Commercial Truck Trader Insider - Official truck blog of Commerical Truck Trader

MACK MP Engines Certified for EPA 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 18:45:00 +0000

Mack Trucks, Inc. diesel engines have been certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the California Air Resources Board to meet the near-zero emissions standards which take effect in January 2010. The Mack MP7 and MP8 engines are now officially recognized to meet the strictest diesel emissions standards in the world. The EPA certification was issued today, and the CARB certification on November 10th.

The Mack engines have been fully certified to meet EPA’s stringent standards without the use of emissions credits. Mack is the first truck manufacturer to have its heavy-duty diesel engines certified for 2010 by both EPA and CARB.

Photo Credit: Mack Truck

“Achieving certification involved many dedicated employees working for many years,” said Kevin Flaherty, Mack senior vice president. “It’s critical that our MP engines continue to deliver the power, performance, durability and reliability for which they are known. Our customers now not only have the cleanest engines in the world, they also have the performance they expect from Mack.”

“The new Mack engines are so clean that in some areas, the exhaust leaving our trucks will be cleaner than the air going in,” Flaherty said. “Our EPA’10 engines also have significantly improved fuel economy. Using less fuel shrinks the trucks’ carbon footprint, reduces operating costs for customers and cuts the need for imported oil.”

Source: Mack Trucks

Motorcycle Enthusiast, Truck Driver Takes Delivery Of First International Lonestar Harley-Davidson Special Edition

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 21:00:00 +0000

The International Trucks homepage reports on Chris Hawker, an owner-operator truck driver and Harley-Davidson motorcycle owner, who received the first production unit of the International LoneStar Harley-Davidson Special Edition truck.

Photo Credit: International Trucks

“The International LoneStar Harley-Davidson Special Edition is one of the coolest-looking trucks I’ve ever seen,” said Chris. “When I first caught wind of this truck, I knew I had to have one.”

Photo Credit: International Trucks

With deep black paint and contrasting silver and orange striping, the attention-grabbing, chrome-laden big rig truck is one-of-a-kind. Unveiled to the public for the first time at the Mid-America Trucking Show earlier in the year, the Harley-Davidson Special Edition takes the International LoneStar to the next level through a combination of LoneStar originality and Harley-Davidson authenticity.

Photo Credit: International Trucks

Hawker has been a truck driver for more than 20 years and typically hauls food products from New York to Florida, having logged more than two million accident-free miles.

Earlier this year, Hawker entered his local International truck dealership in Erie, Pennsylvania, seeking information on a new International LoneStar. “Chris came in and expressed interest in a LoneStar before the Harley-Davidson Special Edition was even announced,” said Randy Leighton, sales manager, Five Star International. “As a fellow motorcycle guy and Harley owner myself, we got to talking about motorcycles. Once I heard about the Harley edition, I called him and told him we have a ‘dream truck’ coming out – he couldn’t get to the dealership fast enough!”

Photo Credit: International Trucks

Design teams from International and Harley-Davidson collaborated to create a heavy-duty on-highway tractor with distinct design elements directly from Harley-Davidson motorcycles.

”Custom has always been an important word in Harley-Davidson’s brand language,” said Willie G. Davidson, senior vice president & chief styling officer, Harley-Davidson. “We wanted the design impact of this new LoneStar Harley-Davidson to have a ‘wow’ factor equal to our motorcycles.”

“Knowing the passion that customers have for both brands, we’re proud to get this vehicle out in the hands of enthusiastic customers like Chris,” said Jim Hebe, Navistar senior vice president, North American sales operations. “Combining the bold look of the International LoneStar with the attitude of Harley-Davidson delivers a winning product for our customers.”

Source: International Trucks

Navistar Acquires Engine Components Business From Continental, Forms New Operating Company

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:30:00 +0000

Photo Credit: Navistar
Navistar, Inc., has announced it has concluded an agreement to acquire certain assets and the membership interests of Continental Diesel Systems US, LLC, to manufacture key fuel injection components for its MaxxForce diesel engines.

As part of Navistar’s industry leadership strategy, the company also will establish a dedicated research and development facility to support Navistar’s diesel power system components. The company, renamed Pure Power Technologies, LLC, will further vertically integrate research and development, engineering and manufacturing capabilities to produce world-class diesel power systems and advanced emissions control systems.

