Transporting Race Cars No Drag With Isuzu Truck

The Village Motors race team has turned to an Isuzu FVL 1400 to provide them with plenty of horsepower off the track.

Dave Newcombe's professionally built 2007 Pontiac GTO might fly down the quarter mile drag strip in 7.09 seconds, but it needs some help getting from garage to track.

And it's not just one car that needs transporting. Regularly travelling to competitions across Australia is a team of five (the Village Motors MotorSport's Pro Stock drag racing team), two race cars, tools and equipment.

Pro Stock drag racing cars are the highest development of 'street-appearing' four-seat sedans or coupes using V8 engines – and precious cargo for the Brisbane-based Village Motors team.

When the time came to replace their small gooseneck trailer, the team looked to Isuzu for a reliable and comfortable truck that would meet their requirements and perform well on the long-distance drives across states.

They purchased an Isuzu FVL 1400, which Dave said transports the two race cars with ease.

Dave and his team have developed a well-designed and innovative configuration. The long trailer is split into two sections: the rear holds up to two race cars plus tools and other equipment, and the front section houses an office and living quarters for the team, which is accessible via a door on the side of the trailer.

"It is a fantastic vehicle that offers us plenty of power," Dave said. "And we now also have the convenience of an office, which we work from while we're on the road."

For extra storage space, the trailer also incorporates a series of compartments in the empty spaces next to the wheels.

"The Isuzu FVL 1400 is a huge improvement on our previous transportation," Dave said.

According to Dave, the FVL 1400 is ideal for the team's highway driving, due to its spacious cab and Isri air suspension driver’s seat that boasts pneumatic lumbar support and height, rake and automatic weight adjustment.

"The cab interior is very roomy and comfortable, so it’s great for the long journeys across Queensland that we often endure," Dave said.

Mated to a nine speed air assisted shift transmission with synchromesh on the first eight gears, the FVL 1400’s six cylinder, 24 valve SiTEC Series II 295 engine offers plenty of power for both urban conditions and out on the open road and is easy to drive. The truck also features cruise control and Hill Start Aid.

Keeping the driver and occupants safe is a range of safety features including Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and driver airbag.

According to Dave, the Isuzu FVL’s Hendrickson airbag suspension gives a much smoother ride, and is preferable over spring suspension for delicate loads like the team’s race cars.

"In the competitive world of drag racing, the last thing we need is to arrive at a race meet and find that any of our equipment has been damaged in transit," Dave said.

"I look for reliability, quality and comfort in a vehicle, which is why we turned to Brisbane Isuzu for our new truck. There is no question that Isuzu produces the best trucks on the market."

See more about all the great Isuzu Trucks in Australia at http://www.isuzu.com.au/.

2011 FORD F-150 TRANSMISSION FEATURES FASTER, SMOOTHER SHIFTING, BETTER FUEL ECONOMY

• A six-speed automatic transmission is now standard for each of the four new engines for the 2011 Ford F-150. Ford is the only manufacturer to offer a six-speed automatic transmission as standard throughout the lineup
• The revamped 6R80 transmission provides smoother operation and better fuel economy. SelectShift Automatic™ capability, progressive range select and manual mode are added, allowing customers the convenience of an automatic transmission for routine operation combined with the ability to select and lock gears
• Optimized wider ratio span allows a lower final drive ratio with outstanding off-the-line performance and improved fuel economy; new one-way clutch added for smoother 1-2 and 2-1 shifts

DEARBORN, Mich., Aug. 11, 2010 – A familiar transmission – with several improvements – will manage the power produced by the all-new engine lineup of the 2011 Ford F-150. The diverse group of engines, which ranges from a 3.7-liter V6 with advanced valvetrain timing to a 6.2-liter V8, will be mated to the 6R80 six-speed automatic transmission.

This tried-and-true gearbox has been upgraded to bring available customer conveniences such as SelectShift capability with progressive range select and manual mode to the F-150 for the first time. Ford is the only manufacturer to offer a six-speed automatic transmission as standard throughout its full-size pickup lineup.

In every case the transmission has been optimized to each new engine. Available at launch are the 3.7-liter Ti-VCT (twin independent variable camshaft timing) V6, the 5.0-liter V8 and the 6.2-liter V8. An EcoBoost™ engine specially tuned for truck application joins the F-150 lineup after launch.

