Equipment & Tech

According to preliminary reports released this week by industry analysts at FTR and ACT Research, net orders of Class 8 trucks “exploded” in November, reaching the third-highest levels ever. Both agencies will release final numbers for November later this month. FTR’s report places November net orders at 52,600 units — up 31% month over month and nearly three times the level of Nov. 2019. The report also noted that Class 8 orders for the past 12 months continue to increase and currently stand at 250,000 units. ACT Research’s report reflects slightly more modest numbers with Class 8 net orders standing at 51,900 units for November — still up a healthy 33% from October 2020, and a whopping 197% improvement from November 2019. FTR attributes the increase in orders to a number of large fleets placing requirement orders for all of 2021 to build up lock slots, which carriers believe could be in short supply next year. However, FTR predicts orders to drop in the next few months as fleets conclude seasonal orders. “The Class 8 market is trying to rebalance after suffering through woeful order numbers early in the pandemic. The huge November orders mean that Q4 will be a fabulous one, regardless of what comes in for December and that portends well for the expected increase in production early next year,” said Don Ake, FTR’s vice president of commercial vehicles. “Fleets are still trying to catch-up with the jump in freight volumes resulting from the economic restart and the generous stimulus money which is being spent predominately on consumer goods and food,” he added. “This will only intensify if there is a second round of payouts.” ACT Research’s report includes data for the heavy- and medium-duty commercial markets, with indicators differentiated by Class 5, Classes 6-7 chassis and Class 8 trucks and tractors. The Class 8 market is segmented into trucks and tractors, with and without sleeper cabs. “The pandemic impacted economy continues to play into the hands of trucking,” noted Kenny Vieth, ACT Research’s president and senior analyst. “With freight rates surging to record levels the past three months and carrier profits certain to follow, orders accelerated in November. Preliminarily, North American Class 8 net orders rose to the third highest level in history, proving once again our favorite commercial vehicle demand axiom: When carriers make money, they buy, or at least order, trucks.”

COLUMBUS, Miss. — Bellevue, Washington-based PACCAR is honoring its Columbus, Mississippi, engine factory for 10 years of manufacturing excellence and a strong commitment to the community, the company announced Dec. 1. “PACCAR is very proud of the Columbus, Mississippi, engine factory’s achievements in the first 10 years,” said Preston Feight, CEO of PACCAR. “Our excellent employees and the plant’s advanced manufacturing capabilities have created a great environment for building the industry’s best engines.” Planning for the engine plant started in 2006 when an international PACCAR team of experienced managers and engineers from Kenworth, Peterbilt and DAF were tasked with laying the groundwork for a state-of-the-art factory. PACCAR chose Columbus, Mississippi, because of its proximity to important transportation logistics networks, talented people and the ability to partner with nearby educational institutions that complement the workforce. A groundbreaking ceremony in 2007 marked the start of construction for the $400 million facility. The innovative factory design and industry-leading operations have resulted in many honors for manufacturing excellence and environmental impact over the last decade, such as zero-waste-to-landfill, and ISO 14000 environmental management and ISO 9001-TS quality management certifications. Additional investments in factory enhancements and production capacity have positioned the plant to meet engine demand over the next decade. The Columbus, Mississippi, factory has produced more than 250,000 PACCAR MX-11 and MX-13 engines to date. “The level of commitment PACCAR engine factory employees have toward their work and their community is something that really resonates within the Peterbilt family and our customers,” said Jason Skoog, general manager of Peterbilt and vice president of PACCAR. We would like to congratulate everyone at the Columbus, Mississippi engine factory for a decade of delivering high quality PACCAR MX engines that benefit our customers in many ways.” PACCAR established close ties with colleges in the area, including Mississippi State University, Mississippi University for Women and East Mississippi Community College, to help develop a strong local pool of highly skilled employees. These relationships continue to flourish and provide mutual benefit. Not only does the PACCAR engine factory hire or offer internships to associates from surrounding colleges, but employees can also earn valuable training certifications and degrees to enhance their knowledge and skillsets. “Congratulations to the PACCAR engine factory and its tremendous, dedicated employees who have supported Kenworth fleets and truck operators with PACCAR MX engines for the past decade,” said Kevin Baney, general manager of Kenworth and vice president of PACCAR. “The factory has played a major role in Kenworth’s growth by providing fuel-efficient engines for our customers throughout the U.S. and Canada.”

