1/31/14

Navistar Sweeps 2014 ATD Truck of the Year Honors

Both International ProStar with ISX15 and TerraStar 4x4 awarded
 
 
NEW ORLEANS, Jan. 26, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Navistar swept the competition during this week's annual American Truck Dealers (ATD) Convention and Exposition in New Orleans with the International® ProStar® with Cummins ISX15 engine with selective catalytic reduction (SCR) named "2014 Heavy-Duty Commercial Truck of the Year" and the International® TerraStar® 4x4 named "2014 Medium-Duty Commercial Truck of the Year."
 
 
"It is an honor to be recognized this year with both the 2014 ATD Heavy-Duty and Medium-Duty Commercial Truck of the Year titles," said Bill Kozek, president of North America Truck and Parts for Navistar. "Being recognized in both these categories proves International is back with great product offerings."
 
Judged by a panel of journalists from leading truck publications in North America, Truck of the Year is selected based on a number of criteria, including innovation and design, safety, and driver and owner satisfaction. For the Heavy-Duty category, the Class 8 International ProStar beat out the Kenworth T880 Vocational Truck with PACCAR MX-13 engine and Peterbilt Model 579. The TerraStar 4x4 beat out the Hino 195h-DC, Kenworth Class 6 K370 Cabover and Peterbilt Model 220 for Medium-Duty Truck of the Year.
 
International ProStar with Cummins ISX15 engine: 2014 ATD Heavy-Duty Commercial Truck of the Year
 
Re-introduced in December 2012 with SCR, the International ProStar with Cummins ISX15 offers aerodynamic innovations for improved fuel economy and support from the industry's largest and most capable dealer service network. Offering ratings up to 550 horsepower and 1850 lb.-ft. of torque, the ISX15 engine's variable geometry turbocharger enhances response and control with electric actuation for infinite adjustment, providing exact boost at any rpm.
 
At its heart, the ProStar is a driver's truck. The vehicle features the same benefits that have always made it a driver favorite. For example, a one-piece, aerodynamic wraparound windshield, sloped hood and lower placed instrument panel ensure drivers have an unparalleled view of the road. The ProStar also carries a number of features like a 4-point, air-over-strut cab suspension, a combination of on-and-off center steering, a wide-track front axle and auto-like steering for superior ride and handling.
 
International TerraStar 4x4: 2014 ATD Medium-Duty Commercial Truck of the Year
 
The TerraStar 4x4 gives work truck buyers a wide range of commercial duty features while sharing the same rugged, durable and hardworking DNA as the medium-duty International® DuraStar®. Designed to last twice as long as competitive models, the TerraStar 4x4 offers high strength, low-allow frame rails at 80,000 PSI and includes a severe service transfer case from Fabco, a leader in all-wheel drive transfer cases and steer-drive axles for medium and heavy-duty vehicles. Due to the uniquely robust design of Fabco's gear-driven TC-28 transfer case, TerraStar 4x4 owners will have vehicle capabilities exceeding other Class 4 and 5 truck offerings in the market. 
 
Powered by the 300 horsepower, 660 lb.-ft. torque 6.4 liter MaxxForce® 7 engine, the compacted graphite iron (CGI) engine block provides added strength, while a commercial-duty Allison® Optimized 1000 Series transmission, including the available 1350 model, optimizes power output.
The TerraStar features the International Diamond Logic® electrical system, one of the most advanced electrical multiplexing architectures available in commercial trucks. Diamond Logic maximizes ease of body integration and helps deliver a number of smart, customizable features for added convenience and safety—such as automated pre-trip inspections, headlights on with wipers, interlocks, programmable switches and more depending on the application.
 
*All marks are trademarks of their respective owners.
 
About ATD
Founded in 1970, the ATD (American Truck Dealers) division of the National Automobile Dealers Association is the only organization representing dealers selling new medium- and heavy-duty trucks in the United States. More than 2,200 members of ATD receive full association services from NADA.
 
About Navistar
Navistar International Corporation (NYSE: NAV) is a holding company whose subsidiaries and affiliates produce International® brand commercial and military trucks, MaxxForce® brand diesel engines and IC Bus brand school and commercial buses. The company also provides truck and diesel engine service parts. Another affiliate offers financing services. Additional information is available at www.Navistar.com/newsroom.

1/30/14

HINO TRUCKS DONATES VEHICLE TO CV TECHNOLOGY CENTER TO REBUILD PROGRAM AFTER TORNADO

Novi, Michigan – Hino Trucks recently donated a cab-over truck to Canadian Valley Technology Center, a vocational school located outside of Oklahoma City. As a result of the May 31, 2013 El Reno tornado, CV Tech lost several vehicles that were used as teaching tools in various repair-related programs. Three large diesel trucks were destroyed within the Diesel Technology shop on the east edge of CV Tech’s El Reno campus.


Officials at Hino Trucks saw national media reports depicting the devastation. They saw the diesel trucks left in utter disrepair, and sought to help. "The donation of this vehicle supports one of Hino Trucks core missions to strive to contribute to local communities in all the regions where we do business," said Joseph Whalen, Human Resources Manager at Hino Trucks. "We’re aware that CV Tech’s campus was destroyed by the tornados last year. While this truck won’t help rebuild the campus, hopefully it will be a useful learning tool for the program."

Dr. Greg Winters, superintendent at CV Technology Center said, “The generosity of Hino Trucks is appreciated and it allows our teachers to use a new truck and piece of technology to do real-time, real-world training right now. This truck is equipped with hydraulic disc brakes, so our students will have a learning tool that we did not have before. The donation helps us keep the Diesel program up to speed.”

