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12/30/17

TURN TO THE EXPERTS™ - Carrier Transcold

Truck Trailer North America

Carrier Transicold's industry-leading innovative single temperature and multi-temperature solutions for trailers, straight trucks, and rail cars provide efficient, reliable, emissions-compliant performance that improves our customers' operations in today's ever-changing marketplace.

We offer a complete range of the industry's most advanced refrigeration equipment, from the industry benchmark X4™ trailer series to the Supra® diesel truck family, our vehicle powered direct-drive units, and Carrier’s exclusive all-electric architecture Vector™ trailer units.

Learn more at: https://www.carrier.com/truck-trailer/en/north-america/products/na-truck-trailer/


12/27/17

Ford F-750 Chassis Cab ROUSH CleanTech propane autogas fuel system


Get the job done in the 2016 Ford F-750 chassis cab outfitted with the ROUSH CleanTech propane autogas fuel system. This clean-burning vehicle lowers operating costs and emissions without sacrificing performance. Save on fuel and maintenance costs while maintaining the same horsepower, torque and towing capacity.

  • How to Order
  • Order a New Vehicle
  • To buy a new Ford F-750 chassis cab fueled by propane autogas and installed by an authorized Ford Ship-Thru facility:

Order your vehicle from an authorized ROUSH CleanTech Ford Dealership
Include the gaseous fuel (LPG / CNG) prep package code: 99D
Or, contact one of our authorized installation partners:

  • A-1 Auto Electric
  • Transfer Flow Inc.
  • Green Alternative Systems
  • Knapheide
  • Manning Equipment
  • Rush Truck Dallas

After your dealer places the order with Ford, the vehicle will be built and shipped from the assembly line to one of the authorized ship-thru facilities. It is then placed back in Ford’s transportation system for faster vehicle delivery.

Benefits
Operating Costs: Reduced
Propane autogas vehicles are known for their extended engine life and reduced maintenance costs compared to gasoline vehicles. Propane’s higher octane rating and lower carbon and oil contamination rate not only helps you to save our ‘green’ environment, but saves you ‘green’ at the bank, too. Check out this Savings Calculator that lets you know how much you could save by switching to propane today.

Emissions: Reduced
As little as one gallon of spilled gasoline can quickly contaminate groundwater above drinking water health advisory levels. Propane, on the other hand, is not a groundwater contaminat. Fueling with nontoxic propane autogas means operating on a safer, cleaner fuel that produces:

  • 20 percent less nitrogen oxide
  • 60 percent less carbon monoxide
  • Up to 24 percent fewer greenhouse gas emissions
  • Fewer particulate emissions
  • Visit the Propane Page for more details on environmental benefits.

Performance: Identical
The Ford F-750 chassis cab equipped with the ROUSH CleanTech propane fuel system provides the same great performance, horsepower, torque and towing capacity as the gasoline powered counterpart. In any altitude or extreme weather condition, you can depend on this fleet vehicle to provide reliability and performance.

Warranty: Identical
ROUSH CleanTech maintains the factory Ford 5-year / 100,000-mile or 4,000 hours limited powertrain warranty on vehicles equipped with the liquid propane autogas system. The ROUSH CleanTech propane autogas fuel system is covered by a limited 1-year / 12,000-mile warranty when installed on a truck that is no longer covered by the Ford factory warranty.

Serviceability: Identical
This vehicle can be easily serviced using any standard Ford diagnostic equipment. With a growing network of service centers around the country, and the ability to send technicians out to train mechanics in the service requirements of these vehicles, there is bound to be a service center near you. To find a dealer, visit the Dealer Locator, or call 800.59.ROUSH.

Corporate Benefits
By incorporating propane autogas Ford F-750 chassis cabs into your fleet, you will be helping America achieve energy independence because this alternative fuel source is domestically produced. Converting your fleet to propane autogas will also help your company to turn a greater profit by saving you on the bottom line costs of fuel and maintenance. You will increase customer loyalty because your customers will appreciate you providing them with a more environmentally responsible way to receive your products or services.

Tax Incentives
A tax incentive is available for alternative fuel that is sold for use or used as a fuel to operate a motor vehicle. Retroactive to January 1, 2015, the credits are extended through December 31, 2016.

 The tax credits consist of:

  • A $.50 per gallon excise tax credit for 2015.
  • A $.36 per gallon excise tax credit for 2016. The reduction for 2016 reflects an updated energy content calculation of excise tax.
  • A fueling infrastructure credit for up to 30 percent of installation costs, not to exceed $30,000.
  • For more information, visit the U.S. Department of Energy‘s website.

System Overview
The components of your new propane autogas tank can be broken down into a few primary assemblies:

  • Fuel Rail Assembly
  • Fuel Rail
  • Fuel Injectors
  • Injection Pressure / Temperature Sensor
  • Fuel Line Assembly
  • Fuel Lines
  • Flow Control Solenoid
  • Fuel Tank Assembly
  • Fuel Tank
  • Fuel Pump
  • Fuel Level Sensor
  • Recalibration of Ford Powertrain Control System
  • Calibration
  • Wiring Harness

For more information on propane autogas fuel system engineering click here.

Learn more at: http://www.roushcleantech.com/ford-f-750/

12/24/17

Merry Christmas



Wishing you a season of gladness, 
a season of cheer,
and to top it all off - a wonderful new year

12/17/17

Piedmont Natural Gas Aims for CNG Truck Conversions

Piedmont Natural Gas utilizes compressed natural gas in its fleet of dump trucks. (Photo: Piedmont Natural Gas)

Growth of an NGV Fleet

Of the 1,215 vehicles in Piedmont’s fleet, the natural gas company has converted approximately 38% to NGVs since 2009. As of June 2017, it expects that percentage to grow to approximately 42% by the end of the year.
The NGV fleet is predominantly used for customer service-related calls and natural gas pipeline construction and maintenance.
“We have several different models of NGVs in our fleet, with the majority being Ford F-150, F-250, or F-350 trucks. We also have some transit vehicles, such as the Honda Civic, Chevrolet Tahoe, and Ford Transit Connect. We also have been adding CNG dump trucks to our fleet,” said David Nestor, director of CNG for Piedmont Natural Gas.
Piedmont Natural Gas Fleet
Asset Type% of Fleet
Car9%
SUV1%
Truck HD1%
Truck LD73%
Van16%
Grand Total100%

SOURCE: PIEDMONT NATURAL GAS
Piedmont Natural Gas is committed to promoting the use of natural gas vehicles as part of its commitment to sustainable business practices.
“We’ve experienced an approximate 30% growth in CNG from 2015 to 2016, and we expect our CNG business to grow up to another 30% in 2017,” Nestor said.
In 2016, Piedmont and its CNG customers together displaced more than 5 million gallons of gasoline and diesel fuel.