“The F-150 has a diverse set of customers, so we don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach when matching the transmission to the engine,” said Bryant Grytzelius, 6R80 transmission engineering manager. “With the 3.7-liter engine, for example, that particular transmission has fewer clutch plates compared with the other engines. Everything is sized accordingly for optimum driveability, performance and fuel economy.”

SelectShift, progressive range select and manual mode added for 2011
Convenience and control are balanced by the 6R80’s SelectShift Automatic capability, which automatically shifts during routine operation and also allows complete manual control. Included are progressive range select and manual functions.

With progressive range select, a toggle on the shift lever allows the customer to reduce the range of available gears while in Drive. When the customer “taps” down into range select mode, the new available 4.2-inch LCD screen shows the available gears and highlights the current gear state. This feature allows the driver to limit use of upper gears when heavily loaded or while towing on grades.

For full manual function, customers also can pull the shift lever into “M” for manual mode and use the same toggle switch to select the gear desired. The display will show the selected gear, and the control system will lock the torque converter and hold that gear for a full manual transmission feel.

The 6R80’s tow/haul mode has been recalibrated to provide better control when hauling a heavy load or towing a trailer, especially when going down grades. The improved system, now integrated into the powertrain control module, uses an array of sophisticated electronic sensors to better predict the driver’s need for a downshift to provide engine braking and enhanced control.

A further refinement for 2011 is the addition of a one-way clutch, which allows for smoother 1-2 and 2-1 shifts, faster downshifts and helps improve fuel economy.

Balancing fuel economy and performance; robust testing
The 6R80’s gear ratios, span and shift schedule have been optimized for better off-the-line performance and improved fuel economy. The double-overdrive gear also provides better fuel economy.

The 6R80 has been tested to 150,000 equivalent miles in testing cycles that reflect the most extreme-use customer, and the box itself is rated up to 7,000 rpm. The fluid is filled for life.

“The increased capability and functionality of the transmission, backed by exhaustive testing, will help ensure this next F-150 will deliver everything our customers need and more,” Grytzelius said.

Interesting Welder Body From Harbor Truck Bodies Hides Everything Well

Welder Bodies come in so many different modifications, that almost any body could be a "Welder Body." Here's yet another way. This one is an 11' Harbor Service Body with 56" high compartments. It is mounted on a 108" CA chassis so that allows 2' of space in front of the body for the Miller Trailblazer welding machine. As you can see, this welder is mounted on a sliding tray which extends all the way out from the body and supports the weight nicely.

Mounted on the top right is a Venturo ET25KX crane with crane rest and outrigger package mounted as shown in the last photo. Just think of all the stuff we can put in this wonderful set of closets. In addition, this unit has the cargo bed enclosure which keeps the things in the center compartment out of the weather, and more importantly, out of sight.

All in all, this is an awesome selection of features and benefits that could serve you well. Call Harbor at 1-800-433-9452 and visit their website at www.htbi.net.

Ford Announces 4 New Truck Engines For 2011 F-150

ALL NEW FORD F-150 POWERTRAIN LINEUP DELIVERS BEST-IN-CLASS FUEL ECONOMY, POWER AND CAPABILITY

• The powertrain lineup for the 2011 Ford F-150 features four new truck engines: a 3.7-liter V6, 5.0-liter and 6.2-liter V8s, and a twin-turbocharged EcoBoost™ 3.5-liter
• Headlining the engine lineup is a new twin-turbo EcoBoost engine with Ti-VCT that has been specifically tuned, calibrated and tested for durability and reliability
• Each new engine delivers best-in-class towing and horsepower. The entire 2011 F-150 lineup will be at least 20 percent more fuel efficient than the 2010 F-150 lineup
• Ford is the first and only automaker to equip its entire full-size pickup lineup with fuel-saving six-speed automatic transmissions as standard equipment

DEARBORN, Mich., Aug. 11, 2010 – For the 2011 model year, the Ford F-150 is getting the most extensive powertrain overhaul in the truck’s history. The 2011 F-150 has four new truck engines, all coupled to a revised six-speed automatic transmission.

Each engine delivers improved fuel economy, outstanding performance and class-leading capability. This versatile new powertrain lineup enables F-150 customers to choose the engine that best suits their needs. Available at launch are a 3.7-liter V6 and a 5.0-liter V8, each with fuel-saving and performance-enhancing twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) technology, and a version of the 6.2-liter V8 that is the base engine in the 2011 Ford F-Series Super Duty. A 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine, specially tuned and calibrated for the F-150, will be available in early 2011. Each of the engines offers an unequaled combination of attributes that matter most to F-150 customers: torque, horsepower, fuel economy, performance, durability, reliability and capability. The 2011 F-150 lineup will deliver best-in-class fuel economy. When the 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine joins the lineup, the 2011 F-150 will have up to 20 percent better fuel economy compared with the outgoing 2010 F-150.

