Equipment & Tech Archives

Kansas City Freightliner sold to Penske Automotive and Premier Truck Group

The Trucker News Staff - April 26, 2021

IRVINE, Calif. — Performance Brokerage Services, a commercial truck and car dealership broker, announces the sale of Kansas City Freightliner in Kansas and Missouri from the Westfall O’Dell Dealer Group to Penske Automotive Inc. and its subsidiary, Premier Truck Group (PTG). This acquisition is expected to add $450 million in annual revenue. The purchase includes five full-service dealerships, four parts and service centers, and two collision centers with locations in Kansas City, Joplin, Neosho, Springfield, and Columbia, Missouri, and in Olathe and Parsons, Kansas. The dealerships will operate under the names Premier Truck Group and continue to provide sales, rentals, leasing and vehicle service. PTG currently operates 25 commercial truck dealerships in North America, with locations in Texas, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Georgia, Utah, Idaho and Ontario, Canada. The group currently generates more than $2 billion in annual revenue. “We are thrilled to welcome Kansas City Freightliner to Premier Truck Group,” said Richard Shearing, president of PTG. “Upon completion of this transaction, our PTG business is expected to generate nearly 20,000 new and used unit sales annually and is expected to generate annual revenue of approximately $2.5 billion.” Over the past five years, Performance Brokerage Services has represented over 250 automotive dealerships as an automotive dealership brokerage firm in North America. Kansas City Freightliner was part of the Westfall O’Dell Dealer Group, a family-owned company since 1951. Kansas City Freightliner was purchased in 1982 to become the first dealer-owned Freightliner dealership in Kansas City. The business provides medium and heavy-duty truck sales, parts sales and delivery, vehicle service, body shop service, leasing and financing. The transaction was facilitated by Dan Argiro, the director of the Commercial Trucking Division for Performance Brokerage Services. “Dan Argiro and Performance Brokerage Services were instrumental in the purchase of Kansas City Freightliner and Rapid Ways Truck Leasing,” said George Brochick, executive vice president for Penske Automotive Group Inc. “Dan did an excellent job in communicating with our team and helping us throughout the process.”

First-of-its-kind ‘Electric Island’ charging station for heavy-duty trucks now open in Portland, Oregon

The Trucker News Staff - April 23, 2021

PORTLAND, Ore. — “Electric Island,” the first-of-its-kind heavy-duty electric truck-charging site, is now officially open in Portland, Oregon. The project is a joint venture between Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) and Portland General Electric (PGE). The charging site is positioned across the street from DTNA’s Portland headquarters, and is less than a mile from Interstate 5. “Oregon is leading the way on the future of electric commercial vehicle production and charging,” said Maria Pope, president and CEO of PGE. “Our partnership with Daimler Trucks North America shows how working together we can accelerate the clean energy transition.” Electric Island includes eight vehicle charging stations — a majority of which are available for public use — for the charging of electric semi-trucks, buses, box vans and cars. PGE and DTNA plan to use data gathered from the newly opened site to study energy management, charger use and performance and, in the case of DTNA, its own vehicles’ charging performance. “Through collaboration with great partners like Portland General Electric, we are helping to shape the future of carbon-neutral freight transportation, starting right here in the City of Portland,” said John O’Leary, president and CEO of DTNA. “Moreover, the manufacture of reliable, durable and efficient medium- and heavy-duty battery electric trucks will take place just down the road at our Portland Truck Manufacturing Plant, demonstrating that we truly are crafting an Electric Island.” Electric Island is the first charging site specifically designed for medium- and heavy-duty trucks aligned to the blueprint of the West Coast Clean Transit Corridor Initiative (WCCTCI). WCCTCI’s collaboration between nine electric utilities and two government agencies yielded a strategic plan in 2020 to electrify 1,300 miles of I-5 across the three West Coast states to provide publicly available charging for freight and delivery trucks. The site is designed to keep Electric Island future-proof, allowing the chargers of today to be replaced with new charger technologies of the future, including the planned 1+ megawatt chargers when they are released. Additional plans for future on-site energy storage, solar power generation, and a product and technology showcase building remain under development. “I applaud Portland General Electric and Daimler Trucks North America for their partnership on this first-of-its-kind project. As Portland begins to move toward recovery from the pandemic and its economic impacts, we are still faced with the climate crisis, so it’s essential that we focus on opportunities to support the growth of the green economy and lead the way on a just transition to a low-carbon future,” said Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler. “Electric Island is a great example of the kind of collaboration and innovation we need to do so.” Electric Island is designed to benefit both DTNA’s work in commercial electric vehicle development and PGE’s work in meeting customer charging needs. The site will enhance each company’s efforts by studying the future of heavy-duty charging, including: Use of vehicle chargers featuring power delivery of up to more than 1 megawatt (over four times faster than today’s fastest light-duty vehicle chargers), enabling PGE and DTNA to develop best practices for cost-effective future deployments; Integration of heavy-duty charging technology into PGE’s Smart Grid, such as vehicle-to-grid technologies, second-life use of Daimler’s battery packs and onsite energy generation; and Testing information technology opportunities such as fleet and energy management by captive solutions and services. “In Oregon, we are committed to taking action to address climate change, and we know that the future of transportation is electric,” said Oregon Gov. Kate Brown. “The charging station at Electric Island, the first known freight charging station on the I-5 corridor, shows that Oregon is the ideal place to innovate and develop 21st-Century transportation infrastructure. Thanks to the partnership of Portland General Electric and Daimler Trucks North America, we are working together towards our goal of creating a West Coast Electric Highway.”

