4/30/19

Why does Rolling Resistance matter in the real world?

Some 13% of the power produced by the engine to move a long haul rig along a smooth road at 65 mph is “lost” due to Rolling Resistance. What is it, what causes it, and how can you help to reduce it.



What is Rolling Resistance?
Rolling Resistance is the term used for the energy required to roll a tire over a particular road surface.

It can be viewed as a Parasitic Power Loss, accounting some 13% of the total energy required to move a long haul tractor-trailer combination over a smooth road at 65 mph.

What causes Rolling Resistance?
Rolling Resistance is caused by the following factors

The deformation of the tire in the contact patch and the sidewalls as it rolls (this accounts for some 80% – 95% of Rolling Resistance – Michelin)
Aerodynamic drag of the rotating tire
Friction (microslippage) between the tread and the road surface
Rolling Resistance is also greatly impacted by condition of the road surface.

Why does it matter?
Because it is energy LOST, it is equivalent to a power loss. Power made by the engine is not fully usable, and inhibits forward movement of the vehicle.

Fuel consumption is therefore increased because of this parasitic loss.

How can you reduce Rolling Resistance?

  • Keep tires properly inflated. Properly inflated tires minimize deformation of the contact patch and side walls, and keeps energy loss to a minimum.
  • Use “green tires”, with rubber compounds and treads designed to minimize this energy loss. As much as 35 HP may be “saved” at 65 mph at 80,000 lb.
  • Use of single wide-base tires in place of dual assembly tires. Two dual tires have four sidewalls as opposed to two for a single tire, thus reducing the side wall flex and energy loss.
  • Larger diameter tires have slightly lower energy loss due to the fact that there is less bending of the tire as it enters and leaves the contact patch.



Adrian Steel Drop Down Rack and HVAC Bin Package - Nissan NV - Nissan of Vacaville


Brandon with Nissan of Vacaville shoes off the rack and bin package available with Nissan. See more at http://www.vacavilleworktrucks.com.

4/29/19

Cab To Axle Quick Guide

Cab To Axle



There are many important factors to ensure compatibility between a body and a chassis. Gross vehicle weight rating, gross axle weight rating, payload, wheelbase, fuel and DEF tank location are just a few to consider. Utilizing an experienced and professional upfitter will ensure your next purchase won’t yield an incompatible body and chassis. Regardless if you lean on your truck equipment distributor to do it all from spec’ing to installation or if you prefer to dream up your own upfit, you should always understand how the cab to axle measurement comes into play.

Use this quick guide to determine what body will fit with your next chassis.

* List contains common cab to axle measurements of Ford, GM & Ram cab chassis and standard Knapheide product body lengths.
** Always use an experienced truck equipment upfitter to help determine what chassis, body and equipment are compatible and comply with all federal, state and local commercial vehicle regulations.
*** Body lengths in table are nominal length, please refer to Knapheide specification pages for exact body lengths.

        Cab To Axle
    Service/Utility
    Platform
Gooseneck
Dump
36" 7' 7' 7'
40" 7' 7' 7'
42" 7' 7' 7'
56" 8' 8' 8'
60" 9' 9' 9' 9'
84" 11' 10' | 11' | 12' 11' 11'
108" 13' 13' | 14' | 16'

120" 14' 14' | 16' | 18'

Source: Knapheide.com

4/28/19

ZONAR - Smart Fleet Management Solutions

Access essential information easily, 
accurately and instantly

Fleet management software


 Zonar’s fleet management system lets you access essential information easily, accurately and instantly. Zonar gives you a clear picture of every asset’s location, fuel efficiency, speed, stops, idling, maintenance needs and more. Dramatically minimize total cost of ownership by knowing where every vehicle and piece of equipment is at all times, as well as with how they are operating and when service is needed.

Our solutions are affordable, easy to implement and easy to access from any computer or smart device. Plus, our customer care team is available 24/7/365 to answer any questions. From onboarding to installation, we make sure you’re set up for success from the start, and we stay with you for the entire journey.

