Equipment & Tech Archives

Inventory levels up, values down as Sandhills Global Market Reports show continuing trends

The Trucker News Staff - May 5, 2023

LINCOLN, Neb. — Inventory levels showed another month of increases across Sandhills Global marketplaces for used trucks, trailers, construction equipment and farm machinery. And in what has become a recurring trend, asking and auction values dropped year-over-year (YOY) in most of the equipment categories Sandhills monitors. As an example, the asking value for a typical 4-year-old sleeper truck was around $120,000 in April 2022. By contrast, asking value this April for the typical 4-year-old sleeper was around $80,000, one-third less YOY. Value trends are likely to continue moving lower for heavy-duty trucks into the near future. The key metric used in all of Sandhills’ market reports is the Sandhills Equipment Value Index (EVI). Buyers and sellers can use the information in the Sandhills EVI to monitor equipment markets and maximize returns on acquisition, liquidation and related business decisions. The Sandhills EVI data include equipment available in auction and retail markets as well as model year equipment actively in use. Additional Market Report Takeaways Sandhills market reports highlight the most significant changes in Sandhills’ used heavy-duty truck, semitrailer, farm machinery and construction equipment markets. Each report includes detailed analysis and charts that help readers visualize the data. The newest reports examine YOY variance in detail, noting changes from April 2022 to April 2023 with an eye to inventory, asking value and auction value trends. U.S. Used Heavy-Duty Trucks The Sandhills EVI shows heavy-duty truck inventory increased 4.82% month-over-month (M/M) and 30.23% YOY in April. Heavy-duty truck values have been in nearly continual decline since March 2022, and in April, asking values dropped 2.7% M/M and 20.67% YOY. Auction values also declined, falling 5.36% M/M and 29.89% YOY. U.S. Used Semitrailers April’s semitrailer inventory increases were driven by dry van and reefer semitrailers. The Sandhills EVI expects semitrailer inventory to continue to increase and values to soften going forward. Semitrailer inventory levels increased 4.66% M/M, extending consecutive months of gains and were up 43.15% YOY. Asking values in April were down 1.09% M/M and 22.7% YOY. Semitrailer auction values decreased 2.17% M/M and 31.83% YOY. U.S. Used Medium-Duty Trucks Used medium-duty truck inventory has been rising since the start of 2023. In April, inventory levels increased 5.46% M/M and 18.55% YOY. So far in 2023, medium-duty truck asking and auction values have decreased by 2% to 3% each month. In April, asking values decreased 2.32% M/M and 9.56% YOY. Auction values experienced similar drops, declining 2.03% M/M and 13.78% YOY. U.S. Used Farm Equipment As used farm equipment inventory levels continue to climb, the gap between asking and auction values is increasing; these trends are leading indicators of a coming decline in asking and auction values. Inventory levels increased 1.05% M/M and 23.3% YOY in April. Over the past few months, farm equipment asking values held steady, and this trend continued in April. Asking values decreased 0.18% M/M and were up 9.78% YOY. Auction values for the used farm equipment market, which includes combines and 300-horsepower-or-greater tractors, have cooled in recent months, but values are currently trending sideways. In April, auction values decreased 0.79% M/M and were 6.37% higher than last year. U.S. Used Compact and Utility Tractors Used compact and utility tractor inventories experienced seasonal declines in April, with levels dropping 2.83% M/M. However, the long-term recovery trend remained intact with levels up 69.67% YOY. The Sandhills EVI has shown asking and auction values for compact and utility tractors softening in recent months, and auction values were already lower this April than they were in April 2022. YOY asking value drops are likely to follow. Asking values decreased 0.67% M/M and are currently trending sideways. Compared to last April, asking values were up 3.03%. Auction values are also currently trending sideways. Sandhills EVI indicates that auction values decreased just 0.33% from March to April and were down 2.14% YOY. U.S. Used Heavy-Duty Construction Equipment Unlike inventory levels in the truck, trailer and ag equipment markets, used heavy-duty construction equipment inventory has held steady since last year and is currently trending sideways. In April, inventory increased 1.04% M/M and 0.6% YOY. Asking and auction values have been in decline since the start of 2023; used crawler excavators are the primary driver of these decreases. In April, asking values decreased 1.26% M/M and 4.76% YOY. Auction values declined 0.17% M/M and 6.32% YOY. U.S. Used Medium-Duty Construction Equipment Inventory levels in this category have been trending up since the start of 2023, led by mini excavators and track skid steers. The Sandhills EVI shows used medium-duty construction equipment inventory increased 3.39% M/M and 34.48% YOY. Loader backhoes played a role in asking value declines for used medium-duty construction equipment in April. Overall, asking values were nearly flat M/M and decreased 0.77% YOY. Auction values declined 0.48% M/M in April, continuing a string of M/M decreases and were 6.16% lower than last year.

