Next-Generation Ford Transit Connect Breaks New Ground in Commercial Van Fuel Efficiency with 30+ MPG

• Ford brings an all-new compact Transit Connect commercial van to market, ideally suited to small business owners and fleets placing high value on fuel efficiency

• Transit Connect Van is expected to deliver at least 5 mpg better fuel economy on the highway than Ram C/V Cargo Van while carrying more payload than a full-size Ram 1500 pickup truck

• Anticipating up to 30+ mpg on the highway with EcoBoost^® power, Transit Connect Van offers customers their choice of two fuel-efficient four-cylinder engines, two wheelbase lengths, two model series and an available CNG/LPG prep package

• Transit Connect Van takes versatility to a new level with convenient sliding side doors, side-hinged rear cargo doors, a choice of side and rear window configurations, and an estimated 1,600-pound payload

Click to download images.

DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 14, 2012 – With global commercial vehicle sales expected to jump significantly during the next several years, Ford’s all-new 2014 Transit Connect cargo van is set to provide cost-conscious commercial fleets and small business owners with unmatched fuel economy and versatility in an expanding commercial vehicle market.

Redesigned from the ground up, Ford Transit Connect cargo van drives and parks like a car, hauls more payload than a full-size Ram 1500 pickup, and delivers fuel efficiency unmatched by any other commercial vehicle in North America today – 30+ mpg on the highway.

“We have completely reengineered Transit Connect with North American business owners top of mind,” said Joe Hinrichs, Ford’s president of The Americas. “This all-new cargo hauler offers entrepreneurs and fleet owners a unique combination of leading fuel efficiency, cargo capacity and maneuverability.”

With global commercial vehicle sales expected to grow by 4.8 million during the next several years to 21 million units annually by 2017, Transit Connect represents a major opportunity. Ford is the second-largest commercial brand in the world and best-selling commercial vehicle brand in North America. The company is leveraging its One Ford product strategy to meet the growing needs of Transit Connect customers in 66 global markets with vans that are Built Ford Tough and even more fuel efficient and capable and with greater choice of bodystyles.

Transit Connect joins the most fuel-efficient lineup in Ford Motor Company’s history. Next year, Ford will offer eight vehicles rated at 40 mpg or higher – double 2011’s total, and more than any other automaker. Ford tops Toyota in fuel economy in every segment in which both companies compete.

Transit Connect will be joined by the all-new 2014 Ford Transit full-size van, which will provide professional tradesmen and commercial fleet customers with a diverse array of bodystyles and configurations tailored to their work needs, unmatched fuel economy and low cost of operation.

To meet the needs of North American customers, Transit Connect Van is offered in two wheelbase lengths, in XL and XLT series levels, and with up to a 1,600-pound payload and more than 130 cubic feet of cargo space.

For the first time, this versatile compact van is also approved to tow up to 2,000 pounds when properly equipped.

Power of choice

Transit Connect Van offers North American customers a choice between two fuel-efficient four-cylinder engines – a standard 2.5-liter and an optional 1.6-liter EcoBoost^® estimated to deliver 30+ mpg on the highway.

These powertrain alternatives make Transit Connect Van the gas mileage leader among commercial cargo haulers.

Transit Connect’s 2.5-liter engine can also be specified with a compressed natural gas/liquid propane gas (CNG/LPG) preparation package, enabling convenient conversion by Ford-certified upfit specialists.

Both engines come mated to an efficient six-speed automatic transmission, geared for around-town responsiveness and low-rpm highway cruising.

Transit Connect Van offers unexpected features in a high-value package, combined with low operating costs.

This stylish, contemporary cargo van is available with or without second-row seating, and offers useful options like rear view camera, 6.5-inch touch screen display with navigation, and SYNC^® with MyFord Touch^® – Ford’s highly acclaimed voice-activated mobile communications and entertainment system.

Transit Connect is a One Ford global design delivering substantial capability on a compact overall footprint with urban-friendly maneuverability. It is ideal for small business proprietors and fleets aiming to right-size vehicles to specific duties.

Commercial-strength DNA

The Transit Connect work ethic is reflected in this clever van’s cargo carrying and payload capabilities, and its high-strength body engineered to rigorous global commercial vehicle durability standards.

The all-new Transit Connect Van builds on the foundation of reliability and durability established by the current Transit Connect compact van. Introduced in North America in 2009, Transit Connect has become the must-have vehicle for small business proprietors and fleets.

Transit Connect was recognized as an innovative “white space” vehicle – literally carving out a new category in the market – by the automotive industry press corps when it was named North American Truck of the Year in January 2010 at the North American International Auto Show. Now selling at a pace of 35,000 units per year, Transit Connect has also become a favorite of taxi operators in major urban areas such as Los Angeles and New York City. Tradesmen and fleet administrators alike find its combination of car-like maneuverability, ease of handling and cargo capacity just right for many tasks.

All Transit Connect Van models feature first-row frontal and side airbags, first-row side curtain airbags, and a tire pressure monitoring system.

Ford’s award-winning MyKey^® programmable ignition key, enabling owners and fleet administrators to restrict maximum vehicle speed and audio system volume, is standard.

