3/31/11

toys cars TONKA TRUCKS & CAR COLLECTION ''1950 '60'70'80'90' 2000''Vin...


I'm sure I got my passion for commercial trucks when I was very young in the mid-1950's playing with my Tonka trucks. I used to spend hours with them in total enjoyment. Give me some dirt and sand and my trucks and I could be there all day. . .

3/30/11

The First US-made Nissan Commercial Vehicle - 2012 Nissan NV Job One Web...


Webcast of the first US-made NV van for Nissan Commercial Vehicles from the Canton, Mississippi plant January 19, 2011. In attendance at the ceremony were Nissan Americas Chairman Carlos Tavares, Nissan Manufacturing and Purchasing Senior Vice President Bill Krueger, Nissan Manufacturing Canton Vice President Dan Bednarzyk, Nissan Commercial Vehicles Vice President Joe Castelli, Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour and Mississippi Development Authority Executive Director Gray Swoope.

3/28/11

Harbor Truck Bodies Announces New A-OK Option For All One Key (Single Key) Operation



Harbor Truck Bodies announces a wonderful option for our service body and tool box products: The A-OK Lock System, or the All One Key Lock System. This is a new lock cylinder of high quality components manufactured by Bolt Locks, part of Strattec. These locks are also available in padlock form and the video below shows how those operate. The locks shown above operate in the same way. Once the ignition key is inserted and twisted, the lock remembers only that key and then you can use your ignition key for all the locks on the service/utility body. Think how great it will be to only need to use that one key for your truck and all the doors on the service body! No more fumbling for the right keys.

Call Harbor at 800-433-9452 for more information on this exciting option--the A-OK Lock System.


3/27/11

BOLT featured on "Successful Farming Show"


BOLT was featured on "Successful Farming Show" episode 313 in there "cool tool" segment. The show airs on cable channel RFD TV on DirecTV channel 345 and DISH Network channel 231.

3/26/11

Canada Post receives fully-electric delivery vehicle


Canada Post on December 16, 2010 became the recipient of the first of ten Transit Connect Electric commercial delivery vehicle in Canada. The all-electric commercial van, built on the Ford Transit Connect vehicle body and equipped with Azure Dynamics' patented Force DriveTM battery electric powertrain is the first of ten zero-emission pure battery-powered vehicles

3/25/11

Casper's Truck Equipment Commercial


I don't see nearly enough of these truck body company/manufacturer commercials.

Nice work Caspers!

Casper's Truck Equipment
700 Randolph Drive
Appleton, WI 54913
877-422-7737

3/24/11

2012 Ram Chassis Cab Trucks Get Increased CapabilitiesGross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) increased to 30,000 lbs.



March 8, 2011 , Indianapolis - Ram Truck today announced that 2012 Ram 4500 and 5500 medium-duty (Class 4 and 5) Chassis Cab commercial trucks will be available with an optional 30,000-lb. gross combined weight rating (GCWR), an increase from 26,000 lbs.

“This is a direct benefit to our core customers in agriculture and the construction industries,” said Fred Diaz, President and CEO – Ram Truck Brand and Lead Executive for U.S. Sales, Chrysler Group LLC. “Essentially, this will help our ‘work truck’ work harder and meet our customers’ towing needs.”


30,000-lb. GCWR and Max Tow

The new Ram 4500/5500 Chassis Cab GCWR upgrade is part of an optional “Max Tow” package, and is available on both regular and crew cab models and in 4x2 and 4x4 configurations.

The Ram Max Tow package includes a new transfer case gear set and chain and sprocket upgrades, recalibrated transmission software and an enhanced collection of thermal management devices.

Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cab trucks come equipped with the proven, commercial-grade 305 horsepower (228 kW) @ 2,900 rpm and 610 lb.-ft. (827 N•m) @ 1,600 rpm 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel engine.

Max Tow is available on Ram Chassis Cab trucks equipped with the optional, commercial-grade Aisin six-speed automatic transmission and 4.88 rear-axle ratio. A 4.44 axle is standard on 4500 models and not available with the Max Tow package. A class-exclusive six-speed manual transmission is standard on Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cab models.

The 30,000-lb. GCWR gives the Ram Chassis Cab a 4,000-lb. increase in trailer-towing capabilities, up to a maximum of 22,300 lbs. on a Ram 4500 or 5500 Chassis Cab equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission and unsurpassed GCWR on Class 4 Chassis Cab trucks.

Ram 3500 Chassis Cab trucks are powered by the 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 and will add a new six-speed automatic transmission in 2012 that will increase GCWR to 20,000 lbs. – a 3,000-lb. increase -- as well as provide an increase in fuel economy. With a standard 383 horsepower, 400 lb.-ft. of torque 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine, the Ram 3500 Chassis Cab delivers best-in-class horsepower and torque. The Cummins Turbo Diesel is available an option on Ram 3500 Chassis Cab trucks.


Designed for Towing

Ram Chassis Cab trucks are specifically designed for towing, with features such as the strongest exhaust brake in the industry – 49 percent stronger than the nearest competitor -- and the largest brake rotors and pads in their class. Ram has also upgraded the trailer brake controller on Chassis Cab trucks to include electric over hydraulic capability, to further enhance its towing ability.

“Customers are always focused on towing more,” added Diaz. “It’s a simple matter of economics. More towing and payload means fewer loads. And fewer loads mean lower fuel bills. For commercial customers, cost of ownership is a primary consideration.”


