Brochure For Sterling Set-Back 113 With Natural Gas Now Available

Sterling Truck Corporation recently announced the Sterling Set-Back 113 with Natural Gas (NG) brochure is now available at www.SterlingTrucks.com/NaturalGas.

Sterling launched the Set-Back 113 with NG in May 2008.  According to Sterling, the Set-Back 113 with NG has the lowest emissions in the industry without sacrificing top-level performance and efficiency.  Part of Sterling's Clean Drive Technologies, it is powered by the Cummins Westport ISL G, which already meets EPA 2010 standards and has 85 percent lower NOx emissions than the C Gas Plus engine.

The Set-Back 113 with NG, a Class 7-8 truck, is now available for LTL and distribution applications. Currently in development, the truck also will be configured for the government, construction, P&D and utility applications.

Natural gas technology can save an estimated $6,000 in annual fuel and operating costs per truck and customers in states such as California will also benefit from tax incentives for alternative fuel vehicles.

Source: Sterling Trucks

Volvo Trucks Developing Lightweight Prototype Sleepers Made With Advanced Composite Material Technology

The Volvo Trucks North America homepage reports on the development of lightweight prototype sleepers made with advanced composite material technology as part of a U.S. Army program to reduce the weight and improve fuel economy of trucks.

The project, part of the Army’s Military and Commercial Truck Weight Reduction Program, calls for Volvo and program partner TPI Composites, Inc., Scottsdale, Arizona, to design, build and test prototype truck sleepers.

Because of their generally lighter weight, the use of composite components can improve truck fuel economy and thus reduce CO2 emissions. TPI’s advanced processes yield components that are even lighter and stronger than composite components formed using traditional methods. In addition, composite materials resist corrosion, insulate better and may provide a quieter sleeping environment for resting drivers.

Three sleeper cabs will be produced as part of the project, with the first to be delivered in late 2009.

Source: Volvo Truck North America

The Chameleon Truck Adapts To The Shape Of Cargo

Designer Haishan Deng creates vehicles that revise the idea of what a truck should look like, often adapting shapes from nature and the animal kingdom to serve the needs of highway transport and construction sites.

At first glance, Haishan Deng's Chameleon Truck might remind you of a caterpillar crawling on the side of a tree instead of a truck. The Chameleon's unusual design has a purpose: offering safer cargo transport and lower transport costs.

The Chameleon Truck uses a segmented body design to stretch its shape around a cargo container. The driver sits in a cockpit over the cargo hatch.

The soft covering around the truck protects cargo by absorbing the imapact of accidents. The softer material also reduces weight that saves on fuel costs.

Source: Haishan Deng

New Research On Truck Trailers By Georgia Tech Yeilds New Fuel Efficency Technology

The impact of fuel costs on the trucking industry has researchers and truck designers working to make trucks sleeker and develop new fuel-saving technologies.

Since the high cost of fuel is passed on to the consumer in the form of higher prices, developments in aerodynamic truck technologies affect more than trucking companies and driver.

The Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) homepage features news on research using pressurized air “active flow control” techniques to increase truck fuel efficiency by 8 to 12 percent.

According to the George Tech Research Institute, research is also being conducted on GTRI low-drag active flow control aerodynamic technologies, developed with support from the U.S. Department of Energy nearly a decade ago.

Truck aerodynamics have improved thanks to attachments like roof fairings, but these improvements do little to affect the wind resistance of trailers.

One streamlining technique GTRI researchers are working on is pneumatic devices to push air over curved surfaces on the backs of trailers. The jets of air smooth out the angular shape of trailers and reduce drag.

According to a report by the Associated Press, a test track run using the GTRI system increased fuel efficiency by 12 percent. That might not sound like a huge increase, but fleet trucks often travel thousands of miles. That 12 percent adds up in the shadow of 5 dollars a gallon diesel fuel costs.