“Pure Power Technologies allows Navistar to seamlessly integrate development and production of our power system component technology as we continue to grow globally,” said Daniel C. Ustian, Navistar chairman, president and chief executive officer. “This supports our industry leadership strategy to produce great products and will serve as a components technology incubator for Navistar’s MaxxForce® brand engines.”

Based in Columbia, South Carolina, Pure Power Technologies will operate a research and development center there as well as a manufacturing plant in nearby Blythewood, South Carolina. The Columbia and Blythewood facilities are former Continental assets. Further, the acquisition of these Continental facilities by Navistar prevents their closing as previously announced by Continental. Navistar and Continental will be working on a product transition plan between now and January to assure the needs of both companies are met.

“Housing our advanced manufacturing technology team near the R&D campus will be a key differentiator for Pure Power Technologies. This will enhance our ability to quickly bring new technologies to market,” said Eric Tech, president, Navistar Engine Group.

Source: Navistar

Cummins Reports On Cummins ISB Fuel Economy Advantages

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 18:30:00 +0000

Cummins has announced that the Cummins ISB has demonstrated significant fuel economy advantages over competitive engines and is an ideal choice in both the school bus and medium-duty truck markets where maximizing fuel economy is a top priority.

According to Cummins, the Cummins ISB, which meets the current 2007 EPA emissions standards, won every test segment with results ranging from a 7- to 19-percent lead over MaxxForce engines.

Testing was conducted with an independent third party as well as in-house, using SAE Type III methodology. In total, three different comparisons were completed – each representing real-world scenarios for the school bus and medium-duty truck markets. The tests included vehicles with comparable specifications and load factors. In each assessment, the current Cummins ISB was matched against the MaxxForce 7 and the MaxxForce DT with like horsepower and torque ratings.

“We are delighted at the results of our testing of the ISB against the competition. Fuel economy is incredibly important to our customers, and our testing has validated the clear advantage that customers have with Cummins power,” said Tom Hodek – General Manager, Bus Business for Cummins.

Source: Cummins

Kenworth Introduces T440 Model For Regional Haul, Pickup and Delivery, Vocational and Municipal Markets

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 19:15:00 +0000

Kenworth Truck Company recently announced the introduction of the Kenworth T440 model in tractor and truck configurations for regional haul, city pickup and delivery, municipal and vocational applications.

Photo Credit: Kenworth

“Kenworth is aggressively expanding its product line to bring Kenworth’s World’s Best quality, performance and durability to additional markets and customers in the United States and Canada,” said Gary Moore, Kenworth assistant general manager for marketing and sales. “The new Kenworth T440 offers excellent value, productivity and aerodynamics to truck operators and fleets in heavy front-axle regional haul and pickup and delivery applications. This versatile truck will also benefit vocational and municipal customers who need a heavy front axle for dumps, mixers and fire trucks.”

The Kenworth T440 is now available for order with initial production scheduled to begin first quarter 2010.

Source: Kenworth

Mack Truck Sponsors Share The Road Highway Safety Education Program For 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 18:00:00 +0000

Photo Credit: Mack Trucks

Mack Trucks, Inc. has announced it would continue as a major sponsor of the extremely successful Share The Road highway safety education program for 2010. The announcement was made at the American Trucking Associations’ Management Conference & Exhibition here.

Designed to enhance the safety of America’s roadways by teaching car drivers how to safely drive around large trucks, Share the Road uses professional truck drivers with exemplary safety records to deliver life-saving messages about potential blind spots, safe following distances, truck stopping distances and other important topics.

Traditionally, the drivers have spread this information through demonstrations to local media, students, community leaders and highway users around the United States, using a SmartWay-certified MACK® Pinnacle™ model tractor donated by the truck maker as part of its support of Share the Road. Today, additional communication channels are also being utilized.

“Share the Road has exposed millions of citizens to essential information on how to safely drive around large trucks,” said Michael McNally, Mack vice president of sales. “These messages have been delivered by the professional drivers who are the heart and soul of the Share the Road program. Their passion for safety helps them connect to a wide variety of audiences. And the program now reaches more at-risk young drivers than ever before through the use of social media, such as Facebook and YouTube.”

Source: Mack Truck

Freightliner Trucks Introduces the New On-Highway Coronado

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 18:30:00 +0000

Freightliner Trucks recently introduced the new on-highway Coronado at the Chrome Shop Mafia headquarters in Joplin, Mo. Featuring enhanced aerodynamics, updated technological innovations and luxurious styling, the Coronado is the perfect blend of form and function.