PORTLAND, Ore. — Portland General Electric (PGE) and Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) on Dec. 1 announced the co-development of “Electric Island,” a large public charging site for medium- and heavy-duty electric commercial vehicles. The charging site is expected to be the first of its kind in the U.S. Electric Island will help accelerate the development, testing and deployment of zero emissions (tank-to-wheel) commercial vehicles. “In cooperation with PGE, and with the plan to expand electric vehicle charging right here in Portland to support not only our EV charging needs, but those of other drivers in the area, we are paving the way to a brighter, cleaner CO2-neutral future,” said Roger Nielsen, president and CEO of DTNA. “As the largest manufacturer of commercial vehicles, we can accelerate this shift and are excited to address, holistically, the complete EV ecosystem. Daimler Trucks has made Portland our home for the past 73 years, and having been born and raised in Oregon, I am incredibly proud to help make Swan Island an Electric Island.” The site, which is now under construction near DTNA’s headquarters in Portland, is designed to support up to nine vehicle charging stations with charging levels of up to greater than one megawatt by spring of 2021, and will offer public facilities for charging light-, medium- and heavy-duty vehicles. Plans for more chargers, on-site energy storage, solar power generation, and a product and technology showcase building are being finalized. According to a prepared statement from DTNA, the goal of Electric Island is “to address the intersection of vehicles and the grid, creating new opportunities for future EV drivers and utility customers.” The site, powered by Portland General Electric’s Green Future Impact renewable energy program, will be greenhouse gas emissions-free, including all vehicle charging. “Oregon’s transportation future is electric, and with global leaders like Daimler Trucks North America right here in Portland, we have the opportunity to accelerate a clean energy transition,” said Maria Pope, president and CEO of PGE. “We are excited to launch this cutting-edge partnership with DTNA, demonstrating what is possible when utilities and the automotive industry collaborate and innovate.” Electric Island will feature vehicle chargers with 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.

SAN FRANCISCO — Samsara has added new AI dash cam features to help fleets improve driver safety and training, the company announced in a blog post Nov. 30. Even though fleet safety managers are accustomed to communicating remotely with drivers, they generally rely on in-person training and coaching — something that has become increasingly difficult because of social-distancing restrictions because of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to a recent survey by Samsara, 32% of fleet customers said attracting and retaining drivers is the top challenge faced this year. To help managers better coach, train and engage drivers, Samsara AI dash cams now feature the mask detection, live streaming and driver video share. Mask detection Using advanced artificial intelligence, dual-facing Samsara AI dash cams can now automatically detect whether a driver is wearing a mask. Commercial drivers are classified as essential workers, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has provided specific guidance to ensure their safety. This guidance specifies that drivers must wear a mask or face covering in public settings, such as when pumping fuel, picking up food or completing a pickup or delivery. While solo drivers are at a low risk of exposure when on the road, team drivers or drivers who transport people may be required to wear a mask at all times. In addition to mask detection, Samsara has added tailgating and distracted driving detection to its suite of AI-detected events and behaviors. Live streaming Safety managers now have the option to perform virtual ride-alongs by accessing live video feed from vehicles on the road. The live streaming feature allows safety managers to view real-time video — road-facing, inward-facing or both — for coaching and training that would normally be done in person. As a privacy feature, in-cab alerts notify drivers when a live stream starts and ends. Driver video share Safety managers can share event videos directly with drivers, enabling remote and self-guided coaching. When a video is sent, drivers will receive a text alert with a link to the event details and video; the driver can then follow the link when he or she is safely stopped. This allows evidence-based, self-guided coaching. Existing customers can register for a Dec. 16 webinar to learn more about Samsara’s safety features. New customers can click here to request a demo.

PORTLAND, Ore. — EROAD has added the Clarity Dashcam to its integrated suite of technologies designed to help fleets stay in compliance, operate safely and efficiently manage operations. The camera, which can be used in front-facing or dual front/driver-facing modes, captures high-definition video. The connected device sends 20-second video clips back to EROAD in real time when triggered by safety events or by the driver. “We are proud to be continuing the journey to safer roads with the launch of the EROAD Clarity Dashcam,” said EROAD CEO Steven Newman. “We look forward to seeing the next set of results that our customers achieve in reducing accidents on our roads, and the gains they achieve by reducing insurance claims and repair costs by improving driver safety.” The Clarity Dashcam is integrated with EROAD’s fleet management solution, and clips are made available for review in a new video review center, MyEROAD Replay. Video clips are displayed with speed graphs and safety event data to for easy incident investigation; each video clip captures 10 seconds before and after the triggering event. Videos can be shared easily within an organization for review, as well as with third parties for purposes of incident investigation and resolution. “EROAD is proud to add a high quality, easy to use dashcam solution to the EROAD suite of solutions,” said Norm Ellis, President of EROAD North America. “Video of drivers’ actions behind the wheel is critical for coaching, for understanding safety events and accidents and for helping fleets protect their drivers and their businesses in case of an accident.” EROAD Clarity Dashcam requires no action on the driver’s part. The camera is powered up by the truck ignition, and a safety event — such as speeding, sudden braking or swerving, or a collision — will trigger the sending of a video to the MyEROAD platform for review. The driver can also manually send a clip back by pressing a button on the dash. Managers in the office can review triggered clips and can also pull video stored on the device using MyEROAD Replay, with no need to contact EROAD for help. The EROAD Clarity Dashcam and MyEROAD Replay video review center will initially be available to current EROAD customers and select prospects in limited quantities starting this month, with full availability during the first quarter of 2021. To learn more about EROAD Clarity dashcam, click here.