Source Georgia Tech Research Institute and Associated Press

Mack Trucks Introduces MVASIST To Provide Faster Service Estimates

Mack Trucks, Inc. recently introduced an innovative process called MVASIST to provide customers with faster, more accurate service estimates and write-ups when their trucks need service.

According to Mack Trucks...

MVASIST is an internet application that simplifies the critical first step of the service process by providing the service writer with integrated fleet and manufacturer information. Customers benefit with greater uptime, improved cost management and a better overall service experience.

MVASIST is fully integrated into Mack systems to give service writers at dealerships instant access to parts information, service bulletins and MVPreferred® customer specific parts pricing. This information is based on the individual vehicle identification number (VIN) and a customized fleet profile.

When a customer's truck pulls into a participating Mack dealership for service, the service writer discusses the truck's issues with the driver and performs an initial evaluation. Using MVASIST, the service writer is able to access Mack build information for that specific vehicle. This alerts the service writer to required maintenance operations and inspections for the truck (some of which can be part of the fleet's customized MVASIST profile). The program then creates a comprehensive and accurate estimate, including related service operations, parts, labor, shop supplies, waste disposal fees and taxes. It also incorporates pricing for fleets that participate in Mack's MVPreferred parts program.

Source: Mack Trucks

Sterling Introduces Its First Natural Gas-Powered Vehicle

Concerns over truck emissions have resulted in new laws and regulations on trucks in shipping terminals. While truck manufacturers have sought to clean up diesel emissions with filters and improved engines, the demand for low-emission trucks have moved alternative fuels from the testing lab to the loading dock.

Sterling Truck Corporation recently rolled out a new natural gas (NG)-fueled tractor. The Sterling Set-Back 113 fueled with Natural Gas is ideal for port operations, as well as natural gas utilities and municipalities. An OEM factory-built product, this truck is powered by the Cummins Westport ISL G.

According to Sterling Trucks...

Natural gas technology can save an estimated $6,000 in annual fuel and operating costs per truck. Customers in states such as California will also benefit from tax incentives for alternative fuel vehicles. Fuel providers take advantage of these incentives, too, which means that accessibility to NG fuel is on the rise.

"Due to deterioration in air quality, the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach have embraced the use of alternative fuels in commercial vehicles. At the same time, utility companies and municipalities throughout North America have shown increased interest in green transportation technology," said Richard Shearing, manager of product strategy for Sterling Truck Corporation. "By introducing the Set-Back 113 with Natural Gas, we're giving our customers a hard-working truck that reduces both costs and environmental emissions."

Source: Sterling Trucks

Haishan Deng's Super Tipper Truck - The Future of Dump Trucks

The futuristic design of the Super Tipper Truck looks more like a giant pack animal than a conventional dump truck. That is no accident. Designer Haishan Deng used the movement of big creatures in nature to create a dump truck that is more maneuverable.

You can see more of Haishan Deng's amazing designs at www.haishandesign.com

According to the Super Tipper Truck press release...

Super Tipper Truck is a winning design of 2007/2008 Red Dot design award. This concept was designed to find new solutions and technology which can be used in future tipper truck design. It is also a future vision of F.X.Meiller’s tipper truck. F.X.Meiller is the leading tipper manufacturer in Europe. The company is based in Munich, and truck company including Mercedes Benz, MAN, Renault, Volvo, Iveco has their tipper truck assembled in Meiller Kipper.

Haishan Deng is the designer of this concept. The idea comes from structure and movement of four feet animal. Tipper trucks have served the construction industry for a hundred years. Over the century, though tip trucks have got bigger and stronger, they’re largely still based on a design we all first encountered in the sand pit as children. Super Tipper Truck has been designed with new solutions and technology. It also seeks new methods and solutions to problems inherent with the traditional one.

Traditional dump trucks are able to only unload materials backwards or sideways, and the driver requires an amount of time to adjust the truck to specific position. Super Tipper Truck solves this problem by using a tipper that is able to unload materials in all four directions.

