 3-8 Used Truck report provides data on the tractors’ average selling price, miles and age based on a sample of industry data.

Embracing the future: Tom’s Truck Center opens country’s first onsite hydrogen refueling station

Dana Guthrie - September 16, 2024

LOS ANGELES, Calif.—Tom’s Truck Center, part of the Nikola sales and service dealer network has opened the first hydrogen refueling station onsite at a commercial truck dealership in the United States. The Nikola HYLA modular hydrogen refueling station for the heavy-duty transportation sector is located onsite at Tom’s Truck Center’s Santa Fe Springs location in Los Angeles County, a strategic location along Highway 5, one of the busiest highways in the nation. “California is laying the foundation for a hydrogen-powered future, and we are proud to help drive this transition,” said KC Heidler, Tom’s Truck Center president and CEO. “This station allows us to support our customers who choose hydrogen units by offering the necessary infrastructure. By partnering with HYLA and making hydrogen refueling accessible, we’re significantly reducing carbon emissions, improving air quality, and setting new standards in clean transportation.” According to a company press release, the high-pressure (700-bar) dispensing equipment allows for reliable turnaround times, refueling up to 30 trucks daily. The station will operate Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. with dedicated HYLA Ambassadors/Operations Technicians ensuring efficient service. Conveniently located along the highway, this setup minimizes downtime for heavy-duty trucks needing refueling, such as the Nikola hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle. Notable guests in attendance at a special unveiling event included State Senator Josh Newman, State Senator Bob Archuleta, Santa Fe Springs City Manager Rene Bobadilla, GO-Biz Deputy Director of ZEV Market Development Gia Brazil Vacin, California Air Resources Board (CARB) Representative Isaac Lino, Tom’s Truck Center President KC Heidler, and Nikola Corporation President and CEO Stephen Girsky. “Hydrogen and fuel technology offer a promising pathway toward replacing diesel with green, renewable sources of energy at scale and affordability,” Newman said. “Today’s opening of the HYLA station at Tom’s Truck Center in Santa Fe Springs in Los Angeles County is an important milestone for zero-emission heavy goods movement in California and represents a critical next step as California makes progress on its ambitious goals to decarbonize our transportation systems in the service of cleaner air and a healthy sustainable environment for all.” Other current HYLA hydrogen refueling locations in Calif. include Long Beach and Ontario. It is anticipated that 14 hydrogen refueling solutions will be operational by the end of 2024. “Tom’s also offers new and used sales, rental and leasing option, and service, for EV and hydrogen trucks of all sizes,” the company said in the release. “Tom’s dedicated zero-emission transportation experts help customers navigate government incentive programs, provide charging options, educate on available products, and more. This new HYLA modular refueling station is only the beginning. The long-term plan incorporates a Tom’s Truck Center permanent hydrogen refueling station, which is projected to be completed by the end of 2026.”