1/29/14

Ram Trucks Commercial "Farmer" Long Version


The "Year of the Farmer" may have formally ended, but that doesn't mean that Ram Trucks is any less dedicated to the hard working men and women that live the American farming way of life. Join us as we continue to celebrate America's heartland with this extended version of our "Farmer" commercial.

1/28/14

Quick Spin: 2014 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel



We take a ride in the full size pick up with a three litter turbo diesel V6 EcoDiesel engine, that's rated at 240 horsepower.

1/27/14

A Very Successful Commercial Truck Department Requires This

"Good leaders rarely think in terms of boundaries;
instead, they think in terms of opportunities. 
They are initiators." 

 "An organization takes on the personality of the leader." 

 -- John C Maxwell, The 360 degree Leader 


I talk to dealers and managers at auto dealerships about their commercial truck department or the potential of a commercial truck department. Many times I'm talking to the person who wants the department to exist and succeed, but hasn't the power to just take charge of the resources within the dealership to get the job done well and in a timely manner. In fact, often, they complain about the dealer not giving the support, theoretical and real, to the task they have in their mind. I've written a book on this whole subject so I've thought this through pretty well.

As I reflect on two separate very successful commercial truck departments that I have started, along with others whom I've taught to do the same, one thing is common. None of the dealers or general managers gave the support needed in the early stages. In fact, they had to be convinced of the viability of it almost on a daily basis so they wouldn't throw in the towel.

The other thing that is common is that the success of this kind of endeavor without the unanimous, enthusiastic and liberal support of the dealer and/or general manager, requires a person who is a leader. I cannot see it happening without this aspect and quality. Yet, so many that I have talked with are afraid and/or unwilling to lead.

I do believe that the best and brightest example of a successful commercial truck department would be one in which the leadership toward that success came from the top down; however, since this is rare, the one who has the desire must become the leader within the organization. John C Maxwell's wonderful book, The 360 Degree Leader is all about accepting the challenge of leading from whatever level you find yourself in an organization, and he has numerous examples of how that acceptance and execution has created otherwise unknown success.

This requires courage, tenacity and vision. And, it requires accepting responsibility for the creation and execution of getting the job done and doing it well. They cannot live in the fear of losing their job. They are and must be risk takers. There are leaders within organizations that accept these terms and thereby change the world--or at least, their part of it.

Let me leave with two more quotes from John C Maxwell: "The role of leaders in the middle of an organization in nearly every circumstance is to add value to the organization and to the leader." And this important addition: "Your job isn't to fix the leader; it's to add value. If the leader won't change, then change your attitude, or your work address."


Become The Leader That You Know You Can Be. It Is A Life Well-Lived. 

Spread Some Joy Today--Realize you have the power. That will bring joy.

New Van & Truck Products to Re-Energize the Upfit Market by Mike Antich

A number of all-new van and truck models will be entering the commercial fleet market over the next several years. As a result, there will be a corresponding increase in upfit products and packages for these new van configurations.

2015 Ford Transit, High Roof

“The onset of new-model configurations, such as the all-new Ford Transit and Ram ProMaster, gives fleets more choices, removes some old standby options, and increases the amount of configuration effort to adapt upfitting needs to the new models and configurations,” said Steve Swedberg, truck engineering & ordering specialist for Emkay.

Will the surge of new van products re-energize the upfit market?

“In short, yes, but the answer deserves more perspective. The van market may see slight to flat growth in calendar-year 2014 because of Ford’s delayed migration in the van market. Ford is the market-segment leader. The migration from the E-Series, a 50-year market segment leader, to the new Transit starts with Job 1 in April 2014,” said Partha Ghosh, director, vehicle supply chain for ARI. “Additionally, the E-Series will have a shortened model-year, and the vehicle itself is in its final build-out this year, which can mean flat to modest growth, contingent on Ford’s actual production in the 2014 calendar-year. Building on the earlier growth expectations, this market segment should see stronger growth in outlying years — beyond 2014 — thanks to the increasing versatility of these new vans entering the North American market. The economic indicators are trending positively, boding well for the overall strength of the U.S. market, which should have a direct, positive effect on all vehicle production.”

Enjoy the rest of this informative article here: http://www.automotive-fleet.com/channel/vehicle-research/article/story/2014/01/new-van-truck-products-to-re-energize-the-upfit-market.aspx?ref=rel-recommended

1/26/14

VIA Provides World’s First Electric Shuttle Van Services to Filmmakers at Sundance Film Festival

Park City, UT – VIA Motors announced today that the world’s first extended range electric passenger van by VIA Motors, made its in-service debut at the Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah, providing private VIP electric shuttle van services to filmmakers and guests in association with Heretic Films.


Heretic Films, founded by Burton Richie and Ben Galecki, hosted several film premiers and special events at the festival including a special screening of the documentary, “Fed Up,” presented by executive producer and television news anchor Katie Couric, and a special premiere celebration for “Misery Loves Company” directed by Kevin Pollak, and many others.

“We were very pleased to be the first to provide electric shuttle services to our VIP guests here at Sundance,” said Burton Ritchie.  “VIA’s clean electric vehicles echoes our strong commitment to the environment and we hope that this event will aid in their eventual adoption worldwide,” Burton concluded.

VIA’s new electrified passenger van is now available for purchase by commercial fleets and VIA plans to begin delivery within the first quarter of this year.