COLUMBUS, Ind. — Same-dealer sales volumes jumped 20% during the first 10 months of 2020 compared to 2019, according to ACT Research’s latest release of the State of the Industry: U.S. Classes 3-8 Used Trucks. In addition, the average price, miles and age of used Class 8 trucks sold year to date are all below October 2019 year-to-date rates — down 11%, 2% and 8%, respectively. Compared to September 2020, used Class 8 sales volumes and average miles both fell during October — down 4% and 1% month over month, respectively; average age was flat sequentially, and average price rose 6% from September. “Input from dealers with whom we communicated over the past month confirms that the recovery in the market remains on track, though it is showing some signs of slowing,” said Steve Tam, vice president of ACT Research. “At the beginning of the pandemic, the industry sidelined more than 100,000 for-hire truck drivers, artificially tightening capacity,” he said. “The two catalysts of solid freight growth and unproductive trucks have conspired to drive spot freight rates to record levels, and this, in turn, has attracted a higher-than-expected number of buyers to the used truck market, yielding higher sales and selling prices.” ACT Research’s State of the Industry: U.S. Classes 3-8 Used Trucks report provides data on the average vehicle selling price, miles and age based on a sample of industry data. In addition, the report provides the average selling price for top-selling Class 8 models for each of the major truck OEMs — Freightliner (Daimler), Kenworth and Peterbilt (Paccar), International (Navistar), and Volvo and Mack (Volvo).

HOUSTON — Testing of Shell Rotella’s Starship 2.0 Class 8 truck has begun in preparation for another coast-to-coast run in in 2021. The official 2021 efficiency run will build on key takeaways from the initial program in 2018 and introduce new, innovative technologies. The Starship Initiative is a collaborative effort between Shell Lubricants and AirFlow Truck Co. to develop a hyper-fuel-efficient Class 8 tractor trailer that offers reduced emissions and increases overall efficiency and economy for the freight industry. The second-generation Starship Airflow tractor-trailer features a custom aerodynamic design, and its creators hope to demonstrate improvements in both fuel economy and reducing CO2 emissions. Starship 1.0 The first Starship Initiative truck successfully completed a test run of more than 2,300 miles across the U.S., marking the first coast-to-coast journey of a prototype Class 8 vehicle of this type. During the first-generation Starship’s run, the truck was used in real-world trucking operations and exposed to real-world conditions, including unplanned stops and torrential rains along the way. The final total truck and cargo weight was close to 73,000 pounds, 28% heavier than the average total gross vehicle weight of 57,000 pounds for a U.S. on-highway Class 8 truck. The payload — material destined for a new offshore reef installation in Florida — weighed in at 39,900 pounds, 77% more mass than the U.S. average payload of 22,500 pounds. Despite far-from-perfect road and weather conditions, the drive itself was a success. Starship attained 178.4 ton-miles per gallon, nearly a 2.5 times improvement over the North America average freight ton efficiency of 72 ton-miles per gallon for trucks. During the journey, which traversed vastly different roads and terrain and was affected by varying weather conditions, Starship 1.0’s total average fuel economy was 8.94 miles per gallon, compared to the average U.S. fuel economy for transport trucks at 6.4 miles per gallons. The best fuel economy attained during the drive was 10.2 miles per gallon. For more information about the Starship Initiative program, click here.