CVSA works to keep drivers and vehicles rolling safely

Cliff Abbott - September 16, 2024

Many drivers dread entering weigh stations — but not because of the scales. (Hopefully, they’ve already weighed their trucks and made the necessary adjustments so they know they’re running legal.) It’s that lighted arrow pointing to the inspection area, or the words “pull it around back” emanating from a speaker that can generate fear, or at least impatience, in every driver. No driver ever says, “Yes! An inspection!” Keep in mind, though, that these inspections are critical to keeping the trucking industry rolling safely down the road. Inspection data shows the justification for continued inspections. During the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s (CVSA) 2023 Roadcheck inspection blitz, 59,429 vehicles were inspected. Nineteen percent of those vehicles — that’s nearly one in five — were found to have out-of-service (OOS) defects. Another 5.5% of the drivers inspected were found to have OOS violations. It’s important to note that the CVSA’s 72-hour Roadcheck inspection is always announced well in advance, focus areas are publicized, and information about what to check and how to pass an inspection is distributed. The 2023 Roadcheck was not a surprise — yet almost one in five trucks failed. Who’s in charge? Most drivers don’t know who performs these inspections and who sets the rules. While just about any law enforcement officer can check a driver’s paperwork or issue a citation for equipment defects, the CVSA sets the inspection standard. What is CVSA? In a nutshell, it’s a nonprofit organization that includes local, state, provincial, territorial and federal commercial motor vehicle (CMV) safety officials and industry representatives. The mission of the group is to prevent CMV crashes, injuries and fatalities by providing guidance and education for the trucking industry and enforcement agencies. This partnership between government and industry helps make sure the same standards are used across North America to determine the safety of CMVs. When CVSA-qualified inspectors check an item, they’re following CVSA guidelines for determining what a defect is and whether it should put the driver or vehicle OOS. The organization determines what gets inspected, how it’s inspected, what constitutes a violation and when the vehicle or driver should be placed out of service. During CVSA’s fiscal year 2023 (Oct. 1, 2022-Sept. 30, 2023), the group says nearly 4 million inspections were conducted in North America, with more than 1.3 million decals indicating “no critical defects found” were issued. More than 16,000 copies were sold of CVSA’s North American Standard Out-Of-Service Criteria books in printed and electronic form. Training is accomplished through in-person events, meetings and conferences and webinars. Inspectors are certified for different levels of inspection. Wait. There are inspection levels? CVSA conducts eight levels of inspection. Which inspection is performed can depend on available inspectors, the cargo and other considerations. Level I is the classic “everything” inspection. Driver documents such as CDL, medical card and Skill Performance Certificate are checked, along with the record of duty status, vehicle inspection reports and seat belt use. A complete vehicle inspection is included. (Note: A Level I inspection includes the items from Level III and Level V inspections.) Level II is a walk-around inspection of the vehicle, checking systems that can be observed without crawling underneath, as well as all of the driver documents. Level III inspections deal with the driver’s credentials. When the driver is instructed to bring paperwork into the weigh station office, it’s often for a Level III inspection. Vehicle documents, such as registration and authority, can be checked. With electronic logs (ELDs), inspectors may go to the vehicle or may request faxed or electronic copies of the driver’s record-of-duty status. Level IV inspections are conducted for special purposes, such as a government study of a particular item or document. Level V inspections are thorough checks of the vehicle. The driver does not need to be present. These can be conducted where the truck is parked or abandoned. Level VI inspections involve radioactive materials classified as waste or route-controlled quantities. Most drivers will never experience this level of inspection. Level VII are jurisdictional in nature, usually specified by a government agency. For example, a county might mandate that all school buses in the county must be checked for broken windshields. A full inspection may not be necessary, and CVSA certified instructors are not required. Level VIII inspections are electronic and could be conducted without the driver being aware. Records such as the driver’s CDL and medical card, registration, duty status and more can be wirelessly checked without stopping the vehicle. If the vehicle portion of a Level I or Level V inspection is passed with no critical violations, a CVSA decal may be placed on the vehicle. The decal must be placed by a certified instructor and is valid for three months. A vehicle bearing the CVSA decal generally won’t be inspected again until the decal expires … but there are no guarantees. If an inspector notices something that should be checked, if the vehicle breaks down or if the jurisdiction is checking trucks that meet specific criteria, an inspection can be conducted regardless of whether the vehicle has a sticker. Is the CVSA out to “get” drivers? While being chosen for an inspection can be inconvenient and anxiety inducing, it’s important to remember that the CVSA is there to look out for the interests of everyone, including you. While it’s true that lives have been saved by removing unsafe trucks from the road, there’s another way to look at it: Inspections often catch problems before they escalate to critical or OOS status, providing the truck owner with the opportunity to make repairs before an expensive breakdown (or a crash) can occur. Inspections also help educate drivers on what to look for in pre-trip inspections and alert them to what they might be missing. That makes everyone safer and, from a business perspective, helps truck owners keep maintenance costs down. In short, the CVSA serves as a partnership that brings together motor carriers, vehicle manufacturers, law enforcement — and, of course, drivers.

RNG Coalition surpasses 400 operational facilities in North America

Dana Guthrie - September 13, 2024

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The Coalition for Renewable Natural Gas (RNG Coalition) has announced a major milestone in the growth of the renewable natural gas industry, with 433 facilities now operational across North America. “This is a significant milestone in the advancement of our mission and Sustainable Methane Abatement & Recycling Timeline (SMART),” said Johannes Escudero RNG Coalition founder and CEO. “We are proud of what our organization and industry have accomplished together, but we are focused on the next benchmark, and on even broader energy sector adoption of RNG as a critical component in our society’s transition to a cleaner, more sustainable future.” According to a company press release, the achievement represents a significant leap from just a year ago, when the North American RNG industry celebrated the establishment of 300 facilities, marking a remarkable 44% growth within just one year. While technological advancements and increasing demand for low-carbon energy solutions have factored into this recent surge, expanding policy support remains front-and-center for our industry as we chase our goals of 500 facilities by 2025, 1,000 by 2030 and 5,000 by 2040. One notable example of encouraging policy growth is New Mexico’s recently launched Clean Fuel Standard (CFS) program, which aims to reduce the carbon intensity of transportation fuels. The CFS program follows similar programs implemented successfully in California, Oregon and Washington, providing a framework for RNG projects to thrive by creating market incentives for low-carbon fuels that displace dirty diesel and other fossil fuels, according to the release. The release also noted that Dairy farm-to-RNG projects represent another key driver of recent facility growth. Agricultural waste now represents 24% of all feedstocks deployed toward RNG production, marking a new all-time high and an increase from 17% of all feedstocks just a year ago. California’s strides toward reducing methane emissions, including through its pioneering Low Carbon Fuel Standard program, have helped incentivize methane capture at farms across the state, with over 100 state agricultural sites now attached to operational RNG infrastructure. “As the RNG Coalition celebrates this milestone, the organization remains committed to supporting the continued growth and development of the industry,” the company said in the release. “In addition to currently operational facilities, there are 436 facilities in various stages of planning or construction, creating a robust pipeline of forthcoming projects. With ongoing collaboration between the public and private sectors, and between legislative and regulatory bodies, the Coalition envisions an even more significant role for RNG and other renewable gases as we work toward cleaner air and energy for current and future generations.”