Challenges to Using CNG

The CNG industry is still relatively new, but as more companies choose to convert their fleets to natural gas vehicles, CNG infrastructure and technology will become more widely available.
CNG’s popularity is increasing as more fleet operators are realizing the benefits of compressed natural gas for transportation. According to NGVAmerica, there are currently more than 165,000 NGVs on U.S. roads and more than 1,640 CNG and 123 LNG stations in the U.S. to serve their fueling needs.
“Piedmont is doing our part to promote this technology by helping to build a network of both public and private refueling infrastructure throughout our service territory,” Nestor said.
Piedmont strategically locates its publicly accessible refueling stations near interstates and along major trucking routes.
“We just opened our 11th station, strategically located near the junction of I-40 and US 321 in Hickory, N.C., and we are continually looking at opportunities to expand our footprint and strengthen the CNG infrastructure at our existing stations,” Nestor added. “Our stations are professionally maintained by experienced Piedmont CNG technicians to ensure reliability for our customers. Our public CNG stations accept all major fleet cards for payment to make it easier for our customers.”
Piedmont is also building stations with larger horsepower compressors to accommodate the larger truck tank package and to also reduce the amount of time required to fill the tanks.
Approximately 73% of the Piedmont Natural Gas fleet is comprised of light-duty trucks, with a number of natural-gas-powered Ford F-150s. (Photo: Piedmont Natural Gas)

Approximately 73% of the Piedmont Natural Gas fleet is comprised of light-duty trucks, with a number of natural-gas-powered Ford F-150s. (Photo: Piedmont Natural Gas)

Tips from the Field

Piedmont’s experience in growing a natural gas fleet has been positive, with continued growth on the horizon. For fleets looking to start a conversion, or convert even more vehicles to natural gas, Nestor had some advice.
“Businesses that are considering alternative-fuel sources as part of their sustainability initiatives should consider natural gas. NGVs produce significantly fewer emissions when compared to gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles,” Nestor said.
In addition, Nestor said the largest growth opportunity is in fleet operators who operate heavy-duty trucks. Furthermore, fleets that run regular routes and return to a fixed refueling base, such as delivery vehicles and refuse trucks, can benefit from using CNG.
National and regional fleets can use the CNG station locator on the Department of Energy’s website (www.afdc.energy.gov) to explore more strategic transportation routes that can help a fleet owner increase their CNG utilization.
One major recommendation Nestor had for fleets looking to grow the number of NGVs in use is to have vendors in place to help configure the vehicle correctly for its application.
“In addition, have access to maintenance providers who have facilities set up to work on natural gas vehicles with trained technicians,” Nestor said.
Also, don’t forget to contact your local Clean Cities coalition for networking opportunities and additional assistance. 




12/14/17

FUEL SAVING TIPS FOR TRUCKS: REDUCE IDLING, SAVE ON GAS

STUDY PROVES TURNING YOUR VEHICLE OFF MINIMIZES BOTH FUEL CONSUMPTION AND CO2 EMISSIONS.

You may have heard that it takes more fuel to turn your vehicle off and back on again than it does to stay idling when stopped. One fast food chain even made a claim that it was “Greener” to use the drive-through than parking and walking in for a to-go order. With fuel costs and anti-idling laws being an essential consideration for vehicle owners and fleet managers, it’s important to know the facts.

The fact is that even for short stops, it saves fuel to turn off your vehicle. Idling for even 10 seconds produces more CO2 emissions and burns more fuel than simply turning your engine off, and restarting. This was found by a study done by Argonne National Laboratory, and funded by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Vehicle Technologies Program.

IDLING STUDY RESULTS
Engineers were tasked to study vehicles in the Argonne laboratory’s Advanced Powertrain Research Facility to determine the impacts of idling and restarting. Dynamometer tests were conducted at the facility and revealed that parking a vehicle, turning it off, and then restarting it uses less fuel and produces less CO2 than idling for just 10 seconds. In addition, the study also revealed that the fastest way to warm up a car engine is to drive the vehicle, not by idling it. Argonne found that depending on the vehicle’s size, 0.2 to 0.5 gallons of fuel per hour is used when idling.

EMBRACE ANTI-IDLING LAWS
With these findings, and as states, provinces, and countries continue to introduce climate change action plans and green initiatives focused on greenhouse gas emissions, now is the perfect time to start embracing an anti-idle mindset in day-to-day driving and work operations. And for those that use air compressors, the VMAC UNDERHOOD70 – Green Series Air Compressor integrates perfectly into environmentally-friendly and fuel-conscious operations.

UNDERHOOD70-GREEN SERIES AIR COMPRESSOR
The VMAC UNDERHOOD70 – Green Series Air Compressor produces up to 70 CFM at 100% duty cycle. This powerful rotary screw air compressor is installed under the hood of the work truck and its throttle control automatically adjusts truck engine idle speed just enough to match air demand, which reduces fuel consumption. What’s more, the easy-to-use VMAC intelligent digital controls also cut down on idling, as the control system shuts the truck off when air isn’t being used, and then automatically turns the truck back on when air is needed. This reduces fuel consumption and emissions as the vehicle is not idling when tools are not in use. Learn more about the VMAC UNDERHOOD70 – Green Series Air Compressor.

VEHICLE IDLING STUDY CONCLUSION
Going back to the fast food chain’s claim, no, it is not greener to use the drive-through than it is to park and pick up your order inside the restaurant. Here are the facts:

  • Idling for more than 10 seconds burns more fuel, and produces more C02 emissions than turning the engine on and off
  • Idling for an hour uses 0.2 to 0.5 gallons of fuel, depending on the vehicle, and fuel consumption increases as idling speed increases
  • Warming up a vehicle by driving is more effective than idling

Consider these findings next time you find yourself idling your truck, whether working on a job site, picking up a food order, or warming up your truck this winter. And when planning to purchase a new air compressor, consider the VMAC UNDERHOOD70 – Green Series Air Compressor.

Source and learn more at: https://www.vmacair.com/blog/


Related blogs: Going Green with VMAC: Lightweight & Fuel Saving Air Compressors

12/11/17

'Not a me-too truck': Inside the Mack Anthem cab


The first thing you notice about the Mack Anthem is that Mack’s new Class 8 on-highway offering wears its edge on its sleeve. But the new truck is more than its chiseled lines and bold highlights—it’s been designed from the ground up both inside and out. Come along as we crawl through the Mack Anthem on this episode of On the Road. www.fleetequipmentmag.com www.FEOnTheRoad.com

12/10/17

FUEL SAVING TIPS FOR TRUCKS: REDUCE IDLING, SAVE ON GAS

STUDY PROVES TURNING YOUR VEHICLE OFF MINIMIZES BOTH FUEL CONSUMPTION AND CO2 EMISSIONS.

You may have heard that it takes more fuel to turn your vehicle off and back on again than it does to stay idling when stopped. One fast food chain even made a claim that it was “Greener” to use the drive-through than parking and walking in for a to-go order. With fuel costs and anti-idling laws being an essential consideration for vehicle owners and fleet managers, it’s important to know the facts.

The fact is that even for short stops, it saves fuel to turn off your vehicle. Idling for even 10 seconds produces more CO2 emissions and burns more fuel than simply turning your engine off, and restarting. This was found by a study done by Argonne National Laboratory, and funded by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Vehicle Technologies Program.

IDLING STUDY RESULTS
Engineers were tasked to study vehicles in the Argonne laboratory’s Advanced Powertrain Research Facility to determine the impacts of idling and restarting. Dynamometer tests were conducted at the facility and revealed that parking a vehicle, turning it off, and then restarting it uses less fuel and produces less CO2 than idling for just 10 seconds. In addition, the study also revealed that the fastest way to warm up a car engine is to drive the vehicle, not by idling it. Argonne found that depending on the vehicle’s size, 0.2 to 0.5 gallons of fuel per hour is used when idling.

EMBRACE ANTI-IDLING LAWS
With these findings, and as states, provinces, and countries continue to introduce climate change action plans and green initiatives focused on greenhouse gas emissions, now is the perfect time to start embracing an anti-idle mindset in day-to-day driving and work operations. And for those that use air compressors, the VMAC UNDERHOOD70 – Green Series Air Compressor integrates perfectly into environmentally-friendly and fuel-conscious operations.

