11/30/12

World CNG Introduces Ford F550 Dedicated Natural Gas Truck Platform

Collaborative project with CASECO Manufacturing and Clear Sky CNG yields
medium-duty CNG service truck that outperforms gasoline and diesel models
 


 
Kent, WA –(November 28, 2012)– World CNG, a company specializing in natural gas vehicle technology and conversions, today announced the successful completion of a 2012 Ford F550 dedicated natural gas truck platform. The project’s goal was straightforward: produce a natural gas-powered Ford F550 with a crane service body that achieves a 250 mile range and outperforms the gasoline model at near-maximum loads of 19,500 lbs. Critical to the success of the project were service body manufacturer CASECO Manufacturing and World CNG’s Oklahoma City certified install partner Clear Sky CNG.

"Natural gas-powered vehicles are a cleaner and more affordable solution for any number of fleets that operate mediumduty work trucks," said Josh Hosford, World CNG Vice President of Sales. "World CNG’s new F550 dedicated CNG conversions combine the rugged durability of the CASECO service body with the versatility of our custom-designed natural gas fuel systems to offer these fleets a safe and reliable natural gas work vehicle."

Chesapeake Energy Corporation, the second largest producer of natural gas in the United States, was the first customer to purchase the Ford F550 platform for its corporate fleet. Chesapeake is converting its fleet of nearly 5,000 vehicles to run on compressed natural gas.

"Chesapeake would not be able to convert its fleet to run on CNG without a variety of vehicle options, including the Ford F550 offered by World CNG," said Dale Sanderson, Chesapeake Specialty Equipment Manager. "World CNG accommodated our fleet’s needs and produced a vehicle that is performing well in the field. We look forward to continuing to take advantage of the many benefits of using natural gas as a transportation fuel – specifically fuel cost savings and lower emissions."

Hosford added, "These conversions typically pay for themselves in eighteen months. Because our design focuses on range and drivability, we expect very strong demand for this product in 2013."

In addition to the Ford F550 configuration World CNG also has available EPA- and CARB-certified dedicated CNG conversions for the Ford F450 and F650 trucks. Each configuration features a World CNG high pressure system, customdesigned to allow for a variety of box and service body options to suit utility/municipal fleets, private contractors, and cargo delivery services.

The box truck configuration includes two rail-mounted composite CNG tanks with a combined 58.6 GGE of fuel storage, providing an estimated range of up to 350 miles and no loss of cargo space. Service bodies are manufactured and engineered by CASECO Manufacturing, as are each I-Mount Cross Box that houses a dual CNG tank configuration. The IMount Cross Box is a space-efficient and sturdy CNG tank storage solution that also provides one slide-out storage drawer.

Three composite dual tank configurations are available, each providing 250 to 350 miles of estimated range.

CNG conversions are available for model years 2011 and 2012 and for F450 and F550 vehicles up to 19,500 lbs. maximum GVW and the F650 model up to 30,000 lbs. maximum GVW. Model year 2013 is available for pre-order. http://www.casecotruck.com/default.htm

About World CNG:
Escalating economic and environmental costs of transportation fuels affect businesses and municipalities of all sizes, but especially those with fleets of vehicles that consume thousands of gallons of fuel every year. World CNG’s mission is to provide these fleets with vehicles that save money on fuel and maintenance costs and produce significantly fewer harmful emissions than conventional gasoline or diesel vehicles. World CNG specializes in the aftermarket conversion of light- and medium-duty passenger and cargo vehicles to use compressed natural gas instead of conventional gasoline or diesel.

With over 25 years of experience in the development, fabrication, and installation of alternative fuel systems, World CNG is a well-established leader in the alternative fuel vehicles industry. Catering primarily to public and private fleets and transit and paratransit groups, World CNG’s product line covers the entire spectrum of fleet vehicles. http://www.worldcng.com/

11/29/12

2012 SEMA Show - A.R.E. Truck Caps and Tonneau Covers Booth Tour



A.R.E. Truck Caps and Covers reporting from the 2012 SEMA show. Here is an exclusive look at the new products we unveiled in our booth! www.4are.com

11/28/12

Dodge Grand Caravan CNG



World CNG, in partnership with NatGasCar, offers the first-ever EPA-certified compressed natural gas (CNG) minivan: the Dodge Grand Caravan 3.6L. It is a safe and affordable solution for taxi and for-hire companies, utility/municipal fleets, light cargo delivery services, and ADA, wheelchair, and medical transport operators. http://www.worldcng.com/

11/27/12

ON THE CULINARY CUTTING EDGE: ISUZU-BASED FOOD TRUCKS TO DEBUT THIS FALL







Isuzu and Mobi Munch Partner 
To Provide Consumers with the Latest in Mobile Dining Options 

ANAHEIM, Calif.—Isuzu Commercial Truck of America, Inc., announced today that nine Isuzu NRR diesel cab chassis outfitted as food trucks by Mobi Munch, Inc., have been placed into service on college campuses throughout the United States. Now operating its three brands on nine purchased and customized Isuzu NRR medium-duty trucks, Mobi Munch will be launching new trucks on other campuses in early 2013.

“The food-truck trend is growing dramatically across the country, and it represents a major opportunity wherever people are looking for affordable, contemporary cuisine at times and in places the typical restaurant might not operate,” said Shaun Skinner, executive vice president and general manager of Isuzu Commercial Truck of America. “We are thrilled that Mobi Munch has recognized that the ruggedness, durability, fuel efficiency and environmental friendliness of Isuzu NRR trucks lend themselves to upfitting as food trucks.”

Isuzu-based Mobi Munch food trucks have opened in these cities during fall 2012:

· Conway, Arkansas
· Fort Myers, Florida
· Gainesville, Florida
· Knoxville, Tennessee
· Tempe, Arizona
· San Antonio, Texas
· Tallahassee, Florida
· Tuscaloosa, Alabama
· Waco, Texas

Each truck operates using one of Mobi Munch’s proprietary brands, menus and operating systems: La Lola Loca (Latin street eats); Fàn Boy (Asian fusion cuisine); or Biker Jim’s (gourmet hot dogs).

The Isuzu NRR is a 19,500-lb. GVWR low-cab-forward truck powered by Isuzu’s 4HK1-TC 5.2-liter diesel engine. The overhead cam, turbocharged, intercooled powerplant generates up to 215 horsepower. The engine is exceptionally clean as well—in fact, Isuzu’s N-Series trucks were the first on the market to meet the most stringent emissions standards in the world. The NRR is EPA 2010 compliant, California Air Resources Board HD-OBD compliant, and 50-state clean-idle certified.