Powering the future: Daimler Truck, Greenlane break ground on truck charging site

Dana Guthrie - September 13, 2024

LEINFELDEN-ECHTERDINGEN, Germany, and COLTONolton, Calif. — Greenlane, a joint venture between Daimler Truck North America LLC, NextEra Energy Resources LLC and BlackRock (through a fund managed by its Climate Infrastructure business), hosted a groundbreaking event at Greenlane’s flagship charging site in Colton, California, on Sept. 9. The event marks the beginning of the construction of the company’s first commercial EV charging corridor, which will run from the Los Angeles to Las Vegas metropolitan areas, primarily along Interstate 15. According to a company media release, key stakeholders, community leaders, and joint venture partners, including Daimler Truck North America leaders, John O’Leary, president and CEO of Daimler Truck North America (DTNA), and Rakesh Aneja, head of eMobility at DTNA, took part in a groundbreaking ceremony highlighting the importance of this project, its positive regional impact, and the commercial trucking industry in the U.S. as a whole. “The establishment of this flagship charging site in Colton is a testament to the power of collaboration and shared vision,” O’Leary said. “We are confident that this project will help to accelerate widespread adoption of zero-emission vehicles and drive the future of sustainable transportation by addressing the urgent need for a publicly available, nationwide electric charging infrastructure.” The release also noted that the groundbreaking was held on the same day that Greenlane announced that they secured a $15 million grant from the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) under the Carl Moyer Zero-Emission Infrastructure Program. The grant will allow Greenlane to accelerate the development of the Colton site for its commercial EV charging corridor. South Coast AQMD’s grant funds, specifically allocated for the Colton site, will be utilized for site design and engineering and charging infrastructure build-out, expediting development timelines to facilitate the opening of the Colton site by the end of 2024. “The Colton charging site represents a major step forward in reducing emissions along several transportation corridors, while also benefiting the region economically in the long term,” said Patrick Macdonald-King, Greenlane CEO. “We are grateful to all of our partners and local leaders in the community for making this vision become reality.” According to the release, Greenlane, alongside its JV partners, is developing a nationwide network of commercial charging infrastructure locations across the nation. Starting with electrifying heavy, medium, and light-duty vehicles, charging sites will also serve battery-electric passenger car and light-duty fleet customers. Greenlane also plans to provide hydrogen refueling for commercial vehicles in the near future. To learn more about its first commercial charging corridor along I-15, click here.

Firefighters used 50,000 gallons of water to douse Tesla semi fire in California, NTSB says

The Associated Press - September 13, 2024

WASHINGTON — California firefighters had to douse a flaming battery in a Tesla Semi with about 50,000 gallons of water to extinguish the flames following a crash, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) said Thursday, Sept. 12. In addition to the huge amount of water, firefighters used an aircraft to drop fire retardant on the “immediate area” of the electric truck as a precautionary measure, the agency said in a preliminary report. Firefighters said previously that the battery reached temperatures of 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit while it was in flames. The NTSB sent investigators to the Aug. 19 crash along Interstate 80 near Emigrant Gap, about 70 miles northeast of Sacramento. The agency said it would look into fire risks posed by the truck’s large lithium-ion battery. The agency also found that the truck was not operating on one of Tesla’s partially automated driving systems at the time of the crash, the report said. The systems weren’t operational and “could not be engaged,” according to the agency. The crash happened about 3:13 a.m. as the tractor-trailer was being driven by a Tesla employee from Livermore, California, to a Tesla facility in Sparks, Nevada. The semi left the road while going around a curve to the right and hit a tree, the report said. It went down a slope and came to rest against several trees. The driver was not hurt. After the crash, the semi’s lithium-ion battery ignited. Firefighters used water to put out flames and keep the batteries cool. The freeway was closed for about 15 hours as firefighters made sure the batteries were cool enough to recover the truck. Authorities took the truck to an open-air facility and monitored it for 24 hours. The battery did not reignite. The NTSB said all aspects of the crash are under investigation as it determines the cause. The agency said it intends to issue safety recommendations to prevent similar incidents. A message was left Thursday seeking comment from Tesla, which is based in Austin, Texas. After an investigation that ended in 2021, the NTSB determined that high-voltage electric vehicle battery fires pose risks to first responders and that guidelines from manufacturers about how to deal with them were inadequate. The agency, which has no enforcement powers and can only make recommendations, called for manufacturers to write vehicle-specific response guides for fighting battery fires and limiting chemical thermal runaway and reignition. The guidelines should also include information on how to safely store vehicles with damaged lithium-ion batteries, the agency said. Tesla began delivering the electric semis in December of 2022, more than three years after CEO Elon Musk said his company would start making the trucks. Musk has said the semi has a range per charge of 500 miles when pulling an 82,000-pound load.

Averitt expands its horizons with the opening of a new facility in Tyler

Dana Guthrie - September 13, 2024

COOKEVILLE, Tenn. — Averitt has announced the opening of a new service center in Tyler, Texas, strategically located near Interstate 20. “Our new Tyler facility is a major step forward in our ability to serve customers across East Texas and beyond,” said Bryan Walters, service center director for the Tyler location. “With improved infrastructure and increased capacity, we’re positioned to meet the growing needs of our customers, delivering the high-quality service they expect from Averitt.” According to a company media release, the facility, covering 20,500 square feet with 33 dock doors, significantly increases Averitt’s capacity, enabling faster and more efficient freight handling for customers in one of Texas’ fastest-growing markets. The new center is designed to streamline operations with expanded dock space, two on-site fuel islands, and secure parking. “These upgrades enable Averitt to provide more reliable, timely service to customers, while also enhancing the work environment for associates through modern amenities such as break areas and new restrooms and showers,” the company said. “This facility also marks the debut of Averitt’s newly redesigned signage, featuring a streamlined Averitt logo and updated color scheme that matches Averitt’s fleet of equipment, associates’ uniforms, and reflects the modern evolution of its brand.”

