Truck Suppliers Forecast Strong Year
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Supply shortages limited heavy-truck production last year, as truck manufacturers were unable to get enough key components to meet demand, Freightliner LLC chief executive officer Rainer Schmueckle said. He predicted supply problems would limit sales in 2005.
hile 2004 was the fourth-best year ever for total U.S. retail sales of Class 8 trucks, suppliers to truck makers said their sales in 2005 would be even better.
"It appears that most expect their component shipments in 2005 to be up over 2004 by anywhere from 25% to 30%," said Tim Kraus, executive director of the Heavy Duty Manufacturers Association.
However, in 2005, "It will still be a struggle to keep the raw materials even with production demands," he said.
For the full story, see the Jan. 24 print edition of Transport Topics. Subscribe today.
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