Ram Chassis Cab Trucks Deliver Best-in-Class Performance

Ram Chassis Cab trucks offer class-leading performance in many key areas, including a best-in-class combination of brake pad wear, brake fade resistance and exhaust brake performance. They also deliver best-in-class fuel economy. In a recent head-to-head comparison, the Ram 5500 Chassis Cab was 10 percent more fuel efficient than its direct competitor – and that can add up to thousands of dollars a year in owner savings.

Among Ram’s best-in-class features:

  • Best-in-class standard Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 19,500 lbs.
  • Ram Chassis Cab brakes last twice as long as the competition under severe use
  • Ram Chassis Cab trucks have 160 percent less brake fade than the competition
  • Ram Chassis cab trucks stop in less distance in both wet and dry conditions when carrying a heavy payload
  • The Ram Chassis Cab’s diesel exhaust brake is more effective than the competition’s
  • Ram Chassis Cab offers a better turning radius – by 10 feet – than competitors
  • Ram Chassis Cab trucks offer the largest standard fuel tank – 52 gallons for superior operational range
  • Ram Chassis Cabs offer the lowest cost of ownership in the segment, based on significant owner expenses, including fuel economy, brake wear and tire wear
  • Ram Chassis Cab trucks come with the best powertrain warranty in the business: five years / 100,000 miles

Cummins Turbo Diesel

The Cummins Turbo Diesel engine, with its proven inline-six architecture and cast iron block and head, has been providing decades of reliable service in everything from agriculture and construction equipment to over-the-road heavy trucks.

Ram Trucks powered by Cummins diesel engines have been the benchmark of power, durability, reliability and fuel economy since 1989, the first model year that Ram offered the Cummins engine. This partnership is defined by more than two decades of long-lasting, hard-working history.

Cummins has produced over 1.7 million Cummins Turbo Diesel engines for Ram Trucks. Today, over 80 percent of Ram Heavy Duty truck customers purchase their truck with the legendary Cummins Turbo Diesel.


Upfitter Friendly

Maximum upfit-friendliness is achieved with industry-standard 34-inch frame rail spacing and flat, clean frame rails on a proven one-piece C-channel rear-frame rail boasting a best-in-class 50,000-psi steel strength. All chassis components are below the frame surface allowing easy adaptability and versatility for virtually any upfit application.

Further improving upfitter-friendliness, 2011 Ram 3500, 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs feature four all-new upfitter switches integrated on the instrument panel. Each of these four upfitter switches are linked to an auxiliary Power Distribution Center (PDC) located under the hood which includes one fused 20 amp battery feed and one fused relay-controlled 20 amp ignition. In addition to these feeds, the PDC supports four new customizable switches. Two switches are ignition-fed and the remaining two are either battery or ignition. Switch outputs are found under the hood in a connector for further ease of upfit. A seven-circuit trailer harness and a special upfitter jumper cable – a wiring harness for ancillary power needs -- are both standard.

Electrical connections are user-friendly thanks to one fused battery feed and one fused ignition feed routed into the cab and to the rear of the chassis. Upfitter wire circuits and electrical schematics are identified in the Body Builder Guide. With built-in tandem PTO capability, all models feature a heavy-duty cooling system in order to meet additional heat loads that are often generated from PTO upfits and/or extreme hauling.

A special capped auxiliary fuel line on the fuel tank makes upfitting even easier, facilitating the use of auxiliary equipment running on fuel. The fuel filler is routed through the frame and an optional 22-gallon mid-ship fuel tank frees up more space behind the rear axle for special upfit applications. Fuel and brake lines are routed together on the frame’s driver side to make better use of space along the frame, which also provides clearance for rear exhaust routing.

Ram Chassis Cab also employs an intelligently engineered, Cummins commercial-grade DEF system that is placed out of the way of upfit zones, saving time and money in the upfit process.


Special Paint Colors Available

Based on customer demand, the Ram Truck brand has added a number of special, low-volume paint colors, including “National Fire Safety Lime Yellow” to its commercial truck palette.

Ram Truck manufacturing operations can fulfill special paint orders with a minimum batch size of 10 trucks, although any one customer may order as few as a single vehicle.

Ram Truck offers the following special low-volume paint color options for 2500 through 5500 models: Black, Bright Red, Dark Brown, Detonator Yellow, Light Cream, Light Green, Omaha Orange, School Bus Yellow, Timberline Green Pearl, Yellow and National Fire Safety Lime Yellow.

The Ram Truck team is also in the process of introducing eight additional colors to the low-volume paint palette in the near future, which will bring the total to 29 available paint colors. The new colors, coming soon on Ram Heavy Duty and Chassis Cab trucks include: Case IH Red, Case Construction Power Tan, New Holland Agriculture Blue, New Holland Construction Yellow, D.T. Green, Green Angel, S.R. Green and Robin Egg Blue.


Programmable Features

For 2012, the Ram Chassis Cab has a customer-selectable maximum speed. Ram Chassis Cabs can be ordered from the factory with or programmed by a Ram Truck dealer at no charge with either 55, 60, 65, 70 or 75 mph speed limits. Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cab trucks have a best-in-class standard 87 mph top speed, an important feature for fire, ambulance and other safety and rescue roles.

A five-minute shutdown timer is also available.