Multiple vehicle fleets can specify Transit Connect with the available Ford Work Solutions^™ Crew Chief^™ telematics system, powered by Telogis^®. This system enables a centralized fleet logistics leader to simultaneously monitor several vehicles in real time – for location, speed and excess idle time – thus improving productivity and efficiency.

Look for Transit Connect Van to begin arriving in dealerships in North America late next year.

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About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 172,000 employees and 65 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford and its products worldwide, please visit http://corporate.ford.com.

International Storms: Trail Riders on the Storm

Tornado chasers hurtle into ferocious storms, confident that their WorkStars will keep them safe.

http://www.internationaltrucks.com/trucks/trucks/series/workstar

Advanced, Fuel-Efficient 3.2-Liter Power Stroke Turbo Diesel Makes North American Debut in All-New 2014 Ford Transit

• Already a proven global workhorse, Ford adds 3.2-liter five-cylinder turbo diesel to fuel-efficient North American lineup in all-new Transit commercial van range

• This innovative engine features state-of-the-art fuel, turbo and emissions systems that meet stringent U.S. clean diesel standards

• The 3.2-liter Power Stroke^® Diesel will deliver outstanding performance, exceptional fuel economy and low operating costs

 

DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 10, 2012 – Ford’s all-new Transit full-size van, which goes on sale late next year, will be offered with a new clean-running 3.2-liter Power Stroke^® five-cylinder diesel, further bolstering Ford’s lineup of fuel-efficient cars, trucks and SUVs.

 

The new diesel, Ford’s second in North America, already has established a proven record for reliability, durability and refinement in the global Ford Ranger truck sold in world markets. The new Power Stroke Diesel will be the only five-cylinder diesel engine available in a commercial van in North America.

 

“Commercial van drivers spend most of their working hours behind the wheel. We know they want a fuel-efficient diesel engine with smooth, responsive performance and low operating costs,” said Joe Bakaj, Ford vice president of Powertrain Engineering. “The 3.2-liter Power Stroke engine has been developed and proven globally to deliver a world-class combination of power, fuel economy and refinement.”

 

The 3.2-liter will join the most fuel-efficient lineup in Ford Motor Company’s history. Next year, Ford will offer eight vehicles rated at 40 mpg or higher – double today’s total, and more than any other automaker. Ford tops Toyota in fuel economy in every segment in which both companies compete.

 

While power has not been certified for North America, the new diesel engine is rated in Europe at 197 horsepower and 347 lb.-ft. of torque.

 

Like the larger 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 offered in Ford F-Series Super Duty trucks, the fuel system has been carefully tailored and calibrated for combustion efficiency. It enables the newest Power Stroke to achieve exceptional fuel economy ratings without affecting power levels.

 

The 3.2-liter turbo diesel features state-of-the-art piezoelectric fuel injectors fed through a high-pressure common rail fuel system, and advanced emissions technologies.

 

Precise injection timing and calibration also ensures a smooth combustion process to reduce hard diesel combustion clatter, resulting in lower noise levels that are more like a gasoline engine.Each injector nozzle has eight spray holes and can deliver up to five injections per combustion cycle. A pilot injection controls noise levels and a main injection is used for power generation.

 

Technical features of the new Power Stroke 3.2-liter include:

 

• Quick-start glow plugs that enable smooth and fast startups at temperatures down to -10 degrees F
• Durable, rigid sand-cast gray iron cylinder block
• Aluminum cylinder head with double overhead cams and four valves per cylinder
• Advanced common rail piezoelectric fuel injectors that deliver multiple injections per stroke to improve performance and reduce NVH; maximum fuel pressure is 26,100 psi
• Variable nozzle turbocharger with electronic actuation; maximum impellor speed of 197,800 rpm
• First application of selective catalytic reduction for reduced nitrogen oxide emissions in a Ford van
• Integrated diesel oxidation catalyst and diesel particulate filter to save space
• Expected to be B20 biodiesel compatible

Additionally, the engine features cast-aluminum, low-friction coated pistons with piston-cooling jets, which squirt oil on the underside of the pistons to keep the piston crowns cool under extreme operating conditions. Also included is a water-cooled high-performance electric-controlled exhaust gas recirculation valve that is better able to withstand coolant pressure drops.

 

The 3.2-liter Power Stroke is one of several engines that will be available for Transit in North America, including the proven 3.5-liter EcoBoost^® gasoline engine. All engines are mated to a Ford 6R80 six-speed automatic transmission.

 

With a flat torque plateau – 90 percent of its peak torque is available from 1,700 to 3,500 rpm, providing better engine flexibility – Transit will be able to effortlessly haul full loads in town and on the highway, while offering flexible performance across each gear in the six-speed automatic transmission.

 

“The Power Stroke name is synonymous with power, work and long-term durability,” said Bakaj. “We’re confident our commercial van customers will be extremely pleased with the 3.2-liter’s fuel economy, performance and running costs.”

 

The Power Stroke 3.2-liter is manufactured in Ford’s Struandale Engine Plant in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. It will be exported to Ford’s Kansas City Assembly Plant in Claycomo, Mo., which received a $1.1 billion investment for the Transit.

