Business

There has been a lot of discussion lately about the proposed regulation that will mandate the use of electronic logging devices. Personally, I am in favor of using ELDs.

Studying the issues, analyzing them, knowing your own mind and then working earnestly to convince others is a worthwhile pursuit. At the same time, it’s also necessary to do those things within the context of a sound understanding of broad political reality.

Truck tonnage rose 4.8% last month from a year earlier as carriers distanced themselves from winter’s freight disruptions, setting the stage for more growth amid a strengthening economy.

New and intensely promoted shipping options such as same-day delivery and package-carrying drones may have some commercial potential, but only in the most densely populated areas, industry experts say.

DETROIT — Daimler Trucks North America unveiled a new Detroit-brand powertrain package here, providing greater vehicle-component integration and a series of new technologies to offer what company officials called their most fuel-efficient package yet.

Diesel particulate filters, a key element of truck emissions systems since 2007, can present fleets with problems if they are not routinely maintained along with the truck’s engine, experts said.

American Trucking Associations said it would support such measures as a tax on crude oil, a national highway fee on cars and trucks and repatriation of corporate profits held overseas to pay for highways, given the transportation funding crisis and Congress’ refusal to raise fuel taxes.    

A proposed federal rule that would establish a national database of truck drivers who fail their drug and alcohol tests contains a number of “loopholes,” several motor carriers, trade associations and safety interest groups said in written comments on the proposal.

PRINCETON, N.J. — Fleet executives said they are increasingly using technology to aid their recruitment and retention efforts as the industry’s driver shortage worsens.