Photo Credit: Freightliner

"The Coronado commands attention on the road - it is ideal for owner-operators who want a truck that not only turns heads - but turns profits," said Melissa Clausen, director of product marketing for Freightliner Trucks. "Sleek design updates, both inside and out, have resulted in a fuel-efficient truck that's comfortable to drive.

Using Freightliner's state-of-the-art wind tunnel to develop and test the new truck, the Coronado was designed with style and efficiency in mind.

Photo Credit: Freightliner

"Our goal was to create a traditionally-styled aerodynamic truck that would help owners reduce fuel consumption and increase bottom line profits," said Clausen. "Everything about the Coronado was carefully developed and built to keep it running and earning revenue."

The Coronado's hood is constructed out of one-piece fiberglass that is robust, yet easy to repair - incorporating parting lines to assist the body shop and reduce repair costs. The truck's smooth stainless steel grille is ready for years of use, and the Coronado's chrome-plated hood handle was designed in Freightliner's wind tunnel to specifically enhance airflow over the truck.

Photo Credit: Freightliner

Further enhancing aerodynamics, the curved shape of the Coronado two-piece windshield is sloped for better airflow around, and over the cab, decreasing wind resistance and further lowering fuel costs.

And, dual chrome steel intakes come standard on the Coronado. Air enters the system through two chromed steel grilles on either side of the hood, combining an aerodynamic and functional inlet with a stylish design. Designed for maximum efficiency, the intakes are positioned on either side of the hood to minimize the infiltration of water, snow, road debris or dust.

"Every element on the Coronado - from the hood to the fender and even the mirrors - was tested in the wind tunnel to optimize airflow," said Clausen. "This aerodynamic design, coupled with the latest in clean engine technology, enhances overall efficiency."

The Coronado features a strong, durable cab made of high-strength, lightweight aluminum. This lightweight construction allows owner-operators to increase revenue by hauling larger payloads. And, an up-to 50 degree wheel cut - comparable to many set-back axle trucks - helps the Coronado easily maneuver.

Photo Credit: Freightliner

The Coronado's updated design includes new headlights that are both stylish and durable. The headlights are made from a strong composite material and incorporate a single reflector, which offers excellent lighting capability both forward and to the side. For added convenience, the headlight uses just a single bulb, which is readily available at any auto parts store for replacement without any special tools.

The truck's hood tilts almost 90 degrees for easy engine access, making daily fluid level checks effortless. A special spring helps open and close the hood and reduces the lift effort to 40 pounds, for a smooth, easy opening.

"Productivity is the highest priority, so we designed the Coronado to enable owner-operators to easily make adjustments on their own, keeping repair costs and downtime to a minimum," said Clausen.

Noise abatement materials such as noise panels in the floor, front wall, sides and back panel keep the truck as quiet as possible. Double-sealed doors and well-sealed windows further reduce noise.

The truck's well-appointed interior, complete with Oregon Burl Wood trim and accents on the dash, provide a feeling of luxury.

The Coronado also features an updated dashboard, designed with the driver experience in mind. Formed as a single piece to minimize fasteners and rubbing points that create rattles, the Coronado's dashboard is one of the quietest ever developed by Freightliner.

Photo Credit: Freightliner

The dashboard's controls, valves and air switches are front-loaded and located within easy reach, and the gauges can be easily read. All switches and instrument panels are backlit by LED lights for non-glare nighttime viewing, and extra-large panels provide greater flexibility in gauge combinations.

The Coronado's luxurious sleeper includes strategically placed cabinets to maximize storage, and a stow-away upper bunk provides extra bed space. A pullout writing surface, clothing rack and a separate control panel for heat, air conditioning and lighting complete the interior.

Photo Credit: Freightliner

"Our customers spend most of their time inside the truck, so we wanted it well-appointed and comfortable," said Clausen.

Available with the Detroit Diesel DD13, DD15, and DD16 engines, as well as the Cummins ISX, the Coronado is designed to meet the upcoming EPA 2010 standards.

Detroit Diesel engines are equipped with the revolutionary new BlueTec emissions technology. BlueTec-equipped engines deliver a fuel economy improvement of up to 5 percent compared to EPA 2007 engines and are an evolution of the selective catalytic reduction technology developed by Daimler.