Love’s, Cargill team up to produce, market high-performance renewable diesel fuel

The Trucker News Staff - April 23, 2021

HASTINGS, Neb. — The Love’s Family of Companies, Cargill and their affiliates have entered into a unique 50/50 joint venture to produce and market renewable diesel, a green fuel that’s experiencing strong, rising demand. The joint venture, dubbed Heartwell Renewables, will result in the construction of a new production plant and more than 50 jobs in Hastings, Nebraska. The plant will have the ability to produce approximately 80 million gallons of renewable diesel annually. As part of the joint venture, Cargill will provide feedstock in the form of tallow, a rendered animal fat. Once the diesel is produced, Musket, the commodity trading and logistics arm of the Love’s Family of Companies, will transport and market the product in the United States. Heartwell Renewables will be the only entity of its kind to both produce and market renewable diesel all the way to the retail pump. “Heartwell Renewables expands the commitment from the Love’s Family of Companies to reduce carbon emissions,” said JP Fjeld-Hansen, vice president of Musket and Trillium, two Houston-based members of the Love’s Family of Companies. “When considering the environmental benefits and performance enhancements of renewable diesel, the creation of Heartwell Renewables is a long-term win for not only the companies involved, but also for consumers and the environment.” The production process makes renewable diesel chemically identical to petroleum diesel with significant improvements in environmental performance due to its drop in carbon intensity and emissions. Renewable diesel also has a faster combustion speed, which brings more power to an engine and has been shown to lead to lower vehicle maintenance. “At Cargill, we believe agriculture can be part of the solution to some of the world’s toughest challenges,” said John Niemann, Cargill’s North American lead for protein ingredients and international. “Through the partnership with Love’s, both companies can leverage their unique expertise and resources to address the growing demand for biofuels while making an impact in the communities where we operate.” Heartwell Renewables will employ at least 50 full-time positions in Hastings. Construction is scheduled to begin later this spring, and operations should start in the spring of 2023. Once the plant opens, it will be one of only a handful of renewable diesel plants in the United States, according to the U.S. Energy Department. “The Heartwell Renewables facility presents an exciting combination of agriculture and renewable energy that will create new jobs and continue to grow our state’s economy,” said Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts. “Nebraska is the ideal location for this venture, leveraging our expertise in production agriculture and renewable fuels. I look forward to watching Cargill and Love’s grow this endeavor in Hastings.”

(Almost) as good as it gets: ACT reports Class 8 orders nearing ‘best ever’ status

The Trucker News Staff - April 23, 2021

COLUMBUS, Ind. — According to ACT Research’s (ACT) latest State of the Industry: North American Classes 5-8 Report, net Class 8 orders booked during the past six months were surpassed only by the six-month period ending October 2018 — not quite as good as it gets yet, but awfully close. “Unlike that October 2018 period, where the seeds of the cycle’s fall had already been planted with tariffs and trade wars, the economy is carrying considerable pent-up industrial and consumer demand with stimulus program(s) adding fuel to the fire,” said Kenny Vieth, president and senior analyst at ACT. “ACT’s current expectation for GDP (gross domestic product) growth in 2021 is 6.4%. Owing to the composition of economic activity, ACT’s GDP-based freight proxy anticipates freight volumes jumping by 12.6%,” he continued. “That supplants 1984 as the best year on record, based on ACT’s freight composite methodology. While freight growth is expected to moderate, as consumer spending patterns begin to revert to more traditional levels of goods spending relative to services, both GDP and freight activity are expected to remain elevated.” ACT’s State of the Industry: NA Classes 5-8 report provides a monthly look at the current production, sales and general state of the on-road heavy- and medium-duty commercial vehicle markets in North America. Market indicators are differentiated by Class 5, Classes 6-7 chassis and Class 8 trucks and tractors, and details measures such as backlog, build, inventory, new orders, cancellations, net orders and retail sales. Additionally, Class 5 and Classes 6-7 are segmented by trucks, buses, RVs, and step van configurations, while Class 8 is segmented by trucks and tractors with and without sleeper cabs. “With the economy growing in all the right places, freight rates and carrier profits are pushing into record territory,” Vieth said. “In response, Class 8 orders the past two quarters have driven rapid backlog growth. Stating the obvious, perhaps, the supply chain’s ability to respond will be the key determinant of commercial vehicle production in 2021.”

