8/31/13

Car Keys: 2014 Toyota Tundra



We take a preview drive in Toyota's Tundra pickup to see if it can muscle in on the full-size pickup market. www.motorweek.org

8/30/13

Clean Cities: Eastern Carver County School District



The Eastern Carver County school buses may still be yellow, but thanks to propane, they just got a little greener. www.motorweek.org

8/29/13

UD Trucks proudly presents: Quester - Fuel efficiency




To gain high fuel efficiency you must involve both machine and man. Quester's optimized Powertrain and truck design provides you with a fuel economic machine. The Fuel coach system and driver training enhances the driver's impact.

Launch site: www.udtrucks.com/quester
Media: www.udtrucks.com/en-int/news-and-media

8/28/13

Product Update: MAXON's Slidelift® Now Includes a New Flat Control Panel


GPS Liftgate
Maxon’s GPS Slidelift® series provides the smooth performance you need for precarious cargo, combined with horizontal stowage. The result is a gate that works with both roll-up and swing-style doors:

Specifications

•    Lifting capacities: 4,400 lbs. and 5,500 lbs.
•    Large, light-weight, aluminum platforms for easy handling and  durability
•    Utilizes the full inside dimensions of your trailer; non-restrictive side or rear loading and unloading; allows  unobstructed dock access
•    Allows simple operation and easy loading from the ground, or from the side
•    No longer limits you to one door type. Accommodates roll-up, full opening and various other door configurations
•    Maintains a level ride, regardless of landscape
•    Rust-resistant, powder-coated, metal fabricated parts ensure liftgate reliability and long life
•    Low maintenance design with greaseless, weather-tight bushings at all pivot points


New Flat Control Panel

Flat Control Panel
Discover maximum comfort and functionality in the New Flat Control Panel now incorporated onto Maxon GPS Slidelifts. The new panel allows for strategic positioning directly on the vehicle body (or under it) for convenient and ergonomic height access.  The solid, weather-resistant, ¼” flat control panel comes with proven technology that guarantees operation under any circumstance. No more dealings with broken or over-torqued control levers. The flat control panel comes with sturdy push-buttons with pressure points.
X1 Technology

X1 is a patented design technology that allows a liftgate to raise and lower full lift capacity utilizing only one cylinder for up and down, and one for tilting. This is accomplished by eliminating the mainframe structure and transferring the entire load to the lift frame structure and lift cylinder. This eliminates 20% of the total weight of a four-cylinder gate. Combine this design with the standard aluminum platform, and the result is the strongest, lightest, and least complex SlideLift available today.


Locking Mechanism

A hydraulic locking system that takes the operator out of the equation is featured in the GPS. The hydraulic system automatically locks when the gate is in the stow position requiring no additional operator effort.

For more information on our GPS model, please visit our website at www.maxonlift.com/products/slidelift/gps

8/27/13

UD Trucks proudly presents: Quester - Modern efficiency



When you choose Quester, you choose smart value and secure solutions. You get bold design, modern intelligent technology and a wide range of options, making it possible to tailor a truck for your specific needs.

Launch site: www.udtrucks.com/quester
Media: www.udtrucks.com/en-int/news-and-media

8/26/13

A baker’s dozen of Isuzus for DSL


The proven success of the incumbent Isuzu 7.5 tonne rigids in its fleet, was a key factor behind the decision made by Deborah Services Ltd (DSL) to specify the Isuzu marque once again, when it came to replacing the majority of its 7.5 tonners.

Following a successful growth period for the company, DSL has replaced these vehicles from its transport fleet with 13 new Isuzu Forward N75.190 4x2 rigids, all fitted with Isuzu’s popular Easyshift automated transmission. Each vehicle also incorporates a purpose-designed, detachable edge protection system, which has been specifically designed to enhance driver safety whilst working from the truck body.

Gary Clark, DSL’s transport manager commented; ‘‘When we were looking to replace our 7.5t trucks we carried out our research over a number of different models. At the end of the day it was the Isuzu N75.190 specification that ticked all the right boxes. The vehicles we have replaced were the earlier design of Isuzu cab model and the reasons why we chose Isuzu again is because of the excellent dealer service we receive along with economical fuel consumption and the best-in-class payload’’.

All the new trucks have been supplied to DSL by Isuzu Truck’s long-standing dealer Warrington Vehicle Centre and all of the vehicles are now operating from DSL Hire and Sales, and Contract Scaffolding locations throughout the UK.