 

 

About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 172,000 employees and 65 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford and its products worldwide, please visit http://corporate.ford.com.

GMC Pickups 101: What’s in a Number? 1500, 2500, 3500?

Translating the ½-tons and 2500s of the Sierra Pickup

 A fender badge from a 1967 GMC 1500 pickup with an optional V-8 engine. 

This was the first year GMC ½-ton models used the “1500” moniker.

DETROIT – When three truck builders – Randolph, Reliance and Rapid – merged to become GMC in 1912, the brand’s range of gasoline- and electric-powered trucks used model numbers between 1 and 12, each denoting payload in thousands of pounds, or how much weight could be loaded on the rear.

 GMC pickup trucks were classified by payload ratings right in the brand’s earliest years. 

This 1913 2-ton model was used for deliveries by the Trappe Canning Company in Easton, Md.

Today, the labels “½-ton”, “¾-ton” and “1-ton” are still used industry wide for fullsize pickup truck classes despite their having little connection to the trucks’ capabilities. For 2013, a GMC Sierra 1500 “½-ton” has a payload capacity that ranges from 1,550-1,940 pounds – considerably more than the 1,000 pounds once implied.  A “1-ton” Sierra 3500HD can haul up to 7,215 pounds; almost four times the 2,000 pounds its moniker suggests.

 In 1936, 1/2-ton pickups grew in popularity to represent 4 out of every 10 GMC sales. These light-duty trucks had many uses, including farm hand duty. While most of these trucks used 85 horsepower engines, this particular model had the added boost of one extra.

“The payload-based naming convention for pickups existed right from the beginning,” said General Motors Heritage Center Manager Greg Wallace. “The ½-ton, ¾-ton, and 1-ton models became most popular with retail customers over a few decades, not just for GMC but all manufacturers. While payload capacities have grown since, those three names stuck.”

 1967 was the first year of GMC’s current model naming for full size pickups, with three models badged as 1500, 2500 and 3500. Pictured is a 1967 GMC K2500, the “K” representing this vehicle’s optional four-wheel drive.

As with payload classifications, GMC helped pioneer other naming conventions for pickups. In 1967, GMC was the first company to use 1500, 2500 and 3500 to designate its three truck models, numbers that were based off the first segment of vehicle identification numbers, or VINs, and denoted hauling capability. Those numbers remain an integral part of the GMC naming strategy and every current fullsize truck sold by an American automaker uses numbers starting with 15, 25 and 35 to denote the three classifications.

In the 1970s, GMC introduced the Sierra name on a variety of trim levels for its trucks. 

Today, all GMC fullsize pickups are sold under the Sierra name and all fullsize trucks

from any American automaker have models starting with “15”, “25” and “35”.

The Sierra name became standard for all GMC fullsize pickups in 1989 after being used for various upscale trim packages through the ‘70s and ‘80s. The 2013 Sierra 1500 represents the core of GMC’s truck business, while the purpose-built Sierra 2500HD and 3500HD models are some of the most-capable pickups ever produced, with class-leading maximum payload.

 2013 GMC Sierra 3500 HD SLT

GMC has manufactured trucks since 1902, and is one of the industry's healthiest brands. Innovation and engineering excellence is built into all GMC vehicles and the brand is evolving to offer more fuel-efficient trucks and crossovers, including the Terrain small SUV and Acadia crossover.  GMC is the only manufacturer to offer three full-size hybrid trucks with the Yukon, Yukon Denali SUVs and the Sierra pickup. The Sierra Heavy Duty pickups are the most capable and powerful trucks in the market. Details on all GMC models are available at http://www.gmc.com/, on Twitter at @thisisgmc or at http://www.facebook.com/gmc.

Titan Leaf Solutions Product Line by Bonnell Industries

An overview of the entire Titan Leaf Solutions product line. Please visit www.titanleafpro.com or call 800-851-9664 for more details!

The Ford Falcon Ute gets tested to the max. And comes out on top.

After 13 weeks of testing, including 460 hours of engine cycling, the Falcon Ute is practically unbeatable. And can match even the toughest Australian environment. http://www.ford.com.au/

RHOMBERG ON TRACK WITH ISUZU

With Australia's heavy economic reliance on rail transport for the mining and rural industries as well as the national distribution of local and imported manufactured products, it's crucial that that rail infrastructure is well constructed and maintained.

Rhomberg Rail Australia - a stand-alone unit of the international rail track construction and maintenance specialist, Rhomberg - is a major provider of these services around Australia. The company offers a complete service package when it comes to rail infrastructure, from design and technical advice, to the onsite work such as track construction and maintenance.

Rhomberg Rail Australia is also responsible for rail infrastructure construction, including rail bridges level crossings and associated works.

Operating from a head office in Regents Park and a Hunter Valley office in Thornton, NSW, Rhomberg Rail Australia employs over 100 staff and is a service provider throughout Australia, with its main clients including ARTC, RailCorp, Transfield, Pacific National and QR National.

Manager Rail Structure, Dennis Bebber, said the company employs four Isuzu trucks in its construction and structures departments.