It took me a long time to figure out a structure to do this function. Normally the tipper is fixed on base pan of trucks. If the tipper needs to unload to four directions the structure will be very complicate and the cockpit is always a problem. So I searched the nature to find some inspirations. Finally the body of quadruped animals helps me to find out the solution. In this concept, the base pan of trucks was removed instead with the tipper as a center main connection of every part of the truck.

The suspension arms are connected to main tipper on rails, to allow parts to slide past each other. The wheels are attached to independent engines, which allow them to move in different directions. The hydraulic system attached to the each arm moves the arms to enable the main tipper to rotate and be positioned in different angles. The cockpit is also independent which can be lifted up or down just like head of animals, so the truck can unload at the front. The ability to unload at front makes it easier for drivers to navigate and position the truck more accurately, and thus, it also makes the process safer.

The flexibility of unloading makes the whole process fast and simple; and makes the management of trucks at construction sites - especially when a number of them are in use- more efficient.

As ground conditions on constructions sites are often unstable and uneven, the independent suspension arms with engines allow it to navigate and unload over tough terrains effortlessly. It can also be driven down and unload on incline surface which is very useful but impossible to do by traditional trucks. Another benefit from the moving cockpit is the truck can load some kind of materials such as sand, mud by itself while it open the tipper to the front and be driven towards the materials.

Safety is also in consideration of this concept. The cockpit is surrounded with glass of wide range vision. Driver can see what is down there through the glass on the cockpit floor like helicopter. To protect driver in extreme conditions, the cockpit has an enhanced strength roof and hard side protection.

Source: Haishan Deng

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

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

New Volvo trucks in Europe feature more space and new safety features

It was around a year ago that the Volvo Beevan concept explored the design of futuristic trucks. While the Beevan was more concept than reality, this summer Volvo will start production on new versions of the Volvo FH and Volvo FH16 in Europe feature new technology and safety features.

These images give a glimpse of what Volvo designers have been cooking up to improve driver comfort and safety in new trucks.

According to Volvo...

So just what is it that customers are being offered? Volvo does not want to reveal all the details right now. However, what is certain is that the new range will include an entirely redesigned cab interior. The main focus is on further reinforcing the properties that customers appreciate from the current model range, such as comfort, functionality and safety.


Space, light and smart storage

“We have created a driver’s environment that offers more space and light along with far better storage capability,” says Christer Pehrsson, business area manager for long-haul operations at Volvo Trucks. “Behind the new design lies a thorough analysis of all the needs that a driver may have, both while driving and when the truck is at a standstill. The driver has to be able to work efficiently and live comfortably.”

More space in the driving compartment

The storage compartments above the driver’s seat are of a new design that increases the feeling of space and makes it easier to move around in an upright position inside the cab. Sliding shutter doors make opening and closing easier. The instrument panel too is of a new design and helps give the driver added space. The gear controls for the I-Shift and Powertronic transmissions have been moved out a little from the driver’s seat for the same reason.

Storage under the bed

By relocating some of the storage capacity and creating more compartments under the bed, total storage capacity has been increased even though the interior living space itself feels larger. What is more, the new solution is more flexible than before to meet different customers’ specific needs.

Better scope for relaxation

The level of comfort in the cab is significantly higher, particularly as regards the scope for relaxation. A broader bed with adjustable backrest and a higher position for a more comfortable seat height is one of the new features. Another update is the passenger seat, which can swivel 90 degrees and recline 15 degrees. There is also a powerful audio system with the possibility of inputs for USB, AUX, MP3 and TV.

Lighting quality that is unique in the industry

“We have also worked a lot on providing good lighting inside the cab,” says Christer Pehrsson. “With well-thought-out positioning of 17 light sources and an advanced lighting control that includes a dimmer, it is possible to deliver the light and adjust its brightness exactly according to need. Red night-lighting is also included. Our lighting system is among the very best on the market.”