“Our new engine lineup allows greater flexibility for customers to select the powertrain choice that best suits their needs,” said Barb Samardzich, vice president of Powertrain Engineering. “We are in the midst of a powertrain revolution, with 30 new powertrains over the next two years, and our loyal F-150 customers are the next ones to benefit.”
Extensive testing program to ensure truck application

To ensure the highest quality, most reliable engines, Ford engineers studied the warranty history of the outgoing engines and developed testing procedures based on the real-world driving experiences from current F-150 drivers.

Prototype engines underwent a wide range of tests to ensure complete compatibility with truck application and truck durability, with all components and systems passing testing to the equivalent of 150,000 miles. Components such as the exhaust manifolds and the crankshaft (forged steel) were upgraded, piston-cooling jets and oil coolers were added, and engines were specifically calibrated for improved heavy-duty operation and durability in F-150.

“Truck customers demand an engine that delivers outstanding low-speed torque to help tow or move heavy payloads, and sustained high-load, low-speed operation is a key attribute they look for,” said Samardzich. “The engine lineup for the 2011 Ford F-150 has been tuned specifically for truck operation needs and optimized for fuel economy. The result is a lineup that delivers class-leading towing and payload capability with outstanding horsepower, torque and fuel economy.”

Here are the highlights of each new engine:

3.7-liter four-valve Ti-VCT V6

The 3.7-liter will be the most powerful, capable and fuel-efficient base V6 of any truck in its class. Key attributes include:

• Best-in-class 300 horsepower (estimated) at 6,500 rpm
• 275 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,500 rpm
• Class-leading fuel economy
• Best-in-class 6,100 pounds maximum trailer tow
• Ti-VCT creates precise, variable timing control of both the intake and exhaust camshafts to optimize power, performance and fuel economy
• E85 flex fuel capability
• Piston-cooling jets, which squirt oil on the underside of the pistons to keep the piston crowns cool under extreme operating conditions
• Forged-steel crankshaft for improved durability
• Built at Cleveland Engine Plant

The 3.7-liter V6 powering the base 2011 F-150 is the latest application of the award-winning Duratec® V6 engine, with additional technology and upgrades for truck application. In particular, more work was done on the bottom end of the engine, a strong point of all Duratec V6 engines.

“This is a well-designed engine with a massive amount of attention to detail around the block and the structure of the block,” said Jim Mazuchowski, V6 engines program manager. “This attention to the stiffness and rigidity of the bottom end, how the engine is fastened with four-bolt mains and two side bolts, enhances durability and NVH (noise, vibration and harshness).”

Other enhancements for durability include a forged-steel crankshaft, cast-iron exhaust manifolds and a die-cast aluminum oil pan, which supports a 10,000-mile interval for oil changes. The design of the cylinder bore and piston rings has been optimized for efficient lubrication.

In addition to engine durability, Ti-VCT leads a host of technologies that increase overall engine efficiency. Ti-VCT’s precise and variable control of the intake and exhaust camshafts optimizes performance and fuel economy. The piston squirters enable faster engine warm-up, and the polished buckets reduce friction, which aids fuel economy.

5.0-liter four-valve dual-overhead-camshaft Ti-VCT V8

The 5.0-liter V8 in the 2011 F-150 offers many class bests compared with competitors’ entry-level V8s, including:

• Best-in-class 360 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 380 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,250 rpm
• Class-leading fuel economy
• Best-in-class 9,800 pounds maximum trailer tow
• New strengthened block and new cylinder head optimized for performance and enhanced cooling
• Unique intake camshafts, combined with Ti-VCT, composite intake manifold and optimized compression ratio for improved low-speed torque and towing capability
• Forged-steel crank and all-new oil cooler enhance durability
• Piston-cooling jets, which squirt oil on the underside of the pistons to keep the piston crowns cool under extreme operating conditions
• E85 flex fuel capability
• Built at Essex Engine Plant; Windsor, Ontario

While this 5.0-liter V8 engine is similar to the one powering the 2011 Mustang GT, it has several important differences to optimize it for the harsh duty cycle truck customers demand. First, the camshafts were tuned to improve low-speed torque, which is key to truck customers. Also, the 10.5:1 compression ratio was optimized to reduce knock tendency at lower engine speeds while towing.