“We have been extremely pleased with the van’s performance at the festival, running up and down the 10,000 foot mountain day in and day out with a full payload of passengers,” said John Weber, VIA CEO.  “The festival provides us with the perfect opportunity to let filmmakers and the media see for themselves that electric vehicles are “ready for prime time” in almost any type of duty,” concluded Weber.

About the Sundance Film Festival:
The Sundance Film Festival is a program of the Sundance Institute, founded by Robert Redford.  It is the world’s largest most influential independent film festival, and attracts filmmakers, distributors, celebrities and a huge audience worldwide to Park City, Utah.

About VIA Motors
VIA Motors is a privately held electric vehicle development and manufacturing company. VIA employs a streamlined second stage manufacturing process to integrate its proprietary V-DRIVE™ power train into new OEM vehicles, then sells directly to fleets under the VTRUX™ brand name.  VIA VTRUX deliver up to 40-mile battery range and unlimited extended range, averaging over 100 mpg in typical daily driving. More information at: VIAmotors.com.  Video with Bob Lutz: VIAmotors.com/erev. Online calculator to estimate savings:

1/25/14

The State of All-Electric Trucks in the U.S. Medium-Duty Market by Sean Lyden


Staples currently utilizes 53 Smith Newton battery-power electric trucks in or near eight cities across the U.S. on routes that include frequent stops and limited miles.
Staples currently utilizes 53 Smith Newton battery-power electric trucks in or near
eight cities across the U.S. on routes that include frequent stops and limited miles.

The promise of all-electric medium-duty (Class 3-7) trucks is compelling. Fleets can eliminate fossil fuel use (and cost), achieve zero direct emissions, and reap the PR benefits that come with touting their commitment to sustainability. But, can medium-duty electric vehicles (EVs) or E-Trucks become a practical reality any time soon?

High profile fleets, such as Frito-Lay, Staples, and Coca-Cola, have all made big investments in E-Trucks that can haul as much as 16,000 pounds, with a range up to 100 miles on a single charge.
According to Lisa Jerram, senior research analyst with Navigant Research, there are roughly 1,000 all-electric medium-duty trucks on U.S. roads today, with sales in this segment projected to reach 2,500 to 3,500 units per year by 2020, comprising 1 to 3 percent of the overall U.S. medium-duty truck market.

See rest of article here: http://www.greenfleetmagazine.com/article/51848/the-state-of-all-electric-trucks-in-the-us-medium-duty-market

1/24/14

But I Don't Know Where To Start. . . by Kirsty Dunphey

We’ve all been there – the work has slowly but surely piled up, the emails have gone unanswered, and every time you turn your head it seems you’re just being bombarded with more to add to the “not-done” pile – in short, life is out of control.
 
I recently worked with a friend who was in just this situation and even though she knew she was rapidly falling further down the rabbit hole her issue was, she didn’t know where to start.

So – where did we start?

Well – I wanted to have a one day action plan to get her back on track. Not everything could be accomplished in one day, but everything could be organised and planned in one day.

Only – so we could get off to the right track we started our one day – at about 7.00pm. Now I’m not advocating working at 7pm every night – but when things have gotten to panic stations, being in the office or your workspace at a time when no-one else is might be just what you need.

Step 1. Find and organise the clues

It took about 2 hours, but the very first step was to categorise every “clue” in her office. They went into various “piles” of clues (in no order within the piles). The names of some of these piles were:
 
  • Leads for new clients
  • Random pieces of paper / post its / messages
  • Personal stuff
  • Files / checklists
  • Current clients

Remember, you don’t need 30 post it note squares and 25 pens, minimise the amount of crap on your desk and you’ll minimise the amount of clutter in your brain. Keep what you need immediately within reach, logically store anything else, throw out everything you can that is junk and donate to your office stationery cupboard anything else.

Step 2. Use the clues to generate a plan

So then I took each of these categories and roughed out a plan for the next day allowing spots within the to do list for checking email, confirming that day’s appointments etc.

Step 3. Get an early win

By the time we met first up the next morning there was already a sense of order to the office.  But the list was still terrifying with it’s 9 scary dot points. What we needed was an early first win. The first item on the list was small, it took less than 10 minutes. As lame as it sounds, I invoked a rule whereby we would high five every time we had a “win” (ie: every time we took an item off that list). In the first hour the first three items had all been high fived and we were working on item 4.

Step 4. Throw multi-tasking on it’s ass

Part of the problem, I’ve found, for when everything is getting on top of people is that they’re trying to do everything at once. Multi-tasking is a farse – try and do everything and you’ll get nothing finished and more importantly nothing finished well.

With our little 9 point list – it was clear what we were working on at any time. When we were working on following up every client lead (that’s right, every one) – we weren’t checking email and we weren’t focussing on any of the other 8 points.

Step 5. Rinse and repeat
 
Pick one thing, do it, complete it, high five, move on to the next.

Systematically work through your list.

Step 6. Remove the memory

As you work through your list – be smart about it. For us in this instance, ever time we followed up a new client lead we put it into a categorised folder and diarised the next follow up. No need to have to “remember” to do anything.  Life is stressful enough without having to wake up at 2.00am because you forgot to do something you were relying on your memory for.

Step 7. Stick-to-it

And finally - being organised, especially if you’re the type of person (read: me) who gets disorganised, isn’t something that will naturally happen if you get organised. You’ll need to keep check of it. Maybe you diarise to clean your desk and remove the clutter once a week, maybe you set aside a time each month to meet with an organisational mentor within your organisation and get 100% on track. 
 