Hunter Engineering wins 2024 MOTOR top 20 award

Dana Guthrie - September 12, 2024

ST. LOUIS, Mo.—Hunter Engineering has received a 2024 MOTOR Top 20 Award for the HawkEye XL Commercial Aligner. “Hunter is honored to be recognized in our industry, and we thank the MOTOR panel for the opportunity,” said Alan Hagerty, Hunter alignment product manager. “HawkEye XL is truly a top-notch investment, and we’re thrilled by the productivity and efficiency it provides our customers every day.” According to a company press release, the annual awards recognize the most significant advancements in the automotive industry. The 2024 competition saw a record number of entries across diverse categories, including tools, equipment, software solutions, training platforms and events. Hunter has been named a winner five times in the past four contests by a panel of industry experts. The release noted that the HawkEye XL is designed for maximum speed, durability and ease of use for a wide range of commercial vehicles, providing highly accurate measurements in four minutes or less. The key component is visionary new camera technology with extra-long range and extra-large targets, expanded from the HawkEye Elite aligner. “For more than three decades, MOTOR has honored the innovations that make a real impact in the automotive industry,” said Jeff Nosek, MOTOR president. “The products and solutions recognized this year demonstrate the ongoing commitment to progress and excellence in the industry. MOTOR congratulates this year’s Top 20 winners and applauds their contributions to advancing automotive.” The 2024 MOTOR Top 20 Awards will be presented at AAPEX in Las Vegas in November.

Clarios transforms battery management with connected service offerings

Dana Guthrie - September 12, 2024

GLENDALE, Wis. — Clarios has announced its expansion in software-based vehicle services with Clarios Connected Services, a new way for drivers, commercial fleets, original-equipment manufacturers and repair shops to monitor battery power and health in real time. “Clarios has been evolving as a data provider for many years now to enhance vehicle performance today and develop vehicles of the future,” said Federico Morales Zimmermann, vice president and GM, Global Customers, Products and Engineering at Clarios. “We’re also always listening to our customers. Clarios Connected Services will marshal all of our technology to keep pace and stay ahead of the curve of rapidly evolving market needs.” According to a company press release, Clarios Connected Services combines artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning and cloud computing for a new level of battery intelligence. The system uses proprietary algorithms to transform battery data into actionable insights, with the goal of helping fleets and drivers reduce their operating costs and carbon footprint. “Clarios’ data platform leverages more than a century of battery development and manufacturing expertise across multiple battery chemistries with proprietary software and advanced trend analysis,” the company said. “It is secure and adaptable for all low-voltage battery chemistries and vehicle applications. Clarios will offer digital services in EMEA under the VARTA Automotive brand. Combining our global leadership position in low voltage batteries with our new dedicated connected services team makes Clarios uniquely positioned to transform the way vehicle power systems are monitored, managed and maintained, paving the way for the digital and automated future in transportation. In addition, access to battery usage and vehicle operations data will enable and accelerate future product, software and service innovation.” Clarios Connected Services Pilot Already Underway in Europe Clarios Connected Services is launching with a focus on heavy duty fleets. The initial product focus will create improved visibility into the state of the battery to help fleets avoid unexpected downtime events and improve operating efficiency. Clarios and a European fleet operator are levering Clarios hardware, analytics and software to reduce unnecessary idling. By sending drivers real-time alerts on when the engine needs to be started and stopped to maintain the optimum battery state of charge, vehicle idling times can be significantly reduced while still maintaining heating and air conditioning systems for a comfortable cabin environment without the risk of being stranded with a dead battery. Reducing unnecessary idling will reduce fuel costs and emissions for drivers and commercial fleets. Initial results are indicating a potential 40% reduction in unnecessary idling time is achievable, equating to a typical per vehicle fuel savings of 1300 Euro/year for a heavy-duty truck in EMEA and 2500 kg/year reduction in CO2 emissions.

What’s next for TuSimple after last month’s multi-million dollar lawsuit settlement?