International Roadcheck begins May 16

The Trucker News Staff - May 5, 2023

WASHINGTON — The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s (CVSA) International Road Check is just days away. International Roadcheck, scheduled for May 16-18, is a high-visibility, high-volume 72-hour inspection and enforcement event where CVSA-certified inspectors in Canada, Mexico and the U.S. will conduct inspections of commercial motor vehicles and drivers at weigh/inspection stations, designated inspection areas and along roadways. This year, inspectors will focus on anti-lock braking systems (ABS) and cargo securement to highlight the importance of those aspects of vehicle safety, according to a news release. The CVSA notes that although ABS violations are not out-of-service violations, “ABS play a critical role in reducing the risk of collisions by preventing the wheels from locking up or skidding, allowing a driver to maintain control of the vehicle while braking. In addition, improper cargo securement poses a serious risk to drivers and other motorists by adversely affecting the vehicle’s maneuverability, or worse, causing unsecured loads to fall, resulting in traffic hazards and vehicle collisions.” During International Roadcheck, inspectors will conduct their usual roadside safety inspections of commercial motor vehicles and drivers. Data will be gathered from those three days and shared later this year, as a snapshot of the state of commercial motor vehicle and driver safety. International Roadcheck also provides an opportunity to educate the motor carrier industry and general public about the importance of safe commercial motor vehicle operations and the North American Standard Inspection Program. During a routine North American Standard Level I Inspection, inspectors focus on two areas – driver and vehicle safety compliance. Vehicle safety — Inspectors will ensure the vehicle’s brake systems, cargo securement, coupling devices, driveline/driveshaft components, driver’s seat, fuel and exhaust systems, frames, lighting devices, steering mechanisms, suspensions, tires, wheels, rims, hubs and windshield wipers are compliant with regulations. Inspections of motorcoaches, passenger vans and other passenger-carrying vehicles also include emergency exits, seating, and electrical cables and systems in the engine and battery compartments. Driver safety — Inspectors will check the driver’s operating credentials, hours-of-service documentation, status in the drug and alcohol clearinghouse, seat belt usage, and for alcohol and/or drug impairment. Vehicles that successfully pass a Level I or Level V Inspection without any critical vehicle inspection item violations may receive a CVSA decal, which is valid for three months. If the inspector does identify critical vehicle inspection item violations, as outlined in the North American Standard Out-of-Service Criteria, the vehicle will be restricted from operating until the identified out-of-service conditions have been corrected. Inspectors may also restrict the driver from operating if the driver is found to have driver out-of-service violations, such as not possessing a valid or necessary operating license or exhibiting signs of impairment. TravelCenters of America (TA) is offering free mid-trip inspections at TA Truck Service centers. The inspections are available now through May 15. “The main purpose of a mid-trip inspection is to help ensure the safety, reliability and functionality of your truck and cargo,” according to a TA news release. “Mid-trip inspections can help identify vehicle issues including worn brake pads, low tire pressure, or fuel system leaks.” To prevent these issues from growing into even bigger problems, it’s important to catch these signs early. A thorough mid-trip inspection covers all aspects of the vehicle, including: Tires — Ensure proper pressure and tread depth, and spot damage or wear early. Brakes –Test the entire system for performance, functionality, safety, and compliance. Fluids — Look out for oil, coolant, and other fluid leaks, or signs of contamination. Electrical System — Verify that the battery, alternator, wiring, connectors, lights, and signals are functioning. Suspension — Detect any damage or malfunction in the shocks and other suspension components. Cargo — Be sure your vehicle’s cargo is secured properly to avoid safety hazards on the road. Click here to locate a TA near you.

PGT Trucking, Nikola, Nucor form green supply chain solutions partnership

The Trucker News Staff - May 4, 2023

BRANDENBURG, Ky — PGT Trucking is planning to use Class 8 Nikola Tre battery-electric vehicles (BEV) to grow its zero-emissions fleets. According to a news release, the company is the first flatbed trucking company to take such a measure. PGT will deliver low green house gas (GHG) intensity steel from Nucor’s new Brandenburg, Kentucky, plate mill to a nearby fabricator. An event is planned for 11 a.m. on Tuesday, May 23, at Nucor’s Brandenburg plant at 100 Ronnie Greenwell Road in Brandenburg to celebrate the inaugural shipment of low GHG intensity steel via the Nikola Tre BEV. Participants will hear from Nucor, Nikola and PGT leadership. Following the brief presentation, attendees will be taken on a guided and interactive tour of the Nikola Tre BEV and charging station. Boxed lunches and refreshments will also be provided.

Navistar partners with infrastructure solutions provider Quanta Services

The Trucker News Staff - May 4, 2023

ANAHEIM, Calif. — Navistar has formed a partnership with Quanta Services Inc., an infrastructure and energy transition solutions provider. Quanta is the largest specialty electric power grid infrastructure solutions company in North America, providing engineering, construction and maintenance services, as well as power and infrastructure assessment for electric vehicle (EV) charging and related infrastructure, according to a news release. In partnership with Quanta, Navistar will provide International Truck and IC Bus customers with a comprehensive vehicle and charging infrastructure solution that enables fleets to implement battery-electric vehicles. “Our electric vehicles are only as strong as the grid that powers them,” said Mathias Carlbaum, president and CEO of Navistar. “The differentiator of this partnership is Quanta’s ability to complete site construction and utility work. This allows our team to offer the customer a one-stop-shop approach to all aspects of an EV transition.” The partnership with Quanta will utilize Navistar’s three-step approach to delivering fully integrated eMobility solutions to customers: consulting, charging and deployment. Together, Navistar and Quanta will analyze, forecast, plan and execute across customers’ electrification journey, the news release noted. “Quanta has enjoyed a longstanding relationship with Navistar as a key partner for medium and heavy-duty trucks and we look forward to expanding and enhancing our relationship through this innovative partnership,” said Duke Austin, president and chief executive officer at Quanta. “We believe this partnership is uniquely positioned to provide comprehensive EV solutions to Navistar’s customers that support their fleet electrification initiatives and enable the transition to a clean energy future. Further, we believe this partnership will serve as a catalyst to achieve Quanta and Navistar’s shared near-term goal of providing and building the safest medium and heavy-duty trucks in the market using the latest technologies starting in 2024.” Navistar’s EV consulting process begins with establishing an EV roadmap for customers by hosting discovery workshops designed to understand fleet needs and concerns around electrification. In partnership with the International and IC Bus dealer network, Navistar delivers a tailored roadmap with scalable strategies that align with growth goals for successful adoption and continued successful use, according to the news release. “Quanta is vital to bringing our integrated EV solutions to life because it’s partnerships like these that allow the eMobility transition to happen faster,” said Trish Reed, vice president of zero emissions, at Navistar. “This partnership ensures the long-term success of our customers with their power solutions by helping customers partner directly with utilities, assisting in power requirement analyses and sourcing responsible energy.” Navistar also works to determine hardware and charging depot locations for each individual fleet. When EVs are ready to be deployed, connected technology plays a large role in ensuring the best use cases and optimal operation. Navistar’s OnCommand Connection technology allows for advanced remote diagnostics and the ability to turn vehicle health data into actionable insights, allowing for greater uptime and lower total cost of ownership.

