See the Brand New Cummins Engines For 2017

See some of the brand new Cummins ISX engines to be coming out soon at this Cummins road show. Indiana Jack interviews one of the Vice Presidents (Scott Bentz)at this show and outlines some of the highlights of the new diesel engines.

GM and U.S. Army to Demonstrate Extreme Off-Road Hydrogen Fuel Cell Chevrolet Colorado

Agreement focused on proving unique utility 

and viability of fuel cell propulsion

WARREN, Mich. – General Motors and the U.S. Army Tank Automotive Research, Development & Engineering Center (TARDEC) are modifying a Chevrolet Colorado midsize pickup truck to run on a commercial hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system and will expose the truck to the extremes of daily military use for 12 months.

“Hydrogen fuel cell technology is important to GM’s advanced propulsion portfolio, and this enables us to put our technology to the test in a vehicle that will face punishing military duty cycles,” said Charlie Freese, executive director of GM’s Global Fuel Cell Engineering activities.

Fuel cell propulsion has very high low-end torque capability useful in off-road environments. It also offers exportable electric power and quiet operation, attractive characteristics to both commercial and military use.
"The potential capabilities hydrogen fuel cell vehicles can bring to the Warfighter are extraordinary, and our engineers and scientists are excited about the opportunity to exercise the limits of this demonstrator," said TARDEC Director Paul Rogers. 

"FCVs are very quiet vehicles, which scouts, special operators and other specialties place a premium,” he said. “What's more, fuel cells generate water as a by-product, something extremely valuable in austere environments."

GM and TARDEC have fuel cell development and research facilities located 20 minutes apart in Pontiac and Warren, Mich. The two collaborate to evaluate new fuel cell designs and materials, and TARDEC’s state-of-the-art facility enables it to test and integrate fuel cell systems it has been developing for more than a decade.

In 2007, GM launched “Project Driveway,” a 119-vehicle fleet of hydrogen fuel cell-equipped Chevrolet Equinoxes that were driven in daily use for more than 3 million miles by more than 5,000 consumers. 
Hydrogen fuel cell propulsion technology helps address two major environmental challenges with automobiles today – petroleum use and carbon dioxide emissions. Fuel cell vehicles can operate on renewable hydrogen from sources like wind and biomass. Water vapor is the only emission. 
Since the launch in 2014, the Chevrolet Colorado has raised the bar for midsize pickups with class-leading horsepower, torque, fuel economy, trailering capabilities and safety technologies. The Colorado provides true truck capabilities in a refined, fuel-efficient midsize package with three available powertrains. Paired with the available 2.8L Duramax diesel, the Colorado is the most fuel-efficient pickup truck in America. More information on the Chevrolet Colorado can be found at www.chevrolet.com/colorado.
Additional product details and specific vehicle timing will be announced later.
About General Motors Co.

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.

About TARDEC
Headquartered at the U.S. Army Detroit Arsenal in Warren, Mich., TARDEC is a major research, development and engineering center for the Army Materiel Command’s Research, Development and Engineering Command and an enterprise partner in the TACOM Life Cycle Management Command. TARDEC is the Nation’s laboratory for advanced military automotive technology and serves as the Ground Systems Integrator for all Defense Department manned and unmanned ground vehicle systems. With roots dating back to the World War II era, TARDEC develops and integrates the right technology solutions to improve current force effectiveness and provides superior capabilities for future force integration. More information can be found at www.army.mil/tardec.

Ford F-150 Surprises Construction Workers with Massaging Seats

We surprised some of the hardest working guys in Michigan with the massaging seats now available on the Ford F-150. The new F-150 is more than the toughest, smartest and most capable F-150 ever. F-150 King Ranch, Platinum and Limited editions offer passenger convenience features rivaling high-end luxury vehicles, making F-150 versatile and exceptionally comfortable to drive. With a maximum tow rating of up to 12,200 pounds and the first-ever multi-contour massaging seats available for a full-size pickup, now you can work hard and reward yourself.

Reaching the next milestone of its platform strategy: Daimler Trucks expands production of powertrain components in the USA

• Detroit: Launch of localized series production of the DT12 automated transmission for the NAFTA market
• Future production of new DD5 and DD8 medium-duty truck engines for North America also in Detroit
• Daimler Trucks invests $475 million and announces creation of approximately 330 new jobs in Detroit
• Dr. Bernhard, Member of the Board of Management, responsible for Daimler Trucks & Buses: “This is a major step in executing our global platform strategy. The decisions we announced today will make us even more competitive tomorrow.”

Detroit – Additional power for Daimler Trucks' business in the USA: At the plant of subsidiary “Detroit” in Redford, Detroit (Michigan), Dr. Wolfgang Bernhard, Member of the Daimler AG Board of Management, responsible for Daimler Trucks & Buses, today gave the starting signal for localized series production of the DT12 automated manual transmission. At the same time Dr. Bernhard told the assembled guests, including around 2.000 employees, that the new DD5 and DD8 engines from the medium-duty engine family for the NAFTA market would also be produced in Detroit effective 2018. With these steps, the world's most successful commercial vehicle manufacturer consequently continues to implement its global platform rollout.

 

One of Daimler Trucks' three strategic pillars is the use of intelligent platforms. This means: Proven platforms and modules like engines or transmissions are used in many different markets with vehicle-specific adaptations – across all commercial vehicle brands. The Daimler Trucks & Buses portfolio includes Mercedes-Benz trucks & buses, Setra, Freightliner, Western Star, BharatBenz, FUSO, and Thomas Built Buses. With its aggregate-brand “Detroit”, Daimler Trucks has been offering American customers a perfectly harmonized powertrain crafted with own engines, transmissions and axles. Having started this business in 2012, Daimler Trucks has been the first manufacturer in the North American market to offer an integrated powertrain manufactured under one roof.