  •     Ongoing visibility of all assets and how well they’re running
  •     Replace manual meter reading with automated meter collection
  •     Avoid unnecessary rental costs with verified utilization reporting
  •     Prevent serious problems before they happen with real-time engine diagnostics
  •     Reduce down time with automated integration of inspection data into maintenance software
  •     Manage fuel by decreasing idle times, monitoring speed, and automating IFTA filings and reimbursement
  •     Optimize your driver's time with efficient dispatching
  •     24/7/365 Customer Care by Zonar employees
  •     Easy to implement and use 
Learn more at: https://www.zonarsystems.com/industries/vocational-fleets/

Pickup Vault - A.R.E. Truck Caps and Tonneau Covers


To learn more about the Pickup Vault, and other accessories offered by A.R.E.,
 please visit their website at www.4are.com.

4/27/19

Florida Tow Show 2019, Tow Trucks, Big Rigs, Mega Trucks and More!


Welcome to the 2019 Florida Tow Show. The towing industries largest international show held at the beautiful Hilton Hotel in Lake Buena Vista FL, near Disney and Orlando. Everything from huge expensive trucks to smaller versions. See them all right here. Enjoy and thanks for watching.

4/26/19

2019 Work Truck Show - Mr.Truck Part Two, CV International GM Twin, Titan Lift Kit


Work Truck show part 2. Interviewing International CV, counterpart to the Chevy Silverado 4500-5500. Nissan Titan introduces factory lift kits from Rocky Ridge.

https://mrtruck.com/Popup.htm

2019 Nissan NV200 SV Compact Cargo Van - Nissan of Vacaville Fleet


Brandon with Nissan of Vacaville Fleet Department shows off the great convenience features of the 2019 NV200 SV model. See more at http://www.vacavilleworktrucks.com.

4/25/19

COMPARE AIR COMPRESSOR, GENERATOR & WELDER COMBOS FOR WORK TRUCKS

It’s not an easy task to compare systems that combine an air compressor, generator and welder into one tidy package, but we’re here to help! In this article, we compare several of the most popular air compressor generator welders and tell you everything you need to know to make a smart buying decision.
Air compressor generator welder combos are a great option for mobile operators who perform a variety of tasks on the go and never know exactly what’s waiting for them on a remote job site. These combo systems are popular with mobile mechanics, heavy equipment repair technicians, and other multi-talented operators who are frequently out in the field.
VMAC-MF-Finning
Compressor generator welder systems go by many names, including:
  • 6-in-1
  • All-in-one
  • Multi-power
  • Power system
  • Power pack
  • Multifunction system
  • And more (including many combinations of the words above!)
Most of these systems include an air compressor, a generator, and a welder, but it’s also common to add a battery booster, battery charger, and specialty features as well.
Let’s take a look at a few of the most popular compressor generator welders in North America


4/24/19

The DECKED Brand Product Story


Born in Idaho, made in the USA, DECKED innovates products that make working in and around vehicles more efficient, safer and easier. Our manufacturing partners help us produce the highest quality products on the market right from the heartland of America.

We started thinking about DECKED in 2011, and by 2014 we were shipping our first full bed-length drawer storage systems. With a relentless eye on product quality and customer satisfaction, we are driven by the needs of the working man and woman.

See more at https://decked.com/

Nissan NV Cargo Van Overview


The Nissan NV Cargo is built to get the job done, with plenty of cargo capacity, available stand up headroom, easy-access sliding side doors, a versatile interior, and advanced technology like a backup camera, Bluetooth and Google Search. Plus, the confidence of America's Best Commercial Van Limited Warranty.

4/23/19

Tips for Maintaining and Driving on a Spare Tire

how to maintain a spare tire

While most drivers realize the importance of taking care of their tires, there’s one tire that usually gets overlooked – the one in your trunk.
But some people assume that because they haven’t used a spare,that it can operate like new. Accidents resulting from faulty or poorly maintained spares happen more than most drivers think. Learn how to safely drive on a spare tire, and what precautions you can take to help keep your spare in working condition.