Rhomberg Rail Australia purchased its first Isuzu trucks in 2008, selecting two NPS 300 Crew models to assist in construction work around Sydney.

These four-wheel-drive NPS 300 trucks have been proved ideal for rail construction work, with their ability to get into otherwise hard to access off-road areas.

Mr Bebber said the company chose crew cabs so that the trucks could also be used to transport construction personnel.

The company purchased a further two Isuzu trucks in 2010 - an Isuzu NQR 450 Crew and Giga CXY 455 Premium - which are both used in the structures unit.

The Isuzu NQR 450 Crew is used to transport the company's smaller equipment and construction team to the work sites. It has been fitted with an equipment storage compartment and a two tonne crane to cater for its equipment and materials delivery tasks.

The Giga CXY 455 Premium has been fitted with a Fassi F1FOA rear mounted crane with a capacity of over seven tonnes at two metres and a reach of 17 metres. To accommodate this, the truck's chassis and wheelbase have been lengthened and a tag-along trailer completes the set up.

The trailer is used to carry an eight tonne high rail excavator or a 17 metre 4 tonne materials handler as required.

"We use the Giga for bridge construction, timber bridge repairs and track work. It's also used as a float for our machines and a containerised meal room and office," Mr Bebber said.

"Both the Giga CXY 455 and NQR 450 have been perfect for the type of work we do and handle the rough conditions encountered working in the rail industry. We selected the Giga in particular as it had the best capacity available to cater for a rear mounted crane.

"The trucks are required to work all over New South Wales and lower Queensland. Our depot is in Thornton and work locations vary from Beaudesart in Queensland to Wee Waa and Tootool in north west and south western New South Wales.

"The Isuzus can be driven on anything from sealed highways to dirt access roads along rail lines. We have had to take the trucks through major floods around Wee Waa and south west New South Wales and through temperatures in the high 40s out west in summer."

Mr Bebber said similarly to the Isuzu NPS models, the NQR 450 and Giga CXY 455 Isuzus are also used to transport crews to locations around the country.

"We have just returned from a job in Port Augusta, to which we drove the Giga CXY 455 to do two weeks work. It took us two days to transport our material and men each way," Mr Bebber said.

According to Mr Bebber, purchasing Isuzu trucks was a good choice for Rhomberg Rail Australia.

"We have found them easy to drive and they present a good company image. Since we purchased the trucks, we haven't had any major maintenance issues."

See more at www.isuzu.com.au

Knapheide Custom Line Body by Bert's Truck Equipment

Jim with Bert's Truck Equipment of East Grand Forks, Minnesota shows off this beautiful custom 6133HC Knapheide Line body that was custom built for the Department Of Transportation. This huge unit mounted on a Freightliner Crew Cab medium duty chassis is designed to carry a lot of tools, and other heavy gear to where the job needs to be done. Some of the features include HD steel drawers, a transverse compartment for larger storage of certain items, welder bottle compartment, stand up inside roof with Bert's Truck Equipment added white paint interior for better lighting reflection, skylight roof panels, LED interior and exterior lighting for work at night, special exterior paint color, and much more.

See more about Knapheide products at www.Knapheide.com and see what Bert's Truck Equipment can do for you with a wide range of products and services at www.BertsTruck.com, or call them at 800-325-2412. Our thanks to Bert's Truck Equipment for this great video.

All-new 2013 Ram 1500 Named Motor Trend Truck of the Year

 

• All-new 2013 Ram 1500 recognized by editors for setting a new benchmark in the half-ton segment

December 6, 2012 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - The editors of Motor Trend today named the all-new 2013 Ram 1500 the magazine’s 2013 Truck of the Year®.

“The new Ram 1500 makes a powerful statement about our company and the Ram Truck Brand,” said Fred Diaz, President and CEO Ram Truck Brand and Chrysler de Mexico. “Motor Trend’s Truck of the Year is an amazing honor; truly one of the most prestigious awards an automaker can achieve. It reaffirms the fact that Ram has the best truck on the road today. Bar none.”

Motor Trend editors praised the new 2013 Ram 1500 for its air suspension, choice of engines, variety of trim levels and towing capability.

“We had a small but solid field of contenders for Motor Trend's Truck of the Year," said Edward Loh, Editor-in-Chief of Motor Trend. "But in the end, the choice was clear: Ram 1500 not only withstood our rigorous testing, it impressed at every step along the way. Our judges were won over by the performance of Ram 1500’s broad array of standard and optional equipment. It’s a truck that can be tailored to meet most anyone’s needs. For these reasons and more, we're excited to name the Ram 1500 the Motor Trend 2013 Truck of the Year.”

Motor Trend Truck of the Year contenders are evaluated using six criteria, which includes Design Advancement, Engineering Excellence, Efficiency, Safety, Value and Performance of Intended Function. To be eligible, a vehicle must be all-new or have been substantially changed from the previous model.

For 2013, the new Ram 1500 offers buyers best-in-class 25 MPG fuel efficiency, new technology and new features without sacrificing capability. Ram 1500–the most recognizable pickup on the road–marks a milestone for Ram as this truck delivers a truckload of pioneering and fuel-saving systems. Equipped with a choice of engines, including the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine or the award-winning Pentastar V-6, the Ram 1500 offers the best powertrains in the industry and are known for their reliability.