"The Coronado is a traditional truck with today's most innovative engineering and design elements," said Michael Jackson, general manager of marketing for Daimler Trucks North America. "The Coronado is a smart option that is ready to take on any challenge."

Source: Freightliner

Kenworth Adds Allison Transmission Load-Based Shift Scheduling Feature For Enhanced Fuel Economy and Performance

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 17:13:00 +0000

Kenworth Truck Company now offers Allison Transmission’s Load-Based Shift Scheduling (LBSS) as a standard feature on select Allison transmissions with Kenworth Class 8 and medium duty trucks for enhanced fuel economy and performance.

Photo Credit: Kenworth

Allison LBSS is included on the company’s fully automatic Highway Series (HS) and Rugged Duty Series (RDS) transmissions when configured with a 2007 and later emission model engine. LBSS automatically selects between economy and performance shift schedules based on the vehicle’s actual payload and its operating grade.

The economy mode is used when the truck travels on level terrain with an empty or diminishing load. The performance mode is used when the vehicle is heavily loaded or on a grade. According to Allison, the system can help enhance fuel economy, while also maintaining high productivity, even during heavily loaded situations.

Photo Credit: Kenworth

The addition of LBSS to Allison 3000 and 4000 series models can allow the mode button on the transmission’s shift selector to be programmed for controlling other vehicle functions, such as body builder functions or power takeoff (PTO) operation.

On trucks with Allison 1000 and 2000 series transmissions without a shift schedule dash switch, LBSS automatically performs the shift schedule selection for the driver, eliminating the need to manually select the transmission shift schedule for economy operation.

Source: Kenworth

Is Technology Distracting Truckers While Driving?

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 18:06:00 +0000

Truckers use more tech gadgets today than the traditional CB radio. According to a story in the New York Times, the trucking industry has expanded the use laptop computers, smart phones in truck cabs to communicate with and track drivers and their cargo.

The trucking industry encourages safe use of texting and email in trucks, but there are also concerns these devices are distracting truckers from the road. A possible federal bill could force states to ban texting while driving in exchange for federal highway money.

Source: The New York Times

Kenworth T470 Adds Second Horsepower Rating - May Now Be Ordered With The 9-liter Cummins ISL Engine

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 17:45:00 +0000

Photo Credit: Kenworth

Kenworth Truck Company recently announced adding a second horsepower rating for the new Kenworth T470 model.

The Kenworth T470 may now be ordered with the 9-liter Cummins ISL engine with 365 hp and 1,250 lb-ft of torque. Previously, the T470 was available with only the Cummins ISL with 345 hp and 1,150 lb-ft of torque.

The T470 offers Kenworth performance and durability for snowplow, dump, mixer, winch, refuse, and other heavy front-axle vocational and municipal applications. The T470 has a gross vehicle rating (GVW) ranging from a heavy Class 7 vehicle at 33,000 lbs. up to a light Class 8 truck at 68,000 lbs.

Source: Kenworth

Navistar MaxxForce TV Gives Customers an Up Close Look at MaxxForce Engines

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 12:45:00 +0000

Photo Credit: Navistar

As Navistar completes its final testing stages and prepares for the upcoming launch of its 2010 MaxxForce engines, a new online entertainment channel – MaxxForce TV – is making its debut.

Starting this month, customers will be able to learn about the benefits of Navistar’s MaxxForce® brand engines in a whole new way with the launch of MaxxForce TV, an online channel devoted entirely to trucks and engines. The inaugural series, “Maxx IQ,” is an entertaining and informative game show hosted by Joe Elmore, host of the television show “Horsepower TV” on the Spike Network.

In each fast-paced segment, Elmore tests the engine smarts of drivers at truck stops and other locations across the country for a chance to win cash and prizes. Online viewers are encouraged to play along to increase their own knowledge of MaxxForce products as well as to hone their skills in case this traveling game show rolls into their town.

Source: Navistar

Navistar and Caterpillar Announce Global Truck Joint Venture NC2

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 15:00:00 +0000

Navistar International Corporation and Caterpillar Inc. closed a joint venture transaction resulting in a new company, NC2 GlobalLLC, to serve the global commercial truck market.

Navistar and Caterpillar first announced plans to form a joint venture in June 2008 and have identified the leadership team of the new entity that will establish its headquarters in the Chicago area.