2015 Ford F-150: Cool Features, Functions, and Details - 2014 Detroit Auto Show


The lead designer of the new aluminum F-150 shows off some of its signature touches.
http://bit.ly/1ajgDcN

1/23/14

See The All-New 2015 F-150 Before It Was The 2015 F-150


Introducing the Built Tough Test, a peek farther behind the curtains of truck testing than we've ever before offered. You'll witness the extreme regimen of testing that guarantees this new F-150 will live up to and beyond the Built Ford Tough promise.

1/22/14

Renault Trucks - Euro 6 engine technology - 3D Animation - GB


This video has no sound, but is quite interesting animation about exhaust emissions. -- CTS

3D animation presenting chosen technology by Renault Trucks to pass the environmental standard Euro VI, effective 1st January 2014.

Renault Trucks on YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/user/RenaultTr...

Renault Trucks on Facebook: 
http://www.facebook.com/renaulttrucks...

Renault Trucks on Twitter:
http://twitter.com/renaulttrucksco

Renault Trucks on Google+:
https://plus.google.com/1156594922427...

http://www.renault-trucks.com/

1/21/14

Alcoa Collaboration is Key to Supply for Ford


Ford's Procurement Chief, Hau Thai-Tang, touted Ford's collaboration with two key suppliers—Alcoa and Novelis—for having the supply for the new aluminum-intensive F-150 pickup truck at Automotive News World Congress.

1/20/14

All-New 2015 GMC Canyon Elevates Midsize Truck Segment

Segment-redefining capabilities, refinement and tech in smart-sized package


DETROIT – GMC revealed the 2015 Canyon today, an all-new midsize truck that redefines the segment and raises the bar for everything from horsepower and efficiency to quietness and refinement.