Monitor whether it rains

Improving visibility under all conditions is of high priority in Volvo’s safety work and as a result the company offers rain sensors for the windscreen wipers. The sensors monitor whether and how much rain is falling, and the windscreen wipers are adjusted automatically to suit. Cornering lights, which provide better visibility when turning, are another solution being introduced on the Volvo FH. More new safety features will be revealed at the launch next summer.

Source: Volvo Trucks

GPS truck tracking systems could help prevent truck mishaps

Boston.com features a story on GPS technology that could prevent truck accidents by tracking a truck's position and speed.

One such system is Cadec's PowerVue. While other systems are mounted on the truck and monitor speed and position, PowerVue uses satellite tracking to determine if a truck is in danger of a rollover or moving too fast.

According to Cadec...

Designed to enable companies to maximize the business value of their fleets, Cadec’s PowerVue helps fleet managers address challenges such as:

• Improving efficiency and reducing costs by integrating actionable fleet information with existing routing, mapping and supply chain management software

• Creating dashboards of relevant information for each stakeholder in the supply chain – from dispatcher, to fleet manager, to CEO, to customer

• Ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations by automating paper-based administrative processes such as DOT logs and fuel tax

• Visibility into driver safety data including speed, route/location, and idle time and meeting and exceeding customer service expectations.

Unlike traditional mobile communications systems that primarily emphasize messaging and location, or OBC systems that focus on collecting data, PowerVue adds a level of intelligence by combining the most advanced on-board computer system with a web-based, enterprise-class data management application. This enables PowerVue to translate vast amounts of fleet data collected from each vehicle into actionable information that can be leveraged throughout the supply chain.

Source: Boston.com and Cadec

Edge of Dock Leveler and the Lo-Dock Leveler from Bluff Manufacturing

Bluff Manufacturing has introduced the Edge of Dock Leveler and the Lo-Dock Leveler which improve loading and offloading freight.

Edge of Dock Leveler

• Capacities from 20,000 to 25,000 pounds
• Automatically returns to stored position when truck leaves
• Self-Storing handle
• Bumper and bumper blocks included

Fast and easy to operate, Bluff's edge of dock leveler is positioned by lifting a self-storing handle and pulling the handle to the dock floor. The latch assembly activates the lip forward to the floor of the trailer as the handle is lifted. When released, the handle automatically returns to a stored position. The optimum dock height for conventional trailers is 51", while the proper dock height for refrigerated equipment is 55". Refrigerated lip is optional. Widths of 72" and 78" are available.

Lo-Dock Leveler (LD)

• Raises edge of dock levelers to proper working height
• Completely assembled; no site welding required

Now without expensive dock alterations, you can raise the height of your present dock as much as 11". Lo-dock levelers can easily be installed on any concrete dock without welding or modifications. Refrigerated lip is optional.

Source: Bluff Manufacturing

Peterbilt showcases Class 8 hybrid electric vehicle

Peterbilt Motors Company recently showcased its Class 8 hybrid electric vehicle – the Model 386 – in conjunction with the SmartWay of Going Green Seminar at the Ontario Trucking Association Convention.

“Peterbilt leads the way in the development of hybrid solutions in the heavy duty market with our Model 386 hybrid electric for customers as they battle higher fuel costs and place a greater emphasis on environmental stewardship,” says Bill Jackson, Peterbilt General Manager and PACCAR Vice President.

The Model 386 Heavy-Duty Hybrid, a joint-development vehicle with Wal-Mart Stores Inc. and Eaton, utilizes a hybrid electric system for long-haul applications for both on-road and idle reduction fuel efficiency gains. On the road, the expected fuel savings is 5-7% through improved launching, accelerating and hill climbing capabilities.

When the idle reduction mode is active, engine operation is limited to battery charging, an automatically controlled process that takes approximately five minutes per hour to fully charge the system. During rest periods, a 90% reduction in idling has been achieved while providing high-power A/C, 120VAC, and 12VDC to accommodate the sleeper hotel loads.

