Fleet managers consider propane as a diesel fuel alternative

With diesel prices rising, companies and government agencies are giving alternative fuels serious consideration. While biodiesel and even cooking oil has been used as truck fuel, another contender is propane.

Could propane make the leap from the backyard grill to your truck's fuel tanks?

VenturaCountyStar.com reports on a recent show held by a liquid-energy company, featuring vehicles powered by propane and experts to answer questions about propane's safety and ease of use.

While propane is cheaper than diesel and emits lower levels of pollution, finding the money to buy new vehicles and infrastructure to maintain propane engines is still a challenge.

Source: VenturaCountyStar.com

Truckers looking for cheaper diesel fuel in Mexico

First there was controversy over a pilot program allowing trucks to cross from Mexico into the United States. Now there is the new issue of truckers from the United States crossing into Mexico for cheaper diesel fuel.

The Life on The Road Blog features video on trucking companies fighting the high cost of diesel fuel by filling up south of the border.

According to the story, diesel fuel costs are lower in Mexico thanks to price controls, but filling up in Mexico is not as simple as driving across the border. Each truck must have permits from the Mexican Government to cross. Getting the permits can cost up to $1000 a truck, but some truck companies say high fuel prices leave them no choice.

Freightliner Customers Win Top Honors at Truck Beauty Competition at MATS

The Freightliner Trucks news page features images of the winners from the eighth annual Paul K. Young Memorial Truck Beauty Show conducted at the Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS) March 27-29, 2008.

According to Freightliner...

Major overall winners of the Pride & Polish event include Robert and Shelley Brinker, of Grayling, Mich., who won Best of Show Working Bobtail with “Black Pearl,” their 2000 Freightliner Classic XL with a mural depicting scenes from the film, “Pirates of the Caribbean.”

Source: Freightliner

Volvo studies ways to prevent truck driver distractions

The inside of a truck cab offers more electronics and gadgets than ever before. A trucker can monitor how his truck and engine are performing and GPS mapping to stay on the right route.

All those dials and readouts can be a distraction as well, taking the focus of a driver off the road.

Volvo recently conducted a study of commercial vehicle drivers to improve traffic safety. Researchers wanted to know how drivers handle safety systems and information systems while driving.

According to Volvo...

Volvo has coordinated a pan-European research project (AIDE) that focuses on these aspects. The conclusion is that many accidents can be avoided if the systems are coordinated and better tailored to suit the flow of traffic and the driver’s situation.

On April 15-16 the project submitted its final report. Almost 200 researchers from throughout Europe, experts in the motoring industry and representatives of the EU were on hand when the results of four years’ research were presented.

“We know that the human factor is a contributory cause in at least 90 percent of all traffic accidents. If we can provide technology that adapts support systems to suit the individual driver and the current traffic situation, many accidents would be able to be avoided,” says Lars-Göran Löwenadler, Safety Director at Volvo Trucks.

“It is positive that the number of safety and information systems in modern vehicles is increasing. Taken individually, they offer many benefits as regards traffic safety and productivity, for instance, but the driver does risk being over-burdened by too much information. Especially bearing in mind that many drivers also have their mobile phones and perhaps also a GPS navigator in the vehicle. In order not to jeopardise traffic safety, we have developed solutions that allow all the systems to interact smoothly,” explains Volvo Technology’s Gustav Markkula, the company’s AIDE coordinator.

In concrete terms, AIDE is all about creating a user interface between the vehicle’s technology and the driver. The challenge is to integrate all the support systems into the driver’s environment so that they help the driver in the best possible way at the right time, and do not risk disrupting him in situations where the traffic demands all his attention.

Source: Volvo

Detroit Diesel offers new software to enhance fuel economy

Trailer-Body Builders reports that Detroit Diesel Corporation has announced new software to enhance the fuel economy of EPA '07 Series 60 engines.

According to the article, testing of the series 60s engines has shown that particle filters are staying cleaner. Advancements in the regeneration software can improve the fuel efficiency of the engines up to 2.5 percent.

That 2.5 percent improvement could not come at a better time, with diesel fuel prices putting the squeeze on truckers and trucking companies. Any fuel consumption improvement is money saved.

Source: Trailer-Body Builders

Frieghtliner Cascadia esignated as SmartWay-certified by the EPA

Freightliner Trucks recently announced that the Cascadia has been designated as SmartWay-certified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Cascadia marks the third Freightliner Class 8 truck – along with the Columbia and Century Class S/T – to earn this certification.

According to Freightliner...

SmartWay is a voluntary program for the transportation industry that establishes incentives for fuel efficiency improvements and greenhouse gas emissions reductions. Trucks that earn the SmartWay designation can be 10 to 20 percent more fuel efficient and up to 90 percent cleaner than comparable models.

“Freightliner’s Run Smart philosophy – the platform on which we developed the Cascadia – is to be the most productive, efficient, and driveable truck on the market,” said Melissa Kellogg, director of product marketing for FreighTrucks. “Run Smart perfectly complements the SmartWay initiative.”