The hardware added to the 5.0 specifically for F-150 includes: an additional oil cooler, which helps extend the life of the oil to 10,000-mile intervals; foam covers for the fuel injectors to reduce NVH; and cast exhaust manifolds for improved durability. The new aluminum block is 70 pounds lighter than the 5.4-liter V8, which aids fuel economy and improves handling. The engine’s forged-steel crankshaft also ensures durability.

“This engine uses proven technology to deliver a great combination of low-speed torque and fuel economy with the durability F-150 customers demand,” said Mike Harrison, V8 engine programs manager.



6.2-liter two-valve single-overhead-camshaft V8

The 6.2-liter V8 is a premium engine offering on the 2011 F-150, with an expanded offering to F-150 SVT Raptor and other specialty applications. Its attributes include:

• Best-in-class 411 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 434 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,500 rpm
• Best-in-class 11,300 pounds maximum trailer tow
• Competitive fuel economy
• Durability of race-proven components and technology showcased in November 2008 when a 6.2-liter Raptor R not only survived the grueling Baja 1000, it earned a podium finish. The same engine went on to complete every mile of the 2009 Best in the Desert series
• Utilizes a large bore and shorter stroke. This approach to creating power has its roots in storied Ford racing engines. The large bore allows for larger intake and exhaust valves for improved engine airflow, and the short stroke allows higher engine speed for increased horsepower
• Because of the large bore size, two spark plugs per cylinder are used to more efficiently burn the fuel-air mixture in the combustion chamber, enabling better fuel economy and increased engine torque. The twin plugs also help the engine maintain a smooth, stable idle
• Built at Romeo (Mich.) Engine Plant

The 6.2-liter V8, standard on the 2011 F-Series Super Duty, is uniquely tuned for the F-150 with a special cam profile. The engine will be standard on the 2011 F-150 SVT Raptor and other specialty applications, and pumps out up to 411 horsepower and 434 lb.-ft. of torque – making the F-150 the most powerful truck in its class.

“This engine has tons of torque, and already has been proved in the field with both the F-150 SVT Raptor and Super Duty,” said Harrison.

3.5-liter Ti-VCT EcoBoost

The 3.5-liter EcoBoost is a premium engine offering available after launch with power comparable to a naturally aspirated V8 and projected class-leading fuel economy. Its attributes include:

• Ti-VCT creates precise, variable timing control of both the intake and exhaust camshafts to optimize power, performance and fuel economy
• Fuel economy improves up to 20 percent versus 2010 model year F-150 5.4-liter V8
• Improved intake and exhaust camshafts optimized for improved fuel economy and performance
• Cast exhaust manifolds for heavy-duty operation and durability
• Improved manifold and cylinder heads for improved performance
• Direct-acting mechanical bucket (DAMB) valvetrain with polished buckets to reduce friction and improve fuel economy
• Built at Cleveland Engine Plant

Transmission features customer-driven enhancements

Ford Motor Company is the first and only manufacturer to equip its entire full-size pickup truck lineup with fuel-saving six-speed automatic transmissions as standard.

For the first time, a six-speed automatic transmission is standard in F-150 on all engines. Several available enhancements have been added to the proven 6R80 transmission to help F-150 customers tow more easily, including SelectShift with both progressive range select and manual functions.

Progressive range select allows the customer to reduce the range of available gears while in Drive. When the customer taps down into range select mode, the display shows the available gears and highlights the current gear state. This feature allows the driver to limit the use of upper gears when heavily loaded or while towing on grades.

With SelectShift, customers can get full manual function by pulling the shift lever into “M” for manual mode and then select the gear desired by pressing the “+” button for upshifts or the “-” button for downshifts. The control system will hold that gear for a full manual transmission feel.

The new engines for the Ford F-150 follow the all-new engine lineup for the 2011 Ford F-Series Super Duty introduced earlier this year and highlighted by the 6.7-liter Power Stroke® V8 turbocharged diesel, which delivers best-in-class torque, horsepower and fuel economy.

“The new powertrain lineup for the 2011 F-150 will provide a wide range of choices to customers to suit their needs, each tested for maximum durability and reliability with outstanding fuel economy,” said Samardzich.