The 2013 Ram 1500 features first-in-segment technologies: eight-speed automatic transmission, stop-start system, thermal management system, pulse-width modulation and active aerodynamics, including grille shutters and active air suspension. The 2013 Ram 1500 is available in nine trim levels and starts at $23,585 including $995 destination charge.

Ram engineers changed every area of the truck – from a newly designed frame to new engines and transmissions to a new interior with the next-generation Uconnect® access system. With best-in-class ride and handling and best-in-class aerodynamics, the 2013 Ram 1500 delivers unmatched content, performance and capability to truck buyers.

For a rebroadcast of the news conference announcing the 2013 Ram 1500 as Motor Trend’s “Truck of the Year," visit http://www.livestream.com/chryslercommunications

About Ram Truck Brand
The Ram Truck brand continues to establish its own identity and clearly define its customer since its launch as a standalone vehicle brand. Creating a distinct brand for Ram trucks has allowed the brand to concentrate on how core customers use their trucks and what new features they'd like to see. Whether focusing on a family that uses its half-ton truck day in and day out, a hard-working Ram Heavy Duty owner or a business that depends on its commercial vehicles every day, Ram has the truck market covered.

The Ram Truck brand has the most innovative lineup of full-size trucks on the market. Ram Truck has emerged as a full-size truck leader by investing substantially in new products, infusing them with great looks, refined interiors, durable engines and features that further enhance their capabilities. Truck customers, from half-ton to commercial, have a demanding range of needs and require their vehicles to provide high levels of capability. Ram trucks are designed to deliver a total package.

LED Compartment Lighting Helps Get The Work Done When It Needs To Be Done

LED Compartment Lighting is the perfect accessory for your Knapheide KUV or Service Body if you work extended hours.  The LED Compartment Lighting is available in 7", 14", and 28" light strips.  Door activated switches turn the lights on when the door is opened and off when the door is closed.  The light fixtures are constructed of rigid plastic with pressure adhesive on the back for easy installation.

See more from Knapheide at www.Knapheide.com

Harnessing the Mining Industry

When specialist mining services provider Wiring Harnesses Australia needed to upgrade its service vehicle fleet, the company looked no further than Isuzu's four-wheel-drive NPS 300s.

"We needed something that was a bit tougher and could carry a higher payload than our existing Land Cruisers," Wiring Harnesses Australia (WHA) owner Aaron Bradshaw said.

"The company was also looking for something that had a four-wheel-drive system and was able to operate in rough terrain, especially around the mine sites," he said.

The NPS 300 4x4s, with their GVM of 6,000 kg (now standard with 6,500 kg GVM), were ideal, according to Aaron.

Mt Isa-based WHA supply wiring harnesses and auto electrical repairs to the local mining industry and the rest of north-west Queensland.

The benefits of using WHA's braided wiring harnesses is to keep wires safe from the effects of vibration, abrasion and moisture which are all present in the harsh conditions of mining.

Taking between 30 minutes and two weeks to make, the harnesses can hold up to 200 wires that are up to 20 metres in length.

The company also offers an in-house design workshop that makes custom wiring harnesses for new and existing wiring systems for mining clients.

Aaron said the company is meeting the high demand that is stemming from the mining industry and the two new Isuzu trucks match the company's promise of quality and reliability.

The trucks are both fitted to mine specifications which inlcude service bodies that have a galvanised and painted tray as well as four large alloy toolboxes. The bodies also feature a light-weight - but strong - Roll-Over Protective Structure (ROPS).

The NPS 300 4x4s are fitted with electric start diesel air compressors for air tools, cleaning equipment, general auto electrical parts and air conditioners. The trucks also have a 100 litre water tank for cleaning and an electric water pump for washing down air conditioning units and components.

The feedback on the trucks has been positive.

"Our team really enjoys driving the trucks on a daily basis," Aaron said.
"The comfort of the contoured adjustable driver's bucket seat has been a big talking point amongst the drivers.

"We are very happy with the vehicles so far and plan to purchase some more Isuzu trucks."

All wiring solutions are specially-designed for each project the company undertakes, so customers receive wiring harnesses to their exact needs. All projects are tested at the WHA workshop before being released, maintaining high industry standards.

Using only the best quality products, the company's wiring systems are cold and abrasion resistant, chemical tolerant and flame retardant. The wire is made from bare copper and tin copper for high corrosive conditions.

The high performance PVC wire braid can be exposed to 138 degrees Celsius heat for extended periods of time. The basic properties are compounded additives for cold flexibility, fire resistance and resistance to engine fluids.

As a part of its service, the company also offers wire printing, printed labels and trace colours which all allow for easy identification of cables.

With experience and the ability to manage and execute projects in a timely manner, WHA is now one of the leaders in the field of wiring solutions.

See more about Isuzu Trucks Australia at www.isuzu.com.au

One Sweet, Clean, Gorgeous Work Truck with Royal Aluminum Low Pro Service Body

Royal Truck Body posted this sweet rig on their facebook page, and I just HAD TO share it with all of you CTS Blog fans. This is one of the cleanest, sweetest looking work trucks I've ever seen and the only thing that might make it any better would be color, though it is simply perfect in white.