SuperTruck 3: DOE announces $162 million in funding to decarbonize vehicles

The Trucker News Staff - April 22, 2021

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) April 15 unveiled two funding opportunities totaling more than $162 million to improve efficiency and reduce carbon emissions among cars, trucks and off-road vehicles. The funding will support the next stage of the SuperTruck initiatives — aimed at electrifying freight trucking — along with efforts to expand electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure and lower emissions for both on- and off-road vehicles. “Getting to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 means we must aggressively cut down the largest source of emissions: the transportation sector,” said Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. “DOE’s first two SuperTruck initiatives led the biggest truck makers in the American semi market to take massive leaps in fuel efficiency. This new funding triples down on that progress with a push towards electrifying trucks of all sizes, along with efforts to expand EV charging access and develop low-emission car engines.” Building a clean energy economy to address the climate crisis is a top priority of President Joe Biden’s administration, and the transportation sector will play a critical part in the effort, according to a statement from DOE. Transportation accounts for approximately 30% of total U.S. energy needs and generates the largest share of the country’s greenhouse gas emissions. DOE’s new funding seeks to address the two largest contributors to transportation sector emissions. Passenger cars and light-duty trucks are responsible for nearly 60% of emissions, while medium- and heavy-duty trucks cover nearly a quarter. New technologies, business models and consumer demands are among several factors changing how freight moves in the U.S. Combined, these changes present a unique opportunity to envision the trucking sector as more economical and sustainable — supporting domestic jobs, the nation’s economy, and the administration’s clean energy goals all at once. DOE’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) initially launched the SuperTruck initiatives in 2009 to improve heavy-duty truck freight efficiency by 50%. The 2016 follow-up, SuperTruck 2, sought to double fuel efficiency for 18-wheeler trucks. The initiatives received participation from truck makers comprising more than 99% of the U.S. truck market. Within seven years, four of those manufacturers — Volvo, Daimler, Cummins/Peterbilt, and Navistar — exceeded the first SuperTruck goal. In all, five SuperTruck 2 projects are on track to more than double mpg ratings for Class 8 trucks. EERE’s Vehicle Technologies Office (VTO) and Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technologies Office (HFTO) are partnering on the SuperTruck 3 funding opportunity announcement (FOA) to offer up to $100 million in funding over four years to pioneer electrified medium- and heavy-duty trucks and freight system concepts that achieve even higher efficiency and lower emissions. The funding focuses on a range of approaches to electrification, including all-electric, plug-in hybrid systems using renewable biofuels, and hydrogen and fuel cell technologies, including hybridization strategies such as fuel cell range extenders. “Climate chaos is the greatest existential threat of our lifetimes, and it’s going to take an all-hands-on-deck approach to slash the pollution — much of which comes from the transportation sector — that is fanning the flames of the crisis,” said U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.). “By leaning into American ingenuity and innovation, we can use new technologies to chart a path forward — one that will help create jobs, protect our health and security, and lead the world toward a more sustainable future.” U.S. Rep. Greg Pence (R-Ind.) also supports the SuperTruck program. “Our modern approach to energy should be ‘all of the above,’ not an ‘everything but’ solution. SuperTruck is a vital program not only to Indiana’s Sixth Congressional District, but to the path forward in expanding America’s energy capabilities and independence,” Pence said. VTO is also offering up to $62.75 million as part of its Low Greenhouse Gas Vehicle Technologies Research, Development, Demonstration and Deployment FOA for innovative solutions to reducing emissions and increasing efficiencies for on- and off-road vehicles. To accelerate EV adoption, the FOA will support expansion of EV infrastructure and charging, along with community-level EV demonstrations that can lower barriers to EV adoption, such as piloting EV car sharing and installing EV charging within multi-unit housing. The FOA is also open to projects developing advanced engines and fuels that operate with lower emissions. The application processes will include two phases — a concept paper and a full application. Concept papers are due May 13, 2021, and full applications are due July 12, 2021. Applicants are required to submit a plan for achieving diversity, equity, and inclusion objectives, including support for people from underrepresented groups in STEM, advancing equity within the project team, and producing benefits for underserved communities. For more information, visit VTO and HFTO’s funding opportunity pages, the EERE Exchange and Grants.gov.

NHTSA issues recall on more than 1,400 International trucks, 566 Mack trucks

The Trucker News Staff - April 21, 2021

WASHINGTON — The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Navistar are recalling more than 1,400 International trucks in two separate recalls. According to NHTSA and Navistar, 845 International trucks, including 2021 HV, LT, MV and RH models, were equipped with Bendix pressure switches with a retainer that was not properly seated. The Navistar recall number is 21503, and the NHTSA recall number is 21V-227. The second recall, which affects 615 units, is due to a defect in the spring brake chamber that can cause pressure plates to shift and lead to an air leak. The Navistar recall number for that issue is 21502, and the NHTSA recall number is 21V-226. Navistar isn’t the only manufacturer with recalls. Mack, part of Volvo Trucks North America, is recalling 566 Mack Anthem, Granite, and Pinnacle rigs from model years 2018 to 2022. These were equipped with camelback rear suspension and electronic stability control. Due to a flaw in the equipment, the trucks may not stay in the right lane at certain speeds. The recall number from Mack is SC042, and the NHTSA recall number is 21V-233.

ACT study projects sales of commercial electric trucks to pass 300,000 mark by 2040

The Trucker News Staff - April 20, 2021

COLUMBUS, Ind. — According to a study released April 20 by ACT Research, sales of commercial electric vehicles (CEVs), specifically Classes 4-8 trucks, is expected to top 300,000 units by the year 2040. “Charging Forward: 2020-2040 BEV & FCEV Forecast & Analysis” is a follow-up to a 2018 study by ACT, “Commercial Vehicle Electrification: To Charge or Not To Charge.” The new study extends the forecast horizon to 2040, looks at additional vehicle applications in detail and adds analysis of the potential for hydrogen fuel-cell vehicle adoption for commercial vehicles. The forecasts are based on a comprehensive total cost of ownership analysis that covers 14 sub-segments and 23 application types, ranging in vehicle size from Class 4 through Class 8. “We believe that electrification will offer a competitive solution for an increasing number of commercial vehicle segments as we look to the decade ahead and beyond,” said Jim Meil, principal of industry analysis for ACT. The study outlines how CV electrification will benefit from a combination of advances in battery technology, environmental considerations and government policy, plus the potential for significant operational cost savings. CEV share gains are projected to grow from a small beachhead today to more than 40% by 2040 for the market in aggregate; some segments that are particularly conducive to electrification will see CEVs capture 75% or more of unit sales in the far years of the forecast horizon. “Initial adoption will likely be in shorter-range hauls with frequent stops and starts, regular and predictable routes, and daily return-to-base for overnight charging types of operations,” Meil said. “Early adopters will tend to be in medium duty and highly specialized Class 8 applications that make the current limitations of battery storage technology more manageable.” Regarding more distant time horizons, Meil said he expects the performance of CEVs to improve with the advancement of battery technology. In addition, he noted “performance will improve, costs will drop, and a wider range of applications and duty cycles will open.” The full report is available for purchase from ACT Research.