“Together, Navistar and Caterpillar have moved this project from concept to reality in little more than one year,” says Al Saltiel, president of NC2. “We now have a dedicated and experienced leadership team that will hit the ground running.”

“NC2 will produce and market a full line of commercial on-highway trucks for markets outside of North America,” says Saltiel. “Customers will benefit from the unparalleled depth and scope of support provided by Navistar and Caterpillar’s global dealers.”

Source: Navistar

Safeguards Transporters - The Simple Blue Trucks That Haul Nuclear Material

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 18:16:00 +0000

Think you have a tough job? Imagine driving a truck loaded up with nuclear material.

Jalopnik features a story on the trucks that haul nuclear cargo, known as "Safeguards Transporters", revealed through a Freedom of Information act request.

These unmarked blue trucks move plutonium and highly enriched uranium. While no specific details are described, the trucks are reported to feature complex safety and security devices to keep nuclear material secure in the event of an accident and from falling into the wrong hands.

Source Jalopnik and Friends of the Earth

Meijer Places First U.S. EPA 2010 Fleet Order with Daimler Trucks North America

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 15:30:00 +0000

Daimler Trucks North America has announced that Meijer, an EPA SmartWaySM award-winning retailer, had placed the nation's first fleet order for U.S. EPA 2010 trucks with the company. Meijer purchased 40 EPA 2010 Freightliner Cascadia trucks equipped with Detroit Diesel DD13 engines with the new evolutionary BlueTec emissions technology.

Photo Credit: Detroit Diesel

According to Tom McCall, vice president of logistics for Meijer, the pairing of the aerodynamic Freightliner Cascadia with the DD13 engine effectively matched Meijer's criteria for reliability, fuel economy, durability and serviceability. The first delivery of the trucks is expected to take place in the fourth quarter of this year, well ahead of the emissions regulations scheduled to take effect January 1, 2010.

"We're extremely proud to be the first company in the nation to place an order for these 21st century trucks equipped with the BlueTec emissions technology," said McCall. "While it's thrilling to be at the front end of the launch of such innovative technology, it's also exciting to partner with another Michigan-based company, Detroit Diesel Corporation, to help stimulate the economy and provide jobs right in our own backyard."

Photo Credit: Daimler Truck

Daimler's commitment to meeting environmental challenges is reflected in the company's early adoption, research and development of SCR technologies to meet the needs of North American trucking.

"SCR is the only emissions technology in decades proven to be as good for business as it is for the environment," said Mark Lampert, senior vice president of sales for Daimler Trucks North America. "Daimler Trucks and Detroit Diesel lead the industry in research and development of both SCR technology and the diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) infrastructure to support it."

"We invested over a decade in the design of emissions technologies to optimize the entire powertrain system for our North American trucking customers, and we're especially pleased to be selected by Meijer as their supplier of choice for the first fleet order of U.S. EPA 2010 trucks," he added. "Meijer is at the forefront of business and environmental strategies, and we are proud to deliver Detroit Diesel's BlueTec to them as a proven technology that will deliver a significant return on their emissions technology investment and an operational advantage of up to 5 over current 2007 trucks in their fleet."

Photo Credit: Daimler Truck

"From an operating perspective, the fuel efficiencies achieved with the Detroit Diesel DD13 engine and BlueTec emissions technology effectively return North American trucking to pre-EGR fuel economy levels while reducing dependence on foreign oil and reducing emissions to near-zero levels at the tailpipe," Lampert added. "And, with more than 25 million test miles completed in North America, including successful real-world freight hauling experience, that return on investment in BlueTec technology is more than just fuel economy...it will be proven reliability," added Lampert.

Source: Freightliner

Stimulus Funding To Assist Eaton In Nation’s Largest Deployment Of Commercial Hybrid Vehicles And Electrical Charging Infrastructure Support

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 20:36:00 +0000

Eaton Corporation recently announced its truck and electrical businesses will support a $45.4 million grant to produce plug-in hybrid electric power systems for 378 vehicles, the nation’s largest commercial hybrid deployment to date. The funding is part of the recently announced $2.4 billion in grants by the U.S. Department of Energy under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

Eaton will work with grant recipient South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) and other affiliates, including the Electrical Power Research Institute (EPRI), Altec Industries, Compact Power Inc., Ford Motor Company and Southern California Edison, in the deployment of plug-in hybrid electric commercial vehicles to more than 50 utility and municipal fleets nationwide. Eaton will also provide infrastructure for the electrical charging of these vehicles.