How to safely drive on a spare tire

When you resort to driving on your spare, it’s important to know the limitations of your new tire. Remember the answers to these three questions to ensure you’re using your spare correctly:
  • How fast can you drive on a spare tire? Spares were not designed to drive at the same speed as regular tires; never let your speed exceed 50 miles an hour when you’ve got a spare on your car.
  • How far can you drive on a spare tire? As a rule, most spare tire mileage is around 50 miles. They were built only as a substitute to get you safely to a place where you can get your tire repaired.
  • How does driving on a spare affect other tires? As noted, driving on a spare is not a long-term solution. It can wear out your full-sized tires faster and, if driven for too long, can throw your car out of alignment.

Spare tire maintenance

Consumer Reports and other well-regarded sources on tire safety say that although the tire doesn’t have the same road wear as the four active tires on your vehicle, drivers need to inspect the spare regularly and replace it if the tire is over eight years old – that is unless a vehicle’s owner’s manual recommends changing the spare sooner.

Check spare tire pressure regularly

In addition to not letting your spare age in the trunk of your car, you need to make sure it’s getting plenty of air. All tires lose pressure with changes in the temperature, and your spare is no exception. It’s a good idea to check the tire pressure in your spare on a regular basis – and always before heading out on a road trip. It’s not useful to replace a flat tire with a spare when your spare’s tire pressure is also low.
One way to ensure your spare is ready to roll is to have it inspected every time you have your tires rotated. This is usually something that should be done about every 5,000 miles. Just ask your tire technician to inspect the spare and make sure it’s properly inflated and in good condition.
If your spare does have damage, it’s wiser to replace it rather than attempt to repair it. Space-saver or “donut” spare tires aren’t intended for long-term driving and can become worn much more quickly than a standard tire – particularly if they’re driven at too high a speed or for too many miles. A damaged spare isn’t likely to perform well, even after being repaired, so it’s much safer just to replace it.

Make sure your spare hasn’t been recalled

Just like full-size tires, sometimes spare tires can be defective. You can visit the National Highway Traffic Safety website to check for recalls and make sure that your spare is safe for driving.
If you need help replacing a flat with your spare, or need to fix a flat without a backup tire, Nationwide’s 24-hour emergency assistance program can provide a quick tire change. Get back on the road faster with Roadside Assistance.
If you need help replacing a flat with your spare, Nationwide’s 24-hour emergency assistance program can provide a quick tire change. Get back on the road faster with Roadside Assistance.


Source: https://blog.nationwide.com/driving-on-a-spare-tire/


4/21/19

2019 Nissan Frontier Overview


The 2019 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a powerful 4.0-liter V6, and innovative cargo features like 5-channel Utili-track . Available in Crew Cab, King Cab, there's a Frontier that's the perfect for work and play.

4/20/19

FMVSS 111 Explained with 2018 Updates



FMVSS (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards) 111, a law in full effect on May 1st 2018 which requires a minimum view behind a vehicle which has a gross weight of 10,000 pounds or lower. Watch to learn all the details involved and how backup cameras can help your vehicle be compliant with this regulation.

Ford Telematics: The Power of Choice | Ford


Ford Customer Solutions now offers access to unprecedented data and options for fleet managers looking to optimize their business. Ford Telematics™ is a simple, yet powerful tool that delivers manufacturer-grade information, insights and solutions right to your fingertips. The easy-to-use interface enables you to manage your fleet in real-time and quickly assess where you need to take action.

4/19/19

121 Ways to Save Fuel: Tires

1) Buy fuel-efficient tires

Getting the right tire at the right wheel position can improve fuel economy by several percentage points.

About 13% of each gallon of fuel consumed goes solely to overcoming rolling resistance. That can vary by the load on the tire, the tread pattern and of course, inflation pressure.