PACCAR Parts celebrates 50 years of operation

The Trucker News Staff - May 3, 2023

RENTON, Wash. — PACCAR Parts marks its 50th anniversary this year as a distributor of aftermarket products for medium-and heavy-duty trucks, trailers, buses and engines. “PACCAR Parts is thrilled to celebrate this 50-year milestone,” said Laura Bloch, PACCAR Parts general manager and PACCAR vice president. “The success of our division is due to the outstanding contributions of our employees and dealers who deliver exceptional support for our customers every day.” PACCAR Parts’ first Parts Distribution Center (PDC) opened in 1973 in Renton, Washington, and paved the way for additional facilities across the United States and then the world. Today, PACCAR Parts operates 18 PDCs on four continents, providing 3.4 million square feet of distribution capacity. The newest PDC in Louisville, Kentucky, started shipping in August 2022, increasing parts availability for dealers and customers in the central, mid-Atlantic and southeastern regions of the U.S., a news release stated. “As PACCAR Parts PDCs evolved to improve the customer experience, the dealership networks expanded from approximately 180 locations in 1973 to more than 2,300 locations today,” according to the news release. “These investments by PACCAR Parts and Kenworth, Peterbilt and DAF dealerships have improved access to product, reduced lead time, and increased opportunities for service.” Currently, the PACCAR Parts 365 Center and Fleet Services programs support more than 2,400 commercial fleets operating more than 1.3 million vehicles. PACCAR Parts’ global e-commerce program, online parts counter, allows customers 24/7 online access to more than 1.5 million aftermarket parts. “We are proud that our tradition of being a world-class provider and a trusted partner is 50 years strong,” Bloch said. “We’re already looking ahead to expanding new technology and exemplary service support for our customers in the 50 years to come.”

ACT Research: Class 8 truck orders down 27% in April

The Trucker News Staff - May 3, 2023

COLUMBUS, Ind. — Preliminary North American Class 8 net tractor orders in April were 11,600 units, down 27% year-over-year (-39% month-over-month), while preliminary Classes 5-7 net orders were 18,000 units, down 10% year-over-year (-6% month-over-month). Complete industry data for April, including final order numbers, will be published by ACT Research in mid-May. “Given robust Class 8 orders into year end, ensuing backlog support, and normal seasonal order patterns, orders were expected to moderate into Q2; we expected seasonally adjusted orders in a range of 15-20,000 units per month into mid-Q3’23, said Eric Crawford, ACT’s vice president and senior analyst. Coupling those items with increasingly cautious readings from the ACT Class 8 Dashboard, “April orders were weaker than expected on a standalone basis but bring the year-to-date monthly seasonally adjusted average to 17,500, squarely in line with our view,” Crawford said. “The recent turmoil in the banking sector likely tightened credit conditions for some industry participants and may have played a factor in exacerbating April’s weakness,” Crawford said. “Thus, while we expect orders to remain at subdued levels into mid-Q3’23, we are not inclined to think April’s order activity represents the likely run rate going forward.”

Ryder set to offer all-inclusive electric vehicle program

The Trucker News Staff - May 2, 2023

MIAMI — Ryder System Inc. has unveiled a new turnkey electric vehicle (EV) program that it says will help companies better navigate the EV landscape. The program, dubbed RyderElectric+, provides electrification advisors, vehicles, charging, telematics and maintenance — all for one price, a news release stated. “By combining our expertise, advisory services, and relationships with vehicle manufacturers and charging companies, as well as our integration with telematics providers, we help companies build and maintain an electric fleet that fits their needs,” said Karen Jones, Ryder CMO and head of new product innovation for Ryder. “We aim to help make the integration of electric vehicles as seamless as possible by offering solutions that are streamlined through one provider at one cost.” The new program also provides access to Ryder’s inventory of vehicle technology that would include financing, warranty and safety options, as well as the company’s national maintenance footprint, 24/7 emergency roadside assistance, on-the-road usage/telematics for fleet insights and EV chargers at select Ryder locations. “As demand and adoption of commercial EVs continues to accelerate across the transportation and logistics industries, this latest offering provides Ryder customers with an end-to-end solution for zero-emission commercial fleet management, deployment, fueling, and maintenance,” adds Carlo Rodriguez, group director for advanced vehicle technology for Ryder. Ryder recently announced its plan to introduce 4,000 BrightDrop Zevo 600 and Zevo 400 electric vans to its lease and rental fleet through 2025. To date, Ryder’s current fleet and options of advance vehicle technology include Ford E-Transits, Navistar eMV, Lonestar EVs with Dana’s electric powertrain, and Freightliner MT50e, eM2 and eCascadia. Ryder also has Tesla Semi tractors reserved and continues to work with multiple OEM’s to provide new EV solutions to its customers, company officials said.

Hino Trucks partners with Hexagon Purus to distribute battery-electric heavy duty tractors

The Trucker News Staff - May 2, 2023

ANAHEIM, Cailf. — Hino Trucks has signed a distribution agreement with Hexagon Purus to exclusively distribute a complete battery-electric vehicle (BEV). This tractor will utilize Hexagon Purus’ proprietary zero-emission technology, including battery systems, auxiliary modules, power modules and the vehicle-level software, according to a news release. The truck is developed to operate on Hino’s XL 4-by-2 tractor cab chassis. “Hino has been an important zero-emission technology development partner for Hexagon Purus in North America for several years, and as a development partner in Hino’s Battery Electric Vehicle program, we are thrilled to continue building on that strong relationship in the years to come”, said Todd Sloan, executive vice president of Hexagon Purus. Production of this electric heavy-duty model tractor is projected to begin the last part of 2024 and will be distributed & serviced exclusively through select qualifying dealers within Hino Trucks’ U.S. network. Glenn Ellis, president of Hino Trucks, said, “Earlier this year, we debuted two new electric vehicles — the Hino Class 5 M5e cab over and Class 6 L6e conventional model. Recent regulations address the need for further reductions in emissions for the transportation sector in the U.S. and will ultimately drive future demand for several classes of zero-emissions commercial vehicles. Our exclusive distribution agreement with Hexagon Purus expands Hino Trucks’ capability to distribute BEV’s in both the medium-and heavy-duty space as we continue to invest in BEV adoption as the landscape continues to evolve.”

Kodiak Robotics introduces 1st autonomous electric Class 8 semi

The Trucker News Staff - May 2, 2023

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. — Autonomous trucking company Kodiak Robotics Inc. has unveiled the first-ever driverless electric Class 8 big rig. According to a news release, Kodiak is upfitting a Peterbilt Model 579EV electric truck with the Kodiak Driver, the company’s self-driving technology. The truck will be incorporated into Kodiak’s fleet in 2024. The Peterbilt Model 579EV truck is the second vehicle platform that Kodiak is upfitting and it is equipped with its fifth-generation sensors, the news release noted. Kodiak’s autonomous system is vehicle-and powertrain-agnostic, which enables the company to easily incorporate its autonomous system into emerging truck platforms as they become available, regardless of fuel type. The Peterbilt Model 579EV can be recharged in as little as three hours and provides a peak power rating of 670 horsepower. With a range of up to 150 miles, the truck is designed for short-haul and drayage deployments. “We believe that the future of trucking is the combination of electric and autonomous vehicles,” said Don Burnette, founder and CEO of Kodiak Robotics. “Given advancements in battery and fuel cell technologies, achieving zero-emissions trucking will soon be within reach. Kodiak’s work on the Peterbilt Model 579EV will help us gain valuable experience in how to build autonomous electric vehicles, and help us realize that vision. Customers have been long asking for an autonomous electric vehicle and we are delivering on that need.” Kodiak is displaying its Gen-5 autonomous electric truck in booth 5421 at the Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo in Anaheim, California through Thursday, May 4.