COLUMBUS, Ind. — According to ACT Research’s latest State of the Industry: North American Classes 5-8 Report, the COVID-19 pandemic’s toll has not been evenly distributed across the U.S. economy. Transportation is one segment that has fared better than others — and that, in turn, has spurred a revival in commercial vehicle demand as the year has progressed. “The pandemic’s toll has been horrific, not just in terms of lives lost, which continue to accelerate, but as well in consideration of economic potential missed,” said Kenny Vieth, ACT’s president and senior analyst. “For context, had the economy grown at 2% in 2020, it would have been $1.1 trillion larger than it was in 2019,” he said. “Despite that eye-popping statement, critical freight-generating sectors have soared as the pandemic shifted consumer spending away from service-sector spending and toward trucking-reliant spending on goods. “But that’s only part of the story,” he continued. “Equally important in regard to the current demand situation is the large driver capacity take-out that occurred in April, and the industry’s inability to quickly add drivers has been a critical component in the persistent rise in freight rates.” The monthly report reviews current production, sales and the 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, detailing 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. The report includes a six-month industry build plan, backlog timing analysis, historical data from 1996 to the present in spreadsheet format, and a ready-to-use graph package. A first-look at preliminary net orders is also published in conjunction with this report. Vieth also addressed differences by commercial vehicle segment. “October’s statistics were not as synchronized as in September, but otherwise reflected the strong upward demand swing, with materially higher orders and backlogs in the Class 8 category,” he noted. “While increasing in the aggregate, medium-duty market outcomes vary by sector due to COVID’s impact, with truck and RV chassis segments showing strength, while social distancing has negatively impacted school bus demand.”

PORTLAND, Ore. — Southern California Edison (SCE), the primary electricity supply company for much of southern California, recently welcomed a Freightliner eCascadia from the Freightliner Customer Experience (CX) Fleet to begin a three-month testing trial of the battery-electric Class 8 truck, Freightliner announced this week. “SCE’s testing of the eCascadia is a major step down the path of achieving our company’s fleet electrification goals,” said Todd Carlson, SCE’s principal manager of fleet asset management. Carlson manages the company’s fleet of more than 6,200 vehicles. SCE is the first utility to test an electric truck from Freightliner and will use the eCascadia for material transport, moving heavy equipment such as transformers, wire reels and switch gears from an Irwindale, California, warehouse to SCE service centers and storage yards. SCE’s parent company, Edison International, recently published its goal of electrifying 8% of its heavy-duty trucks and 30% of its medium-duty vehicles by the year 2030. Freightliner’s CX Fleet is partially supported by a partnership between Daimler Trucks North America and the South Coast Air Quality Management District (South Coast AQMD), which focuses on improving air quality in large portions of Los Angeles, Orange County, Riverside and San Bernardino counties, including the Coachella Valley. “Projects like Freightliner’s CX Fleet are helping to demonstrate the viability of all-electric heavy-duty trucks and showing companies that zero-emission options will soon be here to meet their truck replacement needs,” said Wayne Nastri, executive officer for South Coast AQMD. “These demonstrator fleets are a critical step for transitioning trucks to cleaner technologies and helping us to achieve our clean air goals for the South Coast Basin.” When the vehicle enters series production in 2022, the eCascadia will be sold by Freightliner dealers such as Velocity Truck Centers, which operates seven new-truck dealerships in Southern California and support the Freightliner CX Fleet by providing vehicle service and fleet management. “The future of zero-emission trucks is approaching quickly and Velocity is proud to lead the charge, along with our great customers, and our partners at Freightliner and Daimler Trucks North America,” said Scott Zeppenfeldt, senior vice president of operations for Velocity Truck Centers. “While there are a lot of unknowns in transitioning to an electric fleet, supporting our customers in these types of projects are an integral step to starting the journey.” Freightliner’s CX Fleet includes eight early series development trucks meant to test the integration of battery-electric vehicles into large-scale fleet operations. Feedback from Freightliner customers will help the manufacturer fine-tune final driving parameters such as battery management software. Early examples of customer-driven eCascadia design include the position of the charging port on the truck, human-machine interface (HMI) controls and more. To date, an array of commercial trucking fleets — including the nation’s largest for-hire fleets, grocery distributors and less-than-load carriers — have participated in the CX Fleet, with more customers participating in advance of series production. “It’s critical that we collaborate with customers across multiple segments to further our understanding of how commercial battery-electric trucks will be part of a long-term solution in CO2-neutral transportation,” said Richard Howard, senior vice president of on-highway sales and marketing for Daimler Trucks North America. “Our customers provide important, continuous feedback that contributes to our ongoing design and purposeful innovation of these trucks, and together we will lead the future.”