With each vehicle expected to cover in excess of 50,000 miles per annum over a 5-year working life, the Isuzu rigids have three different body lengths to suit the varying range of contracts undertaken by DSL.

Three of the vehicles have front mounted Atlas cranes that are fitted on to 18ft plant equipment flatbed scaffolding bodies, whilst the remaining flatbed scaffolding bodies are a mix of 21ft and 24ft bodies, all manufactured by Bespoke Bodies and Plant Equipment. All the bodies are bigger than their predecessors having been increased in length and width to increase each vehicle’s productivity.

The bodies also feature a rear ladder to facilitate easier personnel access to the truck bed, as well as a single-step, side access, at the front end of the body.

Two of the new Isuzus are now based at DSL’s Luton and Bow branches and have been built to the Cross Rail contract specification. This specification includes a side scan safety device, which warns cyclists and pedestrians that the vehicle is turning left, as well as an audible reversing alarm.

Safety of DSL personnel out on site is paramount and, with this in mind, the body specification for all 13 new Isuzu trucks now incorporates a purpose-designed, detachable edge protection system, which has been specifically designed for driver safety if access to the bed of the vehicle is required.

“We recognise that there will be times when operatives will need to access the truck bed, however this new feature on our trucks is a practical solution for reducing the potential of a fall,” added Gary Clark.

As a further safety measure, each body has a collection of 15 sockets evenly spaced within the truck bed that accommodate the scaffolding restraints used by DSL. This ensures that all scaffolding tubes and boards can be securely held tight in position during transit.

“DSL first bought Isuzu trucks back in 2006 and those NQR rigids gave the company 7 years of impressive service, frequently operating in most arduous working conditions. Having this first-hand experience of Isuzu’s productivity and reliability obviously played a key role in the decision by DSL to replace them with the latest 2013 N75.190 models,” said Keith Child, marketing director at Isuzu Truck.

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


Isuzu – A global strength
Established almost a century ago Isuzu Motors Limited Japan is a world leading truck manufacturer. IML produces around 400 000 light to medium weight commercial vehicles, every year and its products are sold in a vast majority of countries throughout the world. The company is also a world-leader in diesel engine technology and manufactures around 1.5 million engines every year.

Isuzu Truck (UK) Limited was formed in 1996 and is now the wholly owned subsidiary of Isuzu Motors Limited Japan. ITUK is a dedicated truck marketing and sales operation. ITUK currently directly employs 51 people and has just over 60 dealers in its strategically located, nationwide network. All Isuzu truck products sold by ITUK are covered by a 3-year unlimited mileage warranty and backed by the company’s industry-unique, award-winning, customer service programme CARE (Customer facing, Always listening, Reliable and trustworthy, Efficient and friendly).

8/24/13

Mercedes-Benz Citan 2013 - Test Drive Review



Based on the Renault Kangoo, Merc's Citan marks its entry into the light van market, meaning It can now offer a full range of vans in the UK. Heavily restyled and re-engineered the Citan is well worth a look. Feels and drives like a Merc. www.vansa2z.com

8/23/13

The Perfect Combination of Service Body and Gooseneck Body From Knapheide

The Westerner Storage Bodies are designed to help you haul your load and store your gear.


The Knapheide Westerner Storage Bodies are designed for safe and secure storage plus towing ability.  With four external compartments for all your tools and equipment and an optional gooseneck or receiver hitch, the Westerner Storage Body is the jack of all trades.



Some features and benefits of the Westerner Storage Body:

• Bulkhead is one piece heavy-duty 12 gauge rust resistant galvanneal construction
• Bulkhead is a ladder rack design with two built in tie-downs
• Two recessed cargo area work lights for convenience
• Interior light guards provide protection for lighting package
• 14 gague two-sided A-40 galvenneal steel body for durability
• 12 gauge tough as nails treadplate floor
• Double shell 20 gauge galvanneal steel compartment doors with stainless steel continuous hinges for great security
• Riveted rotary latches
• Adjustable striker on compartment door latches to ensure doors stay closed
• Thick bulb type neoprene door seals to help protect your contents from the outside elements
• Bodies are undercoated for extra corrosion protection
• Complete immersion in Knapheide's electrodeposition prime paint system for superior corrosion resistance



See more about this great body from Knapheide, including downloadable brochures and specifications, and find a dealer near you at http://www.knapheide.com/product/westerner-storage-bodies/

8/22/13

Nissan to Equip Next-Generation Titan Pickup with New Cummins Turbo


IRVINE, Calif. – At the kickoff of Nissan 360, an industry showcase of Nissan's global product and technology portfolio, the company announced it will offer a newly-developed Cummins V8 turbo diesel in its next-generation full-size pickup.

