Autonomous

DOT released its long-awaited final hours-of-service rule Thursday, leaving in place an 11-hour daily driving limit while cutting drivers' weekly hours. The rule was not well-received by trucking and shippers' groups.

Three new projects, featuring transloading between trucks and trains, are being developed to tap the growing demand to transport crude oil generated by recent energy development efforts, according to separate announcements.

There is every reason to believe that 2012 will be a good year for the trucking industry, based on what’s happened so far this year and on reasonably strong U.S. economic growth projections.

The truck driver shortage and related fleet capacity constraints are driving strong growth in domestic intermodal hauling as carriers and shippers try to ensure they have freight-moving options in the months ahead, industry experts said.

Beginning Jan. 1, all trucks with engine year 2006 and older will be banned from marine terminals at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, port officials said.

I’m writing in response to the Oct. 3 article about the “new” Volvo drivetrain package: “Volvo Offers New Powertrain Package for VN Trucks.”

I own a small motor carrier and drive as well. In the past 38 years, I have driven trucks all across the United States, both regional and cross country, and I am reaching the end of my career with more than 3 million safe miles covered.

I read with dismay the comments made by [an official of] American Trucking Associations about the proposed hours-of-service changes in your Sept. 12 issue.