This is a 6.5' short bed Low Pro Aluminum Service Body from Royal Truck Body, and it is because it is made of aluminum that it even makes sense on this 1500 series truck. These aluminum wheels on the wide low profile tires make the whole truck rock, and the combination of the extended cab, uplevel trim, low pro service body in which the top of the service body is at the bottom of the rear window, the treadbrite aluminum lids, the deep tinted windows add to the beauty and sleekness of this great piece.

See more great Royal Truck Bodies at www.RoyalTruckBody.com, and check out and like their facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Royal-Truck-Body/94501515915?fref=ts

Ram Truck Launches New Ram Commercial Truck Division

• Ram Commercial offers full line of industrial-strength trucks built for workers and businesses to provide maximum capability and productivity while delivering low total cost of ownership
• Ram Commercial incorporates a dedicated team including sales, marketing, product development and world-class customer support
• Ram Commercial offers exclusive pre- and post-sale solutions with BusinessLink and On the Job customer service programs
  

 

 

November 28, 2012 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Ram Truck is launching a new division to focus on commercial truck development, sales and support in a growing market. Embodied by the Tradesman trim level available on all models, the new Ram Commercial organization offers a full line of industrial-strength trucks and vans.

The new Ram Commercial division integrates a growing network of Ram BusinessLink dealers focused on the needs of commercial customers. Ram Commercial also will help offset the cost of doing business with On The Job incentives, specifically designed to lower the expense of commercial upfits. Both programs address professional needs for every job.

Timing of Ram Commercial launch aligns with the upcoming launch of the all-new Ram ProMaster and positive commercial demand. With the entire auto industry growing by two million units year over year in 2012, and further growth expected in 2013, commercial business will be key as it represents about one quarter of the total volume.

“Ram Truck is committed to delivering the best value proposition with low total cost of ownership across the entire product line up. From the Ram 5500 Chassis Cab to the Ram C/V, we’re providing best-in-class capability and technology,” said Fred Diaz, President and CEO, Ram Truck Brand and Chrysler de Mexico — Chrysler Group LLC. “We’ve not only taken steps to expand and improve our product offerings but created and built upon customer service solutions, following through with BusinessLink and On the Job programs for customers who use their truck as a critical tool for business.”

Ram Commercial targets countless businesses in a variety of industries, including service and repairs, construction, transportation/shipping, large-medium-small businesses and agriculture. The economy has incurred pent up demand to replace aging commercial fleets and vehicles that are no longer offered in the market. This has created opportunity and Ram Commercial will be there with a variety of capable and efficient vehicles.

A vehicle is designated “commercial” under one of the following circumstances:

• Titled in a company or corporation
• Used for business but titled in an individual's name (sole proprietor)
• Exceeds 26,000 lbs. GVWR
• Used to haul any hazardous material

Ram Commercial Lineup
The Ram Truck brand continues to establish its own identity and clearly define its customer. The brand has emerged as a leader by investing in new products, infusing them with durable powertrains, robust chassis, new technology and features that further enhance their capabilities while delivering low total cost of ownership. Commercial truck and van customers have a demanding range of needs and require their vehicles to work. The Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickups; 3500, 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs, Ram C/V and Ram ProMaster vans are designed to deliver a total package.

Ram C/V
When it comes to capability, the Ram C/V Tradesman out-works competitive vans on a number of fronts by delivering best-in-class payload, cargo space and towing. Equipped with the award-winning Pentastar V-6 engine mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission, the Ram C/V Tradesman also delivers best-in-class horsepower, torque and driving range of up to 500 miles on a single tank of fuel.

Ram ProMaster
Ram Commercial is tapping into Fiat Professional, one of the largest producers of commercial vehicles in the entire world, offering more than 110 years of experience. That knowledge will help Ram enter new segments and expand the product line. Based on the Fiat Ducato, the Ram ProMaster fullsize van will be transformed for the North American market and offered by Ram Commercial with best-in-class attributes. Now in its third generation with more than four million sold worldwide, this van is a proven, award-winning workhorse with titles in efficiency.

Ram 1500
For 2013, the Ram 1500 grabs the title of best-in-class fuel economy of 25 MPG for the half-ton segment with a number of exclusive technologies including a new V-6 engine, eight-speed transmission, stop-start system, air suspension and active grille shutters. The Ram 1500 Tradesman commercial workhorse adds more value by giving commercial customers a standard hard working V-8 that tows more than competitors’ standard V-6 engines, yet achieves 20 MPG. Tradesman also includes a spray-in bedliner, class 4 trailer hitch, 4 and 7 pin trailer connectors and offers the innovative RamBox storage system at a discount. By offering a standard V-8 engine, business owners not only benefit from added standard capability but improved resale value.

Ram Heavy Duty
The 2013 Ram Heavy Duty brings increased capability and innovative new features to the heavy-duty segment with an uncompromising attitude that remains the standard for all full-size heavy-duty pickups. Ram Heavy Duty also delivers the performance and amenities customers demand, for example the most off-road capable pickup on the market – the award-winning Ram Power Wagon.