The 2012 Ram Chassis Cab with Max Tow will reach dealerships in the third quarter of 2011. Max Tow pricing will be announced closer to launch.


About the Ram Truck brand

With a work-hard, play-hard attitude, the Ram Truck brand offers the boldest, most powerful and capable pickup truck lineup on the planet.

Introduced in 2008, the Ram 1500 is a game changer in terms of its ability to "outsmart" and "out-tough" the competition with its bold exterior design, crafted and refined interior, engineering excellence, superb innovation and best-in-class features and amenities.

The Ram Truck brand added to its award-winning truck lineup with the introduction of the 2010 Ram 2500 and 3500 Heavy Duty trucks. Ram heavy-duty trucks provide customers with first-time innovations and features along with new standards of strength, utility and drivability, building on the Ram's leadership in the heavy-duty pickup segment.

The Ram Truck brand is further enhancing its commercial vehicle presence with a "new crew" of commercial-grade work trucks: the new 2011 Ram 3500, 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs. Led by an all-new crew cab, the new 2011 Ram Chassis Cabs are built on a proven frame and chassis, and engineered for maximum uptime, optimum performance and enhanced commercial capability.


Business Link

With a network of more than 480 dealers, Ram Truck BusinessLink features dedicated commercial account managers and sales teams, priority next-bay service and maintenance, extended hours, free loaner vehicles and inventories with a higher mix of work trucks and commercial vehicles.


On The Job

The Ram Truck commercial vehicle program provides incentives and discounts to assist customers in purchasing, servicing and customizing their Ram Trucks. Small businesses can save big with On The Job allowances on all Ram Truck models:

  • Up to $1,000 commercial equipment upfit allowance
  • Up to $1,000 Chrysler Service Contract allowance
  • Up to $1,000 Mopar certificate allowance

Contact (877) ONTHEJOB or www.ramtrucks.com/commercial
Follow Ram and Chrysler Group LLC news and video on:

Chrysler Connect blog: http://blog.chryslergroupllc.com
Twitter: www.twitter.com/chrysler
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/pentastarvideo
Streetfire: http://members.streetfire.net/profile/ChryslerVideo.htm
Ram Trucks: http://www.ramtrucks.com
Ram Zone blog: http://www.ramzone.com

3/23/11

The Work Truck Show® 2011 Editors’ Choice Award Goes to Dakota Bodies


FARMINGTON HILLS, MI (March 22, 2011) — Dakota Bodies, Inc. (Watertown, SD) has won The Work Truck Show® 2011 Editors’ Choice Award for its new Component Body. Impressed by the Component Body’s flexibility and versatility, a panel of trade media editors and fleet managers attending the event named it the most innovative product introduced at the Show, which was held at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, IN, March 8-10.

The panel chooses the Editors’ Choice Award winner from products introduced through the Work Truck Show New Product Spotlight and New Product Media Guide programs. Judges selected the Component Body as the winner from a field of 90 entries. The Component Body is sold as a service body kit that upfitters can assemble in 16 different configurations to meet a customer’s specific needs. Components are huck-bolted together, making them easily interchangeable. The Component Body is available in galvanneal, aluminum or stainless steel, with a pre-assembled powder-coated finish.

The Component Body has advantages for both upfitters and end-users. Because a single kit can be configured into 16 different bodies, upfitters drastically reduce their inventory costs and are able to provide a customized body to end-users within a very short time. The Editors’ Choice Award judging panel was also impressed by the service and maintenance benefits of the Component Body. If a component gets damaged, it can be replaced, without the need to buy a whole new body.

“We are delighted to win the Editors’ Choice Award,” says Dan Dahl, sales manager for Dakota Bodies. “It’s very difficult as a body manufacturer to come up with a new product that will really grab the attention and satisfy the needs of a lot of people in this industry. We were really pleased with the large number of people who came to our Work Truck Show booth because they were very interested in the Component Body.”

The Work Truck Show 2011, North America’s largest work truck event, was held in conjunction with the 47th Annual NTEA Convention. Produced annually by the NTEA, the Work Truck Show showcases over 500,000 square feet of Class 1-8 vocational trucks and equipment. The event also features more than 40 educational and technical training programs. The Work Truck Show 2012 returns to the Indiana Convention Center. It will be held in conjunction with the 48th Annual NTEA Convention March 6-8, 2012, with educational sessions kicking off March 5. Online registration opens at NTEA.com in October. For more information, visit www.ntea.com or call 1-800-441-NTEA (6832).

For more information about Dakota Bodies, visit http://www.dakotabodies.com/.


NTEA, the association for the work truck industry, was established in 1964. The Association currently represents nearly 1,600 companies that manufacture, distribute, install, sell and repair commercial trucks, truck bodies, truck equipment, trailers and accessories. Buyers of work trucks and the major commercial truck chassis manufacturers also belong to the Association. NTEA provides in-depth technical information, education, and member programs and services, and produces The Work Truck Show. The Association maintains its administrative headquarters in suburban Detroit and a government relations office in Washington, DC.

3/22/11

The EarthCruiser - Serious Offroading In Luxury!


EarthCruiser is definitely not just a camper built on the back of a 4x4 truck. It is derived from personal experiences, a passion for excellence, comfort, and reliability and significant field testing. No other manufacturer can offer such a background of knowledge and research.