 

“The success of our integrated powertrain for heavy-duty vehicles in the US is phenomenal: Already, over 40 percent of the Freightliner Cascadia models are supplied with the DT12 automated manual transmission. So, naturally, it makes sense to now also produce this bestseller locally. We are very proud to celebrate the production launch of the transmission with our highly motivated team here in Detroit. And I am really excited, that in the future we will also produce our medium duty engines DD5 and DD8 here,” said Dr. Wolfgang Bernhard. “This is a major step in executing our global platform strategy. The decisions we announced today will make us even more competitive tomorrow,” continues Dr. Bernhard.

 

$475 million investments in new transmission and engine production

Under the theme “Built in Detroit”, Michigan's Governor Rick Snyder and Daimler Trucks honored the production launch in the North American industrial metropolis. Daimler Trucks has invested $100 million in the new production of the DT12 automated manual transmission in Detroit. For this, Daimler Trucks is creating around 170 new jobs in the local area, making a major contribution to the revitalization of Detroit. For the development and production of the new DD5 and DD8 engines, Daimler Trucks will additionally invest over $375 million, creating approximately 160 more jobs locally.

Founded in 1938, the “Detroit” aggregate plant in Redford has been owned by Daimler AG since 2000. In an area covering more than 280,000 square meters some 2200 employees produce engines, transmissions and axles for Daimler Trucks' American commercial vehicle-brands.

 

Integrated powertrain is gaining a competitive edge

In the commercial vehicle business, the powertrain – comprising engine, transmission and axles – is a decisive factor for both the manufacturer’s and customer’s economic success due to its share of the added value in truck construction, which amounts to in excess of 50 percent. Unlike in Europe, it is quite common in the North American commercial vehicle market that the customer has third party aggregates in their trucks. Here Daimler Trucks' global powertrain strategy approaches successfully: The fully integrated powertrain offers clear cost and efficiency advantages for both sides and guarantees the lowest Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) for the hauliers. The DT12 transmission – smartly steered by the Detroit Intelligent Powertrain Management – achieves up to three percent better fuel consumption compared with a conventional manual transmission. The customers in North America are convinced. Thanks to the high demand, Daimler Trucks has succeeded in further strengthening its position as the market leader in the USA this year: In the first ten months of the year, its market share grew to approximately 40 percent (Class 6-8).

 

DT12 automated manual transmission

The DT12 heavy-duty automated transmission used in the Freightliner Cascadia and Western Star 5700 XE heavy-duty trucks is extremely popular in North America. Whereas US truckers traditionally used to shift manually, Daimler Trucks has truely revolutionized this market with its North American truck brands Freightliner and Western Star: By 2015 already, over 40 percent of all Freightliner Cascadia models in the NAFTA market were sold with the DT12 transmission. With local production of the DT12 transmission, previously sourced from the Mercedes-Benz plant in Gaggenau / Baden, Germany, Daimler Trucks can now respond more quickly to the rising demand in North America. Furthermore, customers of Daimler Trucks North America benefit from faster delivery times. Daimler Trucks continues to supply its Detroit facility with component parts for the transmission assembly out of Gaggenau.

 

New medium-duty engines

The new DD5 and DD8 engines are an additional proof of the successful Daimler Trucks strategy of developing aggregates for worldwide use and then adapting them locally. Both engines are from the Medium Duty Engine Generation (MDEG), which Daimler Trucks has developed in Germany to comply with the demanding Euro VI emissions standard. As of their market launch in 2016, the DD5 and DD8 engines will therefore also comply with the NAFTA standard for greenhouse gas emissions (GHG17) a year before it comes into force. The medium-duty four- and six-cylinder engines use standardized components such as the cylinder head, cylinder block, connecting rods and camshaft. In the future both engines will be used in the entire product portfolio of Daimler Trucks North America. Up until the production launch in Detroit scheduled for 2018, the engines will be supplied from the Mercedes-Benz aggregate-plant in Mannheim, Germany.

 

Global Powertrain: Drive for growth in the commercial-vehicle business

“Our customers know that, with engines, transmissions and axles 'built in Detroit', they get the best powertrain components, fully integrated and perfectly harmonized,” emphasizes Dr. Frank Reintjes, Head of Global Powertrain & Manufacturing Engineering Trucks.

The Daimler Trucks Global Powertrain plants in Mannheim, Gaggenau, Kassel and Detroit produce powertrain components for the Daimler Trucks vehicles worldwide. Additionally Daimler Trucks also manufactures aggregates at its facilities in Juiz de Fora (Brazil), Oragadam (India) and Kawasaki (Japan). Furthermore, Global Powertrain manufactures aggregates and components for Mercedes-Benz passenger cars and third-party customers. In addition, the division is responsible for production and network planning at all Daimler Trucks production sites.

 

About Daimler Trucks North America

Daimler Trucks North America LLC based in Portland, Oregon, is the leading manufacturer of heavy-duty trucks in North America. DTNA produces and sells commercial vehicles of the Freightliner, Western Star and Thomas Built Buses brands. The DTNA production network stretches across nine sites. In addition to the headquarters and assembly plant in Portland (Oregon), there are four production plants in North Carolina (Cleveland, Gastonia, High Point and Mount Holly) plus one production plant each in Detroit (Michigan) and Gaffney (South Carolina). DTNA has two further production plants in Mexico (Saltillo and Santiago Tianguistenco).