When it goes on sale this year, the all-new Canyon will give GMC one of the only three-truck lineups in the industry. It is expected to deliver class-leading capabilities with the brand’s signature refinement – all in an efficiently sized, maneuverable package for customers who want the cargo-hauling and trailering versatility of a truck without the size of a full-size pickup.
“The all-new 2015 Canyon completes GMC’s three-truck family, which started with the redesigned 2014 Sierra 1500 and 2015 Sierra HD,” said Tony DiSalle, vice president of GMC Marketing. “It rounds out a lineup that offers the broadest range of capabilities in the industry, giving truck customers more choices to find the vehicle that meets their professional, personal and lifestyle needs.”
Based on a proven global architecture and engineered for the unique demands and driving conditions of North American drivers, the new Canyon is expected to deliver:
  • The segment’s best horsepower – an estimated 193 horsepower (146 kW) from a standard 2.5L I-4 and an estimated 302 horsepower (224 kW) from an available 3.6L V-6
  • The segment’s best payload of at least 1,450 pounds (657 kg)
  • The segment’s best maximum trailering rating (when properly equipped) of at least 6,700 pounds (3,039 kg)
  • Even greater capability with a powerful and efficient Duramax 2.8L turbodiesel engine coming in 2016 model year
“Not everyone needs full-size capability, but they still deserve strength and true-truck attributes that come in larger models. The Canyon will offer all the capability with confidence – and GMC’s signature refinement that complements active lifestyles,” said DiSalle. “It also delivers the technology customers want with more standard features.”
Canyon’s customer-focused technologies include available OnStar 4G LTE connectivity with a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot and expected segment-first available driver alert features such as forward collision alert, lane departure warning and a standard rear-vision camera.
Additionally, RemoteLink Key Fob Services allow owners to lock and unlock their vehicle, flash the lights and honk the horn, and, on equipped models, even remotely start the engine using the RemoteLink smartphone app. The service is free for five years. Additional OnStar services and data plans will be available with a paid subscription.
GMC’s ProGrade protection program for two years/24,000 miles – whichever comes first – of scheduled maintenance, is standard and covers four oil changes, tire rotations and 27-point inspections. It complements the three-year/36,000-mile – whichever comes first – bumper-to-bumper limited vehicle warranty and five-year/100,000-mile – whichever comes first – powertrain limited warranty.
Designed for capability, comfort and refinement
Inside and out, the 2015 Canyon is pure GMC, with a quiet, refined interior distinguished by premium materials and a commanding exterior presence that emulates the technology-infused design aesthetic introduced on the 2014 Sierra 1500 and 2015 Sierra HD models.
Bold front-end styling incorporates the segment’s only standard projector beam headlamps and GMC’s signature C-shaped LED daytime running lamps on all models. Three body configurations are offered: An extended cab model with a six-foot bed, a crew cab with a five-foot bed and a crew cab with a six-foot bed. With the tailgate down, the six-foot bed allows eight-foot-long items to be hauled within the vehicle.
Canyon is offered in base, SLE and SLT models, in 2WD and 4WD models, and with an aggressively styled All-Terrain package offered on SLE models. It includes 17-inch painted aluminum wheels covered by all-terrain tires, a body-color grille surround with horizontal chrome bars and specific suspension tuning.
From a refinement standpoint, the Canyon features triple-sealed doors inlaid in the body sides, like the 2014 Sierra, for improved aerodynamic performance and a quieter interior. And to help keep overall mass down and improve the front-to-rear weight balance, the Canyon features an all-new aluminum hood.
It also features the segment’s only active aero grille shutters, which close at certain highway speeds to enhance efficiency through improved aerodynamics.
Additional exterior features include:
  • Segment-first CornerStep rear bumper design, pioneered on the 2014 Sierra, is standard
  • Available segment-first EZ Lift-and-Lower locking tailgate that uses an internal torsion bar to make raising the tailgate easier with one hand, and a damper for more-controlled lowering
  • Standard two-tier loading that allows a platform to effectively split the bed into upper and lower sections, making it easier to haul, store and conceal items such as tools
  • Thirteen reconfigurable and four stationary tie-down locations throughout the bed for use with available, removable cargo tie-down rings
  • Standard bed rail and tailgate protectors
  • Available factory-installed spray-in bed liner
  • Range of 16-, 17- and 18-inch aluminum wheels
A diverse collection of work- and lifestyle-supporting accessories will be offered including everything from a bed liner and innovative cargo management system to a custom tonneau cover, removable cargo rings, tool box and more.
Comfortable and connected cabin
The interior of the 2015 Canyon is designed to be comfortable, heavily equipped and well connected. A bold, upright instrument panel with large instruments and a central driver information center is similar to Sierra. A center console-mounted shifter is similar to those found in midsize cars and crossovers.
The Canyon’s cabin boasts exceptional attention to detail and premium appointments, including a sculpted headliner that enhances headroom, halo lighting on key controls for easier viewing and an open area at the front of the center console for easier phone charging.
Additional interior details include:
  • Sculpted door panels that make it easier to enter and exit the vehicle
  • Upper-instrument panel storage bin – when not equipped with the uplevel audio system – and large glove box volume
  • Standard center console with room to store a tablet
  • Rear under-seat storage
Canyon’s seats are designed for long-haul comfort and wear, too. They use dual-firmness foam for greater comfort on long drives and high-wear, stain-resistant cloth seating trim. A power-adjustable driver’s seat is standard, and heated leather seats are standard on SLT. The All-Terrain package features exclusive color and trim details, including embossed seatbacks and unique contrast stitching.
Comfort is enhanced with technologies, connectivity and other features that support owners’ daily and recreational lives including a standard 4.2-inch-diagonal color driver information screen in the instrument cluster
Also available:
  • Eight-inch-diagonal color touch screen and multiple USB ports
  • OnStar 4G LTE with built-in Wi-Fi hot spot
  • Next-generation OnStar and IntelliLink enhancements with gesture recognition and natural language voice recognition
  • Siri Eyes Free Mode for iPhone users
  • Teen Driver feature
  • GMC AppShop
  • Navigation
Teen Driver is a new, configurable IntelliLink feature that allows parents to set a radio volume limit, establish a speed warning set between 40 and 70 mph, and set a speed limiter. It also automatically mutes the radio when the driver or front passenger safety belt is not fastened and a “report card” that records mileage, wide-open throttle events, ABS events, maximum speed and other data. The custom features are locked by a PIN, which is set by the parent.
Canyon models with an eight-inch IntelliLink screen will also feature a new in-car app marketplace: GMC AppShop. It allows customers to download apps directly to their IntelliLink system and organize, update or delete them throughout the life of the vehicle. Available apps will connect drivers to music, news, weather, travel information, vehicle data and more.
Segment-best power and efficiency
GMC expects Canyon to be the most powerful and efficient truck in the segment, allowing owners to haul and tow more while being efficient. A 2.5L I-4 is standard, and a 3.6L V-6 is available. They are based on award-winning engine families and tuned to deliver the low-rpm torque customers depend on for hauling and towing.
The 2.5L four is estimated at 193 horsepower (146 kW) and 184 lb-ft of torque (253 Nm), with approximately 90 percent of the peak torque available from 2,000 rpm to 6,200 rpm. The 3.6L engine is estimated at 302 horsepower (224 kW) and 270 lb-ft of torque (366 Nm). SAE certification of the power ratings is pending.
Both engines feature direct injection and variable valve timing to make the most of power and efficiency. An aluminum block, forged-steel crankshaft, dual-overhead camshafts and jet-spray piston cooling are featured on both engines. The 2.5L incorporates a two-stage variable-displacement oil pump, for greater efficiency, as well as a balance shaft located in the oil pan, for greater refinement.
All models are matched with a six-speed automatic transmission that complements the truck-tuned engines with features that make hauling and trailering easier and more comfortable, including auto grade braking and a tow/haul mode. A six-speed manual transmission is also available with the 2.5L engine in base extended cab/2WD models.
Class-leading capabilities and superior ride quality
The Canyon delivers the capability expected of a GMC truck, including expected segment-leading payload and trailering. Like the full-size Sierra, Canyon is built on a fully boxed perimeter frame, which provides the strength to support its capabilities, and a ride expected to be smooth and quiet.
A coil-over-type front suspension features aluminum knuckles that are low in mass and high in strength contributing to a more responsive, immediate feel to driver inputs, as well as efficiency. The 2015 Canyon also features the segment’s first application of electric power steering, which enhances efficiency because it is not driven by the engine.
Additionally, the Canyon has a tight turning radius of only about 41 feet (12.6 meters), making it easier to maneuver when parking or backing into tight spots, such as garages or campsites.
Four-wheel disc brakes, with four-piston front calipers, are standard and feature segment-exclusive Duralife™ brake rotors – also pioneered on the 2014 Sierra. They can offer up to double the service life, which can help lower ownership costs.
Canyon is available with an automatic locking rear differential known by its G80 option code. Introduced by General Motors more than 40 years ago, it gives drivers a traction advantage when needed and everyday comfort when it’s not. It is available on SLE and SLT, and standard with the All-Terrain package.
AutoTrac automatic four-wheel drive is also a segment-first feature, which employs an electronically controlled transfer case that allows the driver to shift from 2WD to 4WD. The driver can select four modes, 2WD, Auto, 4WD HI, or 4WD Lo. By selecting ‘Auto’ mode, the transfer case will operate in 2WD and will automatically apply traction to the front wheels (4WD) when the vehicle senses wheel slippage.  
Safety features
With 360 degrees of available active and passive safety technologies, Canyon is designed to help keep occupants safe on the road, with standard features including:
  • Six air bags, including head curtain side air bags that can also reduce the risk of occupant ejection
  • Large rearview mirrors and rear-vision camera system for greater visibility
  • StabiliTrak stability control system with rollover mitigation technology, trailer sway control, hill start assist and hill descent control (All Terrain).
Available safety features include:
  • Segment-first forward collision alert
  • Segment-first lane departure warning
The Canyon will be assembled at GM’s Wentzville, Mo., assembly plant. GMC will continue to work on and develop the Canyon until the start of production in fall 2014. The content of this release is based on current GM testing and is subject to change.
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 athttp://www.gmc.com/, on Twitter at @thisisgmc or at http://www.facebook.com/gmc.