The EarthCruiser can be shipped anywhere in the world by standard container, offering home-away-from-home comfort on your expedition.

With its specially designed soft ride/hard road suspension kit and super-single 36 inch Michelin XZL tyres, the EarthCruiser is capable of negotiating long distance desert crossings and endless kilometres of corrugated and rough outback roads in comfort. At the end of the travelling day EarthCruiser can provide a hot shower, a cold drink from the fridge, and a comfortable bed for the night.

Found the perfect spot and wish to stay for a while? EarthCruiser will continue to deliver hot showers and cold drinks for as long as you have sun, water and diesel available.

Why limit your travels to one continent? EarthCruiser is easily containerised for international travel and our team will gladly pass on their experience and help you make international touring and exploration a reality.

The advantages of roaming the globe in EarthCruiser include:

  • Free and secure accommodation.
  • Good high driving position for sightseeing and safe touring.
  • Capability of handling a variety of terrain in comfort.
  • Great fuel economy and good distance achievable between fuel stops.
  • Self-sufficient in every respect- no gas or power connections needed.
  • Comfortable on road and at the end of the day.
  • The size of the vehicle is not too pretentious.

The EarthCruiser Expedition Vehicle is the first of its kind in the world and has been designed and built in Australia to meet the following very tight parameters:

  • Comfortable long distance driving.
  • The ability to survive arduous road conditions.
  • Great front and rear departure angles allowing GPS cross-country travel.
  • The 'living' section no higher or wider than the cab, allowing access down tight tracks, economical highway running, and containerisation for international travel.
  • Adequate storage for fuel, water, and provisions for extended travel away from supplies.
  • Energy 'self sufficient' for long, isolated stays.
  • The quality of the fittings, the luxury, and the comfort, must be equal to or better than home.
  • The all up weight is below 4500 Kg allowing operation on a standard drivers licence, lower registration costs, and a good power to weight ratio for real off-road ability and agility.
To see more about this exciting new truck, go to http://www.earthcruiser.com.au/.

3/21/11

NTEA 2011: First Look at the 2012 Ram C/V Cargo Van


PickupTrucks.com takes a look at Ram's latest addition to the lineup. It's the 2012 Ram C/V cargo van based on the Dodge Grand Caravan minivan.

3/20/11

Installation of a Sto-Away SR 7 on an F450


An installation of a Sto-away Power Crane SR 7 Model Bumper Crane on a Ford F450 with a Maintainer Service Body. See more aobut Sto-away Power Cranes at http://www.stowaway.com/.

3/19/11

STRATEGY: On People Turning 50


Tom Peters provides a compelling argument for marketing to the over-50 population, including this quote from Bill Novelli of AARP: "People turning fifty today have more than half of their adult life ahead of them." For more information, visit http://www.tompeters.com/.

3/18/11

3/17/11

The Work Truck Show® 2011 Breaks All Event Records. Attendance tops 10,000!






FARMINGTON HILLS, MI (March 16, 2011) —The Work Truck Show® 2011, held in conjunction with the 47th Annual NTEA Convention at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, IN, March 8-10, has broken all event records. Verified Show attendance was 10,020 — a 24 percent increase over 2010 and a 10 percent improvement over the previous record of 9,084 set in 2007. With an unprecedented 560 exhibitors occupying 16 percent more floor space than in 2010, the Work Truck Show 2011 was also the largest in the event’s 12-year history.

Produced annually by the NTEA, The Work Truck Show showcases over 500,000 square feet of Class 1-8 vocational trucks and equipment. The event also features more than 40 educational and technical training programs. Work truck professionals, including fleet managers, equipment buyers, maintenance personnel, manufacturers, distributors and dealers attend.

“This year’s record attendance demonstrates that the industry has made the Work Truck Show the must-attend event for everyone involved with vocational trucks and equipment,” says Jim Carney, NTEA executive director. “They recognize that this is their best opportunity to find the latest trucks and equipment, as well as industry-specific education and training. We had a great week in Indianapolis. The overall feeling was one of renewed optimism in the future of the industry.”

A major draw for event attendees was the large number of product introductions made at the Show. More than 85 products debuted. Seven OEMs used the Work Truck Show as a platform for significant product announcements. Hino Trucks chose The Work Truck Show 2011 as the venue to introduce its new cab-over-engine trucks. This was the first time Hino launched a truck outside of Japan. Mitsubishi Fuso Truck of America Inc. introduced its Canter line of trucks to North America. Western Star Trucks unveiled its all-new Class 8 vocational truck. Other major product launches came from Ford Commercial Truck, International Truck, Isuzu Commercial Truck of America Inc., Ram Trucks, Supreme Corporation, and Utilimaster Corporation.

“Green” was a prevailing theme at the Work Truck Show. Many products that improve work truck fuel utilization were introduced. Show attendees took advantage of the opportunity to test drive a record 21vehicles in the Green Truck Ride-and-Drive on March 8 and 9. The Green Truck Summit also had record participation. Verified attendance at the Green Truck Summit was 683, an increase of 21 percent over the 2010 Summit. This is the fifth year for the Summit, which is jointly produced by NTEA and CALSTART.

The Work Truck Show returns to the Indiana Convention Center next year, and booth space is already selling quickly! Mark your calendars for March 6-8, 2012, with educational sessions, including the Green Truck Summit, kicking off March 5. Online registration opens at NTEA.com in October.