Source: Freightliner

Western Star offers new product enhancements

Western Star recently introduced several product enhancements for on-highway and vocational applications at the 2008 Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS) in Louisville, Ky.

According to Western Star...

Updates include the availability of air disc brakes and the largest on-highway radiator in the industry; the reconfigured Western Star LowMax; and new fifth wheel options from SAF-HOLLAND.

"We're proud to offer distinctive new options and enhancements to our customers," said T.J. Reed, product manager Western Star Trucks.

Source: Western Star

ATA plans fuel strategy workshop for June 19th

Truckline.com reports that American Trucking Associations will host a Fuel Strategies Workshop June 19 to help the trucking industry cope with skyrocketing fuel prices.

According to the ATA...

While ATA is taking steps at the Federal level to reduce fuel prices, this workshop is designed to educate motor carriers about new technologies and operating practices that will help them conserve diesel fuel and implement cutting edge diesel fuel purchasing strategies to reduce their fuel bill.

The one-day seminar, to be held at the Westin Arlington Gateway in Arlington, Va., will provide attendees with practical solutions from industry experts to help conserve fuel, operate more efficiently and ultimately reduce their fuel bills.

Fleet managers, fuel purchasers, economists and policy professionals will provide an overview of technologies and techniques to reduce fuel consumption, fuel purchasing strategies, methods of accurately measuring fuel economy and costs and benefits of alternative fuels.

Source: Truckline.com

Women In Trucking names new President

Trucking demand is growing faster than the number of drivers available to fill the driver's seat. Looking for opportunity, more women are now seeking truck driving jobs in a traditionally a male-dominated field.

Women In Trucking, a non-profit organization created to encourage the employment of women in the trucking industry, recently announced that former Chairwoman, Ellen Voie will now serve as the organization’s President.

Women In Trucking (WIT) was founded in 2007 to encourage women to consider a career in the trucking industry. WIT members range from corporate to driver and student members.

According to the Women In Trucking site...

“The ability to now hire a President is such a testament to our growth,” said Leigh Foxall. ”In a year we have grown to 1,000 members, but equally important, we are getting the support from many corporations that believe in our mission.”

Source: Fleetowner.com and Women In Trucking

Volvo Engines meet California Clean Idle Certification with low nitrogen oxide emissions

To comply with tough low-emission laws in California, Volvo Truck engines can be ordered with an optional Low NOx (low nitrogen oxides) Idle, or LNI, feature.

According to Volvo Trucks North America...

Volvo’s family of D11, D13 and D16 engines can be ordered with an optional Low NOx Idle, or LNI, feature. With LNI, Volvo engines are certified to emit 30 gr/hr or less of NOx while idling. California regulations prohibit trucks which do not meet this standard from idling for more than five minutes. Pennsylvania and New Jersey have adopted the requirement and other states are considering it.

“As part of our environmental core value, Volvo has always promoted turning the engine off when a truck is not in use to reduce emissions and to conserve fuel,” said Matt Kelly, Volvo’s executive director - marketing. “However, it may be necessary to idle the engine while parked for a prolonged period in order to provide a comfortable environment to the driver who may be resting in the truck, such as during particularly hot or cold weather.”

Volvo’s LNI solution involves idling at a low 700 rpm, while also employing a low level of exhaust gas recirculation. This reduces fuel consumption compared to higher idle speeds, and lowers NOx emissions. It also provides faster engine warm-up, so the truck can be driven sooner after a cold start, which saves time and fuel, all with lower emissions. Volvo engines can be safely idled for extended periods of time.

Source: Volvo Trucks North America

TeleType GPS features Hazmat routing for truckers

Driving a truck with hazardous materials is tough enough. A driver hauling dangerous material needs to focus on the road, not a map.

TeleType's Commercial Truck WorldNav Portable GPS system now features 10 levels of Hazmat routing, guiding truckers to the routes they need to deliver their cargo safely.

According to TeleType...

This advanced touch screen GPS offers Truck Routing GPS navigation solution for professional truck drivers, bus drivers, and RV'ers. The product insures that routes will follow roads that are suitable for truck travel, and yet the commercial driver can rely on the routing as it takes into account commercial truck restrictions such as bridge heights and clearances, load limits, one-way road designations, left-hand and dangerous turn restrictions, and allowances.

Source: TeleType

Truckers use online social networks to take action over fuel prices

The patience of independent truckers is wearing thin as the diesel fuel prices rise.

Read Write Web reports that truckers are venting their frustration over fuel costs through social networks like MySpace and Facebook. One MySpace page that supports a trucker protest on May 5th has over 1900 friends. TruckersForum.net and Topix.com have similar forums.

APP.com reports that high fuel prices putting pressure on truckers and on businesses that depend on trucks. Fuel surcharges are passed on to customers in higher bills and prices. Trucking companies are trying to conserve fuel by checking tires for proper inflation and driving slower.