These accomplishments in power, efficiency and environmental friendliness are matched by long-term reliability. The Isuzu 4H engine can run for up to 10,000 miles between oil changes and boasts an astonishing B10 durability rating of 310,000 miles, meaning that 90% of 4H engines will reach that mileage before requiring an overhaul.

“Food-truck operators demand vehicles rugged enough to haul thousands of pounds of restaurant equipment but durable enough to count on, day in and day out,” said Josh Tang, CEO of Mobi Munch, Inc. “And today’s consumers are especially concerned about the impact that all vehicles have on the environment. The payload, power, economy and small carbon footprint of the Isuzu NRR make it a perfect choice for modern food-truck application.”

Operators are delighted by the NRR’s creature comforts, as well, including standard air conditioning and a cab that legally and comfortably seats up to three (eliminating the additional cost of transporting a third employee to and from the truck’s location).

“Trucks are the one sector of the food-service industry that’s still growing,” Tang said. “Every chef needs a truck as much as every chef needs a website. Our goal is to make it easy for restaurant owners to become mobile—and with Isuzu trucks, we are accomplishing that goal.”

About Isuzu Commercial Truck of America, Inc.
Headquartered in Anaheim, California, Isuzu Commercial Truck of America, Inc. (ICTA), is the distributor of Isuzu commercial vehicles in the United States. Isuzu commercial trucks have been the best-selling low-cab-forward trucks in America every year since 1986. For more information, call (866) 441-9638 or visit www.isuzucv.com.

Isuzu Motors Limited (IML) is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of medium- and heavy-duty trucks. Since building its first truck in 1918, IML has sold over 26 million trucks worldwide. Among its innovations are the first air-cooled diesel engine in 1936, the first two-ton low-cab-forward truck in 1959, and the first direct-injection diesel engine.

About Mobi Munch, Inc. 
Mobi Munch is the premiere mobile dining solutions provider to colleges and universities, sports and entertainment venues, and corporate office parks nationwide. Mobi Munch provides everything from state-of-the-art food trucks with an integrated technology suite, to a ready-to-license portfolio of specialty dining concepts that have been optimized for mobile kitchens, food and labor cost controls, supply chain efficiencies, and operational scalability. Mobi Munch also owns MobileCravings.com, an online food truck management system, integrating social media and schedule management with booking system, which allows property owners and management companies to invite and efficiently manage 3rd-party food trucks onto their private properties. For more information, call (213) 289-9800 or visit www.mobimunch.com.

11/26/12

DMAX Builds 1,500,000th Duramax Diesel Engine


GM’s segment-leading 6.6L powertrain achieves heavy-duty milestone


MORAINE, Ohio – General Motors announced today the production of its 1,500,000th Duramax 6.6L diesel engine at its DMAX Ltd. Joint venture with Isuzu Motors Ltd.   
DMAX Ltd, a joint venture between GM and Isuzu Motors Ltd., was established in 1998.  GM introduced the Duramax diesel in the United States in its 2001 model year.  
Available in GM's Chevrolet Silverado HD and GMC Sierra HD pickups, the engine delivers a segment-leading 397 horsepower at 3,000 rpm and 765 lb.-ft. of torque at 1,600 rpm.  The Duramax is also available in GM's full-size Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana vans.
The award-winning Duramax 6.6-liter V-8 is a four-valve high pressure common rail direct injection diesel currently equipped with a diesel particulate filter to meet current stringent emissions requirements.
“Our Duramax diesel is one of the best in the industry,” said Betty Wessel, DMAX Chief Financial Officer, “Duramax has become a great success story and is a world-class engine with superior quality, industry-leading horsepower and competitive fuel economy.”
The milestone demonstrates the productivity of the employees and the joint partnership between GM, Isuzu and the IUE-CWA, said DMAX Chief Executive Officer Maho Mitsuya.
“This is a significant achievement for our facility and our employees here at DMAX,” Mitsuya said. “We’re committed to building quality into every engine – whether it’s our first or our 1,500,000th..
The 584,000 square foot DMAX facility employs 517 employees.
General Motors Co. (NYSE:GM, TSX: GMM) and its partners produce vehicles in 30 countries, and the company has leadership positions in the world's largest and fastest-growing automotive markets.  GM’s brands include Chevrolet and Cadillac, as well as Baojun, Buick, GMC, Holden, Isuzu, Jiefang, Opel, Vauxhall and Wuling. More information on the company and its subsidiaries, including OnStar, a global leader in vehicle safety, security and information services, can be found at http://www.gm.com.

11/25/12

Getting to Know Your VMAC RAPTAIR60 Stand-Alone Diesel Drive Air Compres...



VMAC National Sales Representative, Carl Murphy, walks you step by step through the easy use of our compact, powerful diesel driven air compressor created specifically for the mobile market. The RAPTAIR monitors your air usage and turns itself off when you are doing work without air tools, saving on fuel costs as well as reducing your green footprint, and the advanced control systems automatically recognizes when you are using air and re-starts the engine and compressor, without you having to anything but use your equipment.

See more about VMAC products at http://www.vmacair.com/index.php?products

11/24/12

Citan in Endurance Test



No matter if motorway, country road or a ride in the city - the Citan has to cope with different routes and driving styles under a constant testing program.

The so-called endurance test assembles a complete vehicle's service life. The test vehicle has to complete 150,000 km under extreme conditions. Specific educated drivers test the vehicle in a three-shift system about ten months throughout Greater Stuttgart.

In our film test driver Bernd Gläßner explains how the endurance test works out and on which things the specialists have to concentrate in particular.

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11/23/12

GE and Clean Energy Fuels Partner to Expand ‘America’s Natural Gas Highway’ - News - Work Truck

GE and Clean Energy Fuels Partner to Expand ‘America’s Natural Gas Highway’ - News - Work Truck

Awarded: Daimler Trucks wins Japanese Award for Innovative Technology in Fuso Canter Eco Hybrid



  • Daimler Commercial Vehicles Division wins Japanese award for innovative technology in its Fuso Canter Eco Hybrid light-duty truck
  • Fuso Canter convinces with DUONIC® dual-clutch transmission with a hybrid drive technology
  • Fuso strives for leadership role in green innovations

Stuttgart/Kawasaki, Japan – For the first time in the history of Japanese passenger car awards, the “Car of the Year Special Award 2013” has been awarded to a truck manufacturer. The winner is the Japanese Daimler Commercial Vehicles subsidiary Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation (MFTBC). The non-profit organization singled out the innovative, fully-automated dual-clutch transmission DUONIC® paired with a highly efficient hybrid drive at the “Automotive Researchers´ and Journalists´ Conference” (RJC) held in Japan. This technology, which is unique in the commercial vehicles industry, completes the light-duty truck Fuso Canter Eco Hybrid, which is also serially produced for the European market in Tramagal, Portugal since September of this year.