Now in the latter stages of development and testing, the available Cummins 5.0L V8 Turbo Diesel engine has been optimized for the next generation Titan as a result of the partnership between Cummins and Nissan. Cummins also is developing a version of the engine for its commercial vehicle customers.

"We have done our homework on the next-generation Titan. Truck owners told us there's a demand for the performance and torque of a diesel in a capable truck that doesn't require the jump up to a heavy-duty commercial pickup," said Fred Diaz, divisional vice president, Nissan Sales & Marketing, Service & Parts, Nissan North America. "There is no question that the new Titan will turn heads, and with the available Cummins 5.0L V8 Turbo Diesel, we expect to win new fans and attract buyers looking for this unique configuration."

Nissan has previously announced the next-generation Titan will add powertrain options and cab-and-box configurations to broaden the appeal of the new truck when it comes to market.

"We are very excited to partner with Nissan on the introduction of the Cummins 5.0L V8 Turbo Diesel to the North American pickup truck market," said Dave Crompton, vice president, Cummins Engine Business. "This new engine will offer the right balance of power, performance and fuel economy while delivering the dependability that customers expect of a Cummins engine. This will be a great package."

With a torque rating in the mid-500s (lb-ft) and more than 300 horsepower, the Cummins 5.0L V8 Turbo Diesel will provide light truck customers the combination of towing capacity and mileage that is expected in the highly-competitive North American truck marketplace.

The Cummins 5.0L V8 Turbo Diesel will be built in America's manufacturing heartland at the Columbus Engine Plant, in Columbus, Ind., Cummins headquarters. This plant has the latest technological innovations to continue the 90-plus year tradition of building the highest quality Cummins engines.

The Titan program is being led by teams in Nissan Americas' headquarters in Franklin, Tenn., while engineering and testing is performed by Nissan Technical Center North America in Farmington Hills, Mich. and Stanfield, Ariz. as well as Nissan's global engineering center. Design is being led by Nissan Design America in La Jolla, Calif.

Like the current model, the next-generation Titan will be built at Nissan's Canton, Miss. vehicle assembly plant and its gasoline engines cast, forged and assembled at Nissan's Decherd, Tenn. powertrain plant.

For competitive reasons, Nissan is not announcing launch dates at this stage in the truck's development, however engineering prototype trucks powered by the Cummins engine are currently undergoing extensive on-public-highway performance and durability testing.

Further information on the upcoming Titan truck and Cummins engine will be released at a later date.


About Nissan North America
In North America, Nissan's operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. Nissan is dedicated to improving the environment under the Nissan Green Program and has been recognized as an ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year in 2010, 2011, and 2012 by the U.S Environmental Protection Agency. More information on Nissan in North America and the complete line of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online at www.NissanUSA.com and www.InfinitiUSA.com, or visit the Americas media sites NissanNews.com and InfinitiNews.com.


About Nissan
Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., Japan's second-largest automotive company, is headquartered in Yokohama, Japan, and is part of the Renault-Nissan Alliance. Operating with more than 248,000 employees globally, Nissan provided customers with more than 4.8 million vehicles in 2011, generating revenue of 9.4 trillion yen ($118.95 billion US). With a strong commitment to developing exciting and innovative products for all, Nissan delivers a comprehensive range of 64 models under the Nissan and Infiniti brands. A pioneer in zero-emission mobility, Nissan made history with the introduction of the Nissan LEAF, the first affordable, mass-market, pure-electric vehicle and winner of numerous international accolades, including the prestigious 2011-2012 Car of the Year Japan and 2011 World Car of the Year awards.

For more information on our products, services and commitment to sustainable mobility, visit our website at http://www.nissan-global.com/EN/.


About Cummins
Cummins Inc., a global power leader, is a corporation of complementary business units that design, manufacture, distribute and service diesel and natural gas engines and related technologies, including fuel systems, controls, air handling, filtration, emission solutions and electrical power generation systems. Headquartered in Columbus, Indiana (USA), Cummins currently employs approximately 46,000 people worldwide and serves customers in approximately 190 countries and territories through a network of approximately 600 company-owned and independent distributor locations and approximately 6,500 dealer locations. Cummins earned $1.65 billion on sales of $17.3 billion in 2012.