Shell Lubricants’ Starship 2.0 will hit the highway in May to demonstrate fuel-efficient tech

The Trucker News Staff - April 20, 2021

HOUSTON — In May, Shell Lubricants will launch Starship 2.0, a hyper-fuel efficient tractor-trailer, to demonstrate how Class 8 truck sector energy usage can be reduced by harnessing available energy efficient technologies to accelerate toward a carbon neutral future. Shell Lubricants is building on the lessons learned from the initial Shell Starship program launched in 2018. Shell Starship 2.0 is a new truck, featuring a new chassis and drivetrain, along with updated safety and fuel-efficient upgrades. “Shell Starship 2.0 will feature technologies that have advanced since its inception and is built to stimulate discussion and drive the conversation around trucking efficiency and carbon reduction,” said Jeff Priborsky, global marketing manager of the on-highway fleet sector for Shell Lubricants. “We have taken a number of technologies and have drawn them together in a single design with a holistic, connected approach that is crafted to optimize performance and efficiency.” Freight ton efficiency will be used as the primary measure because it is the most relevant measure of energy expenditure, according to Shell Lubricants. Shell will use this as the primary metric to advance conversations aimed at reducing the road transport industry’s carbon emissions. Freight ton efficiency is a more relevant statistic for judging the energy intensity associated with moving cargo from Point A to Point B because it combines the weight of cargo being moved with the amount of fuel consumed. Shell Starship 2.0 is expected to carry a 40,000-pound payload — higher than the 30,000 pounds the truck carried in 2018, when it attained 178.4 ton-miles per gallon for freight ton efficiency, a nearly 248% improvement over the North America average freight ton efficiency of 72 ton-miles per gallon for trucks. In addition, the first Shell Starship achieved 8.94 miles per gallon on its 2018 run, a significant increase from the U.S. Class 8 average of 6.4 miles per gallon. The Shell team is looking to improve the 2018 figure with the new Starship. Shell Starship 2.0 conducted regional testing earlier this year as it prepared for its coast-to-coast drive, which will again begin in San Diego, California, and end in Jacksonville, Florida. The North American Council for Freight Efficiency (NACFE) will monitor and verify the results of the Starship 2.0’s journey. “The ability to test Shell Starship 2.0 under different road and operating conditions is a great benefit as we prepare for the cross-country journey,” said Robert Mainwaring, technology manager for innovation at Shell Lubricants. “With many updates to the truck, it has given us the opportunity to make sure the new drivetrain and the efficient technologies built into the truck are all operating in concert with each other.” Shell Lubricant Solutions has produced a short video to preview how Shell Starship 2.0 will help take Class 8 truck efficiency to the next level through advanced innovative technologies, hyper aerodynamic design, fuel saving technology and advanced lubricants. Results will be shared following the completion of the journey. Additional details will be announced about updates to Shell Starship 2.0 shortly. For more information about the Shell Starship 2.0, click here.

Workers at Volvo’s truck manufacturing plant in Virginia on strike

The Associated Press - April 19, 2021

DUBLIN, Va. — Nearly 3,000 workers at a Volvo truck plant in southwest Virginia have gone on strike. The decision by the local of the United Auto Workers to strike came after a 30-day contract extension came and went without a new deal. The union said April 17 it is seeking improvements to wages, job security and benefits. Franky Marchand, general manager of the New River Valley plant in Dublin, said he’s surprised and disappointed by the strike decision. He said he doesn’t understand why workers aren’t staying on the job while the collective bargaining process continues. Volvo says the 1.6 million-square-foot Dublin plant is the largest manufacturer of Volvo tractor-trailer trucks in the world.

Nikola, RIG360 partner to provide service network for electric Class 8 trucks

The Trucker News Staff - April 16, 2021

PHOENIX — Nikola, a designer and manufacturer of heavy-duty commercial battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), fuel-cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) and energy infrastructure solutions, in early April announced its first step in establishing a nationwide plan for its Class 8 truck sales and service coverage. Nikola, in partnership with RIG360 Service Network, a network of heavy-duty truck service and maintenance centers, plans to provide sales and service products for commercial customers at more than 65 RIG360 locations in the United States. In addition to providing service and maintenance for Nikola’s Class 8 trucks, this dealer association is intended to provide customers with a sales and distribution channel for Nikola BEV and FCEV vehicles and ancillary products and services “RIG360 is a premier network of dealers that are committed to the highest levels of service support,” said Pablo Koziner, president of energy and commercial for Nikola. “These dealers will provide Nikola customers with market leading sales and service while helping them maximize operational efficiencies and vehicle uptime. We expect this association to play an integral part in advancing Nikola’s zero-emission vehicle sales and overall industry adoption by providing assurance in reliability and support over the life of our products.” The RIG360 network consists of seven individual dealerships that average more than 75 years of providing customer support and maintenance. This dealer network includes Blanchard Machinery, Cleveland Brothers, Foley Equipment, MacAllister Machinery, Thompson Machinery, Thompson Tractor and Yancey Bros. Co. “RIG360 was founded based on the belief that the experience and expertise of our people and network could serve our customers at the highest levels for all their fleet needs,” said DeWitt Thompson, CEO of Thompson Machinery and Nikola board member. Nikola and RIG360 expect to finalize distribution plans and agreements in the coming months in order to fully support customers in the sale and service of the Nikola Tre BEV, which will be launched later this year. “We are very proud and excited to partner with Nikola and their innovative portfolio of products and services,” said Jon Robinson, RIG360 board chair. “RIG360 has always put exceptional, quality service at our core, and adding Nikola to our portfolio will allow us to continue to serve our customers.”