Knapheide Contractor Grade Dump Bodies

HEAVY-DUTY DUMP FOR THE HEAVY-DUTY APPLICATIONS

For years, contractors have leaned on the Knapheide Drop Side Contractor Body to handle the heavy-duty jobs. Knapheide's Drop Side Contractor Bodies have everything a contractor needs including drop sides with cheater boards for increased load capacity, a double-acting tailgate for both drop down and spreader applications, behind the cab trip lever for quick access to dumping operation and an aerodynamic tapered bulkhead for improved visibility. Standard body lengths stretch from 12' up to 18' for one ton up to medium-duty chassis. Carry up to six cubic yards of bulk material in one load with a Drop Side Contractor Body.

Find out more at: https://www.knapheide.com/dump-bodies/heavy-drop-side-contractor-bodies-p24

RAM | Driven to Succeed | EMRGE Supply Co.

RAM | ProMaster City | http://www.ramtrucks.com/en/city | Inspired by their shared passion for electronic music and culture, friends Seth, Alex, and Ryan launched EMRGE Supply Co., a clothing and lifestyle company. Tag along as the guys load up their products in the all new 2015 RAM ProMaster City and hit the road for one of the country’s biggest music festivals.

"The Big Boy" of Commercial Trucks: The F-550 HD Payload Pkg

Please turn sound up

Paul Brown of Geweke Ford in Yuba City CA shows us what he calls, "the Big Boy" in commercial trucks. This is the Super Duty F-550 HD chassis with the payload upgrade to 19,500 lbs. GVWR, and GCWR tow maximum of 33,000 lbs. If you have heavy equipment and tow as well, this truck has the stuff. The body mounted on this chassis is a Scelzi 12' Combo Body. The Combo Body has a work platform on the rear that is the perfect height to work from in the field. A lot of contractors prefer the combo body for that very reason.

You can see more on the specs of this body on the Scelzi website as http://www.seinc.com/truck-bodies/com..., and more about Geweke Ford at http://www.geweketrucks.com

GMC Introduces 2017 Canyon Denali

Exclusive design cues, content elevate industry’s 

first premium midsize truck

DETROIT – Denali is the ultimate expression of GMC’s professional grade style, luxury and capability – and it is coming to the Canyon midsize truck.

The 2017 Canyon Denali is being introduced today, ahead of its public debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show. It goes on sale in late 2016.

“Canyon is the segment’s first and only premium midsize truck, offering unparalleled capability and efficiency matched with maneuverability and refinement,” said Duncan Aldred, vice president of GMC Sales and Marketing. “The all-new Canyon Denali builds on that award-winning combination with the distinctive styling, luxurious interior and elevated content that has defined the Denali nameplate since its introduction nearly 17 years ago.” 

Like all Denali models, the new Canyon Denali is distinguished with a unique chrome grille and unique wheels – 20-inch ultra-bright-machined aluminum wheels with painted accents. Exterior cues include chrome fog lamp bezels, five-inch-diameter rectangular chrome assist steps, a polished exhaust tip and a standard spray-in bed liner.

The Canyon Denali will be offered in six exterior colors.

Inside, a Jet Black interior features Mulan leather-appointed seats with perforated, heated-and-ventilated front seats – exclusive content in the Canyon lineup – along with unique instrument panel and console trim; and Denali-logo sill plates and floor mats. 

Standard technologies include Forward Collision Alert and Lane Departure Warning. Additional standard features include:
•    Heated steering wheel
•    GMC IntelliLink with Navigation, an eight-inch-diagonal color touchscreen and phone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
•    OnStar 4G LTE connectivity with a Wi-Fi hotspot
•    Automatic climate control
•    Full-color driver information center
•    Remote vehicle starter system
•    Two USB charging ports on the rear of the center console ad another USB port inside the console.

The Canyon Denali is offered on crew cab models and in two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive configurations. Powertrains include a standard 3.6L V-6 that tops competitors’ V-6 offerings with up to 7,000 pounds (3,175 kg) of maximum trailering and an Environmental Protection Agency-estimated 26 mpg highway on 2WD models.

Also available is the all-new 2.8L Duramax turbo-diesel, which includes a maximum trailering rating of up to 7,700 pounds (3,493 kg) and EPA-estimated fuel economy of 31 mpg highway (2WD). It is the cleanest diesel truck engine ever produced by General Motors and meets some of the toughest U.S. emissions standards, thanks in part to a cooled exhaust gas recirculation system.

The engine is paired with the Hydra-Matic 6L50 six-speed automatic transmission, which uses a unique Centrifugal Pendulum Vibration Absorber in the torque converter to reduce powertrain noise and vibration.

Diesel models also feature smart diesel exhaust braking and an integrated trailer brake controller. Smart diesel exhaust braking enhances vehicle control and reduces brake wear by varying the amount of brakes needed for the vehicle, load and grade. The integrated trailer brake controller system works with the anti-lock brake system to provide immediate and measured brake force with the electronically controlled trailer brake system.

Critical acclaim
In 2015, Canyon won Cars.com Midsize Pickup Challenge for its segment-leading capabilities and efficiency, including the latest in safety features, cargo-hauling and trailering versatility. Autoweek named Canyon as the “Best of the Best Truck for 2015,” while WardsAuto recognized the Canyon as one of its 10 Best Interiors for 2015, based on criteria including design harmony, ergonomics, materials, driver information, safety and comfort.

Elevation of luxury
Named for Mount Denali, the highest peak in North America, the GMC Denali brand represents the pinnacle of luxury, design and performance – the ultimate expression of professional grade.

GMC’s top-of-the-line models include the signature Denali chrome grille – premium materials and the latest safety and infotainment technology. Features such as a 10-inch reconfigurable instrument cluster on the Yukon Denali series and Magnetic Ride Control on Sierra Denali are exclusive to their respective vehicle segment.