Press releases can be found on the Web at cummins.com or cumminsengines.com. Follow Cummins on Twitter at http://twitter.com/cumminsengines and on YouTube at http://youtube.com/cumminsengines.

8/21/13

Isuzu Trucks - 2013 Brisbane Truck Show Visitor Vox Pop



Short video featuring the Isuzu Trucks stand and visitor impressions from the 2013 Brisbane Truck Show, held in Brisbane from 16-19 May, 2013. www.isuzu.com.au

8/20/13

Taylor Dunn - MX-1600 - Maintenance Expeditor



Taylor Dunn MX-1600

Taylor Dunn provides top quality commercial and industrial vehicles as well as tow tractors to meet your specific needs. The MX-­1600 improves repair and maintenance productivity by reducing travel time and provides a mobile workshop at the service site.

For more information visit: http://www.taylor-dunn.com/

8/19/13

Ram 1500 Rumble Bee Concept



Joe Dehner, Head of Ram & Dodge Design, shows off the Ram 1500 Rumble Bee concept.

8/18/13

NASCAR's Brad Keselowski Drives the new F-150 Tremor



NASCAR Driver Brad Keselowski drives a road course at Michigan International Speedway in the 2014 F-150 Tremor, Ford's first EcoBoost-powered sport truck.

8/16/13

Loading Ramp for Box Trucks by Super Lawn Technologies



Lawn mower loading ramps designed for box trucks for contractors. These folding loading ramps have a weight rating of 750 pounds each. Put two ramps together for 1500 pounds of weight rating capacity. One person ramp operation made simple and easy on the back with gas spring assist.

Call 866-923-0027 to order yours today. The MR-750 bolt on loading ramps by Super Lawn Technologies can be installed on used box trucks, new box trucks, dump trucks and trailers. Cabinet contractors loading ramps. General contractor loading ramp. Road contractors loading ramps. Striping contractors loading ramps. If you need to get people, ride on equipment or heavy supplies into a box truck, we can help. See more at www.superlawntrucks.com.

8/15/13

Range Resources CNG Fleet Event



Highlights from Range's CNG Fleet unveiling. Range's commercial fleet order of factory-engineered CNG vehicles is the largest single order for both Chrysler Group and GM.

8/14/13

Crosssmember-less E-Tipper From Crysteel



The evolutionary Crysteel E-Tipper gives you all of the most desired features in a dump body - strength, value and style.

From the sculpted front and rear pillars to the one-piece seamless sides, to the western with a "crossmember-less" under-structure. The E-Tipper combines good looks and durability with superior design.

Features can be added to create the most versatile body for your needs without long lead times. Body options and accessories add function, are extremely economical and easy to order.

Every E-Tipper body is backed by Crysteel’s 5-year warranty.


California Work Trucks is located at 930 Whipple Road in Union City, CA. Call them at 510-477-8425. See more soon at www.calworktrucks.com.

8/13/13

Winner Announced and Challenge Recap - Day 5 of Diesel Power Challenge 2013!



On the final day of Diesel Power Challenge 2013, we wrap-up the weeklong event and present the winner with the coveted cup.

Catch the entire week of Diesel Power Challenge 2013 programming on the Motor Trend channel August 5th through August 9th with a new video premiering each day!

Subscribe now to make sure you're in on all the action!
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Website - http://www.motortrend.com & http://www.dieselpowermag.com

8/12/13

BAF Corporate and Product Overview



BAF Technologies is a Ford-approved Qualified Vehicle Modifier (QVM), and has developed advanced, fully integrated CNG systems that meet the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) standards. All BAF products are EPA certified and all dedicated products are CARB certified. www.BAFTechnologies.com

8/11/13

Built Ford Green: Sustainable Materials Make America’s Best-Selling Truck Environmentally Friendly and Tough

  • Rice hulls are the latest sustainable material used in Ford F-150; the hulls reinforce plastic used in an electrical harness in 2014 F-150
  • Other eco-friendly materials in F-Series trucks are soybeans and post-industrial recycled cotton – one 2014 Ford F-150 truck uses the equivalent of about 10 pairs of jeans, 26 bath towels or 31 T-shirts as carpet insulation or sound absorber
  • Eco-friendly materials complement fuel efficient F-Series powertrains, including an available 3.5-liter EcoBoost® engine, which improves fuel economy up to 20 percent and reduces CO2 emissions up to 15 percent compared to similarly capable V8 engines


Ford is proving that pickups can be green and tough by adding rice hulls to the list of sustainable materials used to build F-150 – America’s best-selling truck.