The fuel price crisis has prompted truckers to ask their state lawmakers for help. Land Line reports that lawmakers and truckers plan for a roundtable discussion over fuel prices on Thursday, April 17, at the Fultonville Super Stop in Fultonville, NY.

Sources: Read Write Web, APP.com and Land Line

Mack Pinnacle Rawhide Edition shows off "Texas-style" chrome

Mack Trucks website features information on the Mack Pinnacle Rawhide Edition, which made its debut at the Mid-America Trucking Show

According to Mack Trucks...

"The Rawhide Edition combines classic styling with all the technology benefits of the Pinnacle model, and the next generation of luxury and comfort," said Jerry Warmkessel, Mack marketing product manager for highway products. "This is definitely a truck that will draw attention - the Rawhide Edition is a highway bulldog in all its shining glory. It will be popular with fleets for driver recruitment and retention, as well as with discerning owner operators."

"Our customers want a truck that drivers aspire to be in because of its looks, its comfort and its Mack quality and reliability," Warmkessel continued. "Drivers specifically tell us they want a proud-to-drive look, one that shows they are a successful professional. They also want a truck that pampers them with a luxurious interior. And the Rawhide Edition delivers on both counts."

The Rawhide Edition comes in three cab configurations: 60- and 70-inch midrise sleepers, plus daycab.

The description of the Rawhide Edition on the Mack site mentions the "Texas-style" chrome bumper. All that shiny steel across the front is sure to get noticed by anyone rudely ignoring traffic while changing lanes in front of this truck.

The Rawhide is tough outside, but plush inside. The decor of the cab features luxurious button tuck Ultraleather and two-tone embroidered seats.

Source: Mack Trucks

Texas offers rebates for cleaner trucks

According to the Cleburne Times-Review, rebates are helping truck companies replace older, dirtier trucks with new low-emission trucks.

The story features two trucking companies who were awarded rebates from the Texas Emissions Reduction Program to replace old trucks.

The rebates were awarded by the Texas Emissions Reduction Program. According to the TERP website, grant applications are accepted at different times throughout the year, depending on available funds. The program is part of a statewide effort to cut down on pollution by replacing older trucks.

Gen-A-Sys Auxiliary Power Unit uses nickel metal hydride batteries

Electro Energy Inc. recently introduced its Gen-A-Sys anti-idling technology. The Gen-A-Sys anti-idling solutions, jointly developed by Electro Energy and Enertek Corporation, are the next generation in auxiliary power units for long-haul and local delivery trucks.

What makes the Gen-a-Sys system different than other A.P.U.s is the optional Q version which is the only hybrid system powered by Ni-MH batteries (Military grade nickel metal hydride) which have a 3000-5000 charge cycle lifetime expectancy. Traditional lead acid batteries have a 350-500 charge life cycle expectancy.

A timer allows the 3kWh Ni-MH battery pack to re-charge in a very short time after use, allowing one to utilize stealth mode. This system is one of the most unique, reliable, powerful sources for auxiliary power available.

The system automatically monitors the batteries’ charge. When battery charge is low a small engine that automatically turns on and recharges them, then turns off after charging and returns to engine-off mode.

Michael Reed, Electro Energy's President and CEO, said, "Many states now have commercial truck anti-idling regulations and as of January 1, 2008 any Class 8 truck entering the State of California is required to have an anti-idling system installed. The Gen-A-Sys systems power the truck hotel loads resulting in reduced exhaust emissions, noise and fuel expense compared to idling the truck engine. Electro Energy's advanced battery technology reduces the weight of these systems enabling greater freight loading and revenue potential for truck operators."
Source: Electro Energy Inc. and Enertek Corporation

Truckers needed for TV show...especially if you can sing

Tapestry International Productions is looking for truckers...but not for hauling freight. They are looking for truckers to participate in a new travel series called Stories From the Road: The Trucker's Guide To America.

According to an email we received, they are especially looking for truckers who sing. If you can carry a tune and handle a big rig, this might be your chance for stardom.

Here's the request we received from Karen Carlson at Tapestry International Productions. You can contact her at the email address below.

Dear Truckers,

Do you have a passion for the open road, America and sharing your travel stories with others? Could you see yourself hosting a travel series from the driver's wheel of your truck?

Tapestry International Productions is an Emmy and Oscar winning television production company that specializes in family-friendly programming for channels like The Discovery Channel, TLC and TBS. We are currently developing a travel series entitled: STORIES FROM THE ROAD: THE TRUCKER'S GUIDE TO AMERICA and are look for a host (or hosts) to take us along for the ride. We are looking for a sincere, articulate trucker between the ages of 30 and 55 who loves America and can take us to some of the country's most beautiful places. This is a paid position.

If you are interested, please contact Karen Carlson at kcarlson@tapestry.tv. Include information about why you think you'd make a good travel guide as well as a photo of you AND your truck (remember, your truck is a big part of the series). Please feel free to ask questions.

Thanks,
Karen

SPECIFICALLY LOOKING FOR TRUCKERS WHO CAN SING

Source: Tapestry International Productions