“This funding is an important milestone in the advancement of plug-in hybrid vehicles, and Eaton is pleased to be a recipient,” said Alexander M. Cutler, Eaton chairman and chief executive officer. “By providing our sustainable, energy-saving technologies to power the vehicles as well as the electrical infrastructure support to help keep them running, we believe we can provide Eaton customers with the technology they need to move plug-in hybrids to the next level.”

The development and deployment of the plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) and accompanying charging infrastructure will take place over 18 months. Vehicles will be evaluated over a two-year period.

Source: Eaton

Freightliner Trucks Extends "Slice of Life" Program

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 17:30:00 +0000

The Freightliner Truck homepage reports on the "Slice of Life" drivers and the Detroit Diesel DD15 equipped 2009 Cascadia trucks they drive.

Photo Credit: Freightliner Trucks

According to Freightliner Trucks, because of the popularity of the Slice of Life program and the positive response from the three participants - Dick McCorkle, Henry Albert and Kurt Grote - Freightliner Trucks has extended the program so they can continue to enjoy the Cascadia's enhanced aerodynamics and fuel efficiency, with the new addition of Detroit Diesel's BlueTec SCR emissions technology.

"Given the positive response we've received so far, we decided to extend the program and introduce the drivers to BlueTec emissions technology by giving them three new Cascadia trucks to test drive with DD15's with BlueTec technology," said Jamie Heck, owner operator product marketing manager for Freightliner Trucks. "As Kurt, Henry and Dick continue to cross North America, we will be eager to read their blogs and hear their reports detailing their experiences and the performance of these new products."

Source: Freightliner Trucks

PACCAR Honored With Enviromental Award

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 20:46:00 +0000

PACCAR’s Corporate office and its Kenworth Truck Company manufacturing facility in Renton were recently named as leaders in King County, Washington’s 2009 Best Workplaces for Recyclers.

Photo Credit: PACCAR

“PACCAR is honored to receive this prestigious environmental award,” said Richard Bangert, PACCAR vice president. “PACCAR is a global environmental leader and is committed to waste reduction, the conservation of natural resources and the ongoing protection of the environment.

This award recognizes the diligent efforts of our employees to reduce, reuse and recycle. PACCAR’s recycling program is an important facet in its comprehensive environmental framework.” Several PACCAR commercial vehicle facilities have achieved “zero waste to landfill,” which has enhanced operating efficiency and contributed to a green environment.

Source: PACCAR

Then Kenworth T470 Is Kenworth's Newest Truck Model

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 19:30:00 +0000

Kenworth has announced that the new Kenworth T470 brochure featuring Kenworth’s newest truck model is available from Kenworth dealers in the United States and Canada.

Photo Credit: Kenworth

According to Kenworth, the new Kenworth T470 significantly expands Kenworth’s product range in the vocational and municipal markets. The T470 offers Kenworth performance and durability for snowplow, dump, mixer, winch, refuse, and other heavy front-axle vocational and municipal applications. The T470, which is available for order, has a gross vehicle rating (GVW) ranging from a heavy Class 7 vehicle at 33,000 lbs. up to a light Class 8 truck at 68,000 lbs.

The Kenworth T470 features a 9-liter Cummins ISL engine with 345 hp and 1,150 lb-ft of torque, and a range of manual and automatic transmissions. Front axles are rated from 12,000 to 22,000 lbs., single rear axles from 21,000 to 26,000 lbs., and tandem rear axles from 40,000 to 46,000 lbs. The brochure also provides detailed specifications for battery boxes, brakes, bumpers, cab, exhaust options, frame, fuel tanks, hood, interior, starting and charging, suspension, wheels and tires, and special equipment and options.

Source: Kenworth

What Makes A Truck Driver An Experienced Truck Driver

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 14:00:00 +0000

Truck driver Jason Cox has written an story for Examiner.com asking what makes a truck driver an experienced driver?

The question comes from a conversation on Twitter between two truck drivers and the experience needed to haul hazardous materials.

Is experience measured only in years on the road only, or some truck drivers just have a natural talent for driving that sets them apart?

You can read more of Jason's stories on his home page or follow him on Twitter.