For more information, visit www.ntea.com or call 1-800-441-NTEA (6832).

Established in 1964, NTEA is the leading association for the work truck industry. The Association currently represents nearly 1,600 companies that manufacture, distribute, install, sell and repair commercial trucks, truck bodies, truck equipment, trailers and accessories. Buyers of work trucks and the major commercial truck chassis manufacturers also belong to the Association. NTEA provides in-depth technical information, education, and member programs and services, and produces The Work Truck Show. The Association maintains its administrative headquarters in suburban Detroit and a government relations office in Washington, DC.

3/16/11

WEATHER GUARD | EZ-Glide® System Ladder Rack


The EZ-GLIDE® System Ladder Rack. The easiest, safest ladder rack available. Especially useful on tall high-roof model vehicles. See more at http://www.weatherguard.com/.

3/15/11

Ram Truck Unveils Cargo Van At NTEA Work Truck Show




  • Solid side panels and flat load floor tailored to small-business needs
  • Ram C/V offers best-in-class cargo space, payload and class-exclusive towing capability
  • Commercial-tuned ride and heavy-duty, load-leveling suspension maximize payload capability
  • Pentastar V-6 engine delivers best-in-class horsepower and torque
March 8, 2011 , Indianapolis - The Ram Truck Brand today unveiled its new 2012 Ram Cargo Van.

The Ram Cargo Van – or Ram C/V – features solid sliding door, rear quarter window and backlight privacy panels in place of clear glass windows. However, buyers have the option of equipping their Ram C/V with several combinations of solid and glass panels, including a choice of solid or glass backlight.

“We see growth in the Class 1 light commercial vehicle market,” said Fred Diaz, President and CEO – Ram Truck Brand and Lead Executive for U.S. Sales, Chrysler Group LLC. “With its class-leading capability and a lower total cost of ownership, the highly versatile Ram Cargo Van is a great vehicle choice for small businesses and commercial fleets.”

The Ram Cargo Van also receives a structural aluminum rear load floor. Two flooring options will be available, including one with a flat, uninterrupted, high-capacity surface. A second, optional floor provides through-the-floor access to three exclusive storage bins and load floor tie-downs.

With more than 25 years of minivan engineering behind it, and as the inventor of the first minivan-based cargo van, the Ram Truck brand understands the versatility needs for both small and large businesses. Ram C/V utilizes the convenience features and city-friendly dimensions that have made Chrysler Group minivans segment leaders, while maximizing cargo, convenience and capability attributes.

Ram C/V offers small businesses many competitive advantages. Among them, Ram C/V provides a Class 1 commercial vehicle-leading 1,800-lb. cargo payload and category-exclusive towing capability, up to 3,600 lbs. A 20-gallon fuel tank and 25 mpg highway also deliver best-in-class fuel range.

Ram Cargo Van is engineered to meet small business and commercial needs. A commercial-tuned ride and heavy-duty load-leveling suspension offer maximum hauling capability. A heavy-duty radiator and heavy-duty transmission oil cooler help meet heavier powertrain demands. Ram C/V is also engineered with unique hydraulic power-assist rack-and-pinion steering, front anti-sway bar and rear twist-beam axle with coil springs. Ram C/V has a maximum Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) of 8,750 lbs.

With standard electronic stability control (ESC), commercial load-tuned tire-pressure monitoring (TPM), four-wheel anti-lock disc brake system (ABS) and ideal command-of-the road seating, the Ram Cargo Van offers capability, comfort and convenience with great road manners.

New Pentastar V-6 Engine
At the heart of the 2012 Ram Cargo Van is new, 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine mated to a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transaxle. The Pentastar V-6 is a high-tech, high-performing engine with variable valve timing that hits the sweet spot between power and efficiency. It delivers best-in-class horsepower (283) and torque (260 lb.-ft.) without sacrificing fuel economy.

The Ram C/V also features a new driver-selectable fuel economizer mode. Drivers can change the transaxle shift schedule with a flip of a switch to maximize their fuel economy.

In addition, a rear spoiler and reduced brake caliper and rear bearing drag all contribute to Ram Cargo Van’s class-leading aerodynamics and excellent fuel economy.

Interior
When Chrysler Group’s minivan lineup was refreshed for 2011, interiors were given a world-class makeover.

A modern, new one piece instrument panel is more intuitive for the customer with improved ergonomics and larger, redesigned gauges. Trim rings in the console glow and ambient blue-green color, allowing passengers to find items they are looking for at night.

With 144.4 cubic feet of interior storage, Ram C/V leads the segment, and unlike other Class 1 competitors, provides ample space to haul four by 4x8 sheets of building materials. Cargo access is maximized via the front seats, Ram C/V’s rear liftgate and dual sliding doors.

Exterior
The new 2012 Ram Cargo Van also benefits from the exterior redesign given to Chrysler Group’s passenger minivans. Exterior improvements include a new front fascia, new hood and quad headlamps. A new, more sculpted rear fascia and liftgate and new LED taillamps complete the look front to back.

The Ram Cargo Van is distinguished by prominent Ram badging, front and rear.

Standard Equipment

The Ram Cargo Van features a monochromatic paint scheme with body-colored front and rear fascias and side moldings. It also receives a special chrome C/V badge.

