Equipment
Commercial freight transportation is a machine-based business. Highly technical equipment and advanced engineering are at the center of supply chain and require constant innovation. Transport Topics equipment coverage focuses on the machines and other physical assets that make delivery possible. It looks closely at available truck, trailer, and chassis models, developments in the engineering space, and maintenance innovations and best practices.
Trailer Makers’ Brave New World
In less than 12 months, motor carriers are scheduled to encounter their first experiences with trailers designed to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions and increase fuel efficiency. The latest federal government mandate to clean the air imposes standards for the first time on semi-trailers, creating what many consider to be a brave new world for trailer makers and suppliers of aerodynamic devices.
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Solar Power’s Future Looks Bright
Many fleets are interested in harnessing free power from the sun to support ever-increasing electrical needs. However, successfully implementing solar power technology on today’s commercial vehicles requires careful planning and having the right application in mind.
A Brave New Trucking World — Again?
This issue of Equipment & Maintenance Update marks the first of 2017, which could be a year of change for the United States and quite possibly for trucking.
Drivewyze Adds Bypass Service in South Carolina
Drivewyze Inc. said it has introduced its PreClear weigh-station bypass service to South Carolina, making it the 38th state where the service is available.
January 26, 2017Mack Trucks Discontinues Titan Model, 16-Liter Engine
Mack Trucks' lineup of heavy-duty vehicles is about to get a little lighter.
Accuride Introduces Lighter Steel and Aluminum Wheels
Accuride Corp. announced new steel and aluminum wheels that it said offered weight-saving benefits, including the industry’s first 65-pound steel wheel and 40-pound aluminum alloy wheel for commercial vehicles.
January 23, 2017Darling Emphasizes Safety Partnerships During FMCSA Farewell Comments
On his final full day as administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, Scott Darling said his biggest regret of his 2½ years in charge was not being able to fully implement the Unified Registration System.
UPS, FedEx, Amazon Form Twin 33s Advocacy Group
A new coalition of shippers and retailers led by UPS Inc., FedEx Corp. and Amazon.com plans to call on members of Congress to support the nationwide access of twin 33-foot trailers, a move likely to ignite a contentious debate among lawmakers during the 115th Congress.
Ports Set Records for Containers in 2016; Forecast Better for 2017 Amid Uncertainty
For several top North American container ports 2016 was a record-setting year, and industry analysts are cautiously optimistic that 2017 will be even better despite the uncertainty in Washington that comes with a new presidential administration.
FedEx, Amazon Lead Twin 33s Advocacy Group
Americans for Modern Transportation, a new coalition of shippers and retailers led by FedEx Corp. and Amazon.com intends to press congressional lawmakers this year to approve nationwide access of twin 33-foot trailers.