The luxury-focused Denali models outsell the entire product lines of some of the most aspirational marques, including Land Rover, Jaguar and Porsche, with almost 60 percent of all GMC Yukon/Yukon XL models and more than 45 percent of Sierra HD sold wearing the Denali badge.

Overall, Denali vehicles have accounted for about 25 percent of all GMC retail sales in 2015 and more than 850,000 have been sold since the nameplate was introduced on the 1999 Yukon. 

GMC has manufactured trucks since 1902, with innovation and engineering excellence built into all GMC vehicles. The brand is evolving to offer more fuel-efficient trucks and crossovers, including the Terrain small SUV and Acadia crossover. GMC’s highest-volume vehicle, the Sierra pickup, is the most powerful light-duty pickup on the market, and the first full-size pickup to receive the highest-possible five-star Overall Vehicle Score for safety since the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration changed its New Car Assessment Program for the 2011 model year. Details on all GMC models are available at http://www.gmc.com/, on Twitter at @thisisgmc or at http://www.facebook.com/gmc.

2017 Ford F-Series Super Duty: Detailed First Look

At the Texas State Fair, the all-new 2017 Ford F-Series Super Duty F-250, F-350, and F-450 trucks were unveiled. Get your detailed first look inside and out, engines, and features.

Auto news with a reality check! New car, truck, SUV and crossover test drives, reviews and news posted daily!

Scelzi 16' Flatbed w/Aluminum Floor on F550

Kent Fry, Commercial Accounts Manager, shows off a HD F550 chassis with a 16' Scelzi Flatbed. This chassis has 19,500 GVWR and is designed to carry the weight. The flatbed has an aluminum floor for light weight, durability, and longevity. It is slightly ribbed to allow moving loads easily. The body comes with tie downs under the side rails, and doc bumper and trailer hitch receiver, as well as underbed tool boxes mounted toward the front.

See more at www.FairfieldWorkTrucks.com or call Kent at 707-337-2921 for more information.

Protect your cab and light up the cargo space with a Harbor Cab Protector

Harbor Truck bodies now offers a cab shield for service body products. This great new product keeps the cab protected and provides allows a mount for optional cargo lighting.

Find out more at: http://htbi.net/

Ford E-350 Cutaway with Knapheide KUV Low Roof Truck Body

Kent Fry gives us a tour of the E-350 Cutaway chassis with a Knapheide KUV plumber style body mounted on it. This one is a low roof so it can access parking garages. The body length is 129" so it can accommodate 10' pipe inside the body.

Call 707-421-3300 and ask for Kent Fry or the Commercial/Fleet Department, and see more at www.FairfieldWorkTrucks.com

Ford Uses Allen Park Climatic Wind Tunnel to Prepare Vehicles for Winter

DEARBORN, Mich., Nov. 13, 2015 – With Old Man Winter on his way, Ford vehicles are ready to meet the harsh demands of extreme cold and heavy snow. That, in large part, is thanks to the company’s climatic wind tunnel, which tests the winter-readiness and reliability of Ford vehicles in blizzard-like conditions. Ford moved snow testing to the Allen Park, Michigan facility in 2006.

Engineers bring the outdoors in

The climatic wind tunnel allows Ford to take cold weather testing off the roads and conduct it inside, where engineers can replicate wintry conditions year-round. At the facility, all Ford vehicles – from F-150 to Fiesta – are subjected to worst-case winter scenarios so they are prepared to navigate snowstorms.

Engineers simulate conditions from extreme freezing to blistering desert temperatures, from as low as minus 40 degrees Fahrenheit to as high as 130 degrees Fahrenheit. Wind testing conditions can reach hurricane-like speeds of up to 125 mph, blowing snow at the front of the vehicle to simulate a blizzard.

To simulate worst-case scenarios, Ford vehicles are required to carry a full load of passengers and cargo. Some are made to tow heavy loads in these conditions.

Since snow can choke a vehicle’s engine, engineers continuously monitor air intake. The team also checks whether shift linkages freeze up, and where on the vehicle snow accumulates.

Besides a four-hour test in the climatic wind tunnel, Ford vehicles also undergo two days of snow-related testing in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, near Sault Ste. Marie.

Equipped for slip

Ford prepares its vehicles to conquer winter with a stellar set of features, including a heated steering wheel, and heated front and rear seats available for Ford Explorer, as well as front and rear camera washers.

What’s more, Explorer’s intelligent four-wheel drive with Terrain Management System™ reassesses conditions about 20 times faster than the blink of an eye, providing precise handling and traction. The driver uses a dial on the center console to shift on the fly, selecting among four terrain management modes – normal, sand, mud and, of course, snow.

Ultimately, these features, along with the performance and endurance tests all Ford vehicles undergo, help ensure each one will perform safely and reliably – no matter the weather.

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 197,000 employees and 67 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford and its products worldwide, please visit www.corporate.ford.com.

Ford Named U.S. News & World Report 2016 Best Truck Brand

DEARBORN, Mich., Nov. 13, 2015 – U.S. News & World Report has named Ford its Best Truck Brand for 2016. F-Series has been the top-selling truck in the United States for 38 consecutive years and the best-selling vehicle for 33 consecutive years.
F-Series continues to innovate, thanks to breakthrough towing technology, new Special Edition Appearance Packages, SYNC^® 3 in-vehicle connectivity and alternative fuel capability. All-new, segment-first Pro Trailer Backup Assist^™ available for the 2016 F-150 makes it easier for drivers, no matter their skill level, to back a trailer up.