1/19/14

SEE THE PRODUCTS OF THE FUTURE AT THE WORK TRUCK SHOW® 2014

FARMINGTON HILLS, MI (Jan. 16, 2014) — The vocational trucks, equipment, accessories and technology that will be used across a variety of industries this year and beyond will debut at The Work Truck Show®2014, making it a can’t-miss event for anyone attempting to gain an edge on the competition. More than 100 companies have already shared plans to introduce new products at The Work Truck Show 2014 through press conferences, in-booth product reveals and the New Product Spotlight and Green Product Showcase programs.

The Work Truck Show 2014, North America’s largest work truck event, runs March 5–7 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, IN. Educational programming, including the Green Truck Summit, begins March 4.
“The work truck industry is evolving rapidly and we are seeing a significant increase in new product and technology introductions this year,” says Steve Carey, NTEA executive director. “The abundance of new products reflects positively on the work truck industry as our exhibitors and attendees look to the future.”

The Work Truck Show provides a solid platform for industry leaders to launch new vehicles and provide updates on their plans for the future. Ford Commercial Truck, Kenworth Truck Co., Mitsubishi Fuso Truck of America, and Ram Commercial are among the 16 companies that have scheduled press conferences at the event.

To help attendees find many of the new products debuting at the show, the Work Truck Show New Product Spotlight program highlights more than 90 offerings from exhibitors online, on-site and via the Work Truck Show mobile app. Equipment entries include new trucks and truck bodies, PTOs, air compressors, cranes, hitch accessories, overhead racks, LED lights and toolboxes. New technology ranges from cameras and controls to software for managing materials and fleets.

Some of the new products currently scheduled for introduction at The Work Truck Show 2014 include:

To see detailed New Product Spotlight information, including product descriptions, photos and booth locations, visit www.ntea.com/worktruckshow, select “Floor Plan” from the “About the Work Truck Show” drop-down menu, and click on “Featured Exhibitors.”

New Product Spotlight participants are also highlighted in the Work Truck Show app. Download instructions are available at www.ntea.com/worktruckshow/index.aspx?id=25950. The app is available through the App Store for iOS devices, the Play Store for Android devices and by using the “WTS2014” redemption code on a Blackberry device. Users can use the app to view the show’s floor plan, browse educational sessions, schedule appointments and tweet about the show.

Additional new products can be found in the Green Product Showcase, which features fuel-saving equipment and technology. At the Show, New Product Spotlight and Green Product Showcase entries are called out in the event directory and on a signage wall.

To register for The Work Truck Show 2014, visit www.ntea.com or call 1-800-441-6832.

Produced annually by NTEA, The Work Truck Show brings together thousands of work truck professionals, including fleet managers, equipment buyers, maintenance personnel, manufacturers, distributors and dealers.
Connect with the NTEA on Facebook at www.facebook.com/NTEA.TheAssociationForTheWorkTruckIndustry, and join the Work Truck Show conversation on Twitter at @WorkTruckShow and @nteanews with the official hashtag: #wts2014.


About NTEA
Established in 1964, NTEA, the Association for the Work Truck Industry, represents more than 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.

1/18/14

ADVANCED 2.7-LITER ECOBOOST WITH AUTO START-STOP BRINGS NEW CAPABILITY AND EFFICIENCY TO NEXT FORD F-150

  • Latest EcoBoost® technology in an all-new, even more efficient 2.7-liter engine that features extremely high output and lightweight design coupled with standard Auto Start-Stop optimized for trucks
  • Delivers the performance of a mid-range V8 with greater efficiency
  • Real-world durability tested in grueling Baja 1000 off-road race
Ford, America’s truck leader, is expanding its industry-leading range of powerful and efficient powertrains with the addition of an all-new 2.7-liter EcoBoost® with standard Auto Start-Stop engineered specifically for the next-generation Ford F-150.

The high-output twin-turbo 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 features an entirely new design that delivers power and performance in a stronger, smarter package.



“The F-150’s proven 3.5-liter EcoBoost has become the industry benchmark for advanced and efficient truck engines,” said Raj Nair, Ford group vice president, global product development. “We’ve applied lessons learned from the 3.5-liter EcoBoost to the new 2.7-liter EcoBoost, but with new technologies that make this more efficient engine perform like a larger mid-range V8.” 

Smart technology powerhouse
Boosting the 2.7-liter EcoBoost’s fuel efficiency is the debut of standard Auto Start-Stop technology in the F-150. This technology, specially tuned for truck customers, shuts off the engine when the vehicle is at a stop – except when towing or in four-wheel drive – to give drivers power on demand when they need it most. When the brake is released, the engine restarts quickly.