UNDERHOOD70-GREEN SERIES AIR COMPRESSOR
The VMAC UNDERHOOD70 – Green Series Air Compressor produces up to 70 CFM at 100% duty cycle. This powerful rotary screw air compressor is installed under the hood of the work truck and its throttle control automatically adjusts truck engine idle speed just enough to match air demand, which reduces fuel consumption. What’s more, the easy-to-use VMAC intelligent digital controls also cut down on idling, as the control system shuts the truck off when air isn’t being used, and then automatically turns the truck back on when air is needed. This reduces fuel consumption and emissions as the vehicle is not idling when tools are not in use. Learn more about the VMAC UNDERHOOD70 – Green Series Air Compressor.

VEHICLE IDLING STUDY CONCLUSION
Going back to the fast food chain’s claim, no, it is not greener to use the drive-through than it is to park and pick up your order inside the restaurant. Here are the facts:

  • Idling for more than 10 seconds burns more fuel, and produces more C02 emissions than turning the engine on and off
  • Idling for an hour uses 0.2 to 0.5 gallons of fuel, depending on the vehicle, and fuel consumption increases as idling speed increases
  • Warming up a vehicle by driving is more effective than idling

Consider these findings next time you find yourself idling your truck, whether working on a job site, picking up a food order, or warming up your truck this winter. And when planning to purchase a new air compressor, consider the VMAC UNDERHOOD70 – Green Series Air Compressor.

Source and learn more at: https://www.vmacair.com/blog/


Related blogs: Going Green with VMAC: Lightweight & Fuel Saving Air Compressors

12/08/17

Path to electrification not straight to linehaul: Mack


OAKLAND, CA – Mack Trucks continues to see a healthy future for diesel engines, even as alternatives like electrification begin to emerge.

“Diesel today, it’s performing extremely well. It’s cleaner than it’s ever been, it’s robust, it’s versatile,” said Roy Horton, director – product strategy, during a briefing in Oakland, California. As for talk about electric trucks? “It’s almost a little bit of an uphill battle there.”

Electrification is “on the bubble, and it’s something everyone is looking at,” he said, admitting that the recent unveiling of Elon Musk's Tesla Semi attracted attention. “It’s definitely going to be part of our future.” Just not for longhaul. Not right away.

Mack believes the earliest adopters of electrification will be operations with the chance to charge at a home base and not depend on general infrastructure for fuel. That includes refuse, local delivery, and public transportation fleets.

Next would be applications with fixed routes where infrastructure is established but longer ranges are less of a concern. That opens opportunities for local distribution, regional haulers, and select vocational segments.

Longhaulers would be the last to use the trucks, drawing on power from secured infrastructure.

For its part, Mack has already been working with electrification in its own right. It unveiled a range-extended LR refuse truck in 2016, and a diesel-electric hybrid drayage truck. With Siemens it is also experimenting with the idea of electric highways, with vehicles drawing on the power of wires strung along the routes. The company is producing electric buses, too.

Mack will focus on electrification where it’s “commercially viable”, stressed Jonathan Randall, Mack’s senior vice president – North American sales. As for new players such as Nikola Motors and Tesla? “Competition is good.”

Mack’s work with alternative power sources hardly ends there. It already has experience with biodiesel, ethanol, hydrogen, natural gas, propane, and Dimethyl Ether (DME).

“We have, and continue to investigate, all of the viable alternatives,” Horton said.

“Mack is well-positioned, no matter which way the market goes.”


Source: https://www.todaystrucking.com/path-to-electrification-not-straight-to-linehaul-mack

By John G. Smith, Posted: Dec 4, 2017 10:29 AM | Last Updated: Dec 4, 2017 10:36 AM

12/05/17

The Need for Truck Scales

It's no secret that most of America's goods are transported by truck. Because of this, states have enacted various laws and taxes to regulate the industry. Each state has its own laws on how much a truck can weigh when transporting goods. A common standard for the weight allowed is 34,000 pounds or 15,400 kilograms. The amount of weight carried per axle is called axle weight. The gross weight is the total of all the axles of the truck. Most states receive taxes from the truck weigh stations, which goes to improving the roadways. Trucks that are overweight are subject to heavy fines, which is why there are many high quality truck scales available for companies and contractors.

Truck scales are made out of concrete and steel. They are built to handle a large amount of weight each day all year long. The scales can handle up to 80,000 pounds or 36,000 kilograms per load. The weight is calculated by sensors that receive signals from a junction box. Strain gauges, which are wires are embedded in the concrete and have an electrical current running through them. These wires will compress when pressure from the weight of the truck is sensed. The weight is then displayed on a monitor in a booth where the attendant records the weight. It is vital that these systems are reliable and functioning, because if they aren't it will directly affect their pocketbooks.

Another way that is used is called one-axle. In this instance the truck driver needs to place each axle on the truck scales one axel at a time. Once all the axles are weighed a total is given. This takes a lot of time out of the driver's schedule. One stop weighing is where the driver can place the truck on one large scale and the controller will give a gross weight. The one popular method of weighting trucks is when the truck is in motion. The truck doesn't have to stop at all. The sensors on the truck scales will pick up the weight and record it all while the truck is in motion.

Another reason that a company uses truck scales is because running an over loaded truck all the time would cause more wear on the truck. The engine would have to work harder which means you need to change your oil more often to accommodate for the extra stress. Tires would also wear out at a faster pace. Running an over weighted truck is a safety hazard as well as being illegal.

Fines for running an over weighted truck in some states have become much higher. Some fines ran 10 cents a pound for every pound you were over the weight limit, up to a fine of $500 per load. Those same states now are charging fines of 12 cents per pound with no limit to the amount of the fine. States are getting tired of truckers running loads that are overweight and ruining their roads and endangering other drivers. The heavy weight of the trucks does enough damage to the roadways at the normal weight. When to many over weighted trucks continually use their roads it causes repair needs to be done often. The taxes they collect go towards keeping the roads safe for all drivers. So we all have truck scales to thank for not only getting us our goods, but keeping us safe as well!

Troy writes about anything and everything interesting. Have any idea for an article? Pass it along!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Troy_Bassham/1147404

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6859351

12/02/17

New Commercial Electric Vehicle Summit, Set to be Co-Located with 2018 ACT Expo

The new event will showcase the latest advancements in battery-electric and fuel cell vehicle technologies for the medium- and heavy-duty market


Santa Monica, CA — Gladstein, Neandross & Associates (GNA), North America’s leading clean transportation and energy consulting firm and conference organizers of the Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo, announced today that they are launching a new event that will highlight advancements in the commercial electric drive vehicle market. This new event will further expand the annual ACT Expo, which is now in its eighth year and is the industry’s largest gathering of commercial fleets, clean fuel and charging infrastructure providers, and advanced transportation vehicle and technology suppliers for all weight classes. ACT Expo is scheduled April 30-May 3, 2018 in Southern California.

“The market momentum for medium- and heavy-duty electric-drive technologies has been incredible this year as evidenced by the recent onslaught of headlines from OEMs that are developing and commercializing products in response to increasing market demand in California and beyond,” stated Erik Neandross, CEO of GNA. “We’ve decided to co-locate the Commercial Electric Vehicle Summit with ACT Expo, as it provides a built-in audience of more than 3,000 clean transportation stakeholders and has been the venue of choice for companies debuting electric drive fleet products, including BYD, Kenworth, ADOMANI, Lightning Systems, TransPower, US Hybrids/US Fuel Cell, ClipperCreek, among others.”

This announcement comes on the heels of several headlines from truck manufacturers who are developing battery-electric and fuel cell drive technologies. Cummins, one of the biggest diesel engine manufacturers in the nation, unveiled an electric powertrain for a Class 7 tractor just last week. Peterbilt unveiled a prototype Class 8 battery-electric truck earlier this year. Companies like BYD and Motiv offer electric powertrains for numerous medium- and heavy-duty commercial applications. Tesla has announced that it will unveil its long-anticipated battery-electric Class 8 long-haul truck later this month. Start-up Nikola Motor Co. is developing a hydrogen fuel cell electric powertrain for long haul trucks, and Toyota Motor Co. recently unveiled a working prototype fuel cell drayage truck.