SELMA, Texas — Pennsylvania-based Penske Truck Leasing has opened a new state-of-the-art facility in Selma, Texas. The new location, at 17582 Lookout Road, is convenient to Interstate 35 and will allow the transportation company to better serve its existing customer base in the San Antonio area and also provide capacity to serve new customers. The new location offers consumer and commercial truck rental, full-service truck leasing and contract truck fleet maintenance. In addition, the facility is equipped with Penske’s proprietary fully digital, voice-directed truck fleet preventive maintenance process and connected fleet solutions, a resource that helps customers address issues and options related to onboard technology systems, such as electronic logging devices (ELDs), telematics, onboard cameras, etc. “This is an area that we’ve had our eye on for some time,” said Chip Jenson, senior vice president for Penske’s South Central region. “This new location also provides our current customers and new customers a convenient location for service, rentals and more in between San Antonio and Austin, a busy trucking corridor.” The new facility is 21,014 square feet and sits on 9.5 acres. It has five truck service bays, one automatic wash bay and a fuel island. Penske currently employs 30 associates at the Selma location and is hiring truck technicians, customer service representatives and hikers.

AKRON, Ohio — The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. has announced a strategic relationship with TuSimple, a global autonomous trucking technology company, to provide tires and tire management solutions to TuSimple’s autonomous freight network (AFN). As part of this collaboration, Goodyear will provide products and repair services to enhance the safety and operation of autonomous trucks, the company noted in a Nov. 17 statement. Additionally, Goodyear and TuSimple will conduct wear studies designed to help understand how autonomous trucks and tires can help better predict maintenance, understand tire longevity and reduce fleets’ carbon impact. Collected data from the study will also deliver insights into the difference between an autonomous navigation system and a human driver with respect to the tires. “With our leadership in products, fleet support and advanced innovations, Goodyear is applying knowledge to help deliver performance and safety with autonomous vehicles,” said Erin Spring, Goodyear’s director of new ventures. TuSimple launched its AFN in July with the goal of providing reliable low-cost freight transportation throughout the lower 48 United States through the use of Level 4 autonomous trucks. “Autonomous trucks offer game-changing advantages for both shippers and fleets,” said Robert Brown, senior director of external affairs for TuSimple. “One of the most powerful advantages is the increased capacity, which comes as a result of the fact autonomous trucks can operate nearly continuously, and with this dramatic increase in truck utilizations comes the need to better understand predictive maintenance requirements.”

COLUMBUS, Ind. — Preliminary used Class 8 volumes (same dealer sales) dropped 10% month over month in October but are 10% higher year to date compared to the first 10 months of 2019, according to the latest preliminary release of the State of the Industry: U.S. Classes 3-8 Used Trucks published by ACT Research. Compared to October 2019, volumes are down 12%. Other data released in ACT’s preliminary report included month-over-month comparisons for October 2020, which showed that average prices increased 4%, while average miles rose 1% and average age gained 2%, compared to September. Year to date, average price, miles and age were all lower — down 11%, 3% and 7%, respectively — compared to the first 10 months of 2019. “How the year ultimately plays out will depend heavily on the demand for equipment, particularly in the spot freight markets, where rates have yet to show any signs of abating from recent record highs,” said Steve Tam, vice president of ACT Research. “That said, one of the most frequent questions we are being asked today is why truckers are buying trucks when there are still tens of thousands of unemployed truck drivers, whose rigs are sitting idle.” ACT’s Classes 3-8 Used Truck Report provides data on average selling price, miles and age based on a sample of industry data. In addition, the report provides the average selling price for top-selling Class 8 models for each of the major truck OEMs — Freightliner (Daimler); Kenworth and Peterbilt (Paccar); International (Navistar); and Volvo and Mack (Volvo). “While seemingly illogical at a macro level, each buyer likely has his or her own reasons for buying and is probably not looking at the big picture of balancing work and capacity,” Tam noted. “Buyers are probably unaware that they are individually contributing to a faster imbalance of too many trucks and not enough freight, which will hasten the next peak and send the industry down the backslope of the next cycle.”