Standard features include covered 16-inch steel wheels, a 160-amp alternator, 20-gallon fuel tank, all-season extra-load capacity tires, 730-amp maintenance-free battery, commercial-duty suspension, engine oil cooler, quad halogen headlamps, load leveling and height control, power rack-and-pinion steering and fold-away power exterior mirrors with heating element.

Inside, Ram Cargo Van gets air conditioning with dual-zone temperature control, an instrument cluster with 120 mph speedometer and tachometer, outside temperature display, an overhead console, A-pillar passenger assist handle, 120-volt auxiliary power outlet, 12-volt front and rear DC power outlets, air filtering, audio jack input for mobile devices, AutoStick automatic transmission, cloth low-back bucket seats, “Ram” interior accents, door courtesy lamps, driver and passenger-side sun visors with mirrors, rearview auto-dim mirror, dual glove boxes, front courtesy / map lamps, headlamp shut-off delay, cargo compartment observation mirror, a liftgate floodlamp, lower instrument panel storage bin, dual sliding doors with alert warning, power locks, power front windows, rear dome lamp, speed control, steering wheel mounted audio controls, tilting and telescoping steering wheel, tip start and variable intermittent windshield wipers.

Safety features include active head restraints, advanced multistage front airbags, four-wheel antilock disc brakes, LATCH-ready child seat anchor system, tire-pressure monitoring sensor, drivers side inflatable knee bolster air bag, electronic stability control, keyless entry with immobilizer and a tire pressure monitoring warning lamp.

The 2012 Ram Cargo Van is available in four paint colors: Bright Silver Metallic, Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl, Stone White and True Blue Pearl.

Ram Cargo Van options include an engine block heater, media center with 30 GB hard drive and 6.5-inch touch-screen display, audio jack input for mobile devices, Garmin® navigation system, ParkView® back-up camera, a Mopar® cargo compartment floor mat, Mopar exterior vinyl window shading, a Mopar full-width cargo divider, power eight-way driver’s seat with lumbar adjust, front and rear power windows, security alarm, Sirius Satellite Radio and Uconnect handsfree voice command with Bluetooth®, remote USB port, rearview auto-dim mirror, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, rear window defroster, rear window wiper and washer and supplemental side curtain airbags.

The 2012 Ram Cargo Van will be built at the Chrysler Group Windsor (Ontario) Assembly Plant and will go on sale third quarter 2011. The Ram Cargo Van will replace the Dodge Grand Caravan C/V in the Chrysler Group’s product lineup. Pricing will be announced closer to launch.

About the Ram Truck brand
With a work-hard, play-hard attitude, the Ram Truck brand offers the boldest, most powerful and capable pickup truck lineup on the planet.

Introduced in 2008, the Ram 1500 is a game changer in terms of its ability to "outsmart" and "out-tough" the competition with its bold exterior design, crafted and refined interior, engineering excellence, superb innovation and best-in-class features and amenities.

The Ram Truck brand added to its award-winning truck lineup with the introduction of the 2010 Ram 2500 and 3500 Heavy Duty trucks. Ram heavy-duty trucks provide customers with first-time innovations and features along with new standards of strength, utility and driveability, building on the Ram's leadership in the heavy-duty pickup segment.

The Ram Truck brand is further enhancing its commercial vehicle presence with a "new crew" of commercial-grade work trucks: the new 2011 Ram 3500, 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs. Led by an all-new crew cab, the new 2011 Ram Chassis Cabs are built on a proven frame and chassis, and engineered for maximum uptime, optimum performance and enhanced commercial capability.

On The Job
The Ram Truck commercial vehicle program provides incentives and discounts to assist customers in purchasing, servicing and customizing their Ram Trucks. Small businesses can save big with “On The Job” allowances on all Ram Truck models:

• Up to $1,000 commercial equipment upfit allowance
• Up to $1,000 Chrysler Service Contract allowance
• Up to $1,000 Mopar certificate allowance
• (877) ONTHEJOB
• www.ramtrucks.com/commercial

Follow Dodge and Chrysler Group LLC news and video on:
Chrysler Connect blog: http://blog.chryslergroupllc.com
Twitter: www.twitter.com/chrysler
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/pentastarvideo
Streetfire: http://members.streetfire.net/profile/ChryslerVideo.htm
Ram Trucks: http://www.ramtrucks.com
Ram Zone blog: http://www.ramzone.com

3/14/11

Switch To Propane - Super Shuttle


Ken Brooks from Super Shuttle describes his company's new green push, and why they decided to switch to propane autogas! http://www.roushcleantech.com/.

Hino Trucks' Introduces New Class 4 & 5 First Ever U.S. Cab-Over Hybrid




March 8th, 2011

Novi, Michigan – Hino Trucks unveiled today a revolutionary addition to its product lineup during the NTEA Work Truck Show in Indianapolis. Hino will offer four models of the newly designed Class 4 and Class 5 cab over engine (COE) trucks.

In the class 4 market, Hino will offer the 155 diesel model and the first ever U.S. class 4 diesel-electric hybrid model, the 155h. The 155 and 155h models will carry a 14,500 lb. GVW rating. In the class 5 market, Hino will offer the 195 diesel model and the first ever U.S. class 5 diesel-electric hybrid model, the 195h. The 195 and 195h models will carry a 19,500 lb. GVW rating.