Freight Carrier U.S. Xpress Receives 50,000th Freightliner Truck from Daimler Trucks North America

Chattanooga, Tennessee – Last week, Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) presented the freight carrier U.S. Xpress with its 50,000th Freightliner truck. Martin Daum, President and CEO of DTNA, and Mark Lampert, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at DTNA, handed over the vehicle to Max Fuller, co-Chairman of U.S. Xpress Enterprises, during a special ceremony at the company’s headquarters in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

“We are proud of the long-term relationship between U.S. Xpress and Freightliner Trucks, and look forward to continuing to provide them with the most productive and reliable trucks available on the market,” said Daum.

U.S. Xpress’ 50,000th Freightliner-truck is a heavy-duty Cascadia equipped with a 72-inch (1.80-meter) raised roof and a Detroit Diesel DD15 engine. Fuller emphasized the importance of Freightliner for his company, stating that “Freightliner has been integral to our expansion. We like dealing with the best-in-class for everything, and the products and management of Freightliner Trucks fit that charge.”

In 1974, when he was put in charge of purchasing for Southwest Motor Freight, Fuller bought his very first Freightliner truck. “We had no commonalities in our trucks, and the oil embargo really drove fuel prices sky high in the 1970s,” said Fuller. “We bought about 150 Freightliner trucks in our very first order, which was almost half of the Southwest Motor Freight fleet at the time. The new equipment, good fuel economy, and consistent specs helped solve a lot of issues in our fast-growing company.”

After Fuller and fellow co-Chairman Patrick Quinn launched U.S. Xpress in 1985, their new company quickly grew, resulting in the purchase of 3,000 to 4,000 trucks a year. Freightliner and U.S. Xpress would establish a strong working relationship in the carrier’s early days — highlighted by Fuller providing Freightliner with a 12-year exclusive agreement that began in the late 1980s. Today, U.S. Xpress is the nation’s third-largest privately-owned truckload carrier, providing dedicated, regional, and expedited team truckload services throughout North America.

Daimler Trucks North America LLC, which has its headquarters in Portland, Oregon, is the leading manufacturer of medium- and heavy-duty trucks in North America. Daimler Trucks North America produces and markets Class 4-8 vehicles and is a company of Daimler, the world’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturer.

Further information on Daimler can be found on the Internet at: http://www.daimler.com/

Isuzu Delivers For Angel Springs and Bevan Bodies

Isuzu delivers for Angel Springs and Bevan Bodies offers innovative solution for fresh marketing messages

Water cooler specialist Angel Springs has a refreshing solution to the challenge of keeping its promotional messages on its trucks bang up to date – with a little help from Isuzu Truck UK and bodybuilder Bevan Group.

The operator has just taken delivery of 7 seven from an order of 15 new Isuzu N75.190 7.5-tonners with Easyshift automated transmissions. All arrived via Angel Springs’ long-term contract hire partner Fraikin, and are fitted with Bevan’s fast access curtainslider bodies. Angel Springs has worked since its inception with Fraikin –the latest 7.5-tonne Isuzu’s are the subject of six-year contract hire deals under which each will average 35,000 miles a year.

The first 7 trucks are all based at in Tring, Hertfordshire; the remaining 8 will operate from Wolverhampton and Halifax.

The Isuzu 7.5tonners with the Bevan bodies are ideally suited to multi-drop applications because the curtains are tensioned from front to back and have locks at both ends, so drivers have no time-consuming straps and buckles to contend with – to gain access they simply slide back the curtains, concertina-fashion, in seconds.

Each new Isuzu offers a payload of some 3.7 tonnes, sufficient to carry 160 20-litre bottles stored on Angel Springs’ bespoke racking, as well as eight boxes of cups and a trolley. The vehicles will make up to 45 ‘drops’ per day.


In addition to the challenge of providing easily operated and efficient delivery vehicles, Angel Springs also asked the bodybuilder to come up with a solution to the age-old problem of changing marketing messages on their trucks. If a solution could be found it would have to be one that was easy, quick and cost-effective to carry out. The Bevan Group rose to the challenge and all 15 trucks will be able to do just that.

On the rear of the body on each truck the Bevan Group has fitted a two-metre square panel that is interchangeable. This means that each truck can have a rear-facing panel that can be used to publicise the latest marketing initiatives by Angel Springs. Bevan has produced two of these aluminum-framed panels for each vehicle – one is always on the truck, the other is held at Bevan’s production facility.

Every three months Angel Springs relay their latest artwork to the Bevan Group’s graphics specialists, who transfer it to the panels. Technicians from Bevan’s aftercare team then take the new panels out to the Angel Springs locations at which the vehicles are based. Once on site they can fit the new panels and return to base with the ones they’ve removed.