MVTS reports ‘significant’ fuel savings after testing FlowBelow aerodynamic products

The Trucker News Staff - April 15, 2021

LAS CRUCES, N.M. — Mesilla Valley Transportation Solutions (MVTS) recently tested FlowBelow tractor and trailer wheel covers and the Tractor AeroKit and reported that each of these technologies provide significant fuel savings. “Our parent company fleet has acquired hundreds of millions of miles with the Tractor AeroKit and wheel covers,” said Daryl Bear, lead engineer and chief operating officer of MVTS. “This is the first time we at MVT Solutions have tested the wheel covers separately, and the savings proved to be very appealing.” MVTS conducted sequential tests on the FlowBelow technologies, starting with the trailer wheel covers, followed by the tractor wheel covers and last, the Tractor AeroKit. Testing was conducted at 65 mph using 2018 Freightliner Cascadia day cab models hauling 48-foot refrigerated trailers, with a gross vehicle weight of 72,000 pounds. The certified test results showed marked fuel savings for each of the FlowBelow technologies. The FlowBelow tractor wheel covers showed a savings of 1.38 gallons/1,000 miles (0.93%); the trailer wheel covers had a savings of 1.23 gallons/1,000 miles (0.81%); and the Tractor AeroKit resulted in a fuel savings of 3.16 gallons/1,000 miles (2.13%). “The trucking industry has traditionally underestimated the benefit of aerodynamic wheel covers due to their fuel savings being difficult to measure with other test methods or in-service testing,” Bear said. “However, the savings are very real, and the return on investment (ROI) is often quite fast, especially on the tractor that is not affected by the trailer-to-tractor ratio.” MVTS calculated that the use of FlowBelow’s tractor wheel covers would result in 173 gallons of fuel saved annually, which would equal $529 in fuel savings each year. The fuel savings for the trailer wheel covers equated to 154 gallons annually, calculating to $470 saved in fuel costs. FlowBelow’s AeroKit showed even more significant fuel savings, resulting in 395 gallons and $1,207 saved annually. Calculations were based on 125,000 miles travelled annually and an average diesel fuel price of $3.056 per gallon. To review full versions of MVTS’s FlowBelow test reports, click here.

Embark launches partner development program to bring autonomous driver tech to market

The Trucker News Staff - April 15, 2021

SAN FRANCISCO — Embark, a developer of autonomous technology for the trucking industry, has launched a partner development program with motor carriers Werner Enterprises, Mesilla Valley Transportation and Bison Transport. These partnerships will help Embark develop autonomous trucking technology that will improve speed and reliability for customers, as well as safety and work-flexibility for professional truck drivers. Through this program, Embark plans to refine and scale the software and support services necessary to enable carriers to operate OEM trucks, equipped with Embark’s technology, on select U.S. freight lanes. At the core of Embark’s product offering is the Embark Driver, a per-mile software license that the company says can safely navigate a carrier-owned, Embark-equipped OEM truck from its origin to its destination. In addition, Embark will provide carriers with an autonomous fleet management solution, Embark Guardian, to provide remote vehicle monitoring, dispatching and access to real-time data such as weather and construction. Together, Embark Driver and Embark Guardian will enable carriers to deploy and manage a fleet of autonomous trucks within their existing networks. “Embark’s commitment to having carriers purchase and operate our autonomous trucks, while Embark provides a software subscription and support services, is a win-win because it leverages the logistical expertise of the carrier, allows the technology to scale more quickly through existing shipper-carrier relationships and enables Embark to focus on delivering a safe and reliable autonomous truck,” said Alex Rodrigues, co-founder and CEO of Embark. ‘The learnings Embark has gained from hundreds of hauls with shippers and carriers over the years has helped us shape this new business model, and we are excited to announce it today.” As part of the program, carriers will work alongside Embark to test and refine various facets of the technology’s overall operating model, including remote vehicle monitoring, vehicle maintenance procedures, teleoperations, AV dispatching rules and transfer hub logistics. “While Werner has always been a first mover in the transportation industry, we continue to invest in new technology and solutions that enrich the experience for drivers, shippers, and carriers, while optimizing the entire ecosystem,” said Derek Leathers, vice chairman and CEO of Werner. “By working with Embark, we amplify the voice of our drivers and our customers, allowing them to be an important part of the conversation around the innovation that impacts the future of our industry.” Anheuser-Busch InBev, commonly known as AB InBev, and several other Fortune 500 shippers from across key industry verticals have also joined Embark’s partner development program to advise on the integration and scaling of autonomous trucks within their supply chain networks. In addition to preparing carriers to operate autonomous trucks, the program is engaging OEMs, real estate developers, and maintenance providers to coordinate the products and services carriers will need to operate a nationwide network of autonomous freight lanes. As the Embark Partner Development Program progresses, Embark plans to bring additional carriers, shippers, and freight ecosystem partners into the program.

Love’s Truck Care, Speedco offering half-price DOT inspections, free tire checks to help drivers prep for International Roadcheck

The Trucker News Staff - April 14, 2021

OKLAHOMA CITY — From April 26 through May 6, professional drivers can receive free TirePass inspections and half-price Department of Transportation (DOT) inspections at more than 350 Loves, Love’s Truck Care and Speedco locations. During this time, drivers can also get a complimentary visual inspection with the purchase of any truck care service. Love’s Truck Care and Speedco are offering these specials to help drivers prepare for the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s (CVSA) 2021 International Roadcheck. “We know that time is important to professional truck drivers, so by having the TirePass inspection completed while they fuel up, they can save time and be prepared for this year’s CVSA Roadcheck,” said Gary Price, executive vice president of truck care for Love’s. The CVSA International Roadcheck will take place May 4-6. Inspectors will be out across North America inspecting commercial motor vehicles and drivers. The Roadcheck is the largest targeted enforcement program on commercial motor vehicles in the world, with nearly 15 trucks or buses inspected every minute across North America. The focus of this year’s Roadcheck is on hours of service and lighting. Tire-related issues tend to be at the top of the list for placing drivers out of service. Using Love’s TirePass, a tire-inflation and assessment service, can ensure potential tire-related compliance violations are addressed before professional drivers roll up to an inspection. TirePass is available on the inside diesel lane at Love’s Travel Stops and inside some Truck Care and Speedco locations. According to CVSA, during the 2020 International Roadcheck, out of approximately 3.3 million inspections conducted, 944,794 driver violations were discovered.