"The new cab over line-up is an exciting addition to the Hino Trucks brand as we strive to provide our customers with a comprehensive offering for their trucking needs," said Sumio Fukaya, President and CEO of Hino Trucks. "With the introduction of this new truck, Hino Trucks is making the diesel-electric hybrid a viable option in the U.S. commercial truck industry for the first time.”

All models are powered by the proven Hino J05E Series engine. The 5-liter engine is rated at 210 hp and 440 lb. ft. of torque. Utilizing Aisin’s A465, 6-speed automatic transmission, the Hino hybrid is the first to be packaged with an automatic transmission.

Both models feature an ergonomically friendly wide cab with a North American standard 33-inch frame rail width, a 56,900 PSI frame, and a standard center mounted rear fuel tank. The cab’s styling emphasizes aerodynamics and visibility with an angled windshield, narrow pillars and rounded-radius curves. Inside, the new cab uses its increased width to provide room for drivers up to 6 ft. 6 in. tall, seating for three and a versatile mobile workspace with a variety of organizational storage options. A crew cab version will also be available.

Hino and the Environment In addition to a Diesel-Electric Hybrid option, both models meet or exceed EPA 2012 emission regulations by utilizing an optimized SCR system. With no credits required. For Hino Trucks, the ability to meet strict emissions and fuel efficiency guidelines affordably without compromising driving power and performance is important.

Hino Trucks is already well-positioned in the medium-duty market with its conventional models – the 258, 268 and 338 have a wide array of vocational applications. Hino’s hard-working trucks are distinguished by outstanding dependability, performance, and comfort.

About Hino: Hino Trucks, a Toyota Group Company, assembles, sells and services class 4-7 commercial trucks in the United States and is headquartered in Novi, Michigan. With over 160 dealers across the country, Hino Trucks is the fastest growing medium duty truck nameplate in the United States. Visit our internet home page at http://www.hino.com/ or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

3/13/11

TNT launches Australia's first HYBRID truck FLEET TruckWorld


TNT Express Australia has become the first business in Australia to start operating a fleet of diesel-electric hybrid trucks as replacements for conventionally powered vehicles.

3/11/11

NEW 2012 Nissan NV Commercial Van


Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) recently announced a new program offering a choice of a no-charge commercial upfit package or no-charge exterior graphics package for businesses purchasing or leasing a new Nissan NV1500, NV2500 HD or NV3500 HD commercial van. The no-charge upgrade program is offered through Nissan Commercial Vehicle dealers to qualified commercial businesses. The 2012 Nissan NV is the company's first entry into the commercial vehicle market in the United States and features a starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price* (MSRP) of $24,590.

The 2012 Nissan NV features durable body-on-frame construction and choice of standard roof or industry-exclusive high roof configurations. Models include the NV1500 with standard 4.0-liter V6 engine, the NV2500 HD with a choice of 4.0-liter V6 or 5.6-liter V8 and the NV3500 HD with standard 5.6-liter V8. All NV models are equipped with a 5-speed automatic transmission.

"As part of our commitment to providing 'innovation for business,' we're taking an innovative approach to offering added business solutions -- high quality cargo management packages or an industry exclusive offering of custom exterior graphics -- right from the launch of the exciting new Nissan NV," said Joe Castelli, vice president, Nissan Commercial Vehicles and Fleet, NNA. "We know commercial vehicle buyers customize their vehicles to meet their business needs, and we want to be part of the solution for them."

The no-charge commercial upfit packages are from Adrian Steel® and include the choice of a Cargo Management System with a steel cabin/cargo partition and three 44-inch shelving units, or a Utility Package featuring a steel cabin/cargo partition and an exterior (Standard Roof) or interior (High Roof) utility rack. The no-charge graphics package is available from Original Wraps and offers up to 70 square feet of professionally designed, exterior graphic material (installation included). Qualified commercial buyers can also opt for a $300 rebate in lieu of the upfit or graphic packages.

See more from Nissan Commercial Vehicles at http://www.nissancommercialvehicles.com/

3/10/11

XL Service Bodies - Australia - Company Profile


XL was established in Wacol, QLD, Australia in 1991 and manufactures a range of service bodies and vehicle storage solutions to suit the modern Contractors requirements. XL has firmly established the XL-Body as the logical alternative to conventional vans and pickups. All XL-Bodies are designed and manufactured in Queensland, and all materials, fixings and components are sourced locally where possible.
See more from XL at http://www.xl.com.au/.

3/09/11

Service Body Flip-Hatch built by Highway Products


The Flip-Hatch gives you six more inches of entry space in the back of Highway Products service bodies.

3/08/11

NTEA unveils new logo


NTEA unveils new logo during the NTEA Work Truck Show, March 7-10, 2011 in Indianapolis, Indiana. See more about this great organization at http://www.ntea.com/.

3/07/11

Knapheide Launches New Website!

March 04, 2011. Knapheide Launches New Website. New website features enhanced content and user friendly design.


Welcome to Knapheide's new website. We have worked hard here at Knapheide to deliver our web users with an easy to navigate and content rich website. We are very excited to launch the new site and receive feedback. This is only the beginning, over time we will be adding more interactive features to our web site in order to fully engage our users. We would like to thank the team at Jones & Thomas for putting in long hours and working side by side with our internal staff at Knapheide to make this website happen.