Some of Angel Springs’ new trucks replace older vehicles that are being stood down but others represent a further extension to the company’s fleet of 60 trucks and vans, the vast majority of which are 7.5-tonners.

Angel Springs was founded in 2003, from an amalgamation of three water companies, and is now the fastest growing water cooler company in the UK. See more from Isuzu UK at www.isuzutruck.co.uk.

UD Trucks North America Announces 2011 Model Year Product

UD Trucks North America (UDNA) introduced the new 2011 Model Year UD Trucks product line to UD Trucks dealers nationwide in an announcement from the Company’s headquarters on Friday, July 30. “UD Trucks for 2011 model year share the same heritage of Ultimate Dependability that has characterized the UD Trucks brand for 75+ years worldwide and over 25 years here in the United States. The new, GH7 six-cylinder diesel engine is manufactured by UD Trucks to the same exacting quality standards our customers have grown to expect, and it’s available with performance ratings of 245 and 280 horsepower,” said Evan Smith, the company’s Vice President of Sales.

“Using proven SCR and DPF emissions technology, the GH7 is compliant with the stringent 2010 EPA Standard,” said Brian Wagner, UDNA’s Director of Marketing. “Today’s UD Truck is significantly more fuel efficient than our previous products, while also meeting the Certified Clean Idle standard. UD Trucks for 2011 are more aerodynamic than ever, quieter than ever and more driver friendly than ever before. All these factors add up to more value for our customers.”

For more information about the new UD Truck line up contact your local Authorized UD Trucks Dealer. UD Trucks North America, Inc. headquartered in Irving, Texas is the U.S. Distributor for the UD Trucks line of medium duty diesel truck chassis manufactured by UD Trucks at the company’s manufacturing operations in Japan. For more information, contact Brian Wagner-Director of Marketing at 972-756-5533 or via e-mail at brian.wagner@udtrucksna.com. For more information about UD Trucks North America, Inc. or to find a UD Trucks dealer near you, visit http://www.udtrucksna.com/.

Navistar eStar All-Electric Truck

ONE YEAR LATER, NAVISTAR’S ESTAR™ ALL-ELECTRIC TRUCK POISED TO MAKE CLEAN, ENERGY-EFFICIENT TRANSPORTATION A REALITY

• eStar™, the First Purpose-Built All-Electric Truck Established in Several Key Markets
• Environmentally Focused Fleets Take Delivery
• Sales, Service and Support Network Continues to Grow
• Leasing Opportunities Provide Fleets with Flexible Financing Options

WARRENVILLE, ILL. – (Aug. 5, 2010) – Last August, President Obama traveled to Navistar’s manufacturing facility in Wakarusa, Ind. to announce a $39.2 million grant funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and administered by the U.S. Department of Energy to develop and deploy electric trucks. One year later, Navistar’s eStar™ all-electric truck is coming off the production line and making its way into some of the nation’s most environmentally focused fleets.

All-Electric Buzz
Following a production kick-off at the Wakarusa plant in May and introductory launch events in Portland, Ore., and Sacramento, Calif., in May and June, the eStar all-electric truck is generating significant interest in the marketplace.

“In just the last two months, we’ve seen a number of customers—large and small—express interest in the eStar all-electric truck,” said Mark Aubry, eStar’s vice president, sales and marketing. “We’ve delivered eStar trucks to FedEx and Pacific Gas & Electric Company, and with vehicle orders in the pipeline, we continue to work toward our goal of building 400 units this year.”

Customer Support
As customers begin taking delivery of the eStar vehicle, Navistar continues to build and develop its sales, service and support network through local dealerships in key markets.

In the Pacific Northwest market, Cascadia International Trucks of Tacoma, Wash. brings more than 50 years of commercial truck experience and will provide all sales, service and parts needs for eStar customers in the region.

Navistar also has added dealers in the Northern and Southern California markets—Riverview International Trucks, Inc., of West Sacramento, and WESTRUX International of Sante Fe Springs, Calif., respectively. There are additional expectations to open other Midwest and East Coast dealers within the next 45 days.

Leasing Opportunities
As customers weigh their options in acquiring eStar all-electric trucks for their fleets, Navistar offers a number of customer-friendly, flexible financing options. In fact, Navistar’s eStar is the only production electric truck that can be leased.