Launch of Portland, Oregon’s ‘Electric Island’ charging station for commercial trucks is on the horizon

The Trucker News Staff - April 14, 2021

PORTLAND, Ore. — As the automotive industry accelerates the delivery of electrified truck models, Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) and Portland General Electric (PGE) are teaming up to create a first-of-its-kind public charging station for medium and heavy-duty electric commercial trucks. Black & Veatch, a provider of zero-emission vehicle transportation solutions, is now working to bring Portland, Oregon’s “Electric Island” project online to demonstrate high-power charging infrastructure scaled to accommodate electric trucks and large batteries capable of moving up to 80,000 pounds at highway speeds. “’Electric Island’ is a perfect example of what the future looks like here today. It’s exciting to participate in this collaborative project driving innovation between a private enterprise and the local utility, all on a mission to unlock the potential of zero-carbon transportation options,” said Paul Stith, Black & Veatch’s director of global transportation initiatives. Against the backdrop of the advances in electrified trucking and the push to lower or eliminate transportation’s carbon footprint, the project is scheduled to open this spring near DTNA’s headquarters and will feature nine charging stations. The site also will serve as a testing and innovation location, with plans for more chargers, on-site energy storage, solar power generation, a product and technology showcase building, and chargers capable of up to 1 megawatt of charging capacity (that is more than four times faster than the fastest light-duty vehicle chargers in 2021). On what is known as Swan Island, the “Electric Island” joint venture addresses the nexus of electrified trucks and the grid while creating opportunities for future electric vehicle drivers and utility customers, according to a statement from Black & Veatch. Powered by DTNA’s enrollment in PGE’s “Green Future Impact” renewable energy program, the site — and all vehicle charging — will be powered with no greenhouse gas emissions. “Given that transportation is an oversized contributor to pollution and climate-warming emissions, it’s important to ensure charging infrastructure keeps pace with commercial fleet adoption. Lessons learned at Electric Island will help transform thinking for the entire industry,” said Stith, who also serves on the board of the North American Council for Freight Efficiency and of Forth, an organization advancing clean transportation. “Proving the scalability of high-capacity charging infrastructure is critical to demonstrating the path forward for medium- and heavy-duty electric vehicles.” In the North American market alone, according to CALSTART’s Global Commercial Drive to Zero initiative, more than 108 models of commercial freight vehicles — including zero-emission heavy-duty trucks, medium-duty truck and vans, and yard tractors — will be available from 46 manufacturers this year. As zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) technology matures — particularly in the medium- and heavy-duty arena — regulators in some states are providing incentives and increasingly strong mandates that force broader adoption of emissions-free vehicles and trucks. In June, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) mandated that half the state’s trucks be zero-emission by 2035.

Volvo celebrates 25th anniversary of flagship VNL model

The Trucker News Staff - April 14, 2021

GREENSBORO, N.C. — Volvo Trucks North America’s flagship, the iconic VNL model, will reach a milestone 25th anniversary this year. Since 1996, the VNL has been assembled at Volvo’s New River Valley manufacturing plant in Virginia, and the truck has become the manufacturer’s most popular model. “Volvo Trucks first revolutionized the North American trucking industry by introducing the first fully integrated sleeper compartment, raising the bar and changing perceptions about truck driving as a professional career,” said Peter Voorhoeve, president of Volvo Trucks North America. “The introduction of the Volvo VNL in 1996 continued that legacy of innovation and influence, bringing breakthroughs in design and technology that have reshaped standards of excellence for our customers, their drivers and our industry for 25 years, and will continue to do so for years to come.” When the VNL model first hit the highways of the U.S. a quarter-century ago, the aerodynamic shape, which dramatically improved airflow and fuel efficiency, turned heads. In 1997, the VNL debuted the dinette — a workstation that converts to a bunk — changing the standard for long-haul cabin interiors. Safety features, such as a high-strength steel cab and driver-side airbag, are standard on Volvo’s VNL models. In 2005, Volvo made the first fully electronic stability control system for heavy-duty on-highway trucks a standard feature on the VNL. In 2007, the Volvo I-Shift automated manual transmission was made available on the VNL; by 2013, the I-Shift was standard on all models. According to Volvo, the I-Shift transmission improves fuel economy, increases driver comfort and safety, reduces driveline wear and extends transmission life. Remote diagnostics became standard on the VNL in 2012; today, drivers have 24/7 access to real-time in-house support from the Volvo Uptime Center. To help increase safety and comfort, in 2019 Volvo added dynamic steering as an option for the VNL. This tech monitors road and environmental inputs; then adds torque to the steering column to reduce strain. Just this year, Volvo Trucks’ next-generation D13 turbo compound engine, first launched in the Volvo VNL in 2019, was made standard in the Volvo VNL 740, 760 and 860 models, providing optimized performance and efficiency for a wide range of applications and delivering up to 6% fuel economy improvements over the Volvo D13 VGT engine. “On highways across North America, the design and performance of the Volvo VNL has been turning heads and positively impacting our customers’ businesses for 25 years,” said Allison Athey, product marketing manager for Volvo Trucks North America. “We look forward to what technological advancements and customer benefits the next 25 years will bring.” As part of the VNL 25th anniversary celebration, all Volvo VNL models coming off the production line in 2021 will have special commemorative badges affixed to the exterior door panels. Customers interested in decals for their VNL models can obtain artwork by contacting their dealer or corporate sales representative.