The 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine features the first use of a compacted graphite iron cylinder block in a gasoline engine, the same material used in Ford’s 6.7-liter Power Stroke® turbo-diesel V8 engine. The composite CGI/aluminum block saves weight while providing strength where it’s needed most for durability. 

“Previous engine block design choices were high strength or compact or lightweight,” said Ed Waszczenko, engine systems supervisor. “We wanted to go further with the 2.7-liter EcoBoost and design an engine with compact structure and high strength and light weight.” 

The 2.7-liter EcoBoost also features all-new engine logic that adjusts operating parameters on the fly to provide the best efficiency and performance for the environment and workload.

Other smart new features of the 2.7-liter EcoBoost include:

  • First use of fracture split main-bearing caps, which create a superior fit between the cap and engine block for reduced crankshaft friction to help improve efficiency
  • All-new aluminum cylinder heads feature water-cooled integrated exhaust manifolds
  • Variable displacement oil pump reduces internal engine friction to improve fuel economy
  • Intake and exhaust variable cam timing that improves torque while helping lower emissions
  • Lightweight, durable composite intake manifold
  • Cooling jets beneath the pistons that spray oil on the pistons to help lower operating temperatures
  • Piston connecting rods use an offset I-beam that provides strength to manage peak engine power levels while reducing weight for better responsiveness 
  • Cartridge-style oil filter integrated into top of the engine for easy service
“No one’s ever built a six-cylinder engine like this,” said Nair. “It combines a host of advanced technologies found throughout the industry to create one of the most technically advanced and efficient engines ever designed.”

Tested tough
Pushing production engines to the limit is nothing new for Ford. Following in the footsteps of the 3.5-liter EcoBoost torture test, Ford labs and the 2013 Baja 1000 provided torturous environments to prove the 2.7-liter EcoBoost’s capability and durability. 

The engine, which powered a disguised all-new Ford F-150 specially designed to look like a current F-150, raced Baja in stock form with no additional oil coolers or radiators typically added for multiday off-road races. The 2.7-liter EcoBoost race truck finished the grueling 883-mile event – called by many the toughest Baja 1000 in decades – without any issues. The only part changed during the event was the stock air filter.
In addition to its flawless Baja 1000 shakedown, the all-new 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 has surpassed Ford’s extensive and brutal testing regimen, including:

More than 1,000 consecutive extreme temperature loops that quickly bring the engine from minus 25 degrees to 235 degrees Fahrenheit – the equivalent of driving a vehicle nonstop from Death Valley to Arctic Circle 350 times

Structural fatigue tests that run the engine at full load for more than 17 straight days – the majority of the time at peak torque and power

The engine’s ability to withstand repeated stop/starts was validated with more than 900 test hours simulating 240,000 starts and stops

More than 800 hours of towing and unloaded-driving scenarios across the entire engine power range with gasoline-ethanol mixtures up to E20 and intentionally degraded engine oil

Proven family of engines
In addition to the all-new 2.7-liter EcoBoost, the new F-150 will feature a complete lineup of powerplants to let customers tailor the nation’s best-selling truck to their needs. The 3.5-liter EcoBoost returns, along with an all-new naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 and an improved 5.0-liter V8.

The all-new 3.5-liter V6 replaces the current 3.7-liter V6, and uses twin independent variable camshaft timing to provide a flat torque curve and improved efficiency as the highly capable new standard engine in the new F-150. The available 5.0-liter V8 returns with improved cylinder breathing and new mid-lock variable cam timing to improve fuel economy while maintaining its tow-friendly torque.

Sales of Ford F-150 with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost – launched less than three years ago – have already topped 425,000 units in the United States and account for approximately 35 percent of all F-150 sales.

1/17/14

2015 GMC Canyon -- 2014 Detroit Auto Show


From the 2014 North American International Auto Show, Pickuptrucks.com's Mark Williams takes a look at the 2015 GMC Canyon.

1/16/14

Chevrolet Sweeps 2014 NACTOY Awards

Corvette Stingray, Silverado pickup represent brand’s first double win


DETROIT – The all-new Chevrolet Corvette Stingray and Silverado 1500 are the 2014 North American Car and Truck of the Year.   

It is the first time Chevrolet has won both awards in the same year. The Silverado was last named Truck of the Year in 2007 and the Corvette was last named Car of the Year in 1998.
“Chevrolet is in the midst of the most aggressive product transformation in the brand’s more than 100-year history,” said Alan Batey, General Motors senior vice president, Global Chevrolet. “The Corvette and Silverado truly embody the passion, commitment and focus that is driving us to deliver the most expressive designs, innovative technologies and engaging performance in every vehicle that wears the bowtie,”
The Corvette received 211 points topping the Mazda3 with 185 points and the Cadillac CTS with 94 points. The Silverado received 219 points to the Jeep Cherokee with 174 points and the Acura MDX with 97 points.
Presentation of the North American Car and Truck of the Year awards open media days each year at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Forty-nine automotive journalists from the United States and Canada vote to recognize the most outstanding vehicles of the year based on factors including innovation, design, safety, handling, driver satisfaction and value for the dollar.
The new Corvette Stingray is the most powerful standard model ever, with 455 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque from a 6.2L V-8 engine – and 460 horsepower /465 lb-ft with the available performance exhaust system – enabling models with the available Z51 Performance Package to sprint from 0-60 in 3.8 seconds.
Silverado’s available 5.3L EcoTec3 V-8 generates 355 horsepower for confident towing and hauling, yet seamlessly switches to four cylinders to save fuel during light-load driving. With an EPA estimated highway fuel economy of up to 23 mpg, Silverado offers the best fuel economy of any V-8 pickup.
“It is a distinct honor for the entire Chevrolet team to have both the Corvette and Silverado recognized with the prestigious North American Car and Truck of the Year Awards,” Batey said.
About Chevrolet
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world’s largest car brands, doing business in more than 140 countries and selling more than 4.9 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature spirited performance, expressive design, and high quality. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

1/15/14

Clean Cities Reflects on 20 Years of Alternative Fuels


Learn about Clean Cities' history with alternative fuels and transforming U.S. transportation for two decades.