The RJC organization founded in 1990 is comprised of automotive experts and journalists from the automobile industry in Japan. The annual “Car of the Year Award” is one of the most prominent automobile awards in Japan.

Dr. Albert Kirchmann, MFTBC President and CEO: “We are honored to have received this prestigious award. It is a huge milestone achieved at Fuso in Japan and a great honor for the Daimler Trucks Group.” Kirchmann underlines: “The award is proof of Fuso’s leadership role in green innovation.”

A particularly persuasive argument for winning the title “Car of the Year Special Award 2013” is the DUONIC® dual-clutch transmission with a built-in hybrid drive in the Fuso Canter Eco Hybrid. This drive technology, combined with a powerful lithium-ion battery, reaps top scores for fuel economy and low emissions. Thus, the Fuso Canter Eco Hybrid uses up to 23 percent less fuel than a comparable conventional Fuso Canter.

The power transmission of the Fuso Canter Eco Hybrid is one of the excellent technical features of the light-duty truck. A great advantage: During driving, the next gear is already pre-set, thus ensuring a seamless gear change without any flux.

Growth Strategy “FUSO 2015” – Leader in Green Innovation
Through the optimization of truck operating costs (total cost of ownership) and the reduction of CO2 emissions by 7.5 percent, Fuso is on the way to playing a key role in fuel efficiency and green innovations. This claim is based on one of the five strategic pillars of the “FUSO 2015” growth strategy, with which Fuso plans to double its international sales to 200,000 units per year in the medium-term.

11/22/12

Introducing Alcoa Dura-Bright® Wheel with XBRTM Technology



Features:
Simply cleans with soap and water
Maintains shine even after hundreds of washes and thousands of miles
Featuring Alcoa's legendary one-piece forged aluminium strength
Five-year limited warranty

 http://www.alcoa.com/alcoawheels/

11/21/12

SEMA 2012 - CURT Mfg. Booth Tour



Fayne Peck gives us a walkthrough of the CURT booth and gives us insights on some featured products. See more at www.curtmfg.com

11/20/12

Renault Interview 2012 - RAC Future Car Challenge



For the full syory go to http://www.vansa2z.com/Kangoo-ZE-conquers-Future-Car-Challenge.

Having completed the Brighton to London Future Car Challenge in a Kangoo Z.E. VansA2Z editor Neil McIntee spoke to Andy Heiron, head of electric vehicles at Renault UK

New Partnership Will Revolutionize Commercial Vehicle Organization

The Knapheide Manufacturing Company, along with Sortimo International GmbH and Robert Bosch Tool Corporation, have formed a unique partnership to give mobile technicians the most innovative and organized mobility solutions for their commercial vehicles.  The new alliance forms a trio of industry leaders in their respective fields and will offer increased productivity and efficiency to mobile technicians both on and off the jobsite. 

Bo Knapheide, Knapheide’s Senior V.P. of Fleet & Industrial Products, commented on the partnership “We are asked on a daily basis for storage solutions that go beyond a Knapheide Service Body.  Customers are asking us to help them organize their commercial vehicles from their hardware to their tools.  This new solution will optimize organization in virtually any commercial vehicle, from compact vans to large trucks.”




An overwhelming number of mobile technicians are plagued with spending time searching for tools, accessories, or parts on their commercial vehicles which significantly reduces jobsite productivity.  Time is money among these professionals, so time lost searching for equipment can directly impact the company’s profitability.

 

The partnership delivers an exclusive and innovative storage solution to the marketplace.  The solution goes beyond secure tool storage in commercial vehicles, it includes customizable Sortimo BOXXes and equipment for your Bosch Power Tools, accessories, and parts to help keep the mobile technician organized.  This new system was designed to be placed within Knapheide Service or Utility Bodies and Sortimo Van Equipment.  Tracks enable the BOXXes to slide in and out of the compartments, drastically reducing time spent gathering tools and equipment for the jobsite. 

Knapheide, together with Bosch and Sortimo, will revolutionize organization within commercial vehicles by offering this new solution to customers across North America. 


About The Knapheide Manufacturing Company
Since 1848 Knapheide has provided its customers with high quality, work ready transportation solutions. The Knapheide family has owned and operated the company since its inception over 160 years ago. Today, The Knapheide Manufacturing Company is the nation’s leading manufacturer and provider of commercial vehicle solutions. Knapheide’s main manufacturing facility, Westphalia, is located in Quincy, Illinois and is over 480,000 square feet. Westphalia is highly automated and has the most technologically advanced equipment and processes in the industry. Products manufactured by Knapheide include: Service Bodies, KUV Bodies, Platform Bodies, Gooseneck Bodies, Dump Bodies, Forestry Bodies, Pick Up Accessories, Van Equipment, Mechanics Trucks, Water Trucks, and Fuel/Lube Trucks. Knapheide’s vast distribution system includes 200+ distributors strategically located throughout North America. The ability to evolve into new technology, processes, and products has made Knapheide the leader in the industry and allowed the company to move into new markets to better serve our distributors, fleet customers and end users.  For more information on The Knapheide Manufacturing Company, please visit www.knapheide.com

About Robert Bosch Tool Corporation
Robert Bosch Tool Corporation in North America, was formed in January 2003 when Robert Bosch GmbH combined its North American power tool, accessory and lawn and garden divisions into one organization.  As a manufacturing pioneer with more than a century’s worth of experience, the Bosch name has become synonymous with engineering excellence.  With 18,000 employees world wide and 3,500 in North America, the Robert Bosch Tool Corporation is a world leader in the design, manufacture, and sale of power tools, rotary and oscillating tools, accessories, laser and optical leveling and range finding tools, and garden and watering equipment.  For more information, call toll free 877-BOSCH-99 (877-267-2499) or visit www.boschtools.com

About Sortimo International
Sortimo International is one of the leading companies in the area of professional equipment systems for commercial vehicles. Its customers are automobile manufacturers and suppliers, leasing companies, after-sales companies and service providers with service vehicles. The joint venture entity, Sortimo of North America Incorporated, which is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, began its operations in 2008 to sell and distribute products manufactured by Sortimo International, service its global customers and offer ship-through packages for a variety of commercial vehicles.