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 197,000 employees and 67 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford and its products worldwide, please visit www.corporate.ford.com.

New GM Wind Tunnel Accelerates Fuel-Saving Designs

Expanded testing capacity for quieter vehicles 

and lower operating cost 

WARREN, Mich. – General Motors is now able to accelerate and verify fuel-saving designs earlier in development of new cars and trucks thanks to a new reduced scale wind tunnel test facility on the campus of the company’s Technical Center.

GM’s new, 35,000-square-foot Reduced Scale Wind Tunnel aerodynamically tests clay models up to 40 percent of the scale of a vehicle. It is equipped with a conveyor-style rolling road system that simulates real-world highway driving conditions up to a top speed of 155 mph. Testing reduced-sized vehicles on a simulated road allows GM aerodynamic engineers to reduce wind drag in a  full-size vehicle design.

Advanced 3D printing machines create underbodies and engine blocks that are detailed and to scale for the reduced sized clay models. Working suspensions with spinning wheels allow aerodynamic engineers to better examine how airflow affects a vehicle’s underbody while in motion, resulting in quieter cars and trucks that can cost customers less to operate.

The new aerodynamic test facility is located next to GM’s full-scale wind tunnel that has been in operation since 1980. Together, the facilities give GM a competitive advantage in testing capacity and capabilities.
The original full-scale wind tunnel will be upgraded next year with its own full-scale rolling road system and other improvements.

“The combined capabilities of our new reduced-scale and full-scale wind tunnels allow us to reach industry-leading levels of aerodynamic refinement,” said Ken Morris, vice president, GM Global Product Integrity. “We view the new $30 million reduced scale wind tunnel as an investment towards a better, more energy-efficient future.”

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, its subsidiaries and joint venture entities sell vehicles under the Chevrolet, Cadillac, Baojun, Buick, GMC, Holden, Jiefang, Opel, Vauxhall and Wuling brands. 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. 

Cargo Vans: Prosperity as a Problem

Here is a link to a great article covering the gamut of what is going on in the cargo van market, and providing much detail from Work Truck Magazine:



Cargo Vans: Prosperity as a Problem

Nor-Cal Vans and Ford Transit Make It Easy To Move People Around

David Harvey or Nor-Cal Vans shows off the comfort and luxury of the interior of a new Ford Transit Passenger Van with some conversions for convenience by Nor-Cal Vans, such as a bus-style door to make entry and exit a breeze.

This unit is perfect for use by large businesses who have campuses and need to transport small groups from one venue to another, or livery companies, shuttle bus buyers, resort and hotels, and hundreds of other uses where there is a need to move people around in a vehicle. This unit is so much less expensive than going with the typical cutaway chassis and shuttle bus style body mounted to it. This is mostly a Ford product that has been only lightly modified to make it more useful in these market segments.

See more at http://www.NorCalVans.com

DECKED Pickup Truck Bed Storage System Features & Benefits Video

A helpful features and benefits video of the award-winning DECKED pickup truck bed storage system, winner of the SEMA 2015 Best New Product Award.

Huge Benefits of Ford Transit Cutaway with Service Body

Please turn sound up.

Paul Brown of Geweke Ford in Yuba City CA shows off a new kind of service body work truck with numerous benefits over a conventional cab. As an example, in the same approximate space as an F250 with an 8' service body, this Transit Cutaway Chassis sports a 10.5' Service Body, a shorter turning radius, lower entry height, lower service body height, better fuel economy, smoother ride, more room in the cab, more glass area to see better, less expensive service items like tires, etc., and the list goes on.

See more at http://www.geweketrucks.com

9' Steel Dump w/Many Options On F450 Gas Chassis

Kent Fry shows off a interesting truck. This is a 9' 2-3 Yard Steel Dump Body mounted on an F450 60" CA gas chassis. The Dump Body has several options such as a PullTarps roll up tarp to cover the load, fold-down sides so that you can load with a forklift or off-load easily over either side. It also has a dual acting tailgate that can fold-down like a tailgate on a pickup to extend the length of the bed temporarily. In addition, the tailgate has a coal chute opening, sometimes called a grain chute, a class IV receiver and trailer plug, and an underbed box on the curbside.

The body is mounted on a gas F450 chassis. This saves a lot of money over the more common diesel, yet for this customer, the vehicle will be used within the county and saving on the overall cost was helpful.

To see more, go to http://www.FairfieldWorkTrucks.com, or call Kent Fry at 707-337-2921.

New Ford SYNC Connect Technology: Owners Can Lock, Unlock, Start, Locate Vehicle Using Smartphone

•    Building on SYNC®, Ford adds connected vehicle capability with new SYNC Connect, enabling drivers to access their vehicles using a smartphone app
•    New Escape is the first Ford vehicle in the world with available SYNC Connect, helping owners interact with their vehicle from anywhere; technology debuts in the spring, allowing users to unlock doors, check fuel level, even locate where a vehicle is parked
•    SYNC Connect comes with complimentary five years of service

LOS ANGELES, Nov. 17, 2015 – With SYNC® Connect, Ford is enhancing its connected car capability – now making it easier for customers to use by providing remote access to their vehicle features via a smartphone app.

“New SYNC Connect provides convenience to Ford owners through an easy-to-use app,” said Don Butler, executive director, Ford Connected Vehicle and Services. “The technology helps you seamlessly integrate your vehicle into your lifestyle. Get locked out? Cold outside? Forget where you parked? No problem. Just use your smartphone.”
SYNC Connect makes its global debut in the spring in the new Ford Escape, with other vehicles to follow. The app is connected to a built-in modem in the vehicle – allowing owners to remotely access features via their smartphones.