Ford is using plastic reinforced with rice hulls – a byproduct of rice grain – in an electrical harness in the 2014 F-150. The company will need at least 45,000 pounds of hulls in the first year.

“The 2014 F-Series exemplifies our continued efforts to use recycled content in our vehicles,” said John Viera, Ford global director of sustainability and vehicle environmental matters. “We can have greater impact in this case because of the size and sales volume of this product.”

The rice hulls are sourced from farms in Arkansas and will replace a talc-based reinforcement in a polypropylene composite made by RheTech, a Whitmore Lake, Mich.-based automotive supplier.
“We developed this resin specifically for Ford over the last three years, working with the automaker closely, including in all phases of material qualification,” said David Preston, director of business development for RheTech. “The whole process has been a rewarding success for both Ford and RheTech, which can add yet another natural-fiber based product to our RheVision line.”

Rice hull-reinforced plastic is the most recent example of Ford researchers and engineers using sustainable material whenever possible in the F-Series – without compromising toughness and durability. F-Series trucks already feature:

  • Recycled cotton: Used as carpet insulation and a sound absorber; every 2014 F-150 contains enough recycled cotton to make the equivalent of 10 pairs of jeans
  • Soybeans: Used to make seat cushions, seat backs and head restraints
  • Recycled carpet: Some F-150 trucks have cylinder head covers made with EcoLon, a nylon resin produced from 100 percent post-consumer recycled carpet
  • Recycled tires: A thermoplastic material made from recycled tires and post-consumer recycled polypropylene is used to make shields and some underbody covers on F-150
  • Recycled plastic soda pop and water bottles: A lightweight fiber derived from recycled plastic soda pop and water bottles is used to construct F-150 wheel liners and shields. The parts are significantly lighter than traditional injection molded parts and lead to a quieter ride. Select F-Series trucks feature fabric made from recycled fiber
  • Recycled post-industrial plastics: Used in interior finish panels, including around radio and climate controls

Researchers in Dearborn are constantly searching for the next sustainable material that can feasibly be used in Ford vehicles. Finding a source of material is only the beginning of the process, however, because before making it to production, components made from recycled content must perform as well or better than comparable virgin-grade material.

Materials development engineers at Ford Materials Engineering, Testing and Standards in Dearborn, in conjunction with RheTech, conducted testing of the rice hull material for more than a year, examining everything from smell and appearance to functionality and flammability. The rice hull-based material successfully passed all tests.

With F-Series as America’s best-selling truck for 36 years – averaging more than 650,000 sales per year – the environmental impact of being as sustainable as possible adds up fast. Ford estimates about 10 million pounds of recycled cotton are used in F-Series trucks annually.

“Fuel economy is a top priority when it comes to Ford’s environmental impact,” says Carrie Majeske, Ford product sustainability manager. “But we also recognize the tremendous impact that can be made by using sustainable materials inside our cars, utilities and trucks.”

The eco-friendly aspects of F-Series extend to the powertrain. The available 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine combines technologies typically associated with heavy-duty truck diesel engines – turbocharging and direct fuel injection – in a gasoline engine. The engine delivers fuel economy gains of up to 20 percent, while reducing CO2 emissions by up to 15 percent.

Further, the 2014 F-150 equipped with a 3.7-liter V6 engine will be available this fall with a factory-installed package that allows the engine to operate on either natural gas or gasoline through separate fuel systems.

The complete F-Series Super Duty pickup truck and chassis cab lineup is available with gasoline, diesel, B20, and dedicated compressed natural gas or liquid propane gas capability, or CNG/LPG bi-fuel capability, while Ford F-650 and F-750 medium-duty trucks can be outfitted for gasoline, biodiesel or CNG/LPG operation. In addition to biodiesel and CNG/LPG offerings, the 6.2-liter V8 can operate on E85, an ethanol-gasoline mix.

More press releases, graphics and videos related to Ford’s sustainability efforts can be found here.

8/10/13

Truck Buying Guide - The CNG Advantage



Thinking of buying a CNG pickup truck? Want to know more about the benefits of transitioning to CNG? Not all CNG trucks are the same.