As the transportation industry continues to see an increased focus on environmental performance and fuel cost savings, electric drive technologies will continue to see growing momentum. The key themes for the inaugural Commercial Electric Vehicle Summit will include:


  • Product availability – showcasing the growing participation from global engine manufacturers in the medium- and heavy-duty electric vehicle market
  • Fleet success stories – highlighting early electric vehicle market deployments from top fleets across weight classes and transportation sectors
  • Charging infrastructure – developing scalable solutions and industry-wide standards
  • Financing and incentives – discussions on incentives and grants, dedicated utility rates, special lane access, and other creative financing models
  • Battery advancements – evolving battery technologies and performance, production capabilities, and a look at real versus perceived weight limitations
  • Reliable payback estimates – understanding how to assess (and reduce) upfront versus lifetime vehicle and infrastructure costs
  • Speakers, sponsors, and partnerships will be announced in the coming months. Registration will open in January 2018. For more information, visit www.actexpo.com


About Gladstein, Neandross & Associates (GNA)

GNA is the leading North American consulting firm specializing in market development for low-emission and alternative fuel vehicle technologies, infrastructure and fuels for both on and off-road applications. For more than 20 years, GNA has pioneered the nation’s largest and most innovative alternative fuel projects in the on-road and off-road sectors. In addition to its technical consulting practice, GNA hosts North America’s leading alternative fuel and advanced vehicle technology conferences—including the Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo, the Rethink Methane Symposium, and the High Horsepower (HHP) Summit. www.gladstein.org

 About the Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo

ACT Expo is North America’s largest clean vehicle event, representing all weight classes and alternative fuels—including electric, hybrid, hydrogen, natural gas, propane autogas, renewable fuels, and advanced technologies. The eighth-year conference and expo is set for April 30—May 3, 2018 in Long Beach, California and is expected to assemble thousands of attendees from across the advanced vehicle and alternative fuels industries. The annual event is produced by Gladstein, Neandross & Associates (GNA), the leading North American consulting firm specializing in market development for low-emission and alternative fuel vehicle technologies, infrastructure and fuels for both on and off-road applications. Learn more at www.actexpo.com and www.gladstein.org

11/29/17

COUNTRY MUSIC STATION CELEBRATES 100 YEARS OF CHEVY TRUCKS

Chevrolet launches Chevy Truck 100 Pandora station  


DETROIT — For the last 100 years, Chevrolet trucks have found their way into the hearts and souls of fans around the world — and into countless country music songs.

In honor of the Chevy Truck Centennial, the brand has curated a Pandora station called Chevy Truck 100 to celebrate its connection with country music. The station includes country songs referencing pickups, such as rocking dance tunes about a Silverado with horns on the grille, love songs about a boy in a Chevy truck that had a tendency to get stuck and nostalgic tracks about ridin’ round with windows down on a summer night.

To access the station, visit www.pandora.com/ChevyTruck100.

Chevy trucks and Chevrolet are so common in country music because they play an outsized role in the lives of singers, songwriters and their fans, according to Frank Rogers, a record producer and songwriter with five Academy of Country Music awards and more than 70 Top twenty 20 hits to his name.

“At its most basic level, every song tells a story, while the very best songs also make an emotional connection with the audience,” said Rogers. “For artists, many of us grew up riding in a Chevy truck, making it a natural way to tell the story of our experiences. For our fans, a reference to a Chevy truck is something they can instantly relate to, helping make the story relevant to their life as well.”

For Sandor Piszar, marketing director for Chevrolet Trucks, the catalog of songs that reference Chevrolet trucks is a testament to the brand’s immeasurable impact on owners’ lives.

“We have built 85 million Chevy trucks over the past 100 years,” said Piszar. “In turn, our customers have created millions of memories associated with our trucks, be it working in the field or job site, cruising with friends or camping with families. That connection with generations of people is a defining characteristic of Chevy trucks, and something few other brands can match.”

This list would not be complete without input from our fans, who are invited to join the conversation at www.facebook.com/chevytrucks. There, Chevrolet enthusiasts can share their favorite Chevy songs and help complete the list of the top 100 country songs about Chevrolet Trucks.



ABOUT CHEVROLET
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is one of the world's largest car brands, doing business in more than 100 countries and selling more than 4.0 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature engaging performance, design that makes the heart beat, passive and active safety features and easy-to-use technology, all at a value. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

11/23/17

11/20/17

Lift-a-Load Trailers


Stop, Drop and Load with a Lift-a-Load Elevating Platform Trailer. Lift-a-Load is only hydraulic trailer on the market today that can be raised to loading dock height. Anything but ordinary, the Lift-a-Load is so much more than a conventional drop deck trailer. It is not just a piece of equipment, but is a unique tool that will help increase your efficiencies. Dependable hydraulic power will raise the Lift-a-Load bed up to 52" high, lower it flat to the ground, or stop it at any height for safe, convenient load transfer. The bed remains level at all times and moves with a smooth, steady motion. Simple operation, unique flexibility and enhanced safety allow for one person to easily load and transport cargo. Youll be able to tackle almost any special delivery situation that is thrown your way. Deliveries will be completed faster. That means more trips per day and more money in your pocket. Get a Lift-a-Load working for you. Visit www.advancemetalworking.com to learn more about these unique trailers.

11/17/17

UNIPRO Introduction with 2017 Hino 268


Our UNIPRO Account Manager Steve Meadows shares a brief introduction for all UNIPRO Scope Attendees!

11/14/17

Freightliner Vocational Lineup at NACV


Our vocational lineup is more powerful than ever. Check out the Detroit-powered workhorses we took to NACV.

11/11/17

From driver ELDs to truck electrificstion: On the ATA MCA show floor


The show floor of ATA’s 2017 Management Conference and Exhibition (MCE) is packed with the latest technology, trucks and connected solutions—from ELDs to electrified powertrains. Come along as we walk the show on this episode of On the Road.

11/08/17

TrestleJacks Lifting a trailer link in 7 minutes


TrestleJacks 30-Ton R22.5 Workshop is a specialized trailer lifting and standing device that utilizes driving motion from the tractor for lifting and lowering heavy load trailer axles. Once in the upright position TrestleJacks becomes an axle support stand with a carrying capacity of 30 Ton.

11/05/17

Tank Truck on Bridge - Heavy Recovery - Sweden


A Scania tank truck fully loaded with diesel came of far to the left of the road. When the driver tried to steer back on the road, the truck went up on three wheels and tipped over. It came to halt lying on the side, in the middle of a bridge. First, the cargo of 16.000 liters of diesel fuel was pumped out of the tank truck. Now the truck has to be pulled backwards for 150 meters, to an area where there is enough space to raise it back on to its wheels again. This may look spectacular, but made no further damage to the vehicle.

11/02/17

Indiana Jack Installs the Keep Truckin ELD Device in His Volvo Truck


See how to install the KEEP TRUCKIN ELD App in a Volvo Truck. All the way from the wiring to the ECM to the pairing of the Bluetooth ELD device, see it all.

10/30/17

2018 Volvo VNL Truck - Better Than Your Bedroom (LUXURY TRUCK)


2018 Volvo VNL Truck - Everything You Ever Wanted to See / ALL-NEW Volvo VNL 2018 (Volvo Truck 2018)

10/27/17

The Evolution of VANTRAAX® Sliding Air Suspension


Hendrickson launched the revolutionary VANTRAAX integrated sliding air trailer suspension system in 1997 and we haven't stopped innovating since. With over 16 years of ingenuity and cutting-edge engineering, our highly acclaimed VANTRAAX system remains the lightest and most durable integrated, sliding air suspension system in the trailer market. Learn more: http://www.hendrickson-intl.com/Trail...