Safety Series: Preparation and skill are keys to avoiding warm-weather hazards

Cliff Abbott - May 2, 2023

By this time of year, warm — even hot — weather has already arrived in many parts of the country. Summer weather presents its own set of challenges. Some preparation to both truck and driver can mean the difference between running cool down the highway and sweating on the side of the road. Engine fluids are always a necessity but can be especially critical in summer. Coolant, windshield washer fluid and engine oil should be fresh and full. A good-quality windshield washer is necessary. Some drivers mix bottled washer solvent with an ammonia-based window cleaner for extra cleaning power. The hot summer sun can cause tar and oils in the road surface to rise to the top, where passing tires churn it into small droplets that can settle on windows and mirrors. A quality solvent keeps the view ahead clear. Under the hood, belts and hoses are stressed to their limits in summer. Your vehicle inspection should include checking them frequently. Small “check cracks” are normal for serpentine or fan belts, but if chunks are missing or cuts and tears weaken the belt, get it replaced. Hoses can crack, become loose or form bubbles in their sidewalls; they should be replaced when signs of damage appear. Radiators and air-conditioner condensers can become clogged with dirt and road debris. Check them often and, if necessary, clean them with a stream of water or compressed air. Tires also suffer in the heat. In addition to absorbing heat from the atmosphere, from the pavement and from direct sunlight, they also generate heat via friction with the road surface. The sidewalls flex as the tires rotate, generating even more heat. When tires are underinflated, heat buildup occurs quickly and can cause a blowout. When one of a pair of tires is underinflated, the other tire absorbs extra weight, creating more heat. Make sure tires are properly inflated, and check them often. Conduct a thorough inspection at least once a day and a walk-around visual check each time you stop. It doesn’t need to take long. During a quick stop for a restroom break you can check the tires on one side on your way in and take a look at the other on the way back. Any missing tread, bulges or crack in sidewalls, or sounds of leaking air are warnings that failure could occur soon. Deal with these issues as soon as you can. Summer driving can be hazardous to drivers as well as to their equipment. Bright sunshine may be nice to look at, but it can wreak havoc on the eyes and cause fatigue. Every driver needs a quality pair of sunglasses. Visors and window tinting can help when used properly. Glare can be minimized by keeping windows and mirrors clean. Dehydration can occur quickly if drivers don’t consume enough water. Air conditioning removes moisture from the air, and since you’re breathing the air in the cab, it pulls the moisture from you, too. Replace fluids by keeping a bottle of water nearby and sipping often. Sugary sodas and energy drinks can speed up dehydration. Try to drink more water, or at least non-carbonated beverages. Carry extra water in the truck in case of breakdown or a long wait at a shipper or receiver. Drivers must also remain mentally alert. Be prepared for summer driving hazards that can pop up without warning. Blowing dust, dirt or sand can impair visibility and cause loss of traction if enough of it settles on the road. Summer wildfires are a problem in some areas, and can create large smoke clouds. Extreme heat can cause pavement to expand and buckle, creating hazardous conditions for everyone. Keep an eye out for any pavement that looks unusual, and slow your speed before you reach it. Summer rainstorms can cause oils that are “cooked out” of the pavement to float on top of a layer of rainwater, causing a sudden and treacherous loss of traction. Be prepared; slow down until you’re sure you have enough traction for the speed you’re traveling. Usually the road film is washed away quickly and normal traction resumes, but it pays to be ready. Of course, with kids out of school and more people out on the highways for vacation and trips, traffic can be brutal. Watch out for the extra traffic — and keep your cool when others are losing theirs. Drivers of large RVs and rental trucks face the same hazards as you do, but they may not have the knowledge and experience to react properly to unsafe conditions. Give them plenty of room, and keep an eye on them until you’re clear. Summer brings out motorcycles, bicycles, four-wheelers and other vehicles. Motorcycles can slip into blind spots more easily than cars and trucks. Watch for them, and give them plenty of room. Motorists sometimes have to share the road with bicyclists, making for a dangerous situation. Give them room, and be patient until an opportunity to safely pass appears. Others are out on four-wheelers, skateboards and any number of other devices. Children can appear in the street before you know it. Stay alert. Watch out, too, for families or cars full of teenagers headed for the mountains or the beach. Some may have their minds on the fun times ahead instead of their driving. Keep an eye out for other motorists who may be celebrating the summer sun with alcohol or other substances. And watch for the usual distractions such as smartphones or other devices, books or anything else that can take the driver’s attention from the road. Ahh, summer. The days are longer, the scenery greener and the skies brighter. Preparing your truck and yourself will help you and others enjoy it before the winter returns.