There are a number of key factors to consider before buying, including the importance of selecting a qualified vehicle modifier. This video outlines some of the guidelines you should check into before selecting your next bi-fuel pickup truck. www.WestPort.com

8/09/13

Third Production Crew with 900 New U.S. Jobs Begins to Meet Surging Ford F-Series Demand

  • Ford’s Kansas City Assembly Plant today launches a third crew that adds 900 new jobs to meet surging customer demand for Ford F-Series, part of the 200,000 units of added annual straight-time capacity Ford plans for 2013
  • Through July, Ford F-Series sales 50 percent higher than the second-best-selling vehicle in America
  • With the additional crew at Kansas City Assembly Plant, Ford has reached 75 percent of its goal to create 12,000 hourly jobs in the United States by 2015
  • Ford has added 2,335 hourly jobs and 1,500 salary jobs in the United States this year alone
Kansas City, Mo., Aug. 5, 2013 – Ford, America’s truck leader, today welcomes a third crew of 900 new hourly workers at its Kansas City Assembly Plant to meet surging customer demand for the Ford F-150.
 
 
 
Ford F-150 is part of the Ford F-Series lineup, the nation’s No. 1-selling vehicle for 31 years and the best-selling truck for 36 years.
 
“Ford F-Series sales are the strongest since 2006, and we are increasing production to meet this demand.” said Doug Scott, Ford Truck Group Marketing Manager. “This is an important indicator that our economy is growing again. We are proud that Ford Trucks are helping more and more of our customers get back to work.”
 
The additional production crew is Ford’s first step in bringing more than 2,000 jobs to Kansas City Assembly Plant to meet growing truck demand and to launch production of the all-new Ford Transit van early next year.
 
Over the past year, Ford announced it will increase capacity by 600,000 units in North America to meet surging demand for its cars, trucks and utilities.
 
F-Series demand
 
Customer demand for Ford F-Series continues to strengthen:
  • F-Series sales increased 22 percent from January to July 2013, compared to the same period last year
  • F-Series sales were at 60,449 in July, representing the best July sales month since 2006 and a 23 percent increase over 2012
  • Based on July U.S. sales results, F-Series sales now have increased for 24 consecutive months
The Built Ford Tough F-150 delivers the segment’s best combination of power, capability, safety and fuel economy. F-150 leads in a variety of fields, including:
 
  • 68 percent market share in hazardous materials work
  • 67 percent share in the oil pipeline industry
  • 62 percent share in road and highway maintenance
“Whether it’s construction, farming, energy or law enforcement, Ford trucks keep America working,” said Scott.
 
Going further
The additional jobs at Kansas City Assembly Plant come as Ford continues to retool and expand the facility through a $1.1 billion investment to ready for Transit production. Kansas City Assembly Plant has more than 250 suppliers nationally and more than 10 suppliers locally that will benefit from the addition of a third crew. When Transit production begins, close to 275 suppliers nationally and six suppliers locally will grow their business.
 
“Missouri’s resurgent auto industry continues to drive economic growth and create good jobs for Missouri families in Kansas City and across the state,” Missouri Governor Jay Nixon said. “I applaud Ford for their historic investment in this region and congratulate the hundreds of additional autoworkers going to work building America’s most popular pickup right here in the Show-Me State.”

8/08/13

Odyne Systems Showcasing Hybrid Power Truck System Selected for Nationwide Deployment by the DOE at ICUEE 2013

Odyne’s Advanced Hybrid Propulsion System Featured in Booth 4324 Provides All Day Power, Reducing Fuel Consumption by Up To 50%.

 
 
Waukesha, WI, August 2, 2013 – Waukesha based Odyne Systems, LLC, a leading manufacturer of hybrid systems for medium and heavy duty work trucks and winner of the NTEA 2013 Green Award, will be showcasing its advanced hybrid propulsion system in booth 4324 at the ICUEE 2013 show October 1-3 in Louisville, Kentucky. Odyne was recently selected to participate in a $45.4 million U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) award to develop and deploy over 120 plug-in hybrid systems for trucks throughout North America. The program will strongly position Odyne for high volume sales of its enhanced system.
Odyne booth at ICUEE 2011
The plug-in hybrid system on display at ICUEE, shown on an International chassis, is designed to interface with a wide variety of truck mounted equipment, saving fuel, reducing emissions and providing quieter operation at the work site. Odyne’s plug-in hybrid truck system reduces fuel consumption by up to 50%, depending on application. It also increases power while driving by using a rugged Remy electric motor in parallel with the existing drive train to provide launch assist and regenerative braking. At the jobsite, the Odyne hybrid plug-in battery system, featuring Johnson Control’s lithium-ion battery packs, provides all day hybrid power on the job.
 