10/24/17

How much dielectric compound should I use?


Paige quickly shows us the correct amounts of NYK-77 to use on different connector types. Featured Product: https://goo.gl/c7xmv5

10/21/17

Webasto Air Top 2000 ST Heater Animation


The Webasto Air Top 2000 ST is the perfect solution for keeping comfortable in your cab, reduce vehicle idling, and save money.

10/18/17

Can the new Cummins 12 liter hold its own at a local truck pull?


We work hard at Cummins just like our engines do, but we like to have a little fun too. We decided to demonstrate the capability of our X12 engine at local county fair truck pulls. Let’s see if our stock X12 daycab can run with the big dogs.

For more information on Cummins X12, visit https://cumminsengines.com/x12

10/15/17

8 Future Trucks & Buses YOU MUST SEE



Top 8 Future Trucks & Buses Concepts YOU MUST SEE

Top 8 Crazy Future Trucks & Buses YOU MUST SEE

10/12/17

Get Ready For Future Trucks That Trouble-shoot Themselves

In the future, equipment is expected to troubleshoot itself 
without human intervention.

iStock_Bombaert818

Thanks to advances in technology, as well as an increasing emphasis on operations efficiency and wise resource use, the role of equipment fleet managers across all industries has changed quite a bit in recent years.

Expect even more changes in the future, says Jim Schug, a principal and engagement manager for FMI Corporation.

Schug, who is also a certified equipment manager and the program lead for the Certification Institute, cites “adapting to technology, innovation, and the new workforce” as three big changes that have occurred in fleet management over the last few years. All fleet management professionals — no matter their industry or the type of equipment managed — need to prepare themselves for more changes on the horizon, he says.

“All vehicles are adapting across the industry,” says Schug, who participated in a panel discussion at ConExpo-Con/Agg in Las Vegas this March on the future of equipment management.

Jim Schug
“We likely are not far from vehicles that troubleshoot themselves, remote sensors that predict what to repair based on the data they collect, and an overall expectation of zero unplanned downtime.” Jim Schug, principal and engagement manager, FMI Corporation

“We likely are not far from vehicles that troubleshoot themselves, remote sensors that predict what to repair based on the data they collect, and an overall expectation of zero unplanned downtime,” says Schug, whose company is headquartered in Raleigh, N.C. and has offices in Denver, Tampa, Phoenix and Houston. “In the future, trucks will be connected and serve as a tracking center; and they will likely evolve out of needing field repairs and emergency calls.”

Need to adapt to changes
Given this move toward automation and advanced technology, fleet equipment — including service trucks —will become much more sophisticated and provide “near perfect information” on how they operate, he predicts. Therefore, he says, companies will only remain competitive in the future if they can do the following: have the best, most “fit” equipment to perform the job; eliminate equipment downtime; and demonstrate the ability to sustain ongoing operations 24 hours a day, seven days a week. And much of this will rest on the shoulders of fleet management leadership and their ability to adapt to industry changes, Schug argues.

“This future is a big shift from where we are today and puts more pressure on the equipment manager to lead what happens in the field, so the intensity and importance of the role increases,” says Schug, who has a bachelor of science degree in quantitative economics from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and a master of science in engineering management from the University of Missouri. “If equipment managers are not already sitting at the leadership table today they should be … and I certainly believe they will be in five years.”

Whether playing catch-up or preparing for more changes, fleet managers should take proactive steps to better position themselves (and their companies) for what lies ahead, he says.

“Learn how to collect data and enter it into an efficient system that helps inform when making difficult decisions,” says Schug, who acknowledges many people already use maintenance management systems in their decision-making.

However, he advises fleet managers to think beyond simply collecting and entering data. On that note, he emphasizes how the gathering, harvesting and analyzing of data by fleet managers can help their CEOs make good decisions.

Recognize data’s value
“You need to recognize how valuable that data is to your lifecycle costs and current operations. Equipment data will drive operations in the future,” says Schug, whose company provides management consulting and investment banking services to various industries including construction and engineering.

Given the importance of data in fleet management, Schug says it is critical for fleet managers to “stay engaged” and “plugged-in” when it comes to industry associations and vendors. By doing so, fleet managers can keep abreast of new technologies, products and/or practices, all of which can benefit their overall fleet management efforts.

“You do not want your firm to fall behind the innovation curve. At the same time, we are seeing strategy evolve from a ‘gut feel’ to a more data-driven approach,” Schug says.

According to Schug, though, a data-driven strategy in fleet management is more of a “shared understanding” developed and refined through the experiences of employees serving customers in the field.

“CEOs seldom innovate effectively,” Schug says. “The field and front-line management is the source of all great innovations; and they will be what leads our industry forward. Great firms recognize this and harness it in the development and execution of their strategy.”

Mark Yontz is a freelance writer from Urbandale, Iowa.

Source: http://www.servicetruckmagazine.com/get-ready-for-future-trucks-that-trouble-shoot-themselves/


10/09/17

Mack Anthem


Meet the new Mack Anthem - A truck that will make you rethink what's possible on the highway. Designed for the driver and engineered tough, the #MackAnthem is born ready to get the job done. And do it again. 

10/06/17

HINO TO MAKE SUBSTANTIAL INVESTMENT TO EXPAND U.S. OPERATIONS

Novi, MI – Hino announced a substantial investment plan to strengthen its U.S. operations with the introduction of a new truck line and new facilities.

At a press conference in West Virginia, Hino announced its plan to purchase the former Cold Water Creek distribution center and convert it into its new truck assembly plant in Mineral Wells, West Virginia, close to its current plant.  The new plant, planned to be operational in early 2019, will also house cab assembly, an operation currently conducted in Japan.  “The new plant, which is four times the size of our current plant, will allow us to combine several assembly operations under one roof which will provide significant efficiency gains,” noted Hino Motors Manufacturing U.S.A. President, Takashi Ono. 

Davey Jung, Executive Vice President, Hino Motors Manufacturing U.S.A. Inc. answers questions for the media at our press conference in West Virginia.

View Press Conference Video Here:

10/03/17

Fleet Safety and Driver Monitoring

Driver behavior contributes to over 90 percent of the crashes that kill tens of thousands of people and cost billions of dollars annually. Improving fleet safety involves more than simple driver monitoring and reactive policy measures—it requires a proactive solution to verbally coach drivers in real-time to develop safer driving habits.
ORBCOMM technology is squarely focused on the driver, and offers the only real-time fleet safety solution that detects unsafe driver behavior and offers verbal coaching before a crash or fineable offense occurs.
Improve Fleet Safety with Verbal Driver Coaching
  • In-cab Verbal Coaching: Send automated in-cab verbal alerts in real-time when drivers are speeding or driving aggressively.
  • Speed-by-Street™: Send automated verbal alerts when drivers exceed the speed limit on any given road segment.
  • Lane Departure & Collision Avoidance: Alert drivers in real-time if they drift outside their lane or get too close to other vehicles.
Keep Drivers Safe and in View
  • Seat Belt Use Alerts: Ensure drivers are wearing a seat belt by sending alerts to drivers and managers.
  • Crash & Roll Over Detection: Receive instant notification via phone, text or e-mail when a vehicle has been in a crash.
  • Road Hazard Awareness: Allow drivers to communicate with each other regarding hazardous areas including debris, construction and severe weather conditions.
  • Emergency Call/Panic Button: Call for help via hands-free cell network communication with a single push of a button.
  • Signal Jamming Detection: Help prevent hijacking by detecting the use of GPS and GSM jammers. Track stolen vehicles via GPS.
Monitor Drivers for Enhanced Fleet Performance
  • Automated Exception Alerts: Receive instant notifications via text, e-mail or phone call when a driver commits a serious violation.
  • Driver/Vehicle Inspection Reports (DVIR): Create fully customizable vehicle inspection checklists for operators to complete electronically.
  • Driver/Fleet Scoring: Automate driver/fleet scorecards to identify safe drivers and those in need of additional training.
  • Work Alone Timer: Allow drivers to set up timers warning management if they do not return to the vehicle within a given time frame.
  • Vehicle Inspection Alerts: Send timed checklist alerts to remind drivers of pre/post-trip instructions and inspection requirements.