Vehicle features SYNC Connect users can remotely access are:
•    Lock and unlock
•    Remote start, including scheduling a future start: You need to leave at 8 a.m., so you program a remote start for 7:50 a.m., then get in to a running, warm car and drive away comfortably and on time
•    Vehicle status, including fuel, oil and battery levels, along with tire pressure readings
•    Vehicle location – where your car is parked is displayed on a map

Owners enable SYNC Connect through a two-step authentication process to protect personal information, confirming setup on the vehicle touch screen and on the mobile application.
SYNC Connect plays a key role in Ford Smart Mobility – Ford’s plan to deliver the next level in connectivity, mobility, autonomous vehicles, the customer experience and big data. The technology provides the next step forward in enhanced vehicle connectivity, and the foundation for greater capabilities in the future.

SYNC Connect comes with complimentary service from Ford for five years.
Now in 12 million vehicles globally, Ford SYNC is the industry’s first system to widely and most affordably offer voice-activated technology to control smartphones. New-generation SYNC 3 features fast performance, conversational voice recognition, smartphone-like touch screen, and easy-to-understand graphical interface for a growing number of Ford vehicles in North America.

About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 197,000 employees and 67 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford and its products worldwide, please visit www.corporate.ford.com.

Why the Ford Transit Makes A Better Service Body Truck

Mike Lopez of Royal Truck Body shows us many reasons why the Ford Transit Cutaway Chassis with a 10.5' Royal Service Body may be a better choice than the conventional F250 or F350 chassis.

Some of these features are, the cab feels roomier, more options are available, much more glass area, great mirrors, rides less like a heavy duty truck, handles extremely well, rear vision is excellent, the chassis sits lower to the ground so entry and exit are easier, the body sits lower to the ground so you get a full size body but you don't have to be 6' 3" to see inside the open top lids. This units sits in about the same space as an F250 with an 8' service body and yet this has a 10.5' body with deeper compartments too. Getting in and out of the back of the body is easier too. The list goes on.

See more about Royal at http://www.RoyalTruckBody.com

This video was shot at a Nor Cal Ford Truck Club event in October 2015

Snow Plowing Darth Dually with Snowdogg V Plow Pushing Wet Snow

Pushing some wet snow with the Snowdogg V Plow and Darth Dually

2016 Sierra 1500 Offers New Look, Advanced Engineering

New, premium styling cues, technologies complement crafted interior 

DETROIT – With exterior design the top draw for customers to the Sierra 1500, GMC’s best-selling truck rolls into 2016 with a fresh appearance that takes its signature premium styling to a higher level – and offers new, advanced engineering features designed to complement its crafted interior.

Greater visual distinction among Sierra models and some special equipment packages, such as the Elevation and All Terrain, are new for 2016, which also brings significant lighting technology upgrades. Highlights include:
•    New headlamps with GMC signature LED lighting on all models
•    High-Intensity Discharge (HID) projector-beam headlamps with LED signature standard on base model, SLE and SLT
•    Thin-profile LED foglamps standard on SLT, All Terrain and Sierra Denali
•    High-performance LED headlamps with LED signature standard on Sierra Denali and available on SLT
•    New grille design with specific appearance for base model, Elevation, SLE, SLT, All Terrain and Sierra Denali
•    LED taillamps standard on SLT, All Terrain and Sierra Denali.

Advanced engineering in the 2016 Sierra is manifested in next-generation technologies such as Lane Keep Assist, which helps keep the truck in its lane with subtle steering enhancements, and IntelliBeam headlamp control, which automatically adjusts the high beams for oncoming traffic. Both are added to the Driver Alert Package available on SLT and Sierra Denali models.

Additionally, new power-articulating assist steps are available on Sierra Denali, which makes entry and egress easier.

The 2016 Sierra’s new technologies also include phone integration via GMC IntelliLink, which enhances connectivity and promotes safer driving. It allows smartphone users to connect with applications such as navigation, hands-free messaging and more through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Android Auto is standard on a new radio with a seven-inch-diagonal screen at the start of production and is coming to available eight-inch radios later in the model year.

Additional new and revised features for 2016 include:
•    Hydra-Matic 8L90 eight-speed automatic transmission now available with the 5.3L V-8 engine on SLT and Sierra Denali
•    Wireless phone charging is included on all models with front bucket seats
•    Available remote locking tailgate
•    New, available 20-inch chrome-clade aluminum wheel design
•    Exterior colors: Crimson Red Tintcoat, Cardinal Red, Mahogany Metallic and White Frost Tintcoat.

What hasn’t changed with the Sierra is its high level of capability. The available NHT max trailering package, for example, features a 9.76-inch rear axle, heavy-duty rear springs, unique shock tuning, enhanced cooling and an integrated trailer brake controller. It enables a maximum payload rating of 2,260 pounds (1,025 kg) and a maximum trailering rating of 12,000 pounds (5,443 kg).

Sierra 1500 lineup
The 2016 Sierra 1500 range includes regular cab and two four-door cabs – the double cab and crew cab – body styles, all offered with 4WD. Models and trim levels include the base model, SLE, SLT and Denali – with regular cab offered only in standard and SLE trims and Denali offered exclusively as a crew cab. Elevation Edition and All Terrain packages are available.

Sierra Denali is the only full-size truck to offer Magnetic Ride Control real-time damping; and with the available 6.2L V-8, eight-speed automatic transmission and new connectivity features, it retains its position as the most refined, technically advanced truck on the market. 