Joe Dalum, President of Odyne Systems, LLC commented, “We are excited to be introducing several recent developments that are continually advancing hybrid and truck electrification technology. The market is embracing our ePTO functionality and enhanced transmission interface, developed in coordination with Allison Transmission, our investment partner. We look forward to further optimization of the hybrid drivetrain and continued gains in efficiency through additional engineering collaboration with Allison Transmission and a new transmission application for the Allison 2000 series.” The company continues to develop industry leading technology that provides customers with unique benefits that surpass other systems on the market. The Odyne system is based upon unique and patented technology. Odyne, a leader in innovation, holds 6 U.S. patents and 2 international patents in the hybrid field and another 20 patents are pending.
 
Stop by Odyne booth 4324 to learn about the many benefits of the unique Odyne Hybrid Power system and participate in drawings for an iPad Mini Tuesday and Wednesday.
 
Odyne plug-in hybrid systems will also be on display in Ford booth N-1014 and Allison Transmission booth L-465.
 
 
About Odyne Systems, LLC
Odyne is a leader in hybrid drive systems for medium- and heavy-duty vehicles. Odyne’s advanced plug-in hybrid technology enables trucks over 14,000 pounds to have substantially lower fuel consumption, lower emissions, improved performance, quieter work site operation and reduced operating and maintenance costs. Odyne has produced more plug-in hybrid systems for large trucks than any other supplier in the U.S. The company sells its unique modular hybrid system for new and retrofit applications direct to truck manufacturers and through a global distribution and service network. The name Odyne represents the combination of “O” for Optimal and “dyne” for Force. Odyne’s hybrid system for medium- and heavy-duty trucks represents the best hybrid power solution for large trucks. For further information, visit us at www.odyne.com and follow us on Twitter @Odyne.
 
About Allison Transmission
Allison Transmission is the world’s largest manufacturer of fully-automatic transmissions for medium- and heavy-duty commercial vehicles, medium- and heavy-tactical U.S. military vehicles and hybrid-propulsion systems for transit buses. Allison transmissions are used in a variety of applications including on-highway trucks (distribution, refuse, construction, fire and emergency), buses (primarily school and transit), motor homes, off-highway vehicles and equipment (primarily energy and mining) and defense vehicles (wheeled and tracked). Founded in 1915, the Allison business is headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, U.S.A. and employs approximately 2,800 people. Allison has manufacturing facilities and customization centers located in China, The Netherlands, Brazil, India and Hungary. With a global presence, serving customers in North America, Europe, Asia, Australia, South America, and Africa, Allison also has approximately 1,400 independent distributor and dealer locations worldwide. More information about Allison is available at www.allisontransmission.com.

8/06/13

Isuzu Truck Power - On The Road with KJM Contractors



Transport and logistics company KJM Contractors have built a successful business providing extensive support services to the mining sector. Their fleet of Isuzu trucks is an integral component of the company's operations with the trucks used extensively in harsh off-road and outback conditions. Join us as we visit Australia's only one-stop remote area specialist to discuss their business and the role their Isuzus play. www.isuzu.com.au

8/05/13

VENCHURS VEHICLE SYSTEMS ANNOUNCES CNG CONVERSIONS FOR THE FORD F-150

Venchurs Vehicle Systems previewed its CNG powered F-150 at the Ford press announcement on July 30, demonstrating unmatched technology to meet customer demands.


Adrian, MI (July 31, 2013) – Venchurs Vehicle Systems, a leader in CNG conversions for Ford Motor Company, will now offer compressed natural gas conversions for the 3.7L Ford F-150. The announcement comes on the heels of Ford’s introduction of a gaseous prepped engine for the F-150 on July 30, 2013, where Venchurs previewed its converted F-150 truck. Venchurs’ expanding CNG portfolio as a Qualified Vehicle Modifier (QVM) for Ford already includes bi-fuel and dedicated conversions for the 6.2L Ford F-250 and F-350 and the 2.0L Transit Connect, and anticipates two new vehicles in 2014.