John Worthen - September 11, 2024

In late August, self-driving truck technology company TuSimple settled a multi-million dollar lawsuit accusing it of defrauding shareholders, among other claims. According to federal court documents, the $189 million settlement came after the company doctored its safety record and employed at least three technology spies who planned to feed information to a rival Chinese self-driving trucking firm. Court documents show TuSimple has already paid $174 million of the settlement into an escrow account, and the company’s insurers have contributed $15 million. Company attorneys have not responded to requests for comments by The Trucker, and the company’s website has not published a message to stakeholders regarding the verdict. According to a Reuters report, shareholders say TuSimple “misrepresented the safety of its technology … with an eye toward addressing the kinks on U.S. roads and transferring the improved technology to the Chinese rival, Hydron.” Shareholders said the truth came out in August 2022, when the Wall Street Journal reported that an Arizona freeway crash four months earlier underscored the concerns of analysts and employees that TuSimple’s rush to deliver driverless trucks put public safety at risk. According to court documents, the shareholders’ attorneys may seek up to 25% of the settlement in fees. In a separate case, TuSimple announced in May that it had reached a settlement agreement with the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) relating to events that occurred in 2022. These events included the temporary vacancies in the security director position and on the board’s government security committee (reconstituted on Jan. 5, 2023), and whether certain covered intellectual property was transferred contrary to the national security agreement. “We are pleased to put these matters behind us, with CFIUS having concluded its investigation,” Cheng Lu, president and CEO of TuSimple, said in a May 29 statement. “This resolution enables us to better focus on implementing our next stage of development. We remain committed to collaborating closely with regulators and complying fully with our obligations to CFIUS.” TuSimple was delisted from Nasdaq in January, just three years after raising $1.35 billion in an April 2021 initial public offering. The company has also wound down its U.S. operations to focus exclusively on the Asia Pacific region of the world. Lu cited a mature local supply chain and strong regulatory support as reasons for the shift; however, the company’s website still lists San Diego as its headquarters. Over the past several years, TuSimple has played a significant role in the push toward autonomous Class 8 tractors. In March 2023, TuSimple officials announced that the company’s Class 8 trucks have driven more than 10 million cumulative miles through testing, research and freight delivery. “This is an incredible achievement and one that we do not take lightly,” Lu said at the time. “It’s an opportunity for us to look back on everything we have achieved as a company and a reminder of what is still to come as TuSimple continues to innovate and re-imagine the future of the autonomous commercial trucking industry.” In June 2023, the company claimed it had successfully completed China’s first fully autonomous semi-truck runs on open public roads without a human in the vehicle and without human intervention. According to a news release, TuSimple’s “Driver Out” run was conducted on designated public roads approved by the Shanghai government, including Yangshan Deep-water Port Logistics Park and Donghai Bridge. “Over the course of approximately 62 kilometers, TuSimple China’s autonomous truck demonstrated its capability to navigate complex road and weather conditions in both urban and highway environments within the port area,” noted a June 2023 press release. “This included traffic signals, on-ramps, off-ramps, lane changes, emergency lane vehicles, partial lane closures, fog and crosswinds.” The Driver Out run was operated by TuSimple China’s Autonomous Driving System without a human on-board, without remote human control of the vehicle and without traffic intervention. In order to ensure public safety, the TuSimple China team worked closely with government regulators and law enforcement and implemented a safety vehicle to ensure safety during the run. The Driver Out program in China represented more than two years of intense development, company officials said. These milestones are among several claims recorded by the company since its creation in 2015, including: Becoming the first company to demonstrate an autonomous semi truck’s capabilities on surface streets and highways with its 1,000-meter perception breakthrough in 2018. Launching the Autonomous Freight Network in 2020. Establishing itself as the first autonomous vehicle company to go public with a traditional IPO in 2021. Becoming the first company to successfully demonstrate the ability to fully remove the driver from its trucks and navigate 80 miles, traveling on surface streets and highways, naturally interacting with other motorists in December 2021. “This is an important moment for TuSimple and its employees and an opportunity to celebrate our achievements,” Lu said at the time. “While we have a lot to be proud of, we’re always focused on what comes next. TuSimple is excited to continue hitting even more milestones through the advancement of our autonomous driving technology.” What’s next for the tech company? According to a Sept. 10 story in the San Diego Business Journal, TuSimple is “shifting gears and leaving town.” According to the article, the company plans to relocate to either China or Japan in the next six months.