Insider Q&A: Aurora CEO Chris Urmson on self-driving trucks

The Associated Press - May 1, 2023

DETROIT — Sometime next year, semis with no human in the cab will start carrying freight down Interstate 45 between Dallas and Houston. The trucks will run on an autonomous driving system called the Aurora Driver, developed by Pittsburgh-based Aurora Innovation. The company is now making about 50 trips per week with human safety drivers on board. The prospect of a driverless semi is scary to many, but not to CEO Chris Urmson, who helped to build Google’s autonomous vehicle unit. Urmson, 46, co-founded Aurora in 2017. He spoke with The Associated Press about the future of autonomous vehicles. The interview has been edited for length and clarity. Q: Aurora has said its driving system is now “feature-complete.” Does that mean you’re close to putting trucks on the road without humans inside? A: Over a year ago, we laid out how we were going to get from there to actually having these trucks on the road with nobody on board as they drove safely, full of goods for people. What it means is that all of the parts of the system are in place. They just don’t necessarily work well enough yet that we would trust it to operate without a person on board who was there to deal with rare events. It’s this moment where we switch from putting the pieces together to refining and validating the stuff. The next really big deal for us will be this Aurora Driver-ready milestone where we’re confident that with a truck that has the appropriate redundancies, that we’d be able to drive that safely down the freeway. From there we’re off to the races, starting to see trucks operate without people on them. Q: Will you test without operators aboard, without carrying freight? A: I would expect we will. If you’re one of our customers, they’re going to want to put it through paces a little bit before they they put their brand stamp of approval on it. For us to get to the point of operating without that person on board, we want to close our safety case. Q: To many, the sight of an 80,000-pound semi with no human driver is pretty scary. How would you address those fears? A: We’ve used machine learning, artificial intelligence, to teach them how to drive the way that a good human driver does. If you’re just observing the truck and you’re passing it, you probably don’t notice. There are so many opportunities in bringing this technology into freight. While it’s an incredibly important job, and it’s one where I have a ton of respect to the people who do it, it’s a really difficult job. The likelihood of dying as a truck driver on the job is 10 times more than the average American. On many long-haul trips, drivers have to sleep away from home. They don’t get to spend time with family. It takes a toll on their quality of life. So there’s an incredible opportunity to make goods move more safely, to make them more efficient and more cost-effective. Q: Can you control the trucks remotely if needed? A: When the truck is driving down the road, it needs to be able to to operate safely with or without those remote support people. But there are things that the human mind looks at where it’s very easy to understand. Encoding all of those possible things in software is really hard. As we deploy the Aurora Driver, it’ll always operate safely, whether that person is there or not. But it can ask for help. Q: You have said that eventually your trucks are going to hit something. How would you allay fears about that? A: It’s important to recognize that trucks are involved in something like a half million accidents here today. So we expect to reduce that number. These trucks will be sharing the road with people, and people will do unexpected things. We’ll do everything we can to make these vehicles are safe. We’ll have a level of confidence on the way this thing’s going to behave that will be unprecedented. Q: Teslas on either Autopilot or “Full Self-Driving” using only cameras have crashed into emergency vehicles, motorcycles and other things. Why should we trust you folks when this keeps happening with other vehicles? A: They aren’t really self-driving vehicles. They’re kind of being branded in a way that maybe is a little bit misleading. We’ve believed for a long time that using a a combination of laser, radar, cameras — inventing our own even more capable long-range lidar (Light Detection and Ranging) — that increases the robustness of the system. The likelihood that you miss something becomes vanishingly small. You had to think about how the different sensors might fail and how you can use different sensors to complement the weaknesses and augment the strengths of one another so that you can actually be robust in challenging situations.

Cummins announces new clean fuel systems

The Trucker News Staff - May 1, 2023

DALLAS and COLUMBUS, Ind. — Cummins Clean Fuel Technologies has introduced its new series of back of cab (BOC) fuel systems, available in 135 diesel gallon equivalent (DGE) and 175 DGE capacities. The designs of the new BOC systems have been enhanced with a redesigned roof for improved aerodynamics and an all-new extruded aluminum frame and smaller overall dimensions, to accommodate all truck OEMs, a news release stated. Further, the overall weights of the 135N and 175N systems have been reduced by more than 400 pounds, due to an advanced lightweight structure and simplified plumbing arrangement. With fewer fittings and an easier-to-remove cover assembly, the new back of cab systems are designed to improve serviceability, helping to reduce annual inspection time and ease troubleshooting for technicians, the news release noted. Additionally, the BOC 135N and 175N systems paired with a Cummins X15N engine receive the same base warranty coverage as the engine, two years/250,000 miles. “Our new back of cab configurations reflect our advanced engineering expertise and continued commitment to enhancing our products and adding value to our customers, including drivers and fleet managers, and technicians,” said Mike Zimmerman general manager of Cummins Clean Fuel Technologies. “The enhancements we’ve made to our BOC 135N and 175N, help make our systems lighter and more fuel efficient as well as more compatible with all OEMs.” The BOC 135N and 175N are now in production. With fewer fittings and an easier-to-remove cover assembly, the new back of cab fuel systems from Cummins are designed to improve serviceability. (Courtesy: Cummins)

Aurora, Continental announce partnership to develop self-driving truck systems

The Trucker News Staff - April 28, 2023

FRANKFORT, Germany and PITTSBURGH — German automotive parts company Continental AG and U.S.-based self-driving technology firm Aurora Innovation have entered into a partnership to design and develop autonomous driving systems for trucks. The companies made the announcement on Thursday, April 27. “At Continental, we are proud to demonstrate our leading technology expertise by being responsible for the development, manufacturing and implementation of the autonomous driving system kits and the fallback path for Aurora’s autonomy system,” said Nikolai Setzer, CEO of Continental. “In this exclusive partnership, we bundle our systems competence with Aurora’s industry-leading autonomous technology for our common goal to jointly realize the first commercially scalable autonomous trucking systems. A crucial step towards autonomous mobility.” To industrialize the Aurora Driver, Continental officials say they will leverage their automotive product portfolio to develop, manufacture, manage and deliver a variety of equipment, including automotive radar, cameras and high-performance computers. Continental will integrate these hardware components into pods that will be supplied to Aurora’s vehicle manufacturing partners, according to a news release. “Delivering autonomous vehicles at scale has the potential to dramatically transform modern transportation, bringing new accessibility, safety and efficiency to the movement of goods and people,” said Chris Urmson, co-founder and CEO at Aurora. “Continental’s legacy in development and industrialization of automated driving systems, combined with its commitment to transform transportation make it an ideal partner for Aurora. Their depth of expertise will be pivotal to scaling Aurora’s autonomous trucking solution, Aurora Horizon.”