PORTLAND, Ore. — Freightliner’s 38-vehicle fleet of battery-electric eCascadias and eMs2 has passed the 500,000 mile mark in real-world use by private and for-hire customers. The Freightliner Electric Innovation Fleet and Customer Experience (CX) Fleet consist of pre-series-production battery-electric medium- and heavy-duty trucks. The program is used to test integration of battery-electric technology into large-scale fleet operations while providing real-time feedback and data to help shape the future of CO2-neutral transportation. “The more miles our trucks operate in real-world operations, the more knowledge we gain, and the more experience our customers have with our pre-production trucks is integral to Freightliner’s approach to electrifying the trucking market,” said Richard Howard, senior vice president of on-highway sales and marketing for Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA). “There are no shortcuts to delivering safe, reliable, dependable trucks. Real customers, running real freight against the rigors of multiple scenarios is the only path to an electric future,” he said. “Through our process of co-creation, and along with our fantastic customers, Freightliner is delivering the future, mile by mile, every day.” The Freightliner Electric Innovation Fleet, which began operation in 2019, includes 30 battery-electric trucks in operation by NFI and Penske Truck Leasing and its customers. The fleet is supported by the South Coast Air Quality Management District (South Coast AQMD), which focuses on improving air quality in the South Coast Basin of Southern California and partially funded the project. All trucks in the fleet operate in the South Coast Basin and are doing real work in applications such as port drayage, regional and local delivery, food distribution and parcel delivery. The Freightliner CX Fleet, launched this year, includes eight battery-electric trucks and brings more customers into the co-creation process. Freightliner CX Fleet participants are members of the Freightliner Electric Vehicle Council, a group of customers working with Freightliner to identify and address all potential hurdles to large-scale fleet deployment. The Freightliner CX Fleet is supported in part by both South Coast AQMD and by Bay Area Air Quality Management District (Bay Area AQMD), which focuses on improving air quality in the nine-county Bay Area. Customer participants in the Freightliner CX Fleet include J.B. Hunt Transport Service Inc., Knight-Swift Transportation, Ryder Systems, Schneider National Inc., Sysco Corp. and Velocity Truck Rental and Leasing. Freightliner’s electric vehicles include the eCascadia, a Class 8 tractor designed for local and regional distribution and drayage, and the eM2, a Class 6/7 truck designed for local distribution, pickup and delivery, food and beverage delivery, and last-mile logistics applications. The start of series production for both trucks begins in 2022.

U.S. net trailer orders showed marked improvement in October, according to recently released reports from ACT Research and FTR. According to FTR’s data, which does not account for cancellations, October orders set an all-time record at 56,500 units, up 9% month over month. ACT’s more conservative figure, 54,200 units accounting for cancellations (up 6% month over month), set the month’s orders as the third highest in history. Both ACT and FTR showed a 68% year-over-year increase. “Fleet commitments over the past two months have now pushed industry backlog to the highest level since June of last year,” said Frank Maly, director of commercial-vehicle transportation, research and analysis for ACT. “Increases in both freight volumes and rates, along with capacity challenges, have influenced fleets to aggressively enter the market.” Maly also noted that current production rates would result in industry backlogs until July 2021. “Expect OEMs to adjust build rates upward to take advantage of this positive shift in fleet investment,” he said. According to FTRs figures, trailer orders for the past 12 months now equal 249,500 units, with fleets ordering large quantities of dry and refrigerated vans, most for delivery during the second half of 2021. “This is a repeat of 2018 when fleets placed huge orders in September-October to reserve build slots in 2019,” said Don Ake, vice president of commercial vehicles for FTR. “Then, it was because the hot demand was outstripping OEM and supplier capacity. Now, it’s because the pandemic has disrupted the supply chain and some essential components are having trouble making it through the pipeline fast enough. We would expect these bottlenecks to be resolved over the next few months, resulting in some of the large orders of the last two months being canceled or pushed out next summer as happened in 2019.” Ake also pointed to risks to the industry posed by the increasing number of COVID-19 cases in the U.S. “The industry powered right through the summer despite rising infections. There is strong positive momentum right now, but it remains to be seen if possible new health restrictions will slow down the growth of freight,” he said.