“The relationship between rolling resistance and fuel consumption is about 8:1,” says Rick Phillips, senior director of sales, commercial and OTR products at Yokohama Tire. “An 8% reduction in tire rolling resistance will result in a 1% savings in fuel consumption.”

Various wheel positions have different impacts on fuel economy.

“On a tractor-trailer combination, the steer tires contribute 15-20% to fuel economy, drive tires 30-40% and trailer tires about 40-50%,” says William Estupinan, vice president of technical service for Giti Tire USA. “The first priority for a fleet interested in saving a significant amount of money is to start moving toward fuel-efficient tires for the trailer axles.”

A tight rib pattern, thinner tread — 12/32- to 20/32-inch of tread depth — and advanced compounding make today’s trailer tires very fuel-efficient.
With drive tires, traction and durability are higher on the list of priorities. But traction hasn’t really suffered in a significant way in the quest for lower rolling resistance, manufacturers say.

Learn more at: http://www.truckinginfo.com/article/story/2014/06/121-ways-to-save-fuel-tires.aspx

4/18/19

Nissan TITAN Towing Features



The Nissan TITAN and TITAN XD have game-changing towing capabilities like Intelligent Around View monitor that gives you two camera views to make lining up to a trailer easy. And the remote trailer light check lets you check your connections with TITAN's keyless remote – no help needed. Whether working or playing, TITAN is ready to get the job done.

 2019 Nissan TITAN Towing Features -------------------------------------- - Intelligent Around View Monitor - Trailer Light Check - Tow/Haul Mode - Trailer Sway Control - Trailer Brake Controller

Advanced Clean Transportation Expo


CONFERENCE April 23-26, 2019 EXPO April 24-25, 2019
Long Beach Convention Center Long Beach, California


Learn more at:  https://www.actexpo.com/



4/17/19

Sortimo By Knapheide Overview


Sortimo by Knapheide allows users to create unique and customized storage solutions to meet their specific needs. We are committed to being the leader for organizational systems for commercial vehicles and getting our customers from curbside to the work site - fast.

4/16/19

Transfer Flow's TRAX 3™ Fuel Monitoring System!



The next generation of Transfer Flow's TRAX auxiliary fuel tank operating system is here! TRAX 3™ is a computer controlled, self-diagnosing fuel monitoring system that transfers fuel from your Transfer Flow auxiliary fuel tank to your main fuel tank. For your peace of mind, the TRAX 3™ computer module constantly monitors fuel levels in both tanks. Now, you’ll always know the percentage of fuel in your Transfer Flow auxiliary fuel tank and main fuel tank!

Get More Payload with Knapheide Aluminum Flatbed Truck Bodies

Hauling feathers probably isn't a part of your day job, so you need the most payload you can get out of your truck. Lucky for you, aluminum platform bodies from Knapheide are lightweight but not light duty. 

no-label


Take a closer look to see for yourself. Are you looking for a flatbed truck body that’s easy on payload but heavy on features and toughness? Look no further than the new Aluminum Platform Body from Knapheide. With a desire to never settle for second best, we spent years designing and testing our aluminum product lines to ensure they’re lightweight but not light duty. Assembled with aerospace techniques and utilizing military-grade aluminum extrusions, the aluminum platform body is class-leading in strength, durability and longevity. Available in lengths from 7’ to 18’, there’s a tough, long-lasting aluminum platform body for your application no matter how big or small.

Learn more at: https://www.knapheide.com/platform-bodies/aluminum-platform-bodies-p795?utm_campaign=apb-push-email-3-201902&utm_medium=email&utm_source=eloqua&utm_content=product-page&elqTrackId=33d6f7e3acd14aadbfc6d814ea104beb&elq=a3c7ca490527492c99a3371fd8b5204f&elqaid=1024&elqat=1&elqCampaignId=490



4/15/19

XL F250 Electric Pickup Truck at the 2019 Work Truck Show


2019 NTEA Work Truck Show in Indy part 3. XLfleet.com introduces it's hybrid Ford F250 available this fall. All cab sizes, 4x2, 4x4 all with 6.2L powertrain. 50% improvement in fuel mileage.