March sales of new Class 8 trucks reflect best March since 2006

Cliff Abbott - April 28, 2023

March 2023 saw the best sales of new Class 8 trucks of any March for the past 18 years, according to data received from Wards Intelligence. Manufacturers reported sales of 24,823 for the month, representing a 23.3% increase over February sales of 20,359. For the first quarter of 2023, a total of 64,891 Class 8 trucks were reported sold. That’s less than a percentage point below the record-setting first quarter of 2006. Compared to March 2022, truck sales rose by 21.9%. A quarterly comparison shows an increase of 29.2% over first quarter 2022 sales numbers. In North America, March Class 8 orders fell by 18% to 19,000 units, according to preliminary numbers from FTR Intel. Compared with March 2022, orders fell by 11%. However, it will take quite a while for these lower order numbers to impact actual sales. Buyers have ordered so many trucks that nearly all build slots are filled for the rest of 2023. If orders fell to zero tomorrow, manufacturers would be able to keep building into 2024. “With build activity over the last several months hovering near 27,000 units, backlogs likely fell during the month,” said Eric Starks, chairman of the board for FTR, in a release announcing the preliminary results. “Given that backlogs are sitting at such high levels, however, it is difficult to ascertain if there is a fundamental weakening in the Class 8 equipment market given order activity levels.” Despite predictions of a coming recession and higher interest rates caused by Federal Reserve efforts to curb inflation, buyers are still ordering new trucks and taking delivery of as many as they can get. “Overall, the numbers were solid and will have little impact on production levels over the next two quarters,” Stark continued. “Given the uncertainty in the economy, this is a welcome sign that demand has not collapsed and that fleets still have access to capital.” ACT Research reported 19,200 March orders on a preliminary basis. “Given how robust Class 8 orders were into year-end and ensuing backlog support, coupled with increasingly cautious readings from the ACT Class 8 Dashboard (-6 on average year to date in 2023, vs. -3 on average from March-December 2022), we have expected SA orders in a range of 15-20k units per month into mid Q3’23,” said Eric Crawford, vice president and senior analyst for ACT. Individual OEMs all reported sales gains over February — with the exception of Volvo. That company reported sales of 2,313 in March, down 2.2% from February’s 2,366. It should be noted, however, that February was an exceptionally strong month for Volvo. For the first quarter of 2023, Volvo sales of 6,084 are up 16.4% from sales in the same quarter of 2022. Volvo-owned Mack Truck reported sales of 1,727 in March, up 28.5% from February’s 1,344 and up 38.6% from March 2022 sales of 1,246. On a percentage basis, International saw the largest gains both month over month and year over year. The company reported sales of 4,154 in March, up 46.9% over February sales of 2,828 and up 77.7% over March 2022 numbers. International’s share of the U.S. Class 8 market in March was 16.7%, bringing the OEM’s year-to-date total market share to 14.5% Last year at the same point (the end of the first quarter) the company’s market share was 11.6%. That’s a long way from 2009, when International held 28% of the U.S. market and the top spot among manufacturers, but things are headed in the right direction for the Traton Group-owned Navistar. Traton Group also owns MAN, Scania and Volkswagen Truck and Bus. Kenworth sales of 3,359 were 18.1% ahead of February sales and 12.5% ahead of March 2022 sales. For the first quarter, the company has sold 20.4% more trucks than in the same period of 2022. Peterbilt fared a little better in March with sales of 3,432, up 20.7% from February but only 6% better than March 2020. With first-quarter sales of 8,734, Peterbilt is 21.5% ahead of the same three months in 2022. Both PACCAR companies have about a percentage point less in market share compared with the first quarter last year. Freightliner continues to lead the pack with an even 40% of U.S. Class 8 sales in the first quarter, the same percentage they held for the first quarter of 2022. For the month of March, Freightliner reported 9,208 sold vs. 7,368 in February for an increase of 25.0%. Compared with March 2022 sales of 7,691, numbers were up 19.7%. Western Star sold nearly 8,600 fewer trucks than sibling Freightliner in March, reporting 610 trucks moved. That number represents an increase of 14.2% from February but a decline of 7.3% compared to March 2022. For the first quarter, Western Star’s 1,711 trucks sold were just 1.8% ahead of the pace set in the same quarter of 2022. Finally, Tesla reported sales of 20 Class 8 electric trucks in March, double what it sold in February. The first-quarter total of 60 can’t be compared with the same quarter 2022 because Tesla sales, if any, weren’t reported to Wards until January of this year. For perspective, Tesla sales represent .09% (less than a tenth of a percent) of the market. It’s hardly worth tracking now, but that percentage will undoubtedly be growing for Tesla and for other manufacturers of battery and fuel cell electric trucks. Economists are still predicting a mild recession, but buyers of Class 8 trucks aren’t looking to downshift any time soon.

Samsara selects e2open to automate, connect its value chain

The Trucker News Staff - April 27, 2023

AUSTIN, Texas — Operations digitization company Samsara has chosen e2open Advanced Supply Chain Planning and Collaboration to help manage its demand, supply and inventory across its operations. “At Samsara, we look for technology solutions that support our pace of innovation and commitment to providing the best possible experience for our customers,” said Jeff Faulkner, vice president of operations at Samsara. “With increased visibility and automated workflows, e2open can help us stay ahead of potential disruptions and enable a quick supply chain response to changes in customer demand.” With e2open, Samsara will be able to automate more tools and communications across its supply chain network, potentially providing greater visibility into its operations, a news release stated. A metrics-driven command center and external connectivity offer opportunities for improved collaboration, while simulations and scenarios can be leveraged to drive decisions. “We’re thrilled to welcome Samsara as a client leveraging e2open’s Planning and Supplier Collaboration suites, to support their growth and customer journey,” said Michael Farlekas, CEO of e2open. “Samsara is on an exciting trajectory, and we look forward to working together to help them realize the benefits of outside-in planning, collaboration, and visibility across their entire supply chain network.”