“Production of a commercial electric vehicle is a significant and important milestone for the marketplace,” added Aubry. “To be able to offer flexible leasing opportunities is a first for any company in this space and shows Navistar’s commitment to deliver innovative solutions to meet customer needs in newly developing areas, such as the eStar all-electric truck.

About the eStar
The eStar all-electric truck is the first medium-duty commercial vehicle to receive U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) certification as a clean fuel fleet vehicle as well as California Air Resources Board (CARB) certification as a zero-emissions vehicle. This Class 2c-3 electric truck—the first in its category—has a range of up to 100 miles per charge, making it ideal for many urban applications.
When it returns to its home base at the end of the day, it can be plugged in and fully recharged within six to eight hours.

Unlike other electric trucks that are reconfigured models of fossil-fuel trucks, the eStar truck has been purpose-built for electric power, creating an advantage with a low center of gravity (the battery is between the frame rails, not mounted on top) and a 36-foot turning circle. The eStar is engineered with superior aerodynamics, a walk-through cab and a quick-change cassette-type battery that can be swapped out in 20 minutes, enabling around-the-clock operation. It is capable of carrying payloads up to two tons.

With zero tailpipe emissions, each eStar truck can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by as much as 10 tons annually. Drivers will be able to experience the ultimate in ergonomic design as the windshield provides nearly 180-degree visibility, the low-floor design provides easy loading/unloading and the noise level is near zero, which makes this nimble vehicle ideal for urban areas facing noise challenges.

“The all-electric eStar commercial truck is a groundbreaking product and Navistar is once again leading the way in bringing innovative, game-changing products to market,” Aubry added. “No other commercial electric vehicle competes with the eStar in terms of capacity, size and application. Customers will love the eStar because of its capabilities as an electric vehicle and won’t have to change their fleet usage in order to take advantage of the truck’s performance.”

See more on Navistar products at http://www.navistar.com/.

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See also this piece from msnbc about the source of this product and how it is made. . .

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/33495737/ns/us_news-the_elkhart_project/

It's a smaller and more shared world every day!

Daimler Vans USA Launches 4th Sprinter Model

Daimler Vans USA Launches 4th Sprinter Model - Work Truck Magazine - List of Current Articles

Is Carbon Fiber the Future of Truck Bodies?

Is Carbon Fiber the Future of Truck Bodies? - Work Truck Magazine - List of Current Articles

From Sales Losers To Learners

I just had to share this everywhere and especially on the CTS Blog. I was elated to read this important and extremely insightful view of the sales staff and how even through economic valleys, a good sales staff, well directed by a leader with vision can create a seriously stronger enterprise. Excellent piece!

Check it out: http://www.sixmonthmba.com/2010/08/from-sales-losers-to-learners.html

GM and Bright Automotive Announce Strategic Relationship

Detroit, MI and Anderson, IN -- Bright Automotive and General Motors Co. announced Tuesday they have agreed to pursue a strategic relationship and that GM has provided funding to the Indiana automaker, the first funding action by the newly formed General Motors Ventures LLC.

The funding will help accelerate Bright’s production of the IDEA, a revolutionary plug-in hybrid commercial vehicle.

“This relationship is an important step forward for Bright, and a strong endorsement of our highly experienced automotive team and our incredible vehicle,” said Reuben Munger, Bright Automotive Chairman and CEO. “With this deal, Bright gets financial support that puts us on the fast track toward mass production of the IDEA. And perhaps just as importantly, we gain a strategic partner that is a world leader in electrification.”

The companies signed a memorandum of understanding in July. GM Ventures provided funding to Bright this week, and the two companies intend to complete the formal agreements later this year. Upon completion of the agreements and other terms, General Motors Ventures would have a minority stake in Bright Automotive and Bright would have access to GM technologies, and advanced engine and transmission systems, for its vehicle.

"Funding early-stage start-up companies is a new way of doing business at GM to accelerate the introduction of innovative technology to support our core automotive business and give us a competitive advantage," said Jon Lauckner, president of GM Ventures. "In this case, our funding of Bright Automotive will accelerate the introduction of advanced propulsion and light-weight technologies in the commercial vehicle market."

“We talked with several leading automakers, but GM clearly had the right vision, the most capable technology, and the closest alignment with our business approach,” said Michael Brylawski, Bright Automotive executive vice president. “We are thrilled to work with GM to create American jobs, stimulate technology development, and build an innovative American vehicle that will help reduce oil dependence and cut costs for businesses.”