Regular cab models are offered with a 6’6” box or an eight-foot box. Double cab models are available exclusively with the 6’6” box, while crew cabs are available with a 5’8” box or the 6’6” box. A range of powerful and efficient EcoTec3 engines supports the lineup, including a 4.3L V-6 rated at 285 hp (212 kW), a 5.3L V-8 rated at 355 hp (250 kW) and the 6.2L V-8 rated at 420 hp (313 kW) – the most powerful engine offered in a light-duty pickup truck. The 6.2L is backed by an eight-speed automatic transmission that is also available on some 5.3L-equipped models.

Click here for complete 2016 Sierra 1500 details.

GMC has manufactured trucks since 1902, with innovation and engineering excellence built into all GMC vehicles. The brand is evolving to offer more fuel-efficient trucks and crossovers, including the Terrain small SUV and Acadia crossover. GMC’s highest-volume vehicle, the Sierra pickup, is the most powerful light-duty pickup on the market, and the first full-size pickup to receive the highest-possible five-star Overall Vehicle Score for safety since the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration changed its New Car Assessment Program for the 2011 model year. Details on all GMC models are available at http://www.gmc.com/, on Twitter at @thisisgmc or at http://www.facebook.com/gmc.

GMC Canyon Diesel: Best Pickup Fuel Economy – Period.

Segment-best efficiency complements segment-leading 7,700-lb. trailering rating

  

DETROIT – With efficiency that complements its leading capability, the all-new 2016 GMC Canyon diesel is rated at a segment-topping 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway in two-wheel drive – or 25 mpg combined – according the U.S Environmental Protection Agency.

Canyon diesel four-wheel drive models are rated at 20 city and 29 highway – and 23 mpg combined.

In addition to the fuel economy ratings, the EPA has issued a “Certificate of Conformity” for the GMC Canyon diesel. The agency expressed no issues or concerns following its recent, extensive testing and evaluation of the emission control system on the Canyon diesel.

“GMC Canyon is designed for those who want a smart-sized premium pickup that is quiet, capable and efficient and the new Duramax diesel engine gives customers another choice for handling heavier work and recreational needs – while doing it efficiently,” said Duncan Aldred, vice president of GMC Sales and Marketing. “It’s the very definition of GMC’s professional grade ethos.”

The Canyon diesel’s fuel economy is not only segment-best, it tops all full-size truck mileage ratings while offering a higher trailering rating than all 2015 Ram 1500 V-6 models and some 5.7L V-8 models, as well as the 2105 Ford F-150 equipped with the 3.5L naturally aspirated V-6 – and even the 2015 Nissan Titan S model with the 5.6L V-8.

The diesel’s efficiency also means it can go farther between fill-ups. With its 21-gallon fuel tank, it offers an estimated highway-driving range of up to 651 miles.

Duramax details

Canyon’s all-new 2.8L Duramax turbo-diesel engine generates 181 horsepower (135 kW) and 369 lb-ft of torque (500 Nm) to enable trailering ratings of 7,700 pounds (3,492 kg) on 2WD models and 7,600 pounds (3,447 kg) for 4WD models – ratings unmatched by other midsize competitors.

The Duramax 2.8L has been certified to the cleanest standards of any diesel truck ever produced by GM and meets tough U.S. emissions standards largely with a cooled exhaust gas recirculation system. It is also B20-capable.

Additionally, a variable-geometry turbocharger helps optimize power and efficiency across the rpm band and a balance shaft contributes to smoothness.

The engine is paired with the Hydra-Matic 6L50 six-speed automatic transmission, which uses a unique Centrifugal Pendulum Vibration Absorber in the torque converter to reduce powertrain noise and vibration.

Canyon diesel models also feature a diesel exhaust brake and an integrated trailer brake controller. The exhaust brake enhances vehicle control and can reduce brake wear. It uses engine compression to slow the truck down, reducing the amount of conventional braking needed while traveling downhill. The integrated trailer brake controller system works with the anti-lock brake system to provide immediate and measured brake force, signaling to the electric-controlled trailer brake systems so there is no need for an aftermarket trailer brake controller.

Additionally, models equipped with 4WD feature a new, electronically controlled two-speed transfer case. A 3.42 rear axle ratio and four-wheel disc brakes with Duralife™ brake rotors are standard on all models.

The Canyon diesel goes on sale this fall, offered on SLE and SLT Crew Cab models. It is priced $3,730 more than a comparably equipped V-6 model. Diesel models will require the available trailering package, which includes a hitch receiver and seven-pin connector, as well as the segment-exclusive automatic locking rear differential.

Critical acclaim

In 2015, Canyon won Cars.com Midsize Pickup Challenge for its segment-leading capabilities and efficiency, including the latest in safety features, cargo-hauling and trailering versatility. Cars.com also applauded the Canyon SLT, the segment’s only premium vehicle, for its performance with a full load, as well as its design and high-end materials.

Autoweek also honored Canyon as the “Best of the Best Truck for 2015,” while WardsAuto recognized the Canyon as one of Ward’s 10 Best Interiors for 2015, based on criteria such as design harmony, ergonomics, materials, driver information, safety and comfort.

GMC has manufactured trucks since 1902, with innovation and engineering excellence built into all GMC vehicles. The brand is evolving to offer more fuel-efficient trucks and crossovers, including the Terrain small SUV and Acadia crossover. GMC’s highest-volume vehicle, the Sierra pickup, is the most powerful light-duty pickup on the market, and the first full-size pickup to receive the highest-possible five-star Overall Vehicle Score for safety since the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration changed its New Car Assessment Program for the 2011 model year. Details on all GMC models are available at http://www.gmc.com/, on Twitter at @thisisgmc or at http://www.facebook.com/gmc.

The Highs and Lows of the New Ford Transit Van

Kent Fry shows off the three different heights available on the new Ford Transit Van. Whatever your need, the Transit can help you get the job done.