Let's take a minute to explain the structure and content of our new web site. Our "Products" section features our seven product categories, each with individual products under each category. Each individual product page has an overview, specifications, features & benefits, popular options, literature, gallery, warranty, and some have a video section as well. We have done our best to provide the user with as much information as he or she will need about our products. On each product page, the user will also be able to search for distributors by zip code that sell that specific product. Users can also submit testimonials and pictures of their Knapheide products from the individual product page.

Our "Service and Support" section features descriptions and contact information for our Truck Pool, Fleet Services, and Product Support departments. We also have a FAQ page in the Service and Support section along with a support request form.

The "About Us" section has five different pages: Careers, History, Manufacturing Superiority, Trade Shows, and Sustainability. This section gives users an internal view of where we've came from, where we've been, and where we're going.

The "News" section (what you are on right now) features articles from Knapheide about products, options, trade shows, events, and other internal information. Users can stay up to date on what's going on at Knapheide and read the most current news on our company.

Please feel free to browse our website and check out all the different areas. We will be continually improving and adding on to this website in order to keep you, the user coming back for more. Thanks!

http://www.knapheide.com/.

3/05/11

Taller Service or Utility Body Can Be A Big Benefit







This is a functional beauty! This is a 56" tall Harbor Service/Utility Body mounted on a single rear wheel super cab truck. Though it is not designed to carry lead, it has considerable space for lighter weight items. The shelving is movable, so the space can be designed at will. In addition, this has a somewhat taller 19" tailgate, and a 3-piece Cargo Bed Enclosure, and a Stainless Steel Vise Bracket. Notice also that the horizontal compartment over the rear wheel is not vertical. All in all, this makes a sweet package.

Call Harbor at 800-433-9452, and visit their website at http://www.htbi.net/.


3/04/11

Knapheide Service Body Training Video - Chapter 2


Taylor Steinberg, Master Training Guru for Knapheide Manufacturing (that's a sincere compliment!) talks about the benefits and advantages of Service or Utility Bodies vs. Pick Up Trucks. This is part 2 of 3 about the industry-leading Knapheide Service Body. For more information, see http://www.knapheide.com/.

3/02/11

Red Is Always A Great Color For A Utilty Body









This truck is a beauty! This unit is a Harbor Body that was distributed and modified by North Bay Truck Body, an authorized Harbor Distributor, in Fairfield, CA. It is an 8' Harbor Truck Bodies standard height Service Body with flat stainless steel lids capped with aluminum treadplate including capped on the ends. Inside the bed of this body is mounted a North Bay Truck Body fabricated dump liner with a Rugby hoist. This body also includes a custom cab protector, class IV receiver, stainless steel vise bracket, and a North Bay Truck Body custom forklift loadable rack with an expanded metal shield and cab screen at the front of the rack for carrying wheelbarrows, and the rack also includes one set of Rack Straps. The body was painted in a base coat/clear coat finish to match the cab as closely as possible.

North Bay Truck Body would love to build a truck to your specifications. Give Bob Dias a call at 707-864-2700 and he will be happy to go through that with you. Also check out the website at http://www.nbtb.com/.

3/01/11

Jeffrey, I Want To Know, What Do YOU Do To Maintain Success?



As my sales career has evolved over the years, and I have emerged as a leader (maybe THE leader) in the sales industry, I'm often asked if I have any secrets for success or what's been my path to personal success.

The answer is pretty simple. There are no secrets. There's nothing I do that I consider out of the ordinary. It's what I do on a consistent basis that makes me extraordinary.

I READ. I wake up every morning, and I read. I read two pages from some kind of personal success book that's more than 50 years old. If you want to know the best ones that I read, it's anything by Napoleon Hill, most often his earliest writings from The Law of Success, or the Magic Ladder to Success -- just a couple pages. It's anything by Dale Carnegie. His public speaking book. His How to Win Friends & Influence People book. His How to Stop Worrying & Start Living book. Now, I've only been doing that for 39 years, so I don't know if it works yet. I'm going to do it for another 39 years, and that's it -- I'm going to quit. That consistency leads me to new ideas. Every time I read something old, I come up with a new idea, which leads me to my second non-secret:

I CAPTURE AND COLLECT THOUGHTS AND IDEAS. When I think of things or things occur to me, or I read something that inspires me, the first thing I do is go to my computer. I write this column every week on selling skills, but I don't just write the column, I collect ideas so I can always be ahead. I've written more than 950 columns to date, but I've got 500 more ideas waiting to be evolved. That leads me to my next step of success:

I WRITE. When I write everything down, it clarifies my own ideas, it generates new ideas, and it creates content for my speeches, and for my books. My challenge to you is: If you want to be a success, you can't just read, you have to write.

I SPEAK. The next thing you have to learn how to do is present - give a speech in public. The best way to learn how to present is to join Toastmasters. If you go to Toastmasters, and give 10 speeches, you can get your Competent Toastmaster Award (CTM) -- it will give you a little more self-confidence, and the understanding of what makes a talk a good talk. Most people only talk one on one, but if you ever present to a group, that's the ultimate. Can you sell the entire group? When you learn to present to a group, selling one on one becomes a piece of cake.

I POSITION TO WIN WITH "VALUE FIRST." The same goes for marketing (attracting people who are interested to buy). I position myself to be seen and read as a person of value. My marketing mission is as follows: I put myself in front of people who can say yes to me, and I deliver value first. I promise you will never see that in a marketing textbook, nor hear it from a marketing professor.