11/19/12

How to load two motorcycles in your pick-up truck



How to load two motorcycles in your pick-up truck using the AmeriDeck motorcycle towing system.
See more at www.powerdecks.com

11/18/12

Maxon Lift Corp. Expands Tuk-A-Way® Product Line with the Addition of the TE-33 Liftgate

TE-33

2012 has been a busy year for new product introductions by MAXON. We’re excited to announce our third new product this year which is also the newest addition to our industry-leading Tuk-A-Way® product line, the TE-33 liftgate.

The TE-33 boasts a 3,300 lb. lifting capacity, a bolt-on extension plate and a bolt-on heavy-duty step assembly, all in a rugged and economical package.

Engineered in response to customers requiring greater platform space for consolidated palletized loads, the TE-33 is optimal for small- to mid-sized trucks with beds as low as 38”. The TE-33 is available in 48” x 84” or 52” x 84” wedge-type steel platform sizes specifically designed to allow for the smooth transition of load on and off the platform.

All-in-all, the TE-33 has heavy-duty capability without the heavy-duty price tag. “That was our intention”, says Brent Stratton, Co-President of Maxon. “Our designs reflect the needs of our customers. They get the latest innovations all on a sensible budget. “

Large Wedge-Type Platform Design
The TE-33 features large 48” x 84” and 52” x 84” wedge-type steel platforms. The wedge design allows smooth transition of load on and off the platform.

TE-33 Wedge














Twin Cylinder Design
The TE-33 features a twin cylinder, mid-arm design resulting in great performance and stability.

TE-33 Twin Cylinder













Hydraulic Locking
The TE-33 features a hydraulic lock valve that takes operator involvement out of the equation. As soon as the control button is released, the gate is always securely locked.

TE-33 Hydraulic Locking













Bolt-On Steps & Extension Plate
The steps and extension plates were strategically designed to bolt-on in order to avoid welding on the gate that would affect the factory paint. The steps were also designed as an integral part of the gate that would easily allow for them to be exchanged in case of dock damage.

TE-33 Bolt-On













MAXPRO® Paint
This patented, exclusive paint process has a tough polyurea top coat and an aluminum rich primer that combat corrosion and keep the liftgate looking like new.

maxpro logo







Additional product information (including install and operation manuals) about the TE-33 can be obtained by calling us at  800-227-4116  or online at www.maxonlift.com/te-33.

11/17/12

Clean Cities: Ft Collins, CO



In the shadow of the Rocky Mountains, Fort Collins, Colorado looks to alternative fuels to expand rapid transit service. Here's MotorWeek's Clean Cities Success Story.

VENCHURS COMPLETES CNG POWERED ROAD TRIP FROM DETROIT TO LAS VEGAS


Venchurs, which attended the 2012 SEMA Show, towed a customized VWerks’ vehicle from Detroit to Las Vegas and back using a converted bi-fuel Ford F-350.

Adrian, MI (Nov., 2012) –Venchurs Vehicle Systems, a CNG Converter for Ford, attended the 2012 SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) Show in Las Vegas Oct. 29-Nov. 2 with its sister company, VWerks. A 2012 bi-fuel powered Ford F-350 made the trek from Michigan to Las Vegas and back towing one of the custom vehicles VWerks’ debuted at the show. 

The road trip, which covered nearly 4,000 miles total, was designed to address two of the biggest concerns surrounding compressed natural gas powered vehicles—infrastructure and loss of power. The bi-fuel model eliminates any concern over range anxiety with its combined range of over 650 miles, and with CNG prices nearing half the cost of regular gasoline in some places, the savings of using CNG on a road trip are immense.

Venchurs is pleased to report that as expected, there was no noticeable reduction in towing capabilities while running on CNG. The bi-fuel Ford, which towed a 10,000 plus pound trailer over 4,000 miles performed exceptionally well.

“We understand that infrastructure and loss of power are two of the biggest concerns to those contemplating the adoption of CNG powered vehicles,” said Jeff Wyatt, CEO of Venchurs. “Through careful planning, you can drive across the country on CNG, and what is great about our bi-fuel option is that you don’t have to worry about running out of the fuel—when necessary you can use regular gasoline and still reap immense savings.”

Venchurs offers both CNG dedicated and bi-fuel conversions of Ford Super Duty trucks as a QVM (Qualified Vehicle Modifier) for Ford Motor Company. Venchurs has a ship-thru facility in Louisville, Kentucky, as well as a remote ship-thru facility in Adrian, Michigan where trucks can further be customized to meet all the needs of the customer. From suspension modifications to bumpers, wheels and tires, Venchurs is a one-stop shop for all your company fleet needs.

Venchurs is currently selling a select number of its 2011/2012 demo unit trucks, both bi-fuel and CNG dedicated, to make room for new inventory. Those interested in purchasing the lightly used trucks should contact Kelly Muldoon at KMuldoon@Venchurs.com for more information.

For additional information, please visit www.VenchursCNG.com or call  855-264-4300 .


About VENCHURS
Venchurs Inc., located in Adrian, Michigan, has been serving the automotive OEM and aftermarket industries for more than 40 years, specializing in kit-packaging, order management, and service based logistics as a successful minority owned business. Combining employee longevity with industry experience, Venchurs provides high quality products and exceptional customer service. Their newest division, Venchurs Vehicle Systems, consists of VVS Conversions, a commercial upfitter specializing in CNG conversions as a Qualified Vehicle Modifier for Ford Motor Company and VWerks, a specialty vehicle builder and off road parts manufacturer that operates directly with both dealers and consumers.  For more information visit www.Venchurs.com or www.VenchursVehicles.com.

11/15/12

GMC and Chevrolet Bi-Fuel Pickup Production Begins



2012-11-08

DETROIT – Production of the 2013 Chevrolet Silverado HD and GMC Sierra 2500 HD bi-fuel pickup trucks is underway in Fort Wayne, Ind., and the pickups are available for order by fleet and retail customers through Chevrolet and GMC dealers.

The Silverado HD and Sierra 2500 HD Vortec 6.0L V8 engine runs on gasoline or compressed natural gas (CNG) and seamlessly switches between the two fuels without affecting performance. The CNG and gasoline tanks have a combined range of 650 miles, the longest standard bi-fuel range of any original equipment automaker.