Call 707-422-3300 and ask for Kent Fry or the Commercial/Fleet Department, and see more at www.FairfieldWorkTrucks.com

Why the Ford Transit Makes A Better Service Body Truck

David Harvey or Nor-Cal Vans shows off the comfort and luxury of the interior of a new Ford Transit Passenger Van with some conversions for convenience by Nor-Cal Vans, such as a bus-style door to make entry and exit a breeze.

This unit is perfect for use by large businesses who have campuses and need to transport small groups from one venue to another, or livery companies, shuttle bus buyers, resort and hotels, and hundreds of other uses where there is a need to move people around in a vehicle. This unit is so much less expensive than going with the typical cutaway chassis and shuttle bus style body mounted to it. This is mostly a Ford product that has been only lightly modified to make it more useful in these market segments.

See more at http://www.NorCalVans.com

2015 Ford F-150 Custom Trucks - SEMA Show

Several new custom 2015 Ford F-150's were on display at SEMA. We show them all in this video. Included are the 2015 Ford F-150 XLT SuperCrew (Silver/Green), 2015 Ford F-150 Platinum SuperCrew by A.R.E Accessories (Blue), 2015 Ford F-150 Platinum SuperCrew by MAD industries (White), 2015 Ford F-150 XLT SuperCrew Baja XT by Deser Designs (White). 2015 Ford F-150 XLT SuperCab Deegan 38 Edition by Brian Deegan/Chris Ross.(Baja XTR). 2015 Ford F-150 XLT SuperCrew Desert Survivor Edition by Nitto Tire (Red) and the 2015 Ford F-150 SuperCrew by Leer Truck Caps and Tonneaus with Forgiato Wheels.

Get the Crew To the Job and Get the Work Done Too!

Please turn sound up.

Paul Brown of Geweke Ford in Yuba City CA shows off an F350 Dually chassis with the Crew Cab configuration and the benefits of this setup. This unit also has a 10' Scelzi Contractor Body mounted on it. This combination makes an excellent work truck for any crew.

See more at www.geweketrucks.com

SEMA 2015: Chevrolet Silverado Special Ops Concept

From the 2015 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Mark Williams, of Pickuptrucks.com, takes a look at the Chevrolet Silverado Special Ops Concept. Check out more at www.pickuptrucks.com

Venco Venturo ET6K Electric Crane

The standard configuration for the ET6K includes a manual extension boom from six to 10 feet and hydraulic elevation from -5 to +75 degrees. The crane’s rating is 6,000 foot-pounds with a maximum lifting capacity of one ton – falling below the OSHA requirement for operator certification – making it exempt from OSHA 1926.1427 operator certification requirements.

The ET6K winch features a high-efficiency, heavy-duty three-stage electric planetary gear drive, 12V permanent magnet motor and dual braking systems, and comes standard with a capacity overload shut-off system, aircraft-quality wire rope, and remote control pendant.

Available options include radio remote control, anti two-block system which meets ANSI B30.5 safety standards, mounting pedestals for platform body applications, outriggers and jacklegs for a variety of truck bodies and an adjustable boom rest with a load block storage hook.

The ET6K is recommended for general service applications on any truck with a GVWR of 8,000 LBS or more.

- See more at: http://venturo.com/product/et6k/

Skirted Gooseneck Flatbeds

PGNC Gooseneck Bodies from Knapheide have distinct side-skirt styling with integrated front and rear toolboxes. The sleek yet functional design provides storage for tools, chains, tie-down straps and more. Unlike the competition, Knapheide fully immerses all Gooseneck Bodies, including the PGNC, in an exclusive E-Coat prime paint system for the industry's best rust and corrosion protection. When you need a Gooseneck Body with proven performance, turn to the Knapheide PGNC Gooseneck Body.

Find out more at:  https://www.knapheide.com/gooseneck-bodies/pgnc-p19

Ford Transit with Bus Door Modification Saves Money, Time

Please turn sound up!

David Harvey of Nor-Cal Vans shows off a new Ford Transit with a bus door opening to make it easy to get in and out. What makes this particular unit effective is that almost all of the unit is stock Ford Transit, and the Nor-Cal Vans modifications work so well that this keeps the cost very low in comparison with the typical transit service bus, or commonly called a shuttle bus body mounted on a cutaway chassis.

See more at http://www.Nor-CalVans.com

This video was shot at a Nor Cal Ford Truck Club event in October 2015

A Fully Functional Ford F550 Work Truck - Crane/Welding Service Body

Here’s a very sharp and fully functional Ford F550 work truck outfitted with service body, crane and outriggers, welding and acetylene cutting equipment, air compressor, air hose reel, step bumper and a 2” receiver tube for towing.

If you are a work truck buff, this truck will definitely get your attention. This unit was built by Doering Equipment in Franklin, Massachusetts for use by the town of Franklin municipal sewer department.  It is a Standard Cab F550 chassis with an 84 inch cab-axle. It is an Auto Crane service body or crane style service body with plenty of cabinet space including the tall front cabinets for the gas bottles and tall tools, etc. The crane is mounted on the curbside rear corner and the Miller Welding machine and the VanAir air compressor with receiver tank are mounted street-side. Notice the great looking rear step bumper and recessed tow hitch.

Doering Equipment specializes in building and mounting work truck bodies for the municipal and utility market. They provide body installations on Light, Medium and Heavy-Duty truck chassis’. 

You may find Doering at: www.doeringeq.com
VanAir may be found at: http://www.vanair.com/
AutoCrane may be found at: http://www.autocrane.com/
Miller Welding equipment is found at: https://www.millerwelds.com/