9/30/17

Introduction - Driver Training for On-Highway Heavy-Duty Truck Engines


Driver Training for On-Highway Heavy-Duty Truck Engines – Part 1 of 13 in a series of chapters from the Cummins On-Highway Heavy-Duty Truck Engine Driver Training Video Series updated in 2015. This segment is the Introduction to the video series.

9/27/17

Birth of the X12, new Cummins Heavy Duty engine


The next generation of heavy duty engine, X12, is coming. In 2018, Cummins X12 will start powering vehicles of all types, from vocational trucks to regional haul and local delivery. With a revolutionary design, X12 offers 600 pounds of weight savings to maximize your payload and profits.

Let’s take a tour at the Cummins engine plant in Jamestown, New York and see how we build the X12 to meet your needs.

For more information on Cummins X12, visit https://cumminsengines.com/x12.

9/21/17

"Sailing Into Super Rigs"


Trucks sailing into place earlier this year at the 2017 Shell Rotella Super Rigs show.

©Copyright Big Rig Videos, LLC. / Produced By: Christopher E. Fiffie

9/18/17

Invention used for towing storage containers


Prescott Valley, AZ - Two Quad-city residents have invented a way to make moving storage containers easier, quicker and more affordable. The trick: turn the container into its own trailer.

9/12/17

Severe Duty Upfit Choices


When it comes to upfit, it's all about options. Watch from our Work Truck Show booth as we explain how we make choice a priority for our customers to ensure a perfect upfit, every time.

9/09/17

Florida Braces for Hurricane Irma’s Impact

Hurricane Irma's likely path will take it along Florida's southern tip. Graphic: National Hurricane Center

Hurricane Irma, already one of the most powerful hurricanes to ever develop in the Atlantic, will likely make landfall on the U.S. mainland by the end of the week. In preparation, state and federal agencies are already declaring an emergency on the ground.

Similar to a declaration made for Hurricane Harvey, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has temporarily suspended several trucking regulations in the states in and around the expected path of Irma. Carriers and drivers in direct support of relief efforts related to Hurricane Irma are granted emergency relief from Parts 390 through 399 of Title 49 Code of Federal Regulations. By lifting regulations, FMCSA aims to ease the flow of emergency goods, fuel, and aid to and from the region.

The suspended regulations include those concerned with hours of service, inspection, repair, and maintenance, hazardous materials transportation, driving, parking, and other health and safety standards.

States covered by the Irma temporary suspension currently include Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. FMCSA has also set up page with all the latest transportation updates related to Hurricane Irma.

The same suspension of regulations was declared for 26 states during Hurricane Harvey and it is still in effect. FMCSA’s Hurricane Harvey page is available here.

On Sept. 5, President Trump declared an emergency in the state of Florida, Puerto Rico and in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Florida Governor Rick Scott also declared an emergency in the state and ordered the Florida National Guard to report for duty.

Irma is expected to make landfall on the southern tip of Florida. Mandatory evacuations began in Key West and more mandatory evacuations are likely as the storm nears. To help keep traffic moving, Gov. Scott suspended all tolls in the state for the duration of the storm’s impact on Florida.

Rated a Category 5 Hurricane, with sustained winds of over 185 miles per hour and considerable size, Irma is currently the strongest storm ever seen in the Atlantic basin. While it is still a few days away from hitting Florida, current models show a likely landfall of either late Saturday or early Sunday, hitting Southern Florida before possibly moving up the East Coast.

While Hurricane Harvey was known mostly for the incredible deluge of up to 50 inches of rain it brought down in some parts, Hurricane Irma is likely to be defined by its destructive winds and size, as it is only projected to produce 15 inches of rain at most.

9/06/17

Pickup Trucks 101: Gas Vs. Diesel

If you are in the market for a new pickup truck, you may be wondering if you should get a gas engine or a diesel engine since there are significant differences between the two. Those differences vary for mid-size, light-duty full-size and heavy-duty full-size pickups.

Which is best for you? Let's look at the differences of the two engine types, focusing not only on the engines themselves, but also on the components that are different between them.

Read the whole story at: http://news.pickuptrucks.com/2017/08/pickup-trucks-101-gas-vs-diesel.html

9/03/17

2018 Volvo VNL Truck - Better Than Your Bedroom (LUXURY TRUCK)


2018 Volvo VNL Truck - Everything You Ever Wanted to See / ALL-NEW Volvo VNL 2018 (Volvo Truck 2018)

Volvo Trucks unveils highly anticipated new VNL series

Volvo Trucks North America today revealed the new Volvo VNL series, a groundbreaking tractor that meets the needs of today’s long-haul trucking customers and professional drivers through cutting-edge innovations in efficiency, productivity, safety and uptime. Available in several configurations, including an all-new, 70-inch sleeper, the Volvo VNL series defines the shape of trucks to come.

“The new Volvo VNL builds on our long-standing commitment to deliver the safest, most comfortable and most efficient long-haul truck on the market,” said Göran Nyberg, president of Volvo Trucks North America. “Infused with new innovations and technologies, we’re proud to expand upon that commitment to our current and future customers with this new design.”

8/31/17

Why does Rolling Resistance matter in the real world?

Some 13% of the power produced by the engine to move a long haul rig along a smooth road at 65 mph is “lost” due to Rolling Resistance. What is it, what causes it, and how can you help to reduce it.



What is Rolling Resistance?
Rolling Resistance is the term used for the energy required to roll a tire over a particular road surface.

It can be viewed as a Parasitic Power Loss, accounting some 13% of the total energy required to move a long haul tractor-trailer combination over a smooth road at 65 mph.

What causes Rolling Resistance?
Rolling Resistance is caused by the following factors

The deformation of the tire in the contact patch and the sidewalls as it rolls (this accounts for some 80% – 95% of Rolling Resistance – Michelin)
Aerodynamic drag of the rotating tire
Friction (microslippage) between the tread and the road surface
Rolling Resistance is also greatly impacted by condition of the road surface.

Why does it matter?
Because it is energy LOST, it is equivalent to a power loss. Power made by the engine is not fully usable, and inhibits forward movement of the vehicle.

Fuel consumption is therefore increased because of this parasitic loss.

How can you reduce Rolling Resistance?

  • Keep tires properly inflated. Properly inflated tires minimize deformation of the contact patch and side walls, and keeps energy loss to a minimum.
  • Use “green tires”, with rubber compounds and treads designed to minimize this energy loss. As much as 35 HP may be “saved” at 65 mph at 80,000 lb.
  • Use of single wide-base tires in place of dual assembly tires. Two dual tires have four sidewalls as opposed to two for a single tire, thus reducing the side wall flex and energy loss.
  • Larger diameter tires have slightly lower energy loss due to the fact that there is less bending of the tire as it enters and leaves the contact patch.