“Customers are choosing our bi-fuel trucks because they provide the same high level of GM truck performance and versatility but can also help businesses control their fuel costs and reduce their carbon footprint,” said Ed Peper, General Motors U.S. vice president of Fleet and Commercial Sales.
The Type-3 single-tank CNG system in the Silverado HD and Sierra 2500 HD is designed to retain more bed space than any competing bi-fuel truck from an Original Equipment Manufacturer. The pickups are available in standard and long-box and two-or-four wheel drive in the extended cab models.

“At Chesapeake, we are converting our fleet of more than 5,000 vehicles to run on natural gas, and having options from GMC and Chevy is critical to help us reach our conversion goal,” said Nate Pumphrey, Chesapeake Energy Corp. director of Fleet Operations. “Following our full conversion, we will save $11 million to $12 million annually on fuel costs.

“As a fleet manager, the stable price of natural gas is another major benefit that helps me budget more accurately, and the fuel’s reduced emissions align with Chesapeake’s commitment to environmental excellence,” he said.

The bi-fuel pickups are ordered from the factory, sent to the Tier One supplier IMPCO for installation of the CNG bi-fuel delivery and storage system and then delivered by GM transportation to the dealer or to an upfitter for customer-ordered modifications.

The bi-fuel option is priced at $11,000 above the suggested retail price of the base vehicle. The entire gaseous fuel system meets GM’s strict quality, durability and safety testing. The trucks will be covered by GM’s three-year, 36,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty and five-year, 100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty and vehicle emissions warranty.  The vehicle meets all Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and California Air Resources Board (CARB) emission certification requirements.

To find more information about advanced propulsion vehicles available, visit gmfleet.com, or for timely responses to fleet-related questions, join the GM Fleet and Commercial Customer Service LinkedIn group.

General Motors Co. (NYSE:GM, TSX: GMM) and its partners produce vehicles in 30 countries, and the company has leadership positions in the world's largest and fastest-growing automotive markets.  GM’s brands include Chevrolet and Cadillac, as well as Baojun, Buick, GMC, Holden, Isuzu, Jiefang, Opel, Vauxhall and Wuling. More information on the company and its subsidiaries, including OnStar, a global leader in vehicle safety, security and information services, can be found at http://www.gm.com

11/14/12

Thomas Built Buses Celebrates Production of 50,000th Saf-T-Liner® C2 School Bus

Innovative Design Embodies Safe, Reliable Transportation
 
High Point, N.C. – Thomas Built Buses, a leading U.S. manufacturer of school buses, celebrated a major milestone with the delivery of its 50,000th Saf-T-Liner® C2 conventional school bus to Dean Transportation of Lansing, Mich., on Tuesday, October 30, 2012.

Thomas Built Buses president and CEO Kelley Platt, said: “Dean Transportation’s commitment to provide best in class pupil transportation mirrors Thomas Built’s dedication to design and build the best buses on the road. I am thrilled to deliver this milestone bus to Dean Transportation, a company as focused on excellence, sustainability, community and the pupil transportation industry as we are.”
Launched in 2004, the Thomas Built Saf-T-Liner C2 revolutionized the school bus industry, setting a new standard for safety, design and engineering innovation. Based on extensive driver and customer input, the C2 was designed from the ground up and built in the High Point production facility created specifically to produce the dramatically different bus.

The ergonomic driver cockpit and the best driver visibility in the Type C category is a favorite with school bus drivers. The multiplex wiring system shared by the body and chassis simplifies maintenance and troubleshooting for technicians. Plus, the C2 offers a number of other features that enhance safety, including the use of structural adhesive to provide nearly double the strength of standard joining methods.

With support from the Daimler organization, this milestone was achieved through the combined efforts of two Daimler Trucks North America Companies. Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation president Bob Harbin said, “Working together, Thomas Built Buses and Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation brought the school bus industry the most innovative school bus design and technology. Today we both continue to set impressive examples as leaders in our product offerings, sustainable manufacturing practices and alternative-fuel offerings.”

Freightliner Custom Chassis was the first chassis manufacturer to achieve Zero-Waste-to-Landfill in the U.S., and Thomas Built Buses was the first, and remains the only, school bus manufacturer to achieve Zero-Waste-to Landfill status.

Platt also recognized the company’s long-standing relationships with its employees and with the community which, she said, contributed significantly to the company’s nearly 100 years of success in the area and to customer satisfaction with the C2. “We have great pride in our employees’ dedication to building the best bus possible. Their care and commitment help to ensure we are routinely exceeding customer expectations. As a company we are focused and committed to building buses that meet and surpass the requirements of today so our customers will be ready to meet the pupil transportation needs of the future.”

Thomas Built Buses utilizes more than 100 suppliers in North and South Carolina and, on average, $28,000 of the purchase price of each Thomas Built Saf-T-Liner C2 bus remains in the Carolinas. Thomas Built Buses produces Type A, C and D buses, and Type D chassis at its five North Carolina facilities.

About Thomas Built Buses
Founded in 1916, Thomas Built Buses is a leading manufacturer of school buses in North America. Since the first Thomas Built bus rolled off the assembly line, the company has been committed to delivering the smartest and most innovative buses in North America. Learn more at www.ThomasBus.com or at www.facebook.com/thomasbuiltbuses.

Thomas Built Buses, Inc., headquartered in High Point, N.C., is a subsidiary of Daimler Trucks North America LLC , the largest heavy-duty truck manufacturer in North America and a leading manufacturer of class 4-8 vehicles. Daimler Trucks North America produces and markets commercial vehicles under the Freightliner, Western Star and Thomas Built Buses nameplates. Daimler Trucks North America is a Daimler company.

About Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation
Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation manufactures premium chassis for the motorhome, delivery walk-in van, and school bus and shuttle bus markets. Visit the Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation website at www.freightlinerchassis.com for additional FCCC news and product information. Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation is a subsidiary of Daimler Trucks North America LLC, a Daimler company.

11/12/12

Sprinter Van Manufacturing Tour by MyVan



No matter if transport companies, suppliers or craftsmen: they all need their vans to fulfill their daily work.

In 1962 the Mercedes-Benz plant in Duesseldorf has built the first van with the star. With an extent of 1,100 football fields and about 6,600 employees the plant is Daimler's biggest van production facility. The basis of the production is the Sprinter, Europe's number 1 van of 3.5-5 tons vehicles. In Duesseldorf nearly 700 Sprinters are produced per day.

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11/11/12

Isuzu deal gives Rickerby greater payload and flexibility




When Carlisle-based horticultural equipment dealer Rickerby looked to replace an existing 3.5t vehicle, they opted to move up the weight range and specified a narrow cabbed 5.0 tonne Isuzu rigid as the replacement truck. This particular specification of vehicle has enabled them to achieve a full 2 tonnes carrying capacity, almost twice the payload of a 3.5t truck but with the same physical footprint.

