While truck manufacturers make advances in battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell technology, they also are making fuel efficiency and aerodynamic improvements to their diesel offerings that will form the backbone of the trucking industry for years to come.

Adjusting overhead valves on heavy-duty ­diesels is a routine maintenance item subject to benign neglect in many of today’s fleets. But factory engineers are split on the importance of frequently setting overheads.

As state and federal clean-air regulators move forward with plans to further reduce nitrogen oxide and particulate matter emissions from commercial trucks, diesel engine makers are exploring new technologies to meet those targets in the coming years.

Diesel Forward is expanding its diesel fuel systems services by increasing its repair parts offering with the acquisition of Dipaco.

ClearFlame Engine Technologies is working to develop a diesel engine that runs on cleaner fuel without compromising performance.

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.

Oil changes for diesel engines now are available at 130 Love's Truck Tire Care locations as the network continues to add services for professional drivers.