Dedicated_and_Bi_Fuel_display

“We lead the industry in responding to the needs and wants of our customers, and there has been a growing demand for CNG powered half ton trucks,” said Jeff Wyatt, CEO of Venchurs. “Since Ford is now offering a gaseous prepped engine for the 3.7L F-150, customers can order the Venchurs conversion through any Ford dealer and maintain the full Ford warranty as well as finance the cost of the conversion. The Ford F-150 is a leader in industry sales, and accolades such as ‘Best Light Duty Pickup Truck’ from PickupTrucks.com and Popular Mechanics continue to help its popularity—we’re excited to add it to our growing product portfolio.”

Venchurs will offer both bi-fuel and dedicated options for the F-150, and will give customers the flexibility to choose from three GGE options: 12.8GGE, 17.8GGE, or 23.5GGE. As with all Venchurs CNG products, the F-150 will maintain the original Ford warranty and can be financed through Ford credit. Venchurs will begin taking orders immediately, and will start converting as soon as the 2014 models start rolling off the assembly line.

Venchurs currently has ship-thru for the 6.2L F-250 and F-350, and anticipates having ship-thru for the F-150 in the fourth quarter of 2013. In addition to the CNG conversion, Venchurs offers its customers the option to add additional accessories, such as bumpers, wheels, tires, and brush guards at its supplementary upfit facility in Adrian. This option reduces logistics costs and lead time to the end customer.

Companies interested in adding CNG powered vehicles to their fleets are invited to apply for Venchurs’ short term demo program, where they can put the converted trucks to the test. 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.

8/04/13

2013 Diesel Power Challenge Week! Starting August 5th on the Motor Trend Channel



2013 Diesel Power Challenge returns to the mile-high city of Denver, Colorado to pit the 9 of the baddest reader-selected diesel rigs against each other in a head-to-head battle for diesel domination.

Starting Monday August 5th exclusively on the Motor Trend Channel, host Brian Lohnes takes you through our weeklong torture test that features 7 events, 9 trucks, 8,000hp, and nearly 15,000 lb-ft of torque. We push Power Stroke, Cummins, and Duramax-powered trucks well beyond their limits in search of the ultimate diesel.

Catch the entire week of programming August 5th through August 9th with a new video premiering each day!

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8/03/13

Ram Announces New EcoDiesel Towing Numbers

2014 Ram 1500 Achieves New Best-in-class Tow Rating for V-6 Gasoline Pickups
  • 2014 Ram 1500 with 305 horsepower Pentastar V-6 tows 7,450 lbs., topping all base V-6 engines in the segment
  • More robust parking system components inside the exclusive 8-speed transmission allow for greater tow rating
  • 3.0-liter EcoDiesel towing capacity rated at 9,200 lbs. - approaching large V-8 capability
  • No direct competitor for new Ram 1500 3.0-liter V-6 EcoDiesel with best-in-class fuel economy that will exceed the current title holder, Ram's 3.6-liter V-6 gas engine at 25 MPG
     

 
July 29, 2013 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - The capability race is far from over. The 2014 Ram 1500 takes top spot in V-6 towing capacity at 7,450 lbs. To reach the best-in-class number, Ram powertrain engineers added a more robust parking gear to the exclusive 8-speed TorqueFlite 8 for a higher capacity rating.

"There was more towing capacity in the V-6 Ram 1500 but we needed to upgrade the transmission to hold the truck and trailer when parked on steep grades," said Mike Cairns - Chief Engineer, Ram Truck. "Now that we're building the transmissions ourselves, the improvements are included in the new assembly. "

Ram also finalized towing numbers for the exclusive Ram 1500 EcoDiesel. In a 2WD, two-door, long bed configuration, the new EcoDiesel will tow up to 9,200 lbs. The new diesel engine approaches much larger displacement V-8 towing capability with a small but powerful 3.0-liter V-6 and best-in-class fuel efficiency of better than 25 MPG on the highway.

8/02/13

2014 Toyota Tundra



PickupTrucks.com Mark Williams travels to Pennsylvania to take a look at the updated 2014 Toyota Tundra. www.pickuptrucks.com

8/01/13

2014 Ram 2500 HD Engineer Walkaround



A 'just shy of' three minute walkaround of the 2014 Ram 2500 Heavy Duty Pickup Truck. Ram Chief Engineer Mike Cairns goes under the hood for a look at the new 6.4L HEMI V-8 which delivers best-in-class horsepower and torque. Cairns also explains the advantage of the 2014 Ram 2500 Heavy Duty's 5-link coil suspension system over conventional leaf springs. That and much more info you've asked for ... all in just under three minutes. www.ramtrucks.com