Exploring the findings of the LABC study on drayage truck emissions

Dana Guthrie - September 11, 2024

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Trucking companies serving the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach face significant challenges achieving zero-emission drayage fleets by 2035 in compliance with California’s Advanced Clean Fleets (ACF) regulation, according to a new study commissioned by the Los Angeles Business Council. According to a media release, the study recommends steps to facilitate the transition to safeguard the economic vitality of the country’s largest port complex and establish Southern California as a leader in the emerging multibillion-dollar green commercial transportation industry. The report from USC researchers at the METRANS Transportation Consortium will be discussed at the 18th Annual LABC Sustainability Summit, attended by top business, government, and nonprofit leaders. The researchers found several hurdles to replacing the current fleet of nearly 24,000 diesel powered drayage trucks – which carry cargo on short-haul trips between ports and distribution hubs – within 10 years. These include the high cost of zero-emission vehicles, the lack of electric charging and hydrogen fueling stations, and the prevalence of small trucking companies without the financial means to make the conversion. “There remains a significant gap between the current market and the infrastructure needed to comply with the ACF timeline,” said the study, Navigating California’s Transition to Zero-Emission Drayage Trucks. However, if the transition is successfully implemented, the state can become the model for how to navigate a critical economic and environmental challenge, asserting its leadership in creating new green markets.” The researchers modeled the transition to a 100% zero-emission fleet by analyzing data from the San Pedro Bay Ports truck registry, accounting for cargo growth and differences between battery-electric and diesel trucks in range, fueling time and weight. The model assumed a transition to all battery-electric trucks, due to insufficient data on the hydrogen fuel cell market. The researchers also interviewed a range of stakeholders. According to the study, underscoring the urgency of the challenge, the analysis indicated that 854 trucks – over 3% of the drayage fleet – would have to be retired in 2025, based on mileage and age limits set by ACF regulations. Those numbers then rise quickly, adding pressure to phase in zero-emission trucks to keep pace with cargo volumes. Only 345 zero-emission trucks were in service at the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach in June 2024. The study’s mid-range estimate shows the ports would need 31,684 battery-electric trucks by 2035 to be compliant. “This study quantifies just how new the zero-emission drayage market is, and how much work will need to be done in order to bring this important economic sector into compliance with state guidelines,” said Marlon Boarnet, director of METRANS and one of the report’s authors. The San Pedro Bay port complex is a vital economic engine in the region, supporting over 165,000 jobs and generating $21.8 billion of direct business revenue to local service providers. Drayage is an essential link in the supply chain but also a major source of pollution. “The stakes couldn’t be higher for the health of our economy and the health of communities near the ports and along transit corridors,” said Mary Leslie, president of the Los Angeles Business Council. “However, California has an extensive history of pioneering ambitious sustainability initiatives, and we see an immense opportunity for California to become a global leader in the sustainable supply chain.” The report outlines several recommendations to support the timely transition to zero-emission trucks, including: Accelerate the development of electric charging infrastructure. Streamlining the permitting process will be necessary to boost electrical power generation and distribution. Interviewees said it currently can take five years or longer for substation upgrades and two years for municipal permits to install electric charging depots. The report recommends creating a state coordinating body to track projects and permits and advise on infrastructure gaps, creating model municipal permits, and considering exempting zero-emission transport infrastructure projects from CEQA to support the rapid buildout of infrastructure required. Expand subsidies to cover steep truck prices. New battery-electric or hydrogen-fuel-cell trucks can cost between $400,000 – $600,000, up to four times the price of new diesel trucks and five times that of used diesel trucks – which are typically used by small drayage firms. Current federal and state subsidies reduce the cost only by half. The report recommends increasing government subsidies to support firms until technological advances and market growth help drive down prices. Support the development of a secondhand zero-emission truck market. Small operators with up to 20 trucks account for 72% of local drayage businesses. Those firms typically purchase and operate used (secondhand) trucks. The report recommends that California prime the development of a secondhand market through various time-limited incentives, such as purchase guarantees, subsidies or even a waiver of restrictions to allow small firms to buy existing diesel trucks that haven’t reached their age and mileage limits. Increase investment in hydrogen-powered truck technology and fueling infrastructure. Hydrogen trucks do not have many of the operational constraints of their battery-electric counterparts, due to faster fueling and longer range. The report recommends building on recent federal investments to catalyze the growth of hydrogen technology, which is preferable for many trucking firms if properly supported yet several years behind the battery electric market. In the past two months alone, California was awarded $102.4 million for its plan to deploy charging and hydrogen fueling stations for trucks along key freight corridors and nearly $500 million to provide incentives to Southern California businesses purchasing battery-electric cargo trucks, among other commercial vehicles. “The San Pedro Bay ports have been on the leading edge of investing in the transition to zero-emission operations, a role that strengthens our resolve to accomplish the tallest task we’ve ever faced: Overhauling the drayage fleet,” said Gene Seroka, executive director of the Port of Los Angeles. “It’s all about bringing people to the table, making sure the private and public sectors have a voice and work together. I’m very encouraged by the folks who have been participating thus far.” Businesses like Forum Mobility have begun building charging depots near ports and along major drayage routes while also arranging financing to enable truck operators, especially small companies, to buy or lease new electric trucks. “Forum Mobility is building a network of safe and secure truck charging depots, from ports to freight destinations. We make it easy for fleets large and small to make the transition to zero emission,” said Neil Brennan, the company’s operations director. To read the full report, visit labusinesscouncil.org.

Stay ahead on the road: 4RoadService unveils new mobile app for repairs

Dana Guthrie - September 11, 2024

Montreal, QC – 4RoadService.com, a resource for truck drivers and trucking companies, has announced the launch of the new 4RoadService 3 Mobile App for both Android and iOS platforms to streamline the process of finding reliable repairs when a breakdown occurs. “We understand that breakdowns can be stressful and time-consuming,” said John Beales, vice president and lead developer of 4RoadService.com. “With the launch of 4RoadService 3 we aim to reduce that stress by providing drivers with a fast and intuitive way to locate the trustworthy repair service they need, making 4RoadService an indispensable tool for trucking professionals across North America.” According to a company media release, changes made to the app were made to help make life on the road smoother for CDL truck drivers across the USA and Canada. The apps features include: Modern Design & User Experience: The app has been completely redesigned with a user-friendly interface that is easy on the eyes, enabling quick access to crucial information. One-Tap Search: Quickly locate roadside assistance, truck repairs, or nearby truck stops with just a single tap, saving precious time when it matters most. Service Ratings & Reviews: Truck Drivers and fleet managers can now read and submit ratings and reviews, helping the community find the best services available. Advanced Filtering: Tailored search options allow drivers to find repair providers specializing in their specific truck engine, tire, or reefer. Seamless Syncing: Favorites now sync across all devices and online when logged into the app, ensuring continuity across platforms. Enhanced Compatibility: Optimized to work better on a variety of screen sizes, the app ensures a smooth user experience, regardless of device. No Login Required: Understanding the urgency of breakdowns, 4RoadService.com remains committed to user convenience. The app’s core functionality does not require a login, allowing drivers and other trucking professionals access to vital repair services immediately. “With the launch of 4RoadService 3, we have not only modernized the app but also introduced powerful new features that enhance its utility, making it an indispensable tool for drivers across North America,” the company said in the release.