In developing the IDEA, Bright started with a clean sheet of paper, listened to customers, and took a novel approach to product development that focused on light-weighting, aerodynamics and a highly efficient drivetrain. The result is a multipurpose vehicle for business fleets — the first designed to be highly efficient and provide a clear economic benefit.

The IDEA delivers a positive total cost of ownership to fleet customers by providing significantly greater fuel efficiency than current fleet vehicles in its class. The IDEA operates in electric mode for 40 miles before switching to an estimated 36-mpg hybrid mode for 100+ mpg potential based on daily driving behavior.

Funding through GM Ventures will allow Bright to begin ramping up the development of the production program for the IDEA in the third quarter of 2010. Bright continues to seek a low-interest loan through the Department of Energy’s ATVM program. Financial terms were not disclosed.

Great News From Fuso Is An Indicator For Others: Sales Are Up!

• Mitsubishi Fuso Truck & Bus Corporation (MFTBC) sells around 62,000 vehicles in first half of 2010
• Sales up 40 percent compared to first half of 2009, international sales increase 59 percent
• Fuso Europe sells 55 percent more Fuso Canter light trucks in first half of 2010, particularly in Germany, France, the UK, and Portugal

Kawasaki, Japan – MFTBC increased sales by 39.9 percent in the first half of 2010 compared to the same period of last year. The commercial vehicle manufacturer, which is part of Daimler Trucks, sold a total of 61,569 trucks and buses, of which 50,117 vehicles were sold outside the company’s home market of Japan. International sales improved by 58.9 percent compared to the first half of 2009.

“Thanks to improved global market conditions and our strong presence in numerous growth markets, Mitsubishi Fuso achieved significant sales increases in the first half of 2010,” said Dr. Albert Kirchmann, President and CEO of MFTBC, about the rise in sales. “We clearly see a commercial vehicle sales recovery under way, and we plan to build further market momentum in the second half of the year by continuing a product offensive that is bringing more than 25 new products or product improvements to global markets in 2010.”

MFTBC posted a particularly sharp sales increase of almost 75 percent in Southeast Asia, the company’s largest export market, where it leads the market. MFTBC sold approximately 24,000 units in Indonesia alone, with sales increasing by about 90 percent compared to the first half of last year. Sales were up slightly to 5,800 units in MFTBC’s second-largest export market, the Middle East, and rose by about 38 percent to almost 4,000 vehicles in Africa.

Fuso Europe boosts sales by 55 percent in first half of 2010

In Europe demand grew noticeably for the Fuso Canter light truck, which has a Euro 5-compliant engine and meets the Enhanced Environmentally Friendly Vehicle (EEV) standard. As a result, Fuso Europe increased sales by 55 percent in the first half of 2010, selling more than 2,700 Fuso Canter trucks in all. The sales figures show that the new Canter, which fulfills Europe’s toughest environmental standards, Euro 5 and EEV, is very popular with customers.

The series-produced Fuso Canter light trucks delivered since spring comply with the EEV emissions standard. EEV limits for particulate emissions are 30 percent lower than those of Euro 5. Despite this stricter limit, the EEV standard does not increase the Canter’s fuel consumption compared to Euro 5. EEV compliance is particularly important for vehicle fleets and municipalities, which sometimes demand in their calls for bids that automobiles meet this voluntary standard.

The Fuso Canter for the European market is manufactured at the plant in Tramagal, Portugal, which celebrated its 30th anniversary in February. First produced in Japan in 1963 and in Europe in 1980, the Fuso Canter is now in its seventh generation. It is the best-selling Daimler truck to date. The Fuso Canter supplements Daimler Trucks’ product range in the light truck segment in Europe. Fuso Canters from Tramagal are now on the road in more than 30 countries throughout Europe. The main sales markets are Germany, France, the UK, and Portugal.

Based in Kawasaki, Japan, Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation (MFTBC) is one of Asia’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturers. In 2009 the company sold a total of about 100,000 vehicles, including light, medium, and heavy-duty trucks and buses. Daimler AG owns 85 percent of MFTBC shares. MFTBC is an integral part of the Daimler Trucks division of Daimler AG.

A Bit Of Fun And Nostalgia: 1953 Ford F800 Dump Truck Commercial

Here's a bit more fun with this 1953 Ford F800 HD Dump Truck Commercial. It's a classic!

1931 Ford Model AA Dump Truck Dumping Wood

Here's a blast from the past in current times: A 1931 Ford Model AA Dump Truck. Works as good today as it did in 1931. Thank you for sharing the video on YouTube!