Source: Examiner.com

Bexar County Becomes First Texas County To Introduce Kenworth Hybrid Trucks

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 20:30:00 +0000

The Kenworth hompage reports on the delivery of three new Kenworth T370 diesel-electric hybrid trucks to Bexar County, Texas, which encompasses San Antonio and outlying areas.

Photo Credit: Kenworth

Bexar County’s Kenworth T370 hybrids are powered by PACCAR PX-6 engines rated at 260hp and 620 lb-ft of torque, and the Eaton diesel-electric hybrid power system. The trucks use an integral transmission-mounted motor/generator; frame-mounted 340-volt, lithium-ion battery pack; and dedicated power management system. The power takeoff (PTO) for the dump is run off the main engine.

Photo Credit: Kenworth

Electricity generated through regenerative braking is stored and used for acceleration, assisting the diesel engine. The hybrid system is monitored through an in-dash display. As the power requirements for different driving conditions change, the screen constantly updates the driver on system status.

Source: Kenworth

Volvo Accepting Orders For EPA2010 Trucks. Deliveries Begin This Year

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 18:00:00 +0000

Volvo Trucks North America announced that customers can place orders now for trucks across Volvo’s product line equipped to meet the EPA2010 emissions standards, using Volvo’s selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology, with delivery starting later this year.

Photo Credit: Volvo Trucks North America

Volvo reports that SCR also helps Volvo increase the fuel efficiency of its EPA’10 trucks and reduce their carbon footprint.

Initial production is scheduled for Fall 2009, with deliveries beginning a few weeks later. These will be initial production trucks, not prototypes or test models.

Photo Credit: Volvo Trucks North America

“A number of customers have expressed an interest in placing SCR-equipped units in their fleets ahead of 2010,” said Scott Kress, senior vice president & marketing. “This gives early adopters the opportunity to gain familiarity with the technology and the benefits of SCR. It’s another example of Volvo Trucks following through on our commitment to customers to be ready to go for 2010. Volvo is ready. How many other manufacturers can say that?”

Photo Credit: Volvo Trucks North America

“These trucks will deliver the near-zero emissions and improved fuel economy SCR-equipped Volvo trucks have demonstrated over two winters and more than three million miles of North American customer testing,” Kress said. “We have also demonstrated that our ‘No Regen’ promise is a reality that will bring additional fuel economy improvements by eliminating active regenerations of the diesel particulate filter.”

Orders for approximately 50 Volvo trucks equipped with SCR had been received by mid-June. Customers can order their EPA’10-ready trucks through their Volvo dealer.

Source: Volvo Truck North America

Navistar's Top Service Technician Shows Excellence at 2009 Rodeo

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 18:00:00 +0000

The Navistar homepage reports that Robert Ball of Maudlin International Trucks, Inc., Orlando, Fla., took top honors at the third annual Navistar Service Technician Rodeo, where he beat out seven other commercial truck service technicians to be crowned “Top Service Technician.”

Photo Credit: Navistar

The rodeo, held at Universal Technical Institute in Glendale Heights, Ill., featured the top eight service technicians from International dealerships across North America in a competition designed to test their skills in key areas of commercial truck servicing. Competition stations simulate service areas for air conditioning, brakes, drive train and electrical, as well as MaxxForce engines.

“Robert Ball demonstrated the highest skills and abilities among the top eight Diamond-certified technicians competing in the event,” said Vaughn Allen, Navistar vice president, product and customer support.

Each of the technicians went head-to-head in a hands-on test of their technical skill and speed. Throughout the day, their training was put to the test as they navigated their way through vehicle issues at eight stations where they diagnosed and fixed problems.

Source: Navistar

PACCAR Honored for Environmental Leadership

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 20:00:00 +0000

PACCAR’s Kenworth Truck Company was recently honored by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) with the prestigious Clean Air Excellence Award.

Kenworth is the first commercial vehicle manufacturer to receive this accolade since inception of the award in 2000. The EPA recognized Kenworth’s outstanding innovative efforts and progress in developing advanced environmentally friendly vehicles.

Photo Credit: PACCAR

Other examples of PACCAR’s industry-leading environmental leadership include:

Waste Management, Inc. purchased Peterbilt Model 320 diesel-hydraulic hybrid trucks for refuse collection. These vehicles utilize a hydraulic launch assist (HLA) system developed by Eaton to capture and store energy during braking.