Mack dealer Kriete Truck Centers expands upper midwest presence

Dana Guthrie - September 10, 2024

GREENSBORO, N.C. – Mack Trucks has revealed that its long-standing dealer, Kriete Truck Centers, has expanded its operations through a strategic acquisition of La Crosse Truck Center in La Crosse, Wis. to broaden its upper midwest business. “We’re encouraged by Kriete Truck Centers’ continued growth and investment in the Mack brand,” said Jonathan Randall, president of Mack Trucks North America. “The acquisition of the Mack franchise in La Crosse reinforces Kriete’s commitment to providing exceptional products and support to our customers.” Headquartered in Milwaukee and with 10 locations across Wisconsin, Kriete, with this acquisition, will now sell and service Mack trucks in both La Crosse and Mauston, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to supporting customers in the Upper Midwest, the company said in a media release. As part of this acquisition, LaCrosse Truck Center operations are being consolidated into Kriete’s current facility in nearby West Salem, WI. “We’re super excited about the significant lift this brings to our ability to serve customers in this area,” said David Kriete, president and CEO of Kriete Truck Centers ADK. “Bringing our two amazing teams together – and in the process doubling our technician count and doubling our parts inventory – gives us a tremendous opportunity to enhance customer experience and grow market share.” According to the release, Kriete’s La Crosse-area location is also set to become a Mack Certified Uptime Dealer (CUD) by the end of this year. CUDs meet stringent requirements to amplify customer service and uptime. Redesigned service bays along with standardized workflows and processes at Mack Certified Uptime Dealers permit quicker repairs and improved customer service. “Uptime bays” reserved specifically for trucks requiring less than four hours of work for service and repairs enable the rapid diagnosis and repair of vehicles, increasing dealership efficiency and improving customer ROI.

The future of green transportation: Insights on Illinois’ EV charging expansion

Dana Guthrie - September 10, 2024

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — As part of World EV Day, Gov. JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Transportation have announced the awarding of $25.3 million in grants to build charging stations along interstate corridors through the initial round of funding made available from the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program. “Today, I am proud to take another step toward making Illinois a national leader in clean energy,” said Gov. Pritzker. “Thanks to the NEVI program, we’re able to build an integrated network of charging stations that will help ensure we meet our goal of putting 1 million electric vehicles on the road by 2030. As Illinois leads the electric vehicle revolution, we’re fulfilling our commitment to cleaner, greener energy and travel in every corner of the state.” According to a media release, in addition to making travel by electric vehicle more reliable and accessible, the funding advances Gov. Pritzker’s continuing commitment to make the state an industry leader and fight climate change by putting a million EVs on Illinois roads by 2030. Administered by IDOT using federal funds through the Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act, the state’s NEVI program aims to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles by providing access to charging at least every 50 miles along interstates. The NEVI program is part of a series of comprehensive initiatives to achieve the state’s goal of becoming a leader in manufacturing and deploying electric vehicles. “We’re proud of our work to make Gov. Pritzker’s electric vehicle goals a reality,” said Omer Osman, Illinois Transportation Secretary. “This round of funding will bring new life to those efforts in communities large and small, further positioning Illinois as a leader in the growth of electric vehicles. Under Gov. Pritzker, IDOT is committed to providing the public with safe, reliable options on how they wish to travel. Building EV infrastructure also creates new economic opportunities throughout the state.” The release noted that a total of 37 projects throughout the state were chosen in this first round of NEVI funding, which will facilitate the construction of 182 new charging ports. Selected locations will have at least four DC fast charging ports, each of which can fully charge a typical EV from empty in less than 30 minutes. The charging stations to be built include: Cook County $484,818 to Red E Charging LLC, Gas N Wash, 800 S. Cicero Ave., Cicero.· $573,326 to BP Products North America Inc., BP station at 4306 S. Wentworth Ave., Chicago.· $774,533 to Francis Energy Charging LLC, Taco Bell, 12716 Ashland Ave., Calumet Park.· $688,644 to Meijer Stores Limited Partnership, Meijer, 1301 Meijer Drive, Rolling Meadows. DuPage County $451,634 to Electrify America LLC, York Center Plaza, 601 N. York St., Elmhurst. Madison County $649,240 to Universal EV LLC, La Quinta Inn & Suites, Gateway Drive, Collinsville. Clark County $854,641 to Phillips 66 Co., Phillips 66 station, 939 N. Illinois 49, Casey. Macon County $1.1 million to Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores Inc., Love’s Travel Stop, 3925 County Fair Drive, Decatur. Tazewell County $595,841 to EVgo Services LLC, Kohl’s, 401 N. Main St., East Peoria. The entire list can be viewed at Drive Electric Illinois. “As we electrify transportation across the country, we must strive to build smarter, faster charging infrastructure in Illinois,” said U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin. “Our commitment to reducing carbon emissions and combating the climate crisis is unwavering, and this initiative stands as a testament to that dedication. This federal funding will propel the decarbonization of our transportation sector while engaging Illinoisans in the process and expanding our workforce.” According to the release, all of the awards are contingent on the selected recipients entering into a grant agreement with IDOT. “Expanding access to reliable charging stations for electric vehicles helps lower fuel costs and reduce emissions across our state,” said U.S. Sen. Tammy Duckworth. “I look forward to continuing to work alongside the Illinois Department of Transportation as we keep working to grow Illinois as a leader in electric vehicles and make EV use more accessible for all Illinoisans.” The next application period for funding is anticipated in late 2024. For more information on NEVI in Illinois, visit Drive Electric Illinois or email [email protected].

