Technology Briefs - May 17 - May 23
The Latest Headlines:
- UPS Sets Software for International Trade Compliance
- Bush Plan May Alter Fuel-Economy Standards
- BNSF to Install Video Cameras in Trains
- Streicher Mobile Fueling Reports 3Q Loss
- Bush Plan May Alter Fuel-Economy Standards
UPS Sets Software for International Trade Compliance
UPS Inc. Monday released a new software package aimed at managing security clearance procedures for importers and exporters.The software, called TradeSense, can increase compliance, reduce exposure penalties and lower operating costs, according to UPS’s Trade Management Services unit.
Companies can use the software to improve the way data are stored in case they are audited by the U.S. Customs Service, UPS said.
Bush Plan May Alter Fuel-Economy Standards
The Bush administration, which has been pushing plans to lessen dependence on imported oil, is considering strengthening fuel-economy rules, the Wall Street Journal reported Tuesday.Jeffrey Runge, administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, said that raising mileage standards within the framework of the corporate average fuel economy standards that have been on the books since the 1970s might not be enough, the Journal said.
Under current rules, automakers’ fleets of passenger cars must average 27.5 miles per gallon, while the truck standard is scheduled to increase to 22.2 mpg in the 2007 model year from 21 mpg this year, the Journal said.
The government is considering alternatives such as allowing uniform percentage increases over current average ratings, but has not come up with a consensus yet, the paper said. Transport Topics
BNSF to Install Video Cameras in Trains
BNSF Railway Co. said Wednesday it had begun taking delivery of locomotives equipped with video cameras being installed to help provide information on grade-crossing and train/pedestrian accidents.The railroad said it expects to equip a total of 350 locomotives — including about 180 new locomotives and 170 retrofits — by the end of 2005.
he cameras, which will be focused on the track ahead, were purchased from GE Engine Services. BNSF gave no dollar amount of the purchase.
BNSF operates in the western half of the United States. Transport Topics
Streicher Mobile Fueling Reports 3Q Loss
Streicher Mobile Fueling Inc. reported a loss of $1.3 million or 17 cents a share, compared with a loss of $465,000 or 6 cents a year earlier for its third quarter ended March 31.The company attributed the loss in part to costs related to its acquisition of Shank Services in the quarter.
Streicher provides outsourced energy and logistics services to trucking, construction and other industries.
The company's revenue for the quarter rose 44% to $33.1 million. It delivered 16.4 million gallons of fuel, compared with 13.3 million a year earlier. Transport Topics
