Business

Trucking Market Is ‘Hot,’ Says SVP of Mack Trucks

A sales executive with Mack Trucks expressed optimism about the trucking industry during a recent briefing with the press in Portland, Ore., and Seattle.

John Baxter | Special to Transport Topics
July 25, 2019
Business, Equipment, Fuel

The Upside of Downspeeding

Industry experts and fleets tell us that engine downspeeding is a great way to save fuel at highway speeds and that it affords additional benefits.

John Baxter | Special to Transport Topics
April 26, 2019
Technology, Equipment, Safety

Diesel Engine, Drivetrain Spec’ing Prove Crucial

Careful attention to diesel engine and drivetrain spec’ing is essential to ensure that Class 8 trucks have the highest productivity and lowest cost per mile for their specific applications.

John Baxter | Special to Transport Topics
January 25, 2019
Business, Technology, Equipment

Don't Skirt Proper Maintenance on Trailer Aero Devices, Experts Say

Trailer side skirts and various types of air deflectors, which are intended to boost a tractor-trailer’s aerodynamic efficiency, will save motor carriers more fuel with frequent inspections and proper repairs.

John Baxter | Special to Transport Topics
November 9, 2018
Business, Technology, Equipment

Electric Trucks Are Promising, but Industry Must Understand Full Energy Needs

It’s time to start discussing electric trucks in light of the reality that they only handle part of the energy required for propulsion, leaving important aspects of energy production to external power sources.

John Baxter | Special to Transport Topics
September 21, 2018
Business, Equipment, Safety

Tire Safety Starts With the Pre-Trip Inspection

Ensuring that thorough tire inspections are part of every pre-trip checklist can extend tire life and help ensure that truck drivers make it to their destinations safely, tire experts said.

John Baxter | Special to Transport Topics
August 8, 2018
Business, Equipment

The Lost Art of ‘Gear Jamming’

When Cummins Inc. invited industry journalists to the introduction of its X15, the new generation of its 15-liter truck engine, the event showcased not only the latest in heavy-duty truck engines, but also the evolution of transmission technology in trucking.

John Baxter | Special to Transport Topics
May 11, 2018
Business, Technology, Equipment

Tips on Truck Electrical System Maintenance

Troubleshooting problems with a truck’s electrical system takes knowledge and experience.“Always take a systems approach when you are spec’ing and maintaining your vehicles’ electrical systems,” said Bruce Purkey, CEO of Purkey’s Electrical Consulting, which helps fleets solve their electrical system problems.

John Baxter | Special to Transport Topics
January 19, 2018
Business, Technology, Equipment

Efficient Alternators Help Reduce Fleets’ Fuel Costs, Experts Say

Engineering advancements are producing more efficient alternators for heavy trucks that are helping to reduce fleets’ fuel bills, industry experts said.

John Baxter | Special to Transport Topics
January 19, 2018
Business, Technology, Equipment, Safety, Fuel

Pre-Heaters Enable Reliable Engine Starts in Cold Weather

Diesel-fired engine pre-heaters can help ensure reliable engine starts in cold-weather conditions while reducing engine wear, preventing service calls and boosting driver satisfaction, fleets said.

John Baxter | Special to Transport Topics
November 6, 2017