Simple but ingenious: There’s a history behind those mud flaps on your rig

Kris Rutherford - April 27, 2023

Have you ever wondered who invented the mud flap? It’s really quite an ingenious solution to a common problem. When I was a tot — no longer an infant but not quite a toddler — my older brother, Phil, and a family friend found a can of white spray paint in the garage of our home in southern Maine. With red hair and the pale skin that most “gingers” are cursed with, I was already about as white as any youngster on the planet could be. Even so, Phil and his 4-year-old comrade decided I still had a bit too much tint. In short order, family lore says, the offenders sprayed me white from head to toe. I must have been smart enough to shut my eyes, because I’ve been told that’s all that distinguished me from a snowbank. Dad must have had experience with this sort of thing. He cleaned me up using a couple of cups of gasoline. I suppose in the 21st century, his cleaning solution would be ill-advised. But, keeping in mind that the U.S. was spraying Agent Orange on our soldiers in Vietnam at the time and the average farmer used enough DDT on a crop to kill medium-sized mammals, I suppose gasoline was considered a “mild” detergent. Fast forward about three years. Phil now rode a bicycle, sans training wheels. It was a sparkling green Huffy model, complete with a banana seat and a “sissy bar.” We called it the “green banana.” Whereas most bikes today sport tires less than an inch wide, the rims on the green banana accommodated 2, maybe 2 1/2-inch tires, for added stability, I suppose. In any case, those tires could pick up and sling some serious mud. But mud wasn’t Phil’s nemesis. He came high-tailing down the hill toward our house one afternoon, ignoring the “road closed” signs and oblivious to the fact the town had just sprayed a heavy liquid asphalt sealant on the road (we just called it “tar”). Well, as you can imagine, those wide bike tires tossed tar into the air like a whale clearing its spout. Phil’s bike left an indelible mark on the road that afternoon, and he arrived home covered with sticky, gooey black substance covering his bike and most of his body. Once again, Dad got the gasoline – probably about 5 gallons of it this time – and gave my brother a “bath.” I’ve been told Phil’s scrubbing was much more vigorous than mine after the spray-painting incident, and Dad may have even drawn blood. The green banana was forever altered, and my brother shed flakes of black tar for days. I called it karma. So, what does all this have to do with mud flaps? Well, while my spray painting was a nefarious plot, Phil couldn’t be completely blamed for the tar incident. After all, the Huffy bicycle company did not consider installing the one accessory that might have protected him from being coated in tar that afternoon — mud flaps. Recently, reminiscing about these two episodes, I got to thinking. When did the trucking industry start installing mud flaps on trucks and trailers? Who came up with this simple yet ingenious idea? The history of mud flaps must be obscure, I thought. So, I turned to the internet to see what I could find. In a matter of seconds, I had my answer. Some time ago, the Fruehauf Trailer Historical Society commissioned Darlene Norman to research the tale of the mud flap. After running down several paths, she finally concluded her investigation. During World War II, Oscar Glenn March Sr., a native of Oklahoma, was an inventor. According to Norman, March seldom bothered to patent any of his ideas. Perhaps the most famous of those was the mud flap. March spent a 40-year career in the military as a motor pool driver in the Army and Air Force. By the time he retired in 1983, he had accrued 2 million event-free miles, an accomplishment credited to his driving skills. That’s an impressive number, considering the various vehicles and cargo a military driver must operate and carry over the years. It seems March invented the mud flap while stationed at Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma. According to Norman, in a 1983 interview with Ellie Posey, March said he “made the flaps because the main drive wheels of big rigs kicked up rocks, mud, water and debris that damaged the delicate cargo. Much of the radar equipment he and other drivers delivered was sensitive to moisture, and rock damage was common.” The author continued, “To solve the problem, March designed tarps to trap the water and rocks. His mud flap was modified, and soon every tractor rig operating at Tinker was equipped with them. Not only did this invention prevent damage to the cargo, but it also prevented damage or injury to following vehicles and their occupants. The law now requires the use of mud flaps on big rigs.” Today, March is generally credited as the inventor of the mud flap. His 1994 obituary read, “Oscar, being very modest, rarely tells anyone he is a famed inventor — inventing the mud flaps that are now required on all big rigs. He also came up with the bracket and canvas system that is attached to flat-bed trucks to prevent damage to equipment. This system is still used by the military during long-haul deliveries. While working at Tinker, he came up with many more inventions that are still currently used on the base.” Of course, what started as a canvas flap has been improved over the decades. Rubber and composite materials have replaced the original canvas, and the flaps have been engineered to reduce drag and minimize interference with operation of a big rig. They have also taken on roles other than just limiting flying rocks and mud. Many motor carriers use mud flaps for advertising. About 30 years ago, someone came up with the idea of customizing mud flaps to suit the tastes of the driver. Who can forget “Mudflap Girl” — the chrome silhouette of a shapely woman that has adorned countless mud flaps since the 1970s? (“Mudflap Girl” has a history, but we won’t go into that here.) Chrome silhouettes became quite popular based on the prominence of “Mud Flap Girl.” Other drivers attached similar pieces of art, ranging from images to trucks and boats to other motifs, to mud flaps; a few even attached messages. Since then, the industry of customized mud flaps has exploded. You can get just about any design you’d like stamped in color into mud flaps — provided, of course, it meets the requirements of the National Transportation Safety Board. Likely, those requirements are included in page upon page of federal government legal language, but I haven’t bothered to research that issue yet. Take notice of mud flaps the next time you’re on the highway, and give a nod to Oscar Glenn March Sr. when you do. You’ll find an array of messages on such an innocuous object. And there’s one thing you can’t help but notice: “Mudflap Girl” hasn’t aged a bit.

Fleet Advantage says new tool will help fleets better understand costs of going electric

The Trucker News Staff - April 26, 2023

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Fleet Advantage will unveil what it calls a “revolutionary new analytic tool” at the upcoming National Private Truck Council (NPTC) Annual Conference on May 7-9 in Orlando, Florida. According to a news release, the new tool will “breakthrough technology designed to help define the future of transportation for corporate fleets.” “Today’s organizations know sustainability is at the forefront of their operational strategies, but a significant industry challenge revolves around answering the question of how to efficiently progress toward a carbon-free future in a viable way,” the news release stated. “Data analytics continue to have a positive impact for businesses and society at large, and Fleet Advantage’s new EV Life Cycle Cost Analysis Tool EVAN (Electric Vehicle Analytic Navigator) will help further identify and optimize Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) for corporate transportation fleets to determine the efficacy of utilizing electric vehicles.” Katerina Jones, CMO of Fleet Advantage, said that the company “is known throughout the transportation and equipment finance industries as leading with innovation and developing pioneering analytics that help organizations maximize their sustainability in operations, while also delivering the lowest total cost of operations.” Fleet Advantage’s new EV Life Cycle Cost Analysis Tool coincides with the Environmental Protection Agency’s recently proposed new and stronger set of greenhouse gas standards for heavy-duty vehicles for model years 2027 through 2032, building from the “Phase 2” greenhouse gas standards established in 2016. “This latest proposal comes on the heels of a NOx emissions rule finalized in December, along with a California waiver mandating sale of electric trucks,” the news release noted. “The proposed Phase 3 rulemaking applies to heavy-duty vocational vehicles, such as delivery trucks and refuse haulers, along with tractors, such as day cabs and sleeper cabs.” Fleet Advantage officials say they are helping companies build their custom environmental, social and governance roadmaps, which are “supported by our strategic asset management … EVAN plays a crucial role in bridging today’s clean-diesel technology into tomorrow’s alternate fuel options. However, every company has a unique bridge to cross, and therefore it’s essential to rely on data-driven insights to make accurate apples-to-apples comparisons for sound decision making.” As part of Fleet Advantage’s comprehensive Fleet Modernization Study, the analytic tool compares diesel versus an electric class 8 vehicle TCO, with modeling that evaluates fuel and mileage data versus kWh comparisons from the first year through a six-year life cycle. “EVAN takes into consideration various inputs including equipment cost, charging, cost of energy, cost of diesel, grants, tires, depreciation, etc. and converts them into a cost-per-mile (CPM) to determine the total cost of operating an electric vehicle over its lifetime, allowing fleets to make an informed decision about which type of vehicle is more cost-effective for their fleet,” according to the news release. “This year’s Earth Day and Air Quality Awareness Week recognitions provide an important opportunity to acknowledge how corporate actions can help to build a better climate future for all people,” said John Rickette, a Fleet Advantage vice president. “We also recognize that a responsible environment is shaped through sustainability efforts made each day, and we are proud to know our TCO Technology Stack helps fleets make a significant contribution toward the reduction of emissions.”