Ram 2500/3500 Heavy Duty Tradesman models are hard-working trucks that business owners can depend on. The Heavy Duty Tradesman models feature a 17,000 lb. Class 5 hitch, 4 & 7 pin trailer connector, cruise control and available class-exclusive RamBox cargo management system. Ram Commercial also offers the only factory-engineered and built CNG (compressed natural gas) powered truck. The Ram 2500 Heavy Duty CNG pickup offers cost and emissions benefits, using an abundant, domestically sourced fuel while reducing America’s dependence on foreign oil. All Ram Heavy Duty trucks offer the proven Cummins 6.7-liter diesel.

Ram 3500 offers a best in class 850 lb.-ft. of torque and a 15,000 mile oil change interval delivering an unmatched total cost of ownership advantage. When mated with the available Aisin heavy duty 6-speed automatic transmission, Ram 3500 tops the charts with best-in-class towing and payload that far exceeds the competition. The Ram Heavy Duty is the only pickup in the market available with a manual transmission.

Ram Chassis Cab
For 2013 the Ram Truck brand also increases the capabilities of its hardest-working trucks – the Ram 3500, 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cab trucks. Led by the Tradesman trim level, Ram Chassis Cab trucks provide customers with first-time innovations and features along with new standards of strength, utility and drivability. Building on Ram Chassis Cabs already proven equation of durability, upfitter friendliness, efficiency and best-in-class capabilities, Ram’s commercial-grade work trucks are engineered for maximum uptime, low cost of ownership, optimum performance and enhanced best-in-class commercial capability. Owners can proudly display their company logo and rest with the confidence of knowing that it will get the job done day-in and day-out.

Ram Chassis Cab best-in-class features include:
Best-in-class vehicle system interface module (VSIM) and upfitter friendly design
Best-in-class capabilities
Best-in-class total cost of ownership
Best-in-class 15,000-mile oil change intervals on Cummins diesel
Best-in-class powertrain warranty – 5 years/100,000 miles

Ram Truck Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)
Commercial customers in particular face balancing the challenges of opportunity costs, fuel pricing, reduced budgets, new technology and durability. Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) calculations are helpful in making purchase and operational decisions. Ram Truck offers best-in-class TCO for commercial truck owners.

The Ram 1500 features a standard V-8 engine, with best-in-class entry level capability and impressive resale value, allowing owners to recover more upfront costs. All Cummins diesel-powered Ram trucks feature a 15,000-mile oil change interval and a best-in-class diesel exhaust brake increases frictional brake life by 3x the market average.

Ram truck also offers the most upfitter friendly solutions in the industry, reducing the initial costs for specialty trucks such as crane, roll-back or dump bed upfits. Topping it off, Ram offers a best-in-class 5-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, proof of the quality built into each truck.
Approximate Commercial Business Breakdown:

• Service and repairs – 24 percent
• Construction – 19 percent
• Transportation/Shipping – 17 percent
• Large-Medium Businesses – 8 percent
• Small Businesses – 8 percent
• Schools-Organizations-Non-profits – 7 percent
• Machinery/Electronic Products – 6 percent
• Forestry/Mining/Oil/Gas – 3 percent
• Farming/Agriculture – 2 percent
• Wood/Metal/Stone Products – 2 percent
• Food and beverage – 1 percent
• Other – 3 percent

Ram Commercial Marketing
In many cases, the owner is not the operator, which creates a unique sales and marketing dynamic. Ram Commercial offers a complete approach with a company-wide strategy supported by all organizations and a dedicated sales force. Marketing efforts speak directly to commercial buyers both visually and verbally, and improved customer targeting benefits from laser-focused channels, such as tradeshows, commercial websites and trade publications. The new division is supported throughout the entire network including local advocates, operation managers, sales specialists and an extensive dealer network.

About Ram Truck Brand
The Ram Truck brand continues to establish its own identity and clearly define its customer since its launch as a standalone vehicle brand. Creating a distinct brand for Ram trucks has allowed the brand to concentrate on how core customers use their trucks and what new features they'd like to see. Whether focusing on a family that uses its half-ton truck day in and day out, a hard-working Ram Heavy Duty owner or a business that depends on its commercial vehicles every day, Ram has the truck market covered.

The Ram Truck brand has the most innovative lineup of full-size trucks on the market. Ram Truck has emerged as a full-size truck leader by investing substantially in new products, infusing them with great looks, refined interiors, durable engines and features that further enhance their capabilities. Truck customers, from half-ton to commercial, have a demanding range of needs and require their vehicles to provide high levels of capability. Ram trucks are designed to deliver a total package.
Follow Ram and Chrysler Group LLC news and video on:

Ram Trucks: http://www.ramtrucks.com
Ram Zone blog: http://www.ramzone.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/chrysler and http://twitter.com/RamTrucks
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/ramtrucks and http://www.youtube.com/pentastarvideo
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/RamTrucks
Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/ramtrucks
Chrysler Connect blog: http://blog.chryslergroupllc.com

About BusinessLink
BusinessLink is a free program that connects business owners with a network of Chrysler Group dealers that are specially equipped to work with small businesses. Nationwide, Chrysler Group’s 600 BusinessLink dealers offer the convenience of one-stop sales and service essential to help commercial/small businesses stay on the road to profitability. Business owners may access this free membership program with proof of business ownership at any BusinessLink dealer.
Benefits include no dues or fees, specialized in-dealership commercial/small business sales and service personnel, extended service and repair hours, priority next-available-bay service, free shuttle service, 24/7 towing service, free loaners for select vehicles, expertise in commercial financing options and unique business variable incentives.