8/28/17

121 Ways to Save Fuel: Tires

1) Buy fuel-efficient tires

Getting the right tire at the right wheel position can improve fuel economy by several percentage points.

About 13% of each gallon of fuel consumed goes solely to overcoming rolling resistance. That can vary by the load on the tire, the tread pattern and of course, inflation pressure.


“The relationship between rolling resistance and fuel consumption is about 8:1,” says Rick Phillips, senior director of sales, commercial and OTR products at Yokohama Tire. “An 8% reduction in tire rolling resistance will result in a 1% savings in fuel consumption.”

Various wheel positions have different impacts on fuel economy.

“On a tractor-trailer combination, the steer tires contribute 15-20% to fuel economy, drive tires 30-40% and trailer tires about 40-50%,” says William Estupinan, vice president of technical service for Giti Tire USA. “The first priority for a fleet interested in saving a significant amount of money is to start moving toward fuel-efficient tires for the trailer axles.”

A tight rib pattern, thinner tread — 12/32- to 20/32-inch of tread depth — and advanced compounding make today’s trailer tires very fuel-efficient.
With drive tires, traction and durability are higher on the list of priorities. But traction hasn’t really suffered in a significant way in the quest for lower rolling resistance, manufacturers say.

Learn more at: http://www.truckinginfo.com/article/story/2014/06/121-ways-to-save-fuel-tires.aspx

8/25/17

Major Navistar Fleet, Mesilla Valley Transportation, Adopts eNow Auxiliary Solar System

Mesilla Valley Transportation recently purchased close to 1,000 eNow energy systems for their fleet of Navistar trucks. eNow and Mesilla Valley Transportation (MVT) will showcase the eNow solar auxiliary power system during the NACFE “Run on Less” program taking place September 5 to 24.

  

 This collaboration is the result of eNow’s work in the industry with multiple truck manufacturers and major fleets. As an example, Navistar’s SuperTruck program demonstration vehicle, CatalIST, recently exceeded the improvement goals set by the Department of Energy for the SuperTruck program. CatalIST achieved a freight efficiency improvement of 104% compared to the control vehicle, sipping diesel at 13 MPG. The vehicle also demonstrated 50.5% Brake Thermal Efficiency (BTE) with plans for Navistar to increase that to 55% BTE. As part of its efforts to create the ultimate fuel-efficient truck, Navistar tested eNow’s solar energy system on its SuperTruck at Navistar Proving Grounds.

     Simultaneously to Navistar’s testing, Mesilla Valley Transportation (MVT) tested multiple systems on their fleet. “We’re always looking for innovative, more effective and efficient ways to operate,” said Royal Jones, CEO and President of MVT. “Our daily idle time is less than 6% on the whole company fleet and we utilize electric APUs 100%. Over time we had noticed shortened battery life and shortened alternator life due to the demand on batteries and the fact that we run eight batteries.”

The overall results from deployment of the eNow energy system on MVT’s existing Navistar fleet have proven conclusive over diverse road conditions. MVT noted the following results: “Increased daily run time for auxiliary equipment, such as in-cab HVAC; increased battery life from 6 months to 2 years; saved approximately 3 gallons of fuel per day from reduced engine idling; and decreased maintenance cost due to reduction in engine idling."

     The results from Navistar Proving Grounds, combined with MVT’s own testing, led to the purchase of the eNow energy systems for the MVT fleet.

      "These are exciting times for the transportation industry," says Jeff Flath, President & CEO of eNow. "Everyone is looking at ways to reduce cost, improve efficiency, and help the environment, simultaneously. We are about saving fleets money with our technology first and foremost. However, we also believe that leaving the environment in better shape than we found it is critical as well."

8/22/17

The Future of Trucking


Imagining the future of the vast trucking industry that will become autonomous in the coming years.

8/19/17

HINO CELEBRATES 10-YEAR ANNIVERSARY MANUFACTURING TRUCKS IN WEST VIRGINIA

Novi, Michigan – Hino Motors Manufacturing facility in Williamstown, West Virginia celebrated 10 years of Medium Duty truck production. This 245,000 sq. ft. location produces Hino’s award winning Class 6 & 7 Conventional body style trucks. The West Virginia plant has seen exponential growth over its decade of production, facilitating the country’s fastest growing Medium Duty Truck. “I want to thank all of the Team Members at the West Virginia facility. They are the heart and soul of our company. Without their commitment to quality, Hino Trucks would not be the premium brand name it is today. I would also like to thank the State of West Virginia, Wood County and the city of Williamstown for their tremendous partnership over the past 10 years.” said Yoshinori Noguchi, Chairman of Hino Motors Manufacturing and President & CEO of Hino Motor Sales.

This anniversary is a substantial milestone when considering the growth that Hino has experienced
since 2007. Production per year has increased by more than 500% and the production facility has
been expanded and capacities enhanced. Steve Stalnaker, Vice President & Plant Manager
Williamstown said, “Our success has allowed us to invest in our capabilities to better service our
customers as well as support the local job market. Since opening in 2007, the employment at our
Williamstown facility has increased by over 400%.”

As part of the 10 year celebration, Hino held an onsite ceremony to honor this achievement. The
ceremony included statements from state and local government officials as well as Hino leadership.
Hino Motors Sales U.S.A., Inc. 41180 Bridge Street  Novi, MI 48375  Ph 248.699.9300  www.hino.com

About HMM and Hino Trucks. Hino Motors Manufacturing U.S.A., Inc. (HMM) headquartered in
Farmington Hills, Michigan, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hino Motors, Ltd., and sister company to Hino Motors Sales, Inc., (Hino Trucks). Together, HMM and Hino Trucks manufacture and distribute America’s fastest growing premier truck brand. With a combined ten facilities spanning five states supporting manufacturing, R&D, Sales and Parts Distribution, the two companies employ over 1,000 people. HMM assembles medium duty trucks in Williamstown, West Virginia, manufactures automotive parts in Marion, Arkansas, and operates parts centers in Mira Loma, California and Gahanna, Ohio. HMM is also a Tier-1 supplier of high quality automotive parts throughout North America.

Learn more about HMM at http://hmmusa.com

Learn more about Hino Trucks at http://www.hino.com


8/13/17

Longest-Lasting Pickups | Lynda’s Ram 1500 | 602,325 Miles


Lynda’s 1997 Ram 1500 is one of the #LongestLasting on the road. She's driven over 600,000 miles in her Ram Truck on the original engine and transmission, and it’s still going strong. Check out her story, and share the story of your Ram Truck on our Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or in the comments below.

GUTS. GLORY. RAM.

With legendary power, performance and dependability, we’re determined to work hard and play even harder, boldly forging ahead to get the job done. 
If you have questions about our products or would like to contact Ram Trucks directly, please use the "Contact Us" option from our website: www.ramtrucks.com


8/10/17

FORD CELEBRATES 100 YEARS OF TRUCK HISTORY -- FROM 1917 MODEL TT TO 2017 F-150 RAPTOR


  • Ford celebrates 100 years of leadership, innovation, capability and durability for its iconic trucks – from the Ford TT that kicked off this rich history on this day in 1917 to the new Ford F-Series lineup
  • Henry Ford’s vision to create a vehicle with a cab and work-duty frame capable of accommodating cargo beds and third-party upfit equipment proudly endures a century later in the Built Ford Tough F-Series lineup – from F-150 to F-750 Super Duty 
  • F-Series reigns as America’s best-selling truck for 40 straight years and best-selling vehicle for 35 straight years, thanks to Ford listening to and understanding the needs of truck owners, developing customer-centric product innovations, and delivering purpose-built capabilities, features and configurations; Ford has sold more than 26 million F-Series trucks in the United States since 1977


DEARBORN, Mich., July 27, 2017 – One hundred years ago today, Ford introduced its first purpose-built truck, the 1917 Ford Model TT, forever changing the auto industry – and the very nature of work itself.