A Kenworth T370 is the first medium-duty diesel-electric hybrid truck in New York City’s truck fleet. The Kenworth hybrid vehicle will be utilized by the Department of Sanitation throughout the New York City metropolitan area.

“The general economy continues to struggle. Reasonable freight tonnage is being offset by challenging economic conditions resulting from depressed residential and commercial real estate construction, lower auto production, reduced capital spending by most industrial businesses and weak retailer sales,” said Tom Plimpton, PACCAR vice chairman.

Plimpton added, “There is some encouraging news as national trucking companies are beginning to recognize the benefits of purchasing new trucks later this year as their current vehicles’ maintenance costs increase due to the aging of their fleets.”

Source: PACCAR

Hino Trucks Announces Strategic Partnership To Enhance Customer Service

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 21:04:00 +0000

Hino Trucks announced a new cooperative agreement that will give Hino access to Castrol and BP branded lubricants specially designed to meet or exceed industry standards for maintaining and servicing medium and heavy-duty vehicles.

The launch of the Castrol Heavy Duty Truck Work Shop Offer, enhances Hino’s current partnership with BP Lubricants USA Inc and will allow the Hino dealer network to offer customers a comprehensive line of industry-leading Castrol branded conventional, semi-synthetic, and synthetic lubricants, in addition to Hino Genuine Oil.

Source: BP

“The Castrol program consists of premium products, services, and technical support to provide our dealer body with a comprehensive offering that will allow them to better serve the needs of independent owners and fleet customers,” explained Tim Wenger, Product Development Manager for Hino Parts. “Our dealers now can offer the full range of Castrol engine oils, transmission fluids, and greases.

Wenger also noted that, while the new Castrol Heavy Duty Truck Work Shop Offer takes the Hino and BP Lubricants partnership to a new level, the relationship is already well established, with BP Lubricants currently producing Hino Genuine Oil.

Source: Hino Trucks

Along with the expanded line of product offerings, Hino and BP Lubricants spokespersons said that they expect the enhanced partnership to lead to more service-based promotional opportunities for Hino Truck dealers – and cost savings for customers.

"We are committed to helping Hino dealers articulate the value that the Castrol brand delivers through aggressive marketing efforts and continuous connectivity with the everyday trucker and fleet owner," said Tejuana Edmond, Heavy Duty/OEM Market Space Manager for BP Lubricants. "Our offer is truly designed with the goals of the dealer in mind - to win new business, to build customer loyalty, and to increase operational efficiency. This will allow BP Lubricants to take a more holistic approach to managing the needs of Hino Truck dealers and their customers."

Source: Hino Trucks

Hybrid On The Hill Day Brings Truck Manufacturers To Washington DC

noreply@blogger.com (Trader Online) — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 20:04:00 +0000

June 11 was Hybrid On The Hill Day, a chance for truck manufacturers to showcase medium and heavy-duty hybrids.

The trucks ranged from big rigs, utility bucket trucks, delivery trucks and shuttle buses. The event was hosted by CALSTART and the Hybrid Truck Users Forum (HTUF).

While hybrid technology shows promise for future truck sales, price and public recognition is still an obstacle.

In this YouTube video, Bill Van Amburg, Senior Vice President with CALSTART, an organization dedicated to clean transportation technologies, explains getting past the issue of cost with hybrid trucks.

The Kenworth homepage reports on the truck models the company brought to Hybrid On The Hill Day: a Kenworth pickup and delivery hybrid and a Kenworth utility hybrid.

Photo Credit: Kenworth

The Kenworth T270 Class 6 and T370 Class 7 diesel-electric hybrid trucks are for use in pickup and delivery, utility, and service applications. Kenworth’s goal is to enhance fuel economy by up to 30 percent in pickup and delivery applications and up to 50 percent in utility and service operations. As a result of using less diesel fuel, the Kenworth hybrids help to reduce emissions.

Photo Credit: Kenworth

The Kenworth hybrids feature a PACCAR PX-6 engine, integral transmission-mounted motor/generator, frame-mounted 340-volt battery pack, and dedicated power management system. Electricity generated through regenerative braking is stored and used for acceleration, assisting the diesel engine. The hybrid system is monitored through an in-dash display. As the power requirements for different driving conditions change, the screen constantly updates the driver on system status.

Source: CNET, CALSTART and Kenworth