Hyliion partners with transport providers to equip Class 8 trucks with natural gas-powered electric powertrain

Linda Garner-Bunch - April 13, 2021

AUSTIN, Texas — Hyliion Holdings Corp., a provider of electrified powertrain solutions for Class 8 trucks, last week announced the formation of the Hypertruck Innovation Council, a select group of fleet, logistics, and transportation industry leaders that will actively support the development of Hyliion’s Hypertruck ERX powertrain. “Our customers are at the core of our business. Their feedback and collaboration are crucial to the success of our hybrid solution, which has already logged millions of real-world miles. That’s why we have brought together the Hypertruck Innovation Council, a group of commercial transportation industry leaders, who will be the first to test and review demonstration units of the Hypertruck ERX and whose feedback will be essential as we improve upon our technology,” said Thomas Healy, founder and CEO of Hyliion. “The council will also help us ensure that the unique and diverse needs of today’s fleets continue to be reflected in our products as Hyliion develops the next generation of industry-leading, environmentally conscious technology and powertrain solutions.” According to Hyliion, the Hypertruck ERX — an electric powertrain charged by natural gas for use in Class 8 trucks — is intended to provide a long-haul, electric powertrain solution delivering lower operating costs, emissions reductions and superior performance to the global commercial trucking industry. Members of the Hypertruck Innovation Council, which represents more than 100,000 Class 8 commercial trucks globally, include Agility Logistics, American Natural Gas, Anheuser-Busch, GreenPath Logistics, NFI, Penske Truck Leasing, Ruan Transportation Management Systems, Ryder System Inc., Schneider, Wegmans Food Markets and Werner Enterprises. Council members will be the first to have access to and put real-world miles on the Hypertruck ERX demonstration units, providing valuable fleet and driver feedback to aid in the development of Hyliion’s technology, with a goal of driving sustainable practices in the trucking industry. St. Louis-based Anheuser-Busch, which operates one of the largest dedicated fleets in the U.S., is working toward a goal of zero emissions, according to Angie Slaughter, the company’s vice president of sustainability and logistics procurement. “Anheuser-Busch is committed to leading the industry towards zero-emissions commercial transportation by improving the sustainability of our own logistics operations,” Slaughter said. “The most impactful technologies come from close collaboration with experienced and innovative minds, and we’re excited to participate in the Hyliion Hypertruck Innovation Council to support the development of a transportation solution that meets the complex needs of today’s fleets while working to build a more sustainable future.” Global logistics provider Agility Logistics has pre-ordered 1,000 trucks fitted with Hyliion technology. “Fleet operators, shippers and others in the supply chain have a lot at stake, and a lot to offer Hyliion as it moves to commercialize and scale clean trucking. By working together through the Hyliion Innovation Council, we can get reliable, efficient, zero-emissions electrified trucks on the road much sooner and rapidly begin to decarbonize heavy-duty trucking,” said Tarek Sultan, CEO of Agility. Iowa-based Ruan Transportation Management Systems is actively seeking sustainable power solutions, according to Grad Gehring, the company’s vice president of fleet services. “Ruan is always determined to make our trucks run more efficiently, and we employ a host of sustainable solutions in our fleet, including electric vehicles and extensive alternative fuel usage,” Gehring said. “We’re excited to participate on the Hyliion Hypertruck Innovation Council and collaborate together with other leading fleets to achieve more sustainable equipment options for the industry.” For Ryder System Inc., participation in the Hyliion council offers a chance to help with the development alternative fuels for commercial trucks, according to Ryan Salvail, the Miami-based company’s director of advanced vehicle technology sales. “As a global leader in transportation and logistics, Ryder has the unique opportunity to help shape zero-emission and near zero-emission vehicle technology with the goal of optimizing sustainable and cost-effective transportation solutions for our customers,” Salvail said. “Being part of Hyliion’s inaugural and innovative council is another important opportunity for Ryder to learn about and help perfect emerging technologies, so that we can continue to bring our customers best-in-breed solutions.” According to Rob Reich, executive vice president and chief administrative officer for Wisconsin-based Schneider, Hyliion’s goals for sustainable fuels are closely aligned with Schneider’s. “As transportation industry leaders, it is vital to advance the discovery of solutions that drive the realization for carbon reduction,” Reich said. “Sustainability is at the heart of our work at Schneider. The collaboration within the Hyliion Hypertruck Innovation Council is exciting for us, because the demand for sustainable transportation solutions grows daily.” Nebraska-based Werner Enterprises has a long-standing focus on the safe, efficient and responsible movement of freight, according to a company statement. “Safety and efficiency is vital, but we are also committed to driving sustainability. This collaboration with Hyliion continues to promote top performance while focusing on reduced emissions and fuel consumption,” said Derek Leathers, Werner’s vice chairman, president and CEO. “I’m really excited about this opportunity to work with other industry leaders to promote more efficient and sustainable practices for the trucking industry,” added Chad Dittberner, Werner’s senior vice president of van/expedited. By putting the Hypertruck ERX powertrain to work in real-world applications and gaining feedback from fleet managers as well as drivers, Hyliion hopes to develop a working solution to reducing the carbon intensity and greenhouse gas emissions of Class 8 trucks. “Now more than ever, fleets need efficient and affordable technologies that also address broader sustainability goals,” said Hyliion’s Healy. “Our collective strengths will help Hyliion unlock the potential for electrification technology while advancing our customers’ operations and the industry at large.”

Plus, IVECO partner to develop autonomous trucks for global deployment

The Trucker News Staff - April 13, 2021

CUPERTINO, Calif., and LONDON — Global self-driving truck technology company Plus (formerly Plus.ai), announced April 12 that the company has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with IVECO, a brand of CNH Industrial N.V. and a pioneer in the commercialization and manufacturing of vehicles powered by alternative fuels. Under the MOU, the two companies will work to jointly develop autonomous trucks that will be deployed across China, Europe and other areas. Under the terms of the nonbinding MOU, IVECO and Plus will integrate IVECO’s latest-generation S-WAY heavy-duty truck with the PlusDrive full-stack autonomous driving system. The partners will also explore using IVECO’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) engine system to power the jointly developed autonomous trucks. LNG-powered S-WAY trucks not only significantly reduce carbon emissions, but also reduce unladen weight and therefore increase payload capacity. “We are thrilled to partner with IVECO, who shares our vision for a safer and more sustainable future through autonomous trucks,” said Shawn Kerrigan, COO and cofounder of Plus. “Our teams will work closely to develop and deploy autonomous trucks, including one that is powered by natural gas. IVECO’s global footprint in over 160 countries will enable us to accelerate our commercial deployment and magnify the impact of our autonomous driving technology.” The partnership combines IVECO’s expertise in heavy-duty truck development, manufacturing and sales with Plus’s cutting-edge autonomous driving technology to bring safe, fuel efficient, scalable and sustainable self-driving trucks to market quickly. “The partnership with Plus represents an excellent opportunity to accelerate the development of the highest levels of automation for heavy trucks,” said Marco Liccardo, chief technology and digital officer for IVECO. “Plus’s technology leadership, non-linear thinking, and established relationships with the same key component suppliers make it the perfect partner for our acceleration toward fully driverless trucks.”