A century later, Ford trucks are among the most iconic vehicles in the world. F-Series is America’s best-selling truck for 40 consecutive years and best-selling vehicle for 35 straight years. In Canada, Ford F-Series has enjoyed 51 consecutive years as best-selling pickup and now marks seven straight years as best-selling vehicle.

Throughout this rich history, Ford continuously has worked to improve its trucks by listening to truck owners and developing new innovations that improve their ability to get the job done. These innovations give today’s Ford truck owners greater towing and hauling capability, advanced engines for improved efficiency, and driver-assist technologies that make it easier and more convenient to operate.

Birth of a legend

Nine years after the first Model T saw Ford customers asking for a vehicle that could haul heavier loads and provide greater utility for work and deliveries. On July 27, 1917, Ford responded with the Model TT, which retained the Model T cab and engine. The Model TT came with a heavier-duty frame capable of carrying one ton of payload. The factory price was $600; 209 were sold that year.

Similar to the Fordson tractor introduced in 1917, Henry Ford envisioned a chassis that could accommodate third-party beds, cargo areas and other add-ons to deliver the increased functionality needed to get work done. It was a formula for success. By 1928, Ford had sold 1.3 million Model TTs before replacing the truck with the more capable Model AA with a 1.5-ton chassis.

Henry Ford marketed his early trucks heavily in rural areas, according to Bob Kreipke, Ford historian. “Model AA trucks in particular had a certain class to them,” he said. “Customers could use them on the farm, yet still take them to church on Sunday.”

Like the Model TT, the Model AA was available exclusively as a chassis cab offered in two lengths, with new powertrain and axle options for greater capacity. To stay ahead in what had become a hotly competitive business, Ford replaced the Model AA with the even more capable Model BB in 1933. Many were outfitted as mail and freight vehicles, ambulances and stake trucks. Two years later, Ford introduced the 1935 Model 50 pickup, powered exclusively by its famous Ford Flathead V8 engine.

By 1941, Ford had sold more than 4 million trucks. Changing over to war production resulted in the loss of consumer sales but a gain in experience building heavy-duty military truck chassis and four-wheel-drive personnel carriers. A year after consumer production resumed in 1947, Ford leveraged that knowledge to provide even more innovations for its customers.

“After the war, a lot of rural Americans moved to urban and suburban centers looking for work, and many took their Ford pickups with them,” said Kreipke. “Ford saw this as an opportunity, and began work on the next generation of trucks for 1948, what came to be known as F-Series Bonus Built trucks.”

This first-generation F-Series covered Classes 2 through 7 capacities – from the half-ton F-1 to the much larger F-8 cab-over truck. With the arrival of the second-generation F-Series for 1953, Ford increased engine power and capacity, and rebranded the series. The F-1 became the
F-100, while F-2 and F-3 trucks were integrated into the new F-250 line. F-4 became F-350. Class 8 trucks were spun off into a new C-Series commercial truck unit that produced iconic C-, H-, L-, N-, T- and W-Series Ford trucks.

Throughout this period, Ford trucks started looking less utilitarian, sporting two-tone paint, automatic transmissions, and improved heater and radio offerings. New standard features debuted with the 1953 F-100, including armrests, dome lights and sun visors. Lower and with a wider cab, the new truck featured integrated front fenders and a more aerodynamic design.

Then, in 1957, Ford tested out a car-based truck – the Falcon Ranchero. Marketed as “More Than a Car! More Than a Truck!,” this light-duty truck brought car-like amenities to consumers.

In 1961 – 44 years after the Model TT – Ford introduced its fourth-generation F-Series. The company’s revolutionary twin I-beam front suspension debuted in 1965. An upscale Ranger package appeared in 1967. Ads emphasized improved comfort, value and durability, as Ford trucks now offered power steering and brakes, and a lower chassis profile. A larger SuperCab option introduced in 1974 featured more comfortable seating to attract dual-purpose work and family buyers.

With the arrival of the sixth-generation F-Series in 1975, Ford dropped the popular F-100, replacing it with a higher-capacity F-150 pickup to combat the C/K trucks from General Motors. By 1977, F-Series pulled ahead in the sales race, and 26 million trucks later, Ford hasn’t looked back.

That same year, a copywriter for a Ford truck magazine is said to have written three simple words that would come to define the brand – Built Ford Tough. It is more than a slogan – it’s the F-Series brand promise to its owners and the mantra for Ford’s entire truck team.

Trucks were fast becoming universal family vehicles, in addition to being work trucks, according to Kreipke. Instead of renting a truck for a big job or for towing, people now had ones they could use for work during the week, then hitch a trailer to and haul the family in for weekend getaways. Ford trucks were adapting to the changing, more active American lifestyle.

Premium edition trucks, such as the Lariat package introduced in 1978, offered more comfort features including air conditioning, leather trim, and power windows and locks. In 1982, Ford charted a different course with an all-new compact truck – Ranger. Versatile and efficient, Ranger quickly built a reputation for being tough and capable, leading it to thrive in diverse markets around the world. Now, after a seven-year hiatus, Ford is reintroducing an all-new Ranger in North America in 2019.

Expanding the Built Ford Tough Lineup

Ford reset the benchmark again in 1998 with the introduction of F-Series Super Duty. Engineered for fleet and heavy-duty work use, Super Duty – from the F-250 all the way up to the F-750 – more clearly defined Ford trucks for a growing base of commercial applications.

With an expanding lineup of F-Series trucks, the company added high-end trim and technology packages to meet customers’ diverse needs. The addition of King Ranch, Platinum and Limited model trucks provided more luxury content along with improved functionality and capability. Features such as premium leather-trimmed seating, SYNC® with navigation, sunroofs and heated seats, along with gross vehicle weight and tow ratings in the 15,000-pound range combined to deliver on the Built Ford Tough brand promise.

While Ford worked to continuously increase truck capabilities, the company made bold investments in efficiency, too. Powerful, yet efficient EcoBoost® V6 engine technology debuted for 2011, providing customers with better fuel economy and power. This was followed by the industry’s first high-strength, military-grade, aluminum-alloy body for the 2015 F-150, providing customers the “and” solution of greater efficiency and more capability. Two years later, 2017 Super Duty trucks also got lighter-weight high-strength, military-grade, aluminum-alloy bodies – a savings Ford reinvested in providing best-in-class towing and hauling capability.

Innovation on the performance front continued, too, with Ford leading the way in the specialty truck segment. Early examples include Harley-Davidson F-150 and F-150 SVT Lightning. Then came Raptor – the first off-road trophy truck from a major manufacturer.

Inspired by desert racing and designed specifically to meet the needs of off-road truck enthusiasts, the purpose-built F-150 Raptor set the bar high for off-road performance. Today’s second-generation 2017 F-150 Raptor features a 450-horsepower EcoBoost V6, 10-speed transmission, and segment-exclusive Terrain Management System™ with electronic-controlled transfer case and differentials.

Ford is credited with putting the world on wheels, and Ford trucks helped build America. “Ford trucks carried the loads, the people and the products necessary to get the job done,” Kreipke said.

ABOUT FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Ford Motor Company is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan. The company designs, manufactures, markets and services a full line of Ford cars, trucks, SUVs, electrified vehicles and Lincoln luxury vehicles, provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company and is pursuing leadership positions in electrification, autonomous vehicles and mobility solutions. Ford employs approximately 203,000 people worldwide. For more information regarding Ford, its products and Ford Motor Credit Company, please visit www.corporate.ford.com.​​