GREENSBORO, N.C. — Volvo Trucks North America is taking steps to increase its vehicles’ operational efficiency and cut fuel costs for owners by enhancing the fuel-economy packages in its trucks. Volvo’s D13 turbo compound (D13TC) engine is now standard in all Volvo VNL and VNR models, the company announced Nov. 10. “Volvo Trucks North America has a strong tradition of bringing innovations to the market,” said Allison Athey, product marketing manager at Volvo Trucks North America. “We can compare making the D13TC standard in certain VNL models with earlier milestones, such as in 2007 when we introduced the Volvo I-Shift automated manual transmission, or when we were the first OEM in North America to offer our integrated proprietary driveline as standard, and back in 1983 when we were the first out with the fully integrated sleeper cabs on our trucks, setting new safety standards.” Volvo Trucks’ D13TC engine is equipped with Dynamic Torque, a system that enables the driver to operate the truck in a more fuel-efficient manner by adjusting to the exact load without impacting performance. The engine also offers three individual drive modes, as well as an additional 405 hp rating and the next evolution of Volvo Trucks’ patented wave piston design. These updates enable further increases in fuel efficiency over a wider range of loads, applications, vehicle speeds and engine RPMs, the company says. “The D13TC engine optimizes fuel efficiency and increases the value to customers through cost savings and overall ROI,” Athey said. “Making the engine standard was the next logical step, in addition to offering customizable fuel economy packages that further maximize profitability and reduce the truck’s impact on the environment.” The company also offers enhanced fuel economy packages for Volvo VNL and VNR models. These packages provide up to a 16% improvement in fuel efficiency savings for the VNL and up to a 6% fuel efficiency savings for the VNR over the baseline models, based on the package specified. These fuel efficiency packages provide an integrated solution, combining aerodynamics and powertrain technologies for enhanced performance, increased drive efficiency and additional savings. “Volvo Trucks North America takes a holistic approach to fuel efficiency optimization,” Athey said. “While offering these fuel economy packages and making the D13TC engine standard, we are working with our dealers, customers and drivers to build awareness and provide education on the key areas that have an impact on fuel efficiency throughout the truck’s life cycle.” The latest connectivity solutions are also a key contributor to secure best-in-class fuel efficiency throughout the truck’s life span. All Volvo VNL and VNR models come standard with over-the-air remote diagnostics software and remote programming upgrades, further providing optimizations. Through 24/7 monitoring of the D13TC engine, as well as transmission and aftertreatment systems, fuel efficiency updates and parameter changes can be completed in a matter of minutes without requiring the customer to visit a dealership, significantly increasing uptime. The following fuel efficiency packages are available for the Volvo VNL: Plus (up to 4%): Includes D13 VGT engine package, I-See predictive cruise control, front bumper with full airflow deflector, chassis fairings, cab side fairings with extender and low rolling resistance tires. Advanced TC (up to 12%): Includes Plus features as well as the D13TC engine, mirror arm wind deflectors, extended chassis fairings with ground effects, and trim tab. Xceed (up to 16%): Only available for Volvo VNL 760 and 860 models, this package includes Advanced TC features and the full FlowBelow Aerokit, plus an optimized wheelbase and trailer gap to decrease drag. The following fuel efficiency packages are available for the Volvo VNR: Plus (up to 4%): Includes D13 VGT engine package with I-See predictive cruise control, chassis fairings and cab side fairings with extender. Advanced (up to 6%): Includes Plus features, as well as the D13 VGT XE engine package, mirror arm wind deflectors, ground effects and trim tab.

BELLEVUE, Wash. — PACCAR’s zero-emissions electric trucks reached a summit — literally — last week. On Nov. 5, a Kenworth T680 fuel-cell-electric tractor and a battery-electric Peterbilt Model 579EV became the first Class 8 zero-emissions vehicles to drive to the 14,115 foot summit of Pikes Peak in Colorado. According to a statement released by PACCAR, both vehicles “displayed superb power and exhibited excellent drivability” over the 156 twisting turns and switchbacks during the 4,700-foot elevation trek to the summit. The trucks handily negotiated grades between 7% and 10% over the famous 12.42-mile Pikes Peak International Hill Climb course. “We are very excited about the work Kenworth and Peterbilt have done in the development of zero-emissions technology. Conquering Pikes Peak demonstrates PACCAR’s leadership in fuel cell and commercial vehicle electrification,” said Kyle Quinn, PACCAR’s chief technology officer. The Kenworth T680 fuel-cell-electric vehicle delivers 470 hp and has a 350-mile range with a 15-minute refill time. Kenworth and Toyota Motor North America are collaborating on a project to develop 10 zero-emissions Kenworth T680 trucks powered by Toyota hydrogen fuel-cell-electric powertrains. “It’s a great accomplishment for the Kenworth T680 fuel cell electric vehicle to summit Pikes Peak. The Kenworth T680 trucks will be placed in operation with our customers at the Port of Los Angeles over the next few months,” said Kevin Baney, Kenworth’s general manager and PACCAR’s vice president. “The comprehensive Kenworth zero-emissions program also includes the Class 8 Kenworth T680E and medium-duty Kenworth K270E and K370E battery electric vehicles.” The Peterbilt Model 579EV that climbed Pikes Peak is designed for optimal weight distribution and performance, PACCAR says. The fully integrated, all-electric powertrain uses thermally controlled lithium iron phosphate battery packs to provide a range of up to 150 miles. When used in conjunction with a recommended DC fast-charger, the state-of-the-art, high-energy density battery packs can be recharged in three to four hours, making the Model 579EV ideal for regional haul, port, pickup and delivery, and last-mile operations. The Model 579EV produces up to 670 hp and features regenerative braking that allowed the battery packs to recharge while descending from the peak, offering extended range. During Peterbilt’s validation program, the Model 579EV has exceeded expectations and delivered outstanding performance, according to a company statement. There are currently 22 Peterbilt Model 579EVs on the road with more than 50,000 miles of real-world customer operations. “Taking the Peterbilt Model 579EV to the summit of ‘America’s Mountain’ is an important milestone for Peterbilt and our entire lineup of battery electric commercial vehicles,” said Jason Skoog, Peterbilt’s general manager and PACCAR’s vice president. “Being the first battery-electric Class 8 truck to climb to the top of Pikes Peak is further validation of all the real-world miles Peterbilt has accumulated across our entire EV test fleet and demonstrates we are ready to deliver production vehicles to our customers next year.”