Source: https://mrtruck.com/popup.htm

4/13/19

Take Idle off Your Truck With the Miller EnPak A30 Power System




The EnPak A30 all-in-one solution reduces idle time on your truck by up to 75 percent and provides technicians with the power they need to get jobs done. Less idle time reduces costly maintenance and lowers the risk of unplanned downtime that can leave your truck and technician stranded. Using the EnPak A30 unit instead of your truck engine is the best way to improve your bottom line, maximize efficiency and keep your technicians and customers satisfied. Equipped with compressed air, battery charge/crank assist, electric power, inverter-based welding and more, this power system is the quietest, most fuel-efficient all-in-one. The EnPak A30 power system maintains PTO-driven power capabilities, including 12V DC, in a compact, lightweight solution that’s backed by the industry-leading reliability and performance you expect. To learn more, visit: https://www.millerwelds.com/equipment...

4/12/19

Lift the Load with a Venco Venturo ET6K Electric Crane


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

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

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

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

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

Highway Products - Some Very Tough Truck Accessories

 https://www.highwayproducts.com/assets/images/product-images/products/gullwing-truck-tool-box/slider-images/gullwing-truck-tool-box-slide-01.jpg

Military grade truck accessories that are built to last forever. Our truck accessories were built for the toughest jobs on earth and to protect your valuable trucks, tools and gear. We don’t just say that. We back it up by standing proudly behind a Lifetime Transferable Warranty.

Shop truck accessories: https://www.highwayproducts.com/collections/truck-accessories/


4/10/19

Introducing NTEA's 55th Board Chairman, Wm. Craig Bonham



Wm. Craig Bonham, VP of Commercial Vehicle, Safe Fleet (Belton, Missouri) was installed as NTEA's 55th Board Chairman on March 7, 2019 at the President's Breakfast and Annual Meeting held during WTS19.

Prime Design’s Ergorack- The Drop Down Ladder Rack for Nissan NV200



Watch how Prime Design's ErgoRack allows for productive, safe, and easy loading and unloading of a ladder. With the Ergorack you can load a ladder in 20 seconds or less without risking injury by climbing on a bumper or tire. The ErgoRack fits on almost any commercial van and truck model, wheelbase, and height. Be sure to subscribe to our channel and check out this demo of an Ergorack on a Nissan NV.

4/09/19

VOCATIONAL TRADE SHOWS YOU SHOULDN'T MISS

Trade Shows By Vocations

AGRICULTURE

National Farm Machinery Show - For over 50 years, the National Farm Machinery Show has offered the most complete selection of cutting-edge agricultural products, equipment and services available in the farming industry. Business professionals from around the world gain knowledge and hands-on access to various technological advancements needed for the upcoming farming season during the four-day show.

World Ag Expo - World Ag Expo is the world's largest annual agricultural exposition. More than 1,500 exhibitors display the latest in farm equipment, communications and technology on 2.6 million square feet of exhibit space. Free seminars focus on a variety of topics important to dairy producers, farmers, ranchers and agribusiness professionals.

Farm Progress Show - Farm Progress Show, the nation’s largest outdoor farm event, annually hosts more than 600 exhibitors displaying new farm equipment, tractors, combines and farm implements; seed and crop protection products; and many additional farm supplies and services.

Husker Harvest Days - Farm Progress' Husker Harvest Days is the nation's largest, totally irrigated working farm show. With more than 500 exhibitors, the show provides farmers and ranchers direct access to company representatives and allows the opportunity to gain hands-on knowledge about the latest products and services available.

CONSTRUCTION

World of Concrete - World of Concrete is the industry’s only annual international event dedicated to the commercial concrete and masonry construction industries.