According to Martyn Henderson, sales manager at Rickerby; “We were looking for a solution that would enable us to increase payload without increasing the actual vehicle size. The Isuzu 5.0 tonner is absolutely perfect for this job and we are extremely pleased with the vehicle’s performance.”

The Isuzu Forward N50.150 5t chassis cab has been specified with a beavertail body built by local company Hinds of Carlisle and the vehicle, which is the first Isuzu in the Rickerby fleet, was supplied by local Isuzu dealer Cumbria Truck Centre, based in Longtown near Carlisle. With a 3.0 litre, 150bhp, Euro 5, EEV power unit and the same compact, but well equipped, cab as the Isuzu 3.5t Grafters, this vehicle gives Rickerby’s much more payload flexibility. In addition the narrow cab and proportionately designed body make it an easy vehicle to manoeuvre through the Cumbrian road systems and really helps Rickerby’s to adhere to its demanding customer equipment delivery programme.

On a single driver operation, the new Isuzu is being used to deliver to customers within the locality and is working on a six-day week delivery operation, mainly on short run jobs carrying the full range of smaller horticultural and agricultural equipment.

“Prior to purchasing the new Isuzu, we talked to several local companies and suppliers who also run the Isuzu marque and without exception they were full of praise for the performance of the vehicle and the service support they receive from the local dealer,” added Martyn Henderson.

“In this current economic climate, it is essential to obtain the maximum payload as possible out of your vehicles. However at 3.5t it’s easy to inadvertently overload a vehicle. With a 5.0 tonne truck, the additional payload carrying capacity minimises this risk and enables companies to improve the efficiency of their distribution operations. Rickerby’s are already benefiting from this as they can now carry almost twice as much payload as the incumbent vehicle,” said Keith Child, marketing director at Isuzu Truck UK.

Full details of the current Isuzu Truck range can be viewed and downloaded from the company’s website on www.isuzutruck.co.uk

11/10/12

IAA 2012: The Body Manufacturers' Highlights



Only with the right vehicle construction and the efficient equipment a van turns into the perfect partner whether if it's a site, delivery or police vehicle.

At the IAA 2012 the manufacturers presented numerous innovations. Visitors could take a look at different things like a refrigerated truck or a low-loader platform especially for the landscape building sector. Another highlight was a delivery truck with all-round view.

Besides these innovations the companies also presented their established concepts.
Individual solutions for every business suggest an attitude of "everything is possible", no matter how high the requirements are.

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F.M. Thomas Commercial H.V.A.C. Specialists Adds Harbor Service Bodies To Their Fleet


F.M THOMAS - COMMERCIAL H.V.A.C. SERVICE SPECIALISTS


F.M. Thomas Air Conditioning Inc. is a commercial H.V.A.C. company serving businesses in Southern California since 1974. Our quality workmanship has earned us a reputation as one of Southern California's premiere H.V.A.C. contractors. We specialize in factory level expertise featuring Trane, Carrier, Lennox, Honeywell, McQuay, and York systems, package unit repair and replacement, boiler repair and replacement, Web Access Controls, Centrifugal, Screw Reciprocating chillers, multi-zone equipment and much more.

We are here to manage every stage of your project; from the pre-design phase, through construction and delivery. We form alliances with property owners, architects, engineers, and specialized trades. F.M. Thomas Air Conditioning holds the following licenses relative to commercial and industrial construction: B, C20, C4 and C38.


Corporate Headquarters:
F.M. Thomas Air Conditioning, Inc.
231 Gemini Avenue
Brea, CA 92821
Tel:
(714) 738-1062
Toll Free: (800) 660-0891
Fax: (714) 738-0886

http://www.fmthomas.com/

Branch Office:
78-370 Highway 111
Suite 250
La Quinta, CA 92253
Toll Free: (800) 660-0891

FM Thomas has added some nice F350’s with Sharp Harbor Trademaster Service Bodies to their fleet. This truck has lots of nice extras including a Lockable Cargo Bed Enclosure, a sliding top that opens up two thirds of the bed area for access. Other extras include a HD Rack, Conduit Box, a Stainless Vice Bracket, and Open Pipe Hangers suspended under the Rack crossbars.


A really nice custom Gas Bottle Box is mounted to the top of the Cargo Bed Enclosure. It is constructed with expanded metal and includes saddles for 3 bottles and a lockable solid door.




Standard Harbor Lock allows you to see if your doors are locked from a distance of over 50' and you lock them by pushing in the button without a key! Secure 3-Point Locking System with Teflon® rod guides and Automotive Quality water resistant locks with Double-Bit key is standard.




The bodies include Standard One-Hand Latch, Self-Opening Stainless Steel Lids with Two Gas Shocks. Lighter and stronger and rust free! (Aluminum Treadbrite overlay is available as an option). Matching Stainless Steel Gravel Guards are standard. (Closed top models are standard steel and offer Aluminum Treadbrite as an option). Standard Gas Shock Door Stays on all vertical and horizontal upward opening doors.

Lock-Tight Shelving adjustable shelves lock into place preventing tools from dumping through off-road-like conditions.

Also Standard is an 8" Recessed Step Bumper with True V-Notch for sure footing and wider trailer angles. A 49" floor width will carry all standard materials. Weather Shield protection includes a one-piece neoprene door seal; beveled door edge and self-sealing Stainless Steel rivets help prevent leaks into compartments.

Also includes All Electro-Galvanized Sheet Metal Construction. Stainless Steel piano hinge and pin on Cargo Bed Enclosure door, Conduit Box door and Rear Access doors. All expanded metal parts Hot-Dip Galvanized. Rivets have all Stainless Steel casing and mandrel to prevent corrosion.

All in all, this is one sweet looking truck! See more about Harbor Truck Bodies at http://www.htbi.net/.

11/09/12

Fuso and Nissan Seal Cooperation for Light-Trucks: Daimler Expands Portfolio in Japan


  • Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation (MFTBC) and Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. sign agreement for reciprocal supply of light-duty trucks in Japan
  • Daimler expands Fuso commercial vehicles port-folio in the segment of trucks below 5 tons GVW
  • New light-duty trucks already available at Fuso Dealerships from January 15, 2013
 
After the Memorandum of Under-standing between Daimler’s Japanese commercial vehicle subsidiary and Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. in June, earlier today, the partners signed an agreement for the long-term cooperation on reciprocal supply of light-duty trucks in Japan. The agreement is founded on the strategic partnership between Daimler AG and Renault-Nissan.
 