Utility makes ConMet’s advanced wheel end system standard on all trailers

The Trucker News Staff - April 12, 2021

CITY OF INDUSTRY, Calif. — Utility Trailer Manufacturing Co., which produces refrigerated trailers, dry freight bans, flatbed trailers and curtainsided trailers, now offers ConMet Preset Plus wheel end hubs as the standard base specification on all Utility trailer models. “At Utility, we are continuing efforts to upgrade our base specifications to maximize the reliability and performance of our trailers. We are very pleased to make the ConMet Preset Plus wheel end hub a standard on all of our trailer models,” said Steve Bennett, vice president of Utility. “The Preset Plus, with its state-of-the-art, design is low maintenance and is also designed to have maximum durability.” The ConMet Preset Plus, touted as the most advanced wheel end system in the market, features an optimized bearing spacer, long-life bearings that are engineered to withstand demanding operating conditions, an integrated spindle nut that makes installation easier and improves wheel end clamp load to maintain proper endplay, precision machined casting, extended life seals, ABS tone ring, magnetic fill plug and easy access fill hole. ConMet Preset Plus hubs come with an eight-year warranty and are available in aluminum and iron, drum and air-disc brake options for both TP and TN axle configurations. “Our ConMet Preset Plus hubs are the standard position across all major truck OEMs. Recently, this technology has been gaining momentum in the trailer market with fleets focusing on reduced lifecycle costs and ease of installation and maintenance for trailers,” said Ken Kelley, vice president of trailer, tier1, fleet and service for ConMet. “Additionally, a common wheel end technology between truck and trailers simplifies service procedures and technician training. ConMet has enjoyed a longstanding relationship with Utility, and we’re excited they continue to solidify their leadership in the trailer market by selecting Preset Plus hubs as standard position.”

FleetPride acquires Southern Truck Center of Birmingham, Alabama

The Trucker News Staff - April 7, 2021

IRVING, Texas — FleetPride Inc. has acquired the assets of Southern Truck Center of Birmingham, Alabama, a business founded by Tim Walker in 2005. The acquisition of Southern Truck Center, at 1205 Bankhead Highway West in Birmingham, will serve as a complement to FleetPride’s at 2403 21st St. North, also in Birmingham. Mike Walker, Southern Truck Center’s current manager, will continue to manage day-to-day operations of the newly named FleetPride Service Center, maintaining consistency for employees, customers and supplier partners. “Southern Truck Center is thrilled to announce that we are joining the FleetPride family,” said Mike Walker. “This partnership will allow us extra support to continue to serve our customers with the highest standards backed by a growing national network. FleetPride shares our core values of quality, care and integrity in both customer and employee relationships. We look forward to serving our customers just as before, now under the FleetPride name.” FleetPride continues to grow its national parts and service network with the acquisition. “Growth through acquisitions continues to be a focus for us,” said Mike Harris, senior vice president of sales and operations for FleetPride. “We believe our value proposition resonates with owners of parts and service companies looking for either a succession plan, or a partner that can provide a strong foundation for their employees and customers long term.”

March Class 8 truck orders continued to outpace production levels

The Trucker News Staff - April 7, 2021

Despite a production slowdown — attributed by many analysts to a shortage of semiconductors and other necessary components — preliminary figures from both ACT Research and FTR show North American net orders of Class 8 trucks at or above the 40,000 mark. Final data from both ACT and FTR will be available later this month. Analysts at ACT showed 40,000 units ordered, a 10% drop in orders compared to February but a whopping 424% increase from March 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic truly gained a foothold in North America. “Despite retrenching from February, Class 8 demand remained strong in March, well above replacement and even anticipated economic growth, let alone the industry’s ability to keep pace in the current supply chain constrained environment,” said Steve Tam, vice president of ACT. FTR’s preliminary report shows 40,800 Class 8 trucks ordered during March, setting a record sixth consecutive month that exceeded the 40,000-unit threshold. FTR recorded a 9% month-over-month drop in orders, but noted that March 2021 figures exceed March 2020 by 33,000 units. Significantly more trucks are needed to handle the impressive freight growth generated by the economic recovery and government stimulus. However, truck production continues to be substantially limited by shortages of semiconductors and various other components. Fleets continue to order in large quantities to secure trucks for future needs. “There is tremendous pent-up demand being generated due to the constrictions on supply,” said Don Ake, vice president of commercial vehicles for FTR. “The pressure in the market is building, as orders continue to flow into OEMs at a record pace. To have this level of orders roll in for half a year is impressive and unprecedented.” Tam pointed to an increase in consumer buying, fueled by President Joe Biden’s $1.9 trillion stimulus package, as a factor in the need for additional commercial vehicles. “Fanning the flames of an already robust economy, $1.9T in additional stimulus has started filtering its way into consumers’ pocketbooks,” Tam noted. “In addition, the prospect of a $2T infrastructure bill has consumers and businesses setting their sights higher for both the near- and mid-terms. And, included in that outlook appears to be a need for an increasing number of commercial vehicles.” Ake noted that shortages of semiconductors and other parts are creating backlogs throughout the trucking industry. “The component shortages of semiconductors and other parts are causing problems throughout trucking. Fleets desperately need many new trucks right now to keep up with demand, but production throughput is being constricted. It appears the industry will be playing catch-up well into the first half of next year,” Ake said.