Source: Peterbilt

Ultra low sulfur diesel - One year later

October 15th marked the one-year anniversary of Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel. Concerns over engine compatibility and fuel availability marked the introduction of ULSD, but this Diesel Technology Forum YouTube video reports that ULSD usage is going smoothly.


The Diesel Technology forum site also features news on how ULSD is affecting truck sales...

Heavy-duty truck sales slowed in 2007 compared to previous years, though most analysts expect purchases to increase later this year and into 2008. “Many factors influence the acquisition of new truck and engine technologies,” explained Schaeffer. “However, real-world experience has demonstrated that a lack of confidence in the new clean diesel engine technology should not be one of them.”

A new 2007 diesel truck emits just one-sixtieth the soot exhaust of one produced in 1988. And thanks to the new clean diesel fuel, owners of existing diesel vehicles have the option to install new emission controls that can reduce soot emissions by more than 90 percent. Congress is currently considering appropriations for the national clean diesel retrofit program and could provide up to $200 million this year to modernize existing vehicles and equipment.

In this image, DTF Executive Director Allen Schaeffer demonstrates that ultra-low sulfur diesel, part of the "clean diesel system", is so clean, that it can pass the white handkerchief test.

Source Diesel Technology Forum

Firefly Energy to develop new high-performance truck batteries

Truck batteries do more than start a truck, they support a trucker’s various “hotel loads” (air conditioning, TVs, etc.) which were previously powered by diesel engine idling. Traditional lead acid batteries cannot easily withstand repeated deep discharging.

Peoria, Illinois based Firefly Energy Inc. is expanding into the trucking market with the commencement of a BCI Group 31 battery development program. The company said the Firefly Group 31 battery will be initially available next summer with full production scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2008.

“Truckers historically have bought batteries based on coldcranking ratings and price,” said Edward F. Williams, chief executive officer. “The game is now changing, and battery performance will become much more important in its contribution to trucker safety, comfort, and productivity. This calls for gamechanging battery technology, which is why we are very excited to optimize our carbongraphite foam lead acid battery technology for the needs of truckers.”

Source: Firefly Energy

Cummins to offer complete lineup of on-highway engines to meet 2010 emissions standards

Cummins recently announced a technology approach for on-highway engines to meet the more stringent 2010 EPA emissions standards. Cummins will offer a complete lineup of on-highway engines to meet the near-zero 2010 emissions standards.

According to Cummins...

The next-generation cooled EGR is key to reducing emissions and oxides of nitrogen (NOx). EGR technology will not add complexity to the vehicle; and power, torque, fuel economy and maintenance intervals will stay the same. Cummins presently leads the U.S. on-highway truck market with cooled-EGR technology.

The Cummins Particulate Filter, designed and manufactured by Cummins Emission Solutions and introduced in 2007, will be the only aftertreatment required for Heavy-Duty engines in 2010. The engine and aftertreatment work together to further reduce particulate emissions.

Source: Cummins.com

New Volvo trucks are carbon dioxide free

Today's Trucking News reports that Volvo has produced seven trucks that run without producing carbon dioxide.

The trucks are powered by diesel engines that run seven different renewable fuels. You can read more about the trucks and the seven fuels they use on the Volvo Home Page.

Hybrid heavy trucks arriving soon?

Roadking.com features a story on how heavy-duty trucks may one day use hybrid technology.

The article explores what the term "hybrid" really means and how engines use a combination of gas and electric power. Battery technology is improving, offering more power and less weight.

The article also reports that major truck manufacturers are studying how to build hybrid vehicles.

E-Gate technology checks truckers at Virginia port

Wavy.com in Hampton Roads, Virginia, features a story on E-Gate: a technology that checks truckers entering and leaving the Port of Virginia and the Portsmouth Marine Terminal.

E-Gate is a system that checks drivers identities and tracks shipping containers.

E-Gate works using ID cards that verify the identity of a trucker, who they work for, and the containers they carry.