DALLAS — Pride Group Enterprises has reserved 150 Tesla Electric Semis with the option to increase to 500 trucks, the company announced Nov. 4. Sam Johal, CEO of Pride Group Enterprises, said the company has placed a deposit to secure the initial units and build slots. Headquartered in Texas, Pride Group Enterprises is a privately held, diversified company with 12 locations in the U.S. and Canada. The company and its affiliates are members of NationaLease, a full-service truck leasing organization. “With support from one of our long-term financial partners, Hitachi Capital, we are very excited to bring this innovative product to our strong customer base, helping forge a new path in clean transportation. We believe that electrification is the way of the future as we work together across multiple industries to reduce our carbon footprint,” Johal said. “As well, we have the option to increase our order as we gauge customer acceptance of this new technology.” The allocation of units will be determined by Pride, with special consideration for regions with the “most welcoming electric commercial vehicle environment,” such as California, a company statement said. “Pride Group Enterprises’ vision is to invest in facilities that will support charging, full-service maintenance and a consistent supply of electric trucks on North American highways,” Johal said. “We have first-hand knowledge of the transportation industry across multiple verticals and we (PGE) strongly believe that electric truck technology will overcome many challenges facing traditional diesel technology such as the related maintenance and associated downtime.” In preparation for the arrival of the all-electric Class 8 trucks, the company is investing in the necessary infrastructure for parking, charging and maintenance at all of its locations. “With the addition of electric trucks to our portfolio of products, our service offering to our customers continues to evolve. Our reservation with Tesla is the first of many and we continue to work with all OEM partners and have more exciting projects in the works,” said Aman Johal, Pride Group Enterprises’ vice president of operations.

GREENSBORO, N.C. — Volvo VNR electric Class 8 trucks will be available for order beginning Dec. 3, with production expected to begin early next year, Volvo Trucks North America announced Nov. 5. The zero-emission trucks will be produced at Volvo’s New River Valley manufacturing plant in Dublin, Virginia. “Volvo Trucks is committed to lead the commercial transport industry towards more sustainable solutions by advancing electromobility. We will continue to invest in and drive the development of this technology, both globally and right here in North America,” said Peter Voorhoeve, president of Volvo Trucks North America. “We are excited to bring the Volvo VNR Electric to the market in just a few weeks.” Volvo Trucks, as a global organization, also announced Nov. 5, at the Volvo Group Capital Markets Day, that it will offer a complete range of electric heavy-duty trucks in Europe in 2021. In addition, Volvo Trucks plans, during this decade, to develop electric vehicles for heavy long-haul operations, including battery-electric and fuel-cell electric trucks with a longer range. Volvo Trucks plans to start selling electric trucks powered by hydrogen fuel cells in the second half of the decade, with an objective of having a fossil-free product range by 2040. “By rapidly increasing the number of heavy-duty electric trucks, we want to help our customers and transport buyers to achieve their ambitious sustainability goals,” said Roger Alm, president of Volvo Trucks Corp. “We’re determined to continue driving our industry toward a sustainable future.” According to a statement from Volvo Trucks, the manufacturer hopes to make the shift to sustainable, zero-emissions transport as smooth as possible for fleet operators by offering fossil-free solutions that allow carriers to maintain profitability and productivity. “As part of the very successful Volvo LIGHTS project, which we started in 2019 in Southern California in collaboration with 14 other pioneering organizations, we validated the viability and reliability of the Volvo VNR Electric in real-world operations and proved what it takes to create a holistic, end-to-end electromobility solution to drive true sustainability in the trucking industry,” Voorhoeve said. “We are fully confident in bringing this new technology to the commercial market.”