Equipment

Truck buyers started 2020 in a cautious mood, waiting to see what would happen amid expectations of softening freight demand and overcapacity in the coming year — 2019 had ended as the best Class 8 sales year since 2006. At the same time, the novel coronavirus was drawing closer.

American Trucking Associations’ Technology & Maintenance Council announced it will underwrite a new research effort aimed at evaluating trailer owners’ adoption of intelligence products and services that are becoming increasingly available throughout the industry.

As a way to educate truckers, the Colorado Department of Transportation released a video on the challenges and best practices associated with navigating Interstate 70’s mountainous terrain.

The Heavy Duty Manufacturers Association announced David Giroux will become president and chief operating officer.

The memory of 2020 will be forever linked to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Trucking emerged from one of the most challenging years on record strong and battle-tested, as robust freight demand propelled by soaring demand for consumer goods amid the coronavirus pandemic boosted spot rates and lifted financial results for many publicly traded fleets.

U.S. trailer orders in November climbed to 39,500, ACT Research reported, as demand for dry vans powered ahead, along with refrigerated trailers and strengthening flatbed activity.

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s three-day International Roadcheck event resulted in an overall vehicle out-of-service rate of 20.9% in North America. That marks an increase from 17.9% recorded last year.

Navistar International Corp. reported a net loss and lower revenue in its fiscal 2020 fourth quarter, citing tax-related items, the pandemic and charges on pre-existing warranties.

Electric vehicle startup Canoo Holdings Ltd. is talking up the commercial vehicle sales part of a business model that has attracted more attention for its planned consumer-subscription service.