Ironman Tires unveils I-Series Gen 2 for commercial vehicles

Dana Guthrie - September 10, 2024

HUNTERSVILLE, N.C. — Ironman Tires has introduced four additional improved tires into its lineup of I-Series Gen 2 truck tires. “Ironman I-Series Gen 2 tires are designed to maximize customer satisfaction and minimize returns,” said Marshall Gillespie, director, proprietary brand commercial merchandising for Ironman Tires. “The I-Series Gen 2 truck tire lineup marks a significant upgrade that represents the culmination of years of research and development that delivers confident performance and value to our customers. We’re proud to offer a product line that our customers trust to meet their varying needs.” According to a company press release, the new series features a completely upgraded, full line of innovative and cost-efficient tires, designed specifically to meet the rigorous demands of today’s evolving trucking industry. “Ironman Tires stands behind the I-Series Gen 2 with utmost confidence, offering an improved Peace of Mind Warranty, which was increased for the I-Series Gen 2 to six years, up from the previous five,” the company said in the release. “The extended protection policy covers defects in workmanship and materials and includes a casing allowance for two retreads. This enhanced coverage ensures drivers can trust in the performance and reliability of their tires, driving with confidence.” Ironman is adding the I-31M, I-42W, I-28D and the I-52A to its I-Series Gen 2 portfolio, joining the I-19A, I-37D, I-48T and I-61S that were introduced in August 2023. I-28D: Regional/Long-Haul Drive Tire Crafted with advanced compounds to minimize rolling resistance, boost fuel efficiency, with improved durability, traction and longevity to meet fleet and owner-operator demands. Deeper 28/32nds tread depth and wider contact patch improve traction and enhance vehicle stability. Zig-zag sipes and grooves offer superior traction in adverse weather conditions. Solid closed shoulder ensures rigidity and stability for long-haul and regional driving. I-31M: Versatile, All-Position Tire for Rugged On- and Off-Highway Use Superior traction and dependability with deeper 22/32nds tread depth and advanced heat-resistant compound delivering a 10% increase in mileage performance. Stone ejectors protect the casing from stone penetration and a curb guard in the sidewall adds protection against impacts. A jagged shoulder reduces heat buildup and boosts traction in various off-road scenarios. I-42W: Wide-Base All-Position Tire for Heavy Loads On- and Off-Highway Deep treads, broad width, and large block pattern increase mileage in mixed-service applications. Enhanced compound delivers a 10% boost in mileage and better cut-and-chip resistance. Optimal tire bars and semi-open shoulder design enhance drainage and traction in off-road situations. A curb guard shields the sidewall from impacts and damage. I-52A: Steer/All-Position Tire for High-Scrub Regional Environments Engineered to endure the demands of stop-and-start regional routes with increased fuel economy. Deep 22/32nds tread depth deliver maximum mileage and 5% wider tread for prolonged, even wear. Wavy outer grooves enhance tear resistance while stone ejectors shield the belts from penetration. “Ironman makes it fast and easy for our customers—providing reliable, high-quality tires they can trust without breaking the bank,” Gillespie said.

ACT Research releases preliminary Class 8 truck net orders for August

Dana Guthrie - September 8, 2024

COLUMBUS, In. — August preliminary North America Class 8 net orders were 16,400 units, up m/m but down 16% y/y, according to ACT Research. “Class 8 orders remained at directionally and seasonally expected levels in August,” said Kenny Vieth, ACT’s president and senior analyst. “Historically, August is the last month of weak orders before the OEMs open their books to next year’s orders. As such, the month enjoys a large seasonal factor that boosts Class 8 orders nearly 12% above nominal levels to 18,600 units.” Complete industry data for August, including final order numbers, will be published by ACT Research in mid-September. “Preliminary Classes 5-7 orders improved from July, rising 1,200 units m/m to 17,300 units in August,” Vieth said. “While up m/m, MD net orders fell 16% y/y. Historically, August is the beginning of stronger orders for Classes 5-7 vehicles as school bus order season gets underway.” According to Vieth, in aggregate, August NA Classes 5-8 net orders were generally in line with moderating expectations. “The drivers of those expectations are unchanged for the Class 8 market, overcapacity in the US tractor market leading to generational lows in for-hire carrier profits and a continued lack of traction in freight rates are a primary concern,” Vieth said. “For the MD market, the focus is on increasingly overextended US consumers, the impact of high interest rates on discretionary spending, and extremely weak RV demand.”