1/14/14

2015 Ford F-150 -- 2014 NAIAS


PickupTruck.com's Mark Williams has done all the digging, and now you have as much information on the 2015 Ford F-150 as we could dig up for you from the 2014 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

1/13/14

Meet the Vehicle Architect for the All-New 2015 GMC Canyon


Watch to learn more about the All-New 2015 GMC Canyon from Shawn Ryan, the Canyon Vehicle Architect.

Learn more about the All-New 2015 GMC Canyon:https://www.gmc.com/canyon-midsize-pi...

1/12/14

A Brief Tour of Buyers Products Tool Boxes


Brian Smith of Buyers Products gives us a tour of the massive selection of tool boxes that are available from Buyers Products. Tool boxes include aluminum, steel, stainless steel and plastic. See much more at www.buyersproducts.com

1/11/14

All 2014 Silverado and Sierra Light-Duty Trucks Earn 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score

New Car Assessment Program includes regular and double cab configurations


DETROIT – The regular and double cab versions of 2014 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and the GMC Sierra1500 have received the highest possible 5-star Overall Vehicle Score for safety as part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s New Car Assessment Program.

Joining the previously tested 2014 crew cab models, which also received a 5-star overall score, all cab configurations of the Silverado and Sierra 1500 series now have the highest possible Overall Vehicle Score. These models are the first pickup trucks to receive the 5-star NHTSA Overall Vehicle Score for safety since the implementation of more rigorous requirements for the 2011 model year.
“Our incredibly capable trucks have been engineered to be some of the safest,” said Gay Kent, GM general director of Vehicle Safety and Crashworthiness. “We’ve designed the vehicle structure, strategically placed high-strength steel and developed the occupant restraint system to achieve high levels of safety performance.
“This level of vehicle performance is complemented by a full array of other advanced safety features to help protect our customers, no matter which new Silverado or Sierra they choose.”
Offering fully boxed frames and extensive use of high-strength steel, the Silverado and Sierra also offer available segment-exclusive safety features such as Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning and Safety Alert Seat. Safety features include:
  • Forward collision alert technology helps prevent frontal crashes by alerting the driver when the truck is closing in on a vehicle ahead too quickly, giving him or her additional time to react and avoid a crash.
  • Lane Departure Warning technology can alert the driver when the truck drifts over a lane line when traveling at least 35 mph.
  • Safety Alert Seat can warn the driver of traffic approaching from the left or right using directional seat vibration pulses. This patented warning approach is tied to all of the on-board crash avoidance systems.
  • High-strength and ultra-high-strength steels are used extensively throughout each truck’s fully boxed frame to help improve performance in crashes.
  • Rear Vision Camera with Dynamic Guidelines allows the driver, when in reverse, to see the area directly behind the vehicle via the eight-inch monitor on the center stack, allowing for easier parking and backing maneuvers.
  • New, standard lap belt pretensionsers in the front-seat outboard safety belts.
  • Six standard air bags and 360-degree sensor system, including dual-stage frontal air bags, head-curtain side-impact air bags with rollover protection, and seat-mounted side-impact air bags.
  • Available trailer-sway control works with StabiliTrak to provide the driver with additional assistance when towing a trailer. When it senses trailer sway, it intervenes with braking and/or reduced engine power to help bring the trailer under control.
  • Four-wheel, four-channel, antilock disc brakes that help provide straight, more controlled stops by preventing wheel lock-up in most road conditions.
  • OnStar is available, using GPS and cellular phone technology to automatically call for help in the event of crash. OnStar service also includes MyLink mobile apps, which offer vehicle information and OnStar services via the customer’s smartphone. Visit Onstar.com for details and system limitations.
About Chevrolet
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world's largest car brands, doing business in more than 140 countries and selling more than 4.5 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature spirited performance, expressive design and high quality. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.
About GMC
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 5-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 athttp://www.gmc.com/, on Twitter at @thisisgmc or at http://www.facebook.com/gmc.

1/10/14

2013 Year Of The D-Max


2013 has been a fantastic year for Isuzu's D-Max. In this video we recap some of the best and most memorable moments for the D-Max in 2013. 

Going from strength to strength the D-Max has established itself as one of the leading pick up trucks in the UK. Not only that, in 2013, the Isuzu D-Max was given the VansA2Z 'Pick Up Truck of The Year' award. There really isn't much better than that.

Also, with the new model D-Max, was the 3.5 towing capacity, which is an increase of 500 kilograms compared to the previous model, which puts the pickup truck on top of the leader board in the United Kingdom is terms of pick up truck towing capacities.

The limited edition 'Huntsman' model was also unleashed onto the market, with much success, and we invited a number of people to our highly successful D-Maxperience Days, and numerous off-road events and tests.

All in all, 2013 was a fantastic year for Isuzu and the D-Max, and here is to the continued success in 2014. 

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