International Builders Show - IBS is the largest gathering of home building professionals in North America, and your best opportunity to get all the business tools you need—in three days! No other event brings together people, products and trends like the Builders' Show.

CONEXPO-CON/AGG - CONEXPO-CON/AGG is North America’s largest construction trade show representing asphalt, aggregates, concrete, earthmoving, lifting, mining, utilities and more.

National Hardware Show - At the National Hardware, you'll find everything you need to move your business forward including new buying opportunities, merchandising ideas & solutions, money-saving deals & face-to-face networking opportunities. The future of home improvement is here.

Kitchen & bath Industry Show - The Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) is North America's largest trade show dedicated to all aspects of kitchen and bath design.

ELECTRICAL

NECA - The National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) is the voice of the $130 billion electrical construction industry that brings power, light, and communication technology to buildings and communities across the US.

HVACR

AHR Expo - The International Air-Conditioning, Heating, Refrigerating Exposition (AHR Expo) has grown into the event of the year for the HVACR industry. The Show provides a unique forum for the entire HVACR industry to come together and share new products, technologies, and ideas.

LANDSCAPING - TREE CARE

GIE + Expo - Two tradeshows – GIE+EXPO and Hardscape North America – co-located in one central location, provide your No. 1 opportunity to see what the industry is buzzing about.

TCI Expo - Hosted by the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA), TCI EXPO is the world's largest tree care industry trade show and conference.

MINING

MINExpo - MINExpo INTERNATIONAL® is the world's largest expo for mining equipment, products & services.

PEST CONTROL

PestWorld - Every year, NPMA gathers thousands of pest management professionals from across the globe to offer opportunities for information sharing, provide access to the latest products, services, and technologies in the 100,000 square foot exhibit hall, and generate critical thinking in world-class educational sessions..

PLUMBING

ASPE Expo - The American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE) Convention & Expo is dedicated to quality education, connections and experiences for those skilled in the design, specification and inspection of plumbing systems.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS

Cable-TEC Expo - The epicenter for innovative thinking, Cable-Tec Expo is the industry’s largest cable telecom event in North America. Nothing else comes close. If you only attend one professional conference all year, this is the one..

UTILITIES - MUNICIPAL

ICUEE - ICUEE is the utility industry's largest trade show, covering 28+ acres of indoor and outdoor exhibits, and bringing together more than 18,000 utility professionals every two years.

Power-Gen International - As the World's Largest Power Generation Event, POWER-GEN International is the industry leader in providing comprehensive coverage of the trends, technologies and issues facing the generation sector.

4/08/19

4/07/19

4/06/19

TOOL TECH HIGHLIGHTS

Tech Tools
The days of the a simple hammer, square and a tape measure being all you need to get the job done are gone. While these are still viable tools, there’s been a great deal of advancement in contractor tool technology that makes your job easier than ever before. Here are some of our favorite new tool technologies being used today.

LASER LEVEL & TAPE MEASURE

While levels and tape measures are time-tested jobsite staples, there’s always room for improvement. Laser levels can quickly and accurately provide both horizontal and vertical level lines in an instant. In the same interest of saving time, a laser tape measure can quickly give a readout of distance between walls.

LED LIGHTS

For when those long days become nights, an LED light bar helps you continue working around the clock. Many of these battery-powered lights are magnetic to maximize versatility. By utilizing power-sipping LED lights, these lights should work long into the night.

HEATED JACKETS

Sometimes the cold weather creeps in and it’s not possible to prep your jobsite for with heating elements. That’s where a heated jacket can come in handy. Even if your jobsite is plenty warm, a heated jacket is still a great option when moving from place to place on a cold day.

INSPECTION CAMERA

Sometimes, you just can’t get a good look at the situation on the job. Whether it’s snaking a drain or getting a better look in an attic, an inspection camera gives you the additional range to get into those hard-to-reach spaces and know what you’re up against.

DRONE

Similar to an inspection camera, a drone gives you the ability to survey a jobsite quickly and easily. When it comes to site surveying, drones are an up and coming method. Some drones built-in cameras even have the ability to collect survey grade data for jobsites within minutes.