Used Class 8 truck volumes exceed seasonal expectations

The Trucker News Staff - April 26, 2023

COLUMBUS, Ind. — According to the latest State of the Industry: U.S. Classes 3-8 Used Trucks, published by ACT Research, used Class 8 retail volumes (same dealer sales) jumped 18% month-over-month in March. Average mileage declined by 5%, with average price up 4% and age down 2%. Longer term, average price, age and volumes were lower, with miles higher year-over-year. “Same dealer Class 8 retail truck sales continued their topsy-turvy run in March, jumping 18% from February. Granted, sales normally experience a boost in March, but the increase is usually smaller, about 12%,” said Steve Tam, vice president at ACT Research. “The litmus test will come next month, with history indicating sales typically decrease around 10% from March.” Combined, the total market rose 44% in March, relative to February. Compared to March 2022, the retail and wholesale markets declined, -13% and -40%, respectively. Their reductions more than counterweighted by the gain in the auction channel (+48%), resulting in a total market improvement of 4% year-over-year, Tam noted. “As the year progresses, the year-to-date scenario continues to diverge from year-over-year performance,” Tam said. “The overall market held onto a narrow gain (+1%). Our best estimate suggests that inventory continues to increase, supporting buyers working to refresh their used truck fleets. Units are flowing from both increased new truck purchases/trades, as well as owners exiting the market. The most recent fleet bankruptcy data available show failures have increased but remain well below historical levels.”

Electric truck maker Nikola expands into Canada

The Trucker News Staff - April 25, 2023

PHOENIX — Nikola has sold a battery-electric vehicle (BEV) and a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) to Alberta Motor Transport Association (AMTA), expanding its footprint into Canada for the first time. According to a news release, AMTA will incorporate the new heavy-duty vehicles into its Hydrogen Commercial Vehicle Demonstrations Project. “This first-of-its-kind project in Canada officially launched on Feb. 10, 2023, and offers Alberta carriers the opportunity to use and test Class 8 vehicles that operate with hydrogen fuel within their unique operations,” the news release noted. ‘These trials will look at the performance of hydrogen-fueled vehicles on Alberta roads, payloads and weather conditions, while addressing challenges around fuel cell reliability, infrastructure and vehicle cost and maintenance.” Doug Paisley, AMTA’s board chair, said his organization is helping Cananda to reach its 2050 net-zero goals by supporting the adoption of zero-emissions commercial vehicles. “We are excited to put these Nikola trucks to work in Alberta and begin collecting performance data, raising awareness to this advanced technology, promoting early adoption and creating industry confidence in such an innovative technology,” Paisley said. “AMTA works closely with the industry and its many partners to identify and research opportunities and propose and implement data-driven solutions that meet the needs and challenges of our industry.” The Nikola Tre BEV has a range of up to 330 miles, according to the company, which notes that “The Tre’s cabover design is ideal for metro-regional applications because it has improved visibility and maneuverability, along with a smooth and quiet ride free of the smell of diesel emissions.” “Canada is moving fast to decarbonize the transportation sector by removing diesel trucks from the road to help the environment,” said Michael Lohscheller, president and CEO of Nikola Corporation. “We want Nikola to be in lockstep with leaders like AMTA to accelerate these important market adoption and regulatory policies.” With a range of up to 500 miles and an estimated fueling time of 20 minutes (depending on the characteristics of the hydrogen fueling location, including fueling hardware and software protocol, fuel quantity and fueling conditions), the Nikola Tre FCEV is expected to have among the longest range of all commercially available zero tailpipe emission Class 8 trucks while realizing weight savings when compared to BEV Class 8 trucks with similar range, according to Nikola officials. “Canada is a global climate leader with bold targets for emission reductions,” said Carey Mendes, president of Nikola Energy. “Nikola’s zero-emissions trucks and its plans for building hydrogen infrastructure are aligned with Canada’s goals and underpins a fair share our publicly announced plans for 300 metric-tons of hydrogen supply, with 60 hydrogen stations planned for across North America by 2026. This partnership is just the beginning of bringing hundreds of FCEVs to Alberta and Canada.”

New railroad invention allows locomotive to ‘decide its own path’

The Trucker News Staff - April 25, 2023

DENVER — A new transportation invention was recently shown for the first time ever at a model railroad show in Colorado. According to a news release, the Holtzman Inc. invention can be described as trains with steering wheels, meaning a train decides its own path when running over a network of rails, not the tracks on which it is riding. In conventional rail networks, switches determine the path for trains. The invention, described in patent US11,364,940, uses lateral force on the train car to select a desired route at a junction, rather than having all cars follow the same route based on switch settings. The invention is being marketed first as a toy to demonstrate its potential for real-world applications. “It was originally introduced as a solution for traffic gridlock and for reducing CO2 from transportation,” according to a news release. “This invention enables new types of energy-efficient transportation systems for delivering people and goods.” According to Holtzman Inc., “the urgency of climate change does not allow the years required for a traditional adoption. The models shown at the train show are 3-D printed and files are available for download, so these toy trains can be available by Christmas 2023.” Two variants are available, one that can be driven with a RC controller and a computerized version that can be controlled with Wi-Fi. Videos of the models are available by clicking here. “Climate change is the challenge of our generation,” said Tom Williams of Holtzman Inc. “We can choose to meet it, or we can retreat into our shells and suffer the consequences. This rail system allows a network of rail vehicles to operate like cars on roads. Conservation is key. The low rolling resistance of rails can result in large fuel savings. The power of connected computers can result in safe travel. The rail cars can best be driven by a Traffic Control System while on the rails.”