For context, through the first four months of 2026, Mexican heavy-duty vehicle production was 21.97% lower year on year at 41,071 trucks and buses.

Spot and contract rates edged higher during the quarter, while many carriers sharpened their focus on internal efficiency and operational improvements.

Ongoing headwinds weighed on trucking in the first quarter, but carriers also pointed to emerging tailwinds. Trucking firms cited better pricing power.

Attendees of the 2026 Advanced Clean Transportation Expo heard original equipment manufacturers welcome the prospect of IIHS ratings for larger vehicles.

Bill sponsors say the federal excise tax can add between $15,000 and $30,000 to the purchase price of a new truck, which discourages fleet turnover.

Mack's Jonathan Randall noted that improving freight rates, tightening capacity and recovering freight demand continue to support order strength.

Dedicated routes, as well as intermodal or drayage operations, are ideal for natural gas powertrains, panelists at ACT Expo said.

While adapting to shifting emission regulations, equipment manufacturers are balancing investments in both diesel engine platforms and emerging powertrains.

Tesla is attempting to facilitate demand by offering low-cost charging equipment on an industrial scale to carriers.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy highlighted the revoked non-domiciled CDLs among a list of one-year accomplishments to support the trucking industry.