BARCODE TOOL SCANNER

Keeping track of your tools as they move between the shop, work vehicles and the jobsite can be a daunting task. Having your tools barcoded and scanned in and out using an inventory management system. This helps maintain who’s checked out a tool, so you always know where it’s at. Additionally, inventory management systems can help track usage for improved maintenance and upkeep of your tools.

CONTRACTOR PHONE APPS

Our phones are more powerful than ever. While they’re great devices for communication and entertainment, many contractors are beginning to harness that power on the job. There are a number of applications available to help contractors handle job quoting, project management, construction calculators, safety guidelines, and even gas savings.
Make sure you’re always on the lookout for ways to make your job easier by keeping up with the latest work technologies for your particular vocation.

SOURCE: https://www.knapheide.com/news/blog/2019/01/tool-tech-highlights

Businesses need smarter tech in their fleets to survive e-commerce boom

e-NV200 Zero Emission
New data from Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi highlights unpreparedness of small to medium-sized businesses to keep up with the growth of e-commerce
  • Small businesses with fleets need smarter technology to improve delivery efficiencies
  • Improved connectivity is considered most key to logistical success
  • More than half of small businesses (55%) believe fleets will be fully autonomous within 20 years1, by which point 66%2predict they will also be fully electric
Almost a fifth (18%)3 of small business leaders say the sheer pace of the fast-moving world of e-commerce and the rising demand for deliveries is the biggest business challenge they face logistically, closely followed by the ability to keep up with regulation changes (17%)4.
Small businesses surveyed across the globe also highlighted changing customer expectations for delivery times (12%)5and urban traffic and congestion (11%)6 as key concerns.
While 40% of small businesses feel well set up for the increasing demands of e-commerce7, research commissioned by the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi LCV business – which is part of the Alliance, the world's leading automotive partnership – has shown that almost a third (30%)8 believe their business is not ready for these demands as they need smarter technology.
American small businesses recognize some of the benefits of autonomous fleets, but are doubtful fleets will become fully autonomous in the future. To read more insights about the U.S. market, read the U.S. factsheet document provided.
For more on this study, visit Nissan's global newsroom.

4/05/19

Bethel students first in country to ride ‘cleanest’ buses on the market



Starting this spring, Bethel students might notice their rides to school are a bit quieter.
They’ll also be healthier.

Thanks to a grant from the Environmental Protection Agency, new buses are arriving that have the cleanest emissions on the market.

Bethel School District will be the first in the country to use them.


Read more here: https://www.thenewstribune.com/news/local/education/article227485069.html#storylink=cpy

4/04/19

Pickup Trucks 101: Gas Vs. Diesel


If you are in the market for a new pickup truck, you may be wondering if you should get a gas engine or a diesel engine since there are significant differences between the two. Those differences vary for mid-size, light-duty full-size and heavy-duty full-size pickups.

Which is best for you? Let's look at the differences of the two engine types, focusing not only on the engines themselves, but also on the components that are different between them.

Read the whole story at: http://news.pickuptrucks.com/2017/08/pickup-trucks-101-gas-vs-diesel.html

Ford F-750 drops emissions with Roush CleanTech near-zero autogas upfit


Todd Mouw, president of Roush CleanTech, talks about near-zero autogas technology in an F-750 that his company brought to the Work Truck Show in Indianapolis. Approved by the California Air Resources Board and less costly than electric, the clean-burning engine is 90 percent cleaner than current EPA standards.

SOURCE: 


4/03/19

Closer look at the 2019 Chevy Silverado 6500HD with Monroe dump body at the Detroit Auto Show


John Schwegman, GM’s director of commercial product and medium duty vehicles, along with Ed Peper, vice president of GM Fleet, walk us through the 2019 Chevy Silverado 6500HD at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Topics include front-end design, telematics, powertrain, ease of upfit and cab layout.