“With our growth strategy 'FUSO 2015' we will significantly improve the satisfaction of our customers,” says MFTBC President and CEO Dr. Albert Kirchmann. “Our latest achievement is the Fuso Canter Guts to be offered from 2013, which will 'round off' the bottom of our broad range of light trucks.” 
 
Beginning in January next year, Fuso will offer the light-duty truck “Fuso Canter Guts” to the Japanese market, which is known under Nissan´s model name “Atlas F24”. In return, Nissan will sell the light-duty truck “Fuso Canter” under the new model name “NT450 Atlas”. Initially, the mutual deliveries scope will total about 1,300 units.
 
The goal of the cooperation between MFTBC and Nissan is to utilize the expertise of both manufacturers with a view to bolstering the business with light-duty trucks in Japan. The present agreement on reciprocal supply of trucks will enable both partners to expand their truck assortment, realize economies of scale and achieve savings in development costs. This will lead to increased efficiency and productivity for both sides.
 
About Fuso
The Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation (MFTBC) based in Kawasaki, Japan, is one of Asia's leading commercial vehicle manufacturers in Asia. Daimler AG holds 89.29% of MFTBC shares. The remaining 10.71% of the shares are held by various companies of the Mitsubishi Group. In 2011, Daimler Trucks sold a total of about 147,700 vehicles of the Fuso brand – including light-, medium- and heavy-duty trucks and buses.

11/08/12

Measuring the ROI of Social Media? There’s a Laugh, and a Joke.


I got an (unsolicited) email offering a webinar to teach me about how to measure, and the importance of measuring, the ROI of social media.

TOTAL JOKE. And a bad one at that.

Social media, business social media, is running wild – with or without you. Your customers and prospective customers are posting on Facebook whether you have the balls to have presence there or not.

And I am not just talking to companies – I am talking to YOU – the individual.

CONSIDER THIS: Of all the grassroots revolutions that have occurred on social media, none of them were started by companies or a governments. They were all started by people – people who were excited, people who were afraid, people who were pissed, and people who wanted change and spoke up. They spoke over CEOs, media, newspapers, government, lobbyists, and politicians.

HERE’S WHAT THEY SHOULD MEASURE: LRI otherwise known as Lost Revenue (and goodwill and customer loyalty) of Idiots.

While Macy’s and most other department stores are/were measuring ROI, Zappos is cleaning their clock, delivering value, connecting with and responding to customers one on one, and building a billion dollar empire in less time than it took Macy’s to expand to a second store 100 years ago.

Webinars on the subject of ROI of social media are likely run by the same people who thought Amazon.com wouldn’t make it. If Bezos measured the ROI at Amazon in the first five years, he would have quit. He accomplished domination while Barnes & Noble was measuring ROI, and Borders was going broke.

Amazon now has total market dominance based on leadership, vision, and technological excellence. Same with Apple. Microsoft used to laugh at them, now their employees all have iPads and iPods at home.

Measure? No, INVEST RESOURCES IN SOCIAL MEDIA WITHOUT MEASURING. NOW!

It’s way too soon to measure.

MAJOR POINT OF UNDERSTANDING: If they had measured the ROI of TV, or the computer, or the automobile, or the telephone, or the Internet after 5 years, NOBODY would have gotten involved, and we’d be in a technological bog – sinking.

Wake up and smell the opportunity!

People guarding nickels have no idea of the power or the value of business social media, much less social media. They have no idea of the lost opportunity, or the lost revenue. They have no idea of the perception and participation of customers.

My bet is people who measure the ROI of social media HAVE NEVER TWEETED. Wanna take that bet?

I define these people as the ones who still have a small rubber circle in the middle of their keyboard – completely out of touch with what’s new, and trying to prevent the unstoppable force of progress, and customers.

Wanna know who else “measured” financial return?
Blockbuster measured online movie services.
Blackberry measured smartphones.
Microsoft measured music players.

Billion-dollar MIS-MEASUREMENT: Bank of America DIDN’T measure or understand the power of Facebook. They were greedily measuring increased revenue from debit card customers. Their billion dollar loss paled in comparison to their complete loss of goodwill. I doubt they will recover in a decade.

All of those companies are/were foolish.

There’s one company you want to take their time, measure nickels, rely on lawyers, and stick their big toe in the water before getting involved – that one company is your biggest competitor.

Here’s an easy plan to get rolling in a week or two:

1. Gather the email addresses of EVERYONE in your world.
2. Create a first-class, well tagged with key words, business page on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter.
3. Start a YouTube channel by inviting your customers to film WHY they bought from you.
4. Map out a strategy, and goals for engagement, for Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and YouTube.
5. Assign someone to monitor, post, and RESPOND to all who engage.
6. Create six value-based messages, two each for Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter.
7. Shoot 2-3 value-based (something your customers could use) videos and post them on YouTube.
8. Invite all of your customers to join you by sending examples of your value messages. I recommend one campaign per media for four weeks – but have links to all in each email.
9. Post something every day on Facebook. Tweet something every day. Link with 2-5 people every day. Post one video a week.
10. If you really want to create some buzz, convert your contacts to Ace of Sales (www.aceofsales.com) – and send emails that differentiate yourself from the competition.
10.5 Only listen to your lawyer if they tell you what you CAN do.

Start there.
Start now.
Start.


Jeffrey Gitomer is the author of The Sales Bible, Customer Satisfaction is Worthless Customer Loyalty is Priceless, The Little Red Book of Selling, The Little Red Book of Sales Answers, The Little Black Book of Connections, The Little Gold Book of YES! Attitude, The Little Green Book of Getting Your Way, The Little Platinum Book of Cha-Ching, The Little Teal Book of Trust, The Little Book of Leadership, and Social BOOM! His website, www.gitomer.com, will lead you to more information about training and seminars, or you can email him personally at salesman@gitomer.com

© 2012 All Rights Reserved

Reprinted by permission of www.BuyGitomer.com 

11/07/12

Real-World Solutions Provided at Green Truck Summit 2013



Industry-leading event returns as part of The Work Truck Show®

FARMINGTON HILLS, MI (Nov. 7, 2012) – Registration is now open for the work truck industry’s leading educational forum on clean vehicle technologies, the Green Truck Summit. The Green Truck Summit kicks off the extensive educational conference at The Work Truck Show® 2013 on March 5. The Summit gives fleet managers and other industry professionals practical ideas and real-world solutions for implementing new green practices.