Find a local BusinessLink dealer at (877) 2THELINK.

About "On The Job"
Chrysler Group’s "On The Job” vehicle program provides commercial/small business owners a variety of incentives and discounts to assist them in purchasing, servicing and customizing vehicles to specifically address their unique professional needs. Custom upfit allowances, service contracts, Mopar certificates and cash allowances are just a few of the stackable incentives that business owners can use at any of Chrysler Group’s 2,317 dealerships. Business owners may take advantage of these incentives in addition to existing BusinessLink or retail specials. Most Chrysler Group vehicles qualify for On The Job program advantages when the vehicle is purchased for business use.
For On The Job program information, call (877) ONTHEJOB.

2012 SEMA Show - A.R.E. Truck Caps and Tonneau Covers

A.R.E. Truck Caps and Covers reporting from the 2012 SEMA show. We went around the Las Vegas Convention Center and found several trucks showing an A.R.E. Truck Cap or Tonneau Cover!
www.4are.com

Ram Truck Confirms All-new Large Van

November 28, 2012 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Ram Truck today announced that it will develop a new large van for the North American market, which will go on sale beginning 3rd quarter 2013.

Joining the smaller, but highly capable Ram C/V as an additional van offering, the 2014 Ram ProMaster will compete with other full-size commercial vans.

“The Ram ProMaster further strengthens our commercial lineup, offering a full line of work trucks and vans,” said Fred Diaz, President and CEO – Ram Truck Brand and Chrysler de Mexico, Chrysler Group LLC. “As the Ram Truck Brand continues to gain share and grow sales in the retail truck market, we will be just as aggressive in our goal to be a commercial truck market leader.”

“We feel that from a product-feature and launch timing standpoint, the all-new Ram ProMaster van is going to be a home run with commercial customers,” added Diaz. ”Our relationship with Fiat, one of the world’s foremost commercial truck makers, has given us access to great products and technology that will resonate with our U.S. and Canadian Ram Truck customers.”

Based on the successful Fiat Ducato, the Ram ProMaster will be significantly redesigned with familiar Ram Truck styling cues, offering features and powertrains preferred by North American commercial customers.

About Ram Truck Brand

The Ram Truck brand continues to establish its own identity and clearly define its customer since its launch as a standalone vehicle brand. Creating a distinct brand for Ram trucks has allowed the brand to concentrate on how core customers use their trucks and what new features they'd like to see. Whether focusing on a family that uses its half-ton truck day in and day out, a hard-working Ram Heavy Duty owner or a business that depends on its commercial vehicles every day, Ram has the truck market covered.

The Ram Truck brand has the most innovative lineup of full-size trucks on the market. Ram Truck has emerged as a full-size truck leader by investing substantially in new products, infusing them with great looks, refined interiors, durable engines and features that further enhance their capabilities. Truck customers, from half-ton to commercial, have a demanding range of needs and require their vehicles to provide high levels of capability. Ram trucks are designed to deliver a total package.

Follow Ram and Chrysler Group LLC news and video on:

Ram Trucks: http://www.ramtrucks.com
Ram Zone blog: http://www.ramzone.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/chrysler and http://twitter.com/RamTrucks
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/ramtrucks and http://www.youtube.com/pentastarvideo
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/RamTrucks
Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/ramtrucks
Chrysler Connect blog: http://blog.chryslergroupllc.com

About BusinessLink

BusinessLink is a free program that connects business owners with a network of Chrysler Group dealers that are specially equipped to work with small businesses. Nationwide, Chrysler Group’s 600 BusinessLink dealers offer the convenience of one-stop sales and service essential to help commercial/small businesses stay on the road to profitability. Business owners may access this free membership program with proof of business ownership at any BusinessLink dealer.

Benefits include no dues or fees, specialized in-dealership commercial/small business sales and service personnel, extended service and repair hours, priority next-available-bay service, free shuttle service, 24/7 towing service, free loaners for select vehicles, expertise in commercial financing options and unique business variable incentives.

Find a local BusinessLink dealer at (877) 2THELINK.

About "On The Job"

Chrysler Group’s "On The Job” vehicle program provides commercial/small business owners a variety of incentives and discounts to assist them in purchasing, servicing and customizing vehicles to specifically address their unique professional needs. Custom upfit allowances, service contracts, Mopar certificates and cash allowances are just a few of the stackable incentives that business owners can use at any of Chrysler Group’s 2,317 dealerships. Business owners may take advantage of these incentives in addition to existing BusinessLink or retail specials. Most Chrysler Group vehicles qualify for On The Job program advantages when the vehicle is purchased for business use.

For On The Job program information, call (877) ONTHEJOB.