Source: Hard Working Trucks

4/02/19

How to load and unload the Kargo Master 4A92L EZ Dropdown Ladder Rack


Kargo Master makes it easy to load and unload your ladder racks. The 4A92L features aluminum design and ergonomic loading to make it easy to grab your ladder and go!

FORD Trucks at the 2019 NTEA Work Truck Show


NTEA Work Truck Show, all new Ford F600, RV chassis, E-chassis and of course 2021 F650-750. Commercial trucks chassis cabs will all the safety features of a F150.

Source: MrTruckTV

4/01/19

PAINT IT BLACK: FORD INTRODUCES BLACK APPEARANCE PACKAGE ON ALL-NEW RANGER


  • Ranger buyers now have another choice to customize their truck with the new Black Appearance Package; more than two-thirds of all-new 2019 Ford Ranger pickups flying out of showrooms are optioned with an appearance package
  • Ranger Black Appearance Package features an aggressive look with a black grille, running boards, accented wheels and more, making body colors like Hot Pepper Red and Lightning Blue pop
  • Ranger fans can order the Black Appearance Package for their trucks now, with deliveries starting in early summer

DEARBORN, Mich., March 25, 2019 – With the all-new Ford Ranger off to a strong start since the first trucks went on sale in January, Ford is already introducing a new Black Appearance Package, helping buyers further customize their Ranger to match their unique personal style.

More than two-thirds of all-new Ranger pickups are leaving showrooms optioned with either the Sport Appearance Package that adds unique wheels and Magnetic Gray-painted accents, or the Chrome Appearance Package with bright chrome wheels and chrome body accents.

The new Black Appearance Package gives Ranger customers a bold and stylish new option.

“Like the rest of their gear, Ranger customers are choosing the option that best fits their adventures,” said Todd Eckert, Ford truck group marketing manager. “Having the right gear matters and so does the right look. The Black Appearance Package adds aggressive style to the adventures our customers embark on.”

Available with any Ranger body color, the Black Appearance Package’s aggressive look will help the truck stand out on the beach or in the backcountry. Its standard features include:

Black-painted grille
Body-color bumpers
High-gloss black-painted 18-inch aluminum wheels with black center caps
Black running boards
Black spray-in bed liner
Black fender vent surround
Black mirrors
Black sill plate
Black bash plate on FX4 Off-Road Package
Black lower valance

The Ranger Black Appearance Package is available as an option for $1,995 (excludes taxes) and can be ordered at dealers now, with deliveries targeted to begin in early summer.

Built Ford Tough and ready for adventure

In addition to individual style, the all-new Ford Ranger answers the call from truck customers looking for an affordable, rugged and maneuverable midsize pickup that’s Built Ford Tough. Torture-tested alongside Ford F-150 trucks, Ranger quality starts with a high-strength steel frame backbone, proven Ford-built 2.3-liter EcoBoost® engine and class-exclusive 10-speed automatic transmission.

Inside, Ranger blends comfort and functionality with room for up to five people, their gear and accessories. The center stack includes an 8-inch touch screen for the available SYNC® 3 system, while the instrument cluster features productivity screens for real-time vehicle and audio information plus available navigation.

Ranger incorporates advanced passenger convenience and connectivity features, plus smart driver-assist technologies including standard automatic emergency braking. Ford Co-Pilot360™ technologies like Lane-Keeping System and class-exclusive Blind Spot Information System with trailer coverage are standard on XLT and Lariat trim levels. Additional driver-assist technologies including adaptive cruise control and forward and reverse sensing systems are available on both XLT and Lariat.

About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan. The company designs, manufactures, markets and services a full line of Ford cars, trucks, SUVs, electrified vehicles and Lincoln luxury vehicles, provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company and is pursuing leadership positions in electrification, autonomous vehicles and mobility solutions. Ford employs approximately 199,000 people worldwide. For more information regarding Ford, its products and Ford Motor Credit Company, please visit www.corporate.ford.com.