The Green Truck Summit, presented by International Truck, is produced jointly by NTEA and CALSTART. It runs March 5−6, 2013. The Work Truck Show 2013 trade show floor is open March 6−8, with educational sessions starting March 5. The Green Truck Summit and The Work Truck Show are held at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, IN.

“This event has really grown over the last few years as people have seen the positive impact new clean technology can have on their operations,” says Doyle Sumrall, NTEA senior director of business development. “The Green Truck Summit is a can’t-miss event for forward-thinking fleet managers and anyone looking to gain a competitive advantage through green initiatives.”

Topics for the Green Truck Summit 2013 include clean technology and fuel trends, deployment strategies, viable alternative fuels and funding opportunities. The Summit’s slate of presenters includes a wide range of technical experts and industry leaders, including representatives from truck and engine OEMs, government agencies and fleet operations.

Over its day-and-a-half run, the Green Truck Summit features 24 breakout sessions, five general sessions and two keynote addresses. Keynote speakers will be announced closer to the event.

The first general session, “Trends in Clean Technologies and Fuels,” is presented by Sumrall and CALSTART President and CEO John Boesel. The two will discuss current clean trends and give an outlook for manufacturers, suppliers and fleets. It will take place Tuesday, March 5 at 9:00am.
The other opening day general sessions are “OEM Perspectives on the Future of Clean Technologies,” “Modeling the Benefits of Deploying Green Technologies” and “Optimizing Engines: New Ideas to Be Clean and Efficient.” Breakout sessions scheduled for Tuesday cover propane, hydrogen fuel cells, natural gas, hybrid electric systems, truck updates and more.

The general session on Wednesday, March 6, “Compounding the Green: Incremental Measures for Going Green and Sustainable,” is led by Fred Silver, vice president of CALSTART. This session will address vehicle productivity enhancement, idle management, energy use reduction and sustainable fleet management. It will run 8:45am−9:45am.

Remaining breakout sessions address bi-fuel CNG and LPG systems, turbine-electric trucks and other fuel-saving advancements. The complete Green Truck Summit schedule is available at www.ntea.com/greentrucksummit/schedule. A full list of sponsors is available at www.ntea.com/greentrucksummit/sponsors.

Other truck initiatives at The Work Truck Show include the Green Truck Ride-and-Drive sponsored by Hino Trucks, where attendees can experience the latest in cutting-edge clean vehicle technology with hands-on test drives and demos. On the show floor, the CALSTART Clean Technologies and Fuels Pavilion features “green” equipment that is commercially available today.

To register for the Green Truck Summit and The Work Truck Show 2013, visit www.ntea.com or call  1-800-441-6832 . Green Truck Summit registration includes an exclusive one-hour reception at 5:15pm on Monday, March 5.

Produced annually by NTEA, The Work Truck Show brings together thousands of work truck professionals, including fleet managers, equipment buyers, maintenance personnel, manufacturers, distributors and dealers.

About NTEA

Established in 1964, NTEA, the Association for the Work Truck Industry, represents more than 1,550 companies that manufacture, distribute, install, sell and repair commercial trucks, truck bodies, truck equipment, trailers and accessories. Buyers of work trucks and the major commercial truck chassis manufacturers also belong to the Association. The NTEA provides in-depth technical information, education, and member programs and services, and produces The Work Truck Show. The Association maintains its administrative headquarters in suburban Detroit and a government relations office in Washington, DC.

About CALSTART

CALSTART is a non-profit organization that works nationally to foster the rapid growth of the clean transportation technology industry. The organization supports industry growth by providing valuable information and analysis, fostering strategic partnerships, supporting smart public policies, and managing high-impact technology commercialization programs. CALSTART has more than 150 member companies and offices in California, Colorado, and Michigan.  For more information visit www.calstart.org.

Hino Trucks Approved For California Hybrid Truck & Bus Voucher Incentive Project (HVIP)



NOVI, MI –  Hino Trucks’ 2013MY Class 5 195h diesel electric cab-over has been approved by the California Air Resources Board and is eligible for the California Hybrid and Zero-Emission Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Project (HVIP).

HVIP is an incentive program created by the California Air Resources Board (ARB) to accelerate the California deployment of hybrid and zero-emission medium and heavy-duty vehicles and vehicle technologies. The HVIP provides vouchers to help California fleets purchase an eligible truck or bus to further build the market by reducing the cost of these vehicles for fleets that purchase and operate the vehicles in the State of California. This provides a public benefit by helping commercialize these technologies and support a critical ramp-up in production that is necessary to meeting California’s clean air goals.    

“California customers will take delivery of the first diesel electric 195h vehicles in November,” said Glenn Ellis, Hino Trucks Vice President of Marketing.  He added, “It is our goal to help support ARB’s initiative of accelerating the deployment of hybrid trucks.  The hybrid upcharge on our 195h is only $12,000, so customer’s who utilize the HVIP, can see up to a $25,000 voucher.  This means they can purchase a 195h hybrid truck for less than a traditional diesel truck.

Hybrid and electric trucks and buses are a fairly new technology and are therefore more expensive than traditional vehicles, especially in the early market years when production volumes are low. ARB recognizes that these vehicles have the proven ability to reduce criteria and greenhouse gas (GHG) pollutants in California and aims to accelerate the penetration of these cleaner vehicles to meet state clean air regulations and climate change goals.  

“Incentive programs like HVIP are helping companies develop and deploy clean technologies throughout California. These advances in affordable, energy efficient technologies will help clean the air, and secure our state’s energy future. We congratulate Hino on this certification, and encourage fleets to adopt these clean vehicles,” said John Boesel, President and CEO of CALSTART, which administers HVIP for the ARB.

For additional information on how to take advantage of the HVIP program visit their website at www.californiahvip.org.

About Hino: Hino Trucks, a Toyota Group Company, assembles, sells, and services the most environmentally friendly lineup of Class 5-7 commercial trucks in the United States.  In 2012, Hino introduced its Class 5 cab-over diesel-electric trucks making diesel-electric hybrids a viable option in the U.S. commercial truck industry for the first time.  

 

Headquartered in Novi, Michigan, Hino boasts a network of over 200 dealers nationwide committed to achieving excellence in customer service and support.  Hino Trucks is the premier medium duty nameplate in the United States with a product lineup that offers the lowest total cost of ownership, superior fuel economy, unmatched reliability and maneuverability, and the most comprehensive bundle of standard features in the market.  

 

For more information, visit our internet home page at www.hino.com or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.