1/19/13

Cummins Builds Two-Millionth Ram Diesel For Chrysler Group

  • Milestone engine destined for display
  • Ram-Cummins partnership spans four decades
  • Capability of current High-Output Cummins engine more than double that of original offering



December 10, 2012 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Cummins Inc. has produced its 2-millionth diesel engine for Ram Trucks, highlighting the latest milestone in a storied partnership that spans four decades.

The 350-horsepower, 6.7-liter, in-line 6-cylinder turbo diesel is distinguished by its “Cummins Red” rocker cover and breather. But despite its 800 lb.-ft. peak torque rating, the historic engine – feted today at a Cummins plant in Columbus, Ind. – will not see service. Instead, it will go on display, touring the U.S.

“The Ram Truck-Cummins diesel partnership is one of the industry’s most enduring and certainly fitting of such a tribute,” says Fred Diaz, President and CEO – Ram Truck Brand and Chrysler de Mexico. “Both companies have benefited greatly, but Ram diesel customers are the real beneficiaries. Every day they experience the toughness and capability a Cummins-powered Ram can deliver.”

Cummins began supplying engines to Chrysler Group in 1988. Today in North America, only Ram-brand pickups and chassis cabs feature the coveted Cummins “C” logo.

“I am immensely proud of our association with Cummins,” says Bob Lee, Chrysler Group Vice President and Head of Engine and Electrified Propulsion Engineering. “And I have no qualms matching our truck diesels against those of any competitor for performance and durability.”

For 2013, Cummins-powered Rams boast capabilities and features that include:

  • Best-in-class torque and a 10 percent fuel-economy improvement
  • Exclusive dual-inlet “Ram Active Air” that adjusts induction according to driving conditions for optimal performance
  • “Smart” exhaust brake for smoother driving characteristics
  • Best-in-class 15,000-mile oil-change interval
  • A new cooling system for improved performance and durability
  • B20 fuel capability
  • Next-generation Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) and diesel exhaust fluid system with range of up to 4,000 miles between refills
  • Dual fuel filtration system for enhanced reliability and durability in virtually every climate and environment
  • Unsurpassed powertrain warranty – 5 years/100,000 miles

The Chrysler Group-Cummins partnership traces its beginnings to 1985, when development work began on a 5.9-liter 12-valve in-line 6-cylinder turbo diesel. When it launched in 1989, it was rated at 160 horsepower and 400 lb.-ft. of peak torque – less than half the numbers for today’s High-Output 6.7-liter Cummins turbo diesel.

In the 2013 Ram Heavy Duty pickups, the top-line Cummins engine makes 385 horsepower and a best-in-class 850 lb. ft. of torque.

Among other notable events in the evolution of Cummins diesels produced for Chrysler Group:
 
  • 24-valve design introduced in model-year 1998.5
  • Adoption of high-pressure common-rail fuel delivery in 2003
  • Named to Ward’s 10 Best Engines list in 2004
  • Displacement increased to 6.7 liters from 5.9 liters in model-year 2007.5
  • Met 2010 EPA emissions certification in 2007

Take-rate is testament to the appeal of Cummins engines among Ram customers. Diesels account for nearly 80 percent of Ram Heavy Duty sales.

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.

Chrysler Group LLC Corporate Overview

Chrysler Group LLC, formed in 2009 to establish a global strategic alliance with Fiat S.p.A., produces Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram, Mopar, SRT and Fiat vehicles and products. With the resources, technology and worldwide distribution network required to compete on a global scale, the alliance builds on Chrysler Group’s culture of innovation, first established by Walter P. Chrysler in 1925, and Fiat’s complementary technology that dates back to its founding in 1899.

Headquartered in Auburn Hills, Mich., Chrysler Group’s product lineup features some of the world's most recognizable vehicles, including the Chrysler 300 and Town & Country, Jeep Wrangler, all-new Dodge Dart, Ram 1500, Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 and Fiat 500. Fiat contributes world-class technology, platforms and powertrains for small- and medium-size cars, allowing Chrysler Group to offer an expanded product line including environmentally friendly vehicles.

Ram to Build Most Capable Trucks Ever

  • Ram 3500 Heavy Duty’s maximum trailer weight of 30,000 pounds far surpasses closest competitor’s 23,100-pound max
  • 850 lb.-ft. Cummins Turbo Diesel is tops for torque
  • 37,600-pound Gross Combined Weight Rating leads all heavy-duty pickups
  • Ram 2500 leads all ¾-ton pickups
  • Ram Chassis Cab trucks also deliver best-in-class towing

January 9, 2013 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - In the quest to build the most capable trucks available, Ram officially released class-leading towing and weight ratings for its 2013 line of Ram Heavy Duty pickups and Chassis Cab trucks.

The Ram 3500 Heavy Duty pickup will claim a 30,000-pound trailer capacity thanks to a new class-exclusive 50,000 pounds-per-square-inch, high-strength steel frame, improved transfer case, higher-load transmission, an upgraded 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel engine with a best-in-class 850 lb.-ft. of torque and other significant driveline upgrades.

Ram’s closest competitor is limited to a 23,100-pound maximum trailer.

"We built the new 2013 Ram Heavy Duty to be the undisputed Heavy Duty 'King of the Road.' These new rigs deliver on the number one key attribute most critical to these customers: uncompromising capability,” said Fred Diaz, President and CEO — Ram Truck Brand and Chrysler de Mexico, Chrysler Group LLC. “Towing capability, reliability and engine performance are ranked first through third, respectively, with HD customers. The 2013 Ram Heavy Duty trucks unequivocally deliver all those things, as well as a very low total cost of ownership.”

The Ram 3500’s Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) -- which is defined by the maximum combined weight of the truck, payload and trailer -- has been raised to 37,600 pounds, which again far surpasses the closest competitor’s 30,500-pound GCWR.

Ram has increased the capability in its other truck models as well.

For 2013, the Ram 2500 will also benefit from increased towing and GCWR. At 18,350 and 25,000, Ram 2500’s towing and GCW ratings are also best among ¾-ton pickups.

Ram Chassis Cab trucks also deliver maximum capability with best-in-class towing and GCWR figures 29,600 pounds and 37,500 pounds, respectively (5500 model).

Ram Heavy Duty adds a number of new features for 2013, including a factory-integrated fifth-wheel and gooseneck hitch mount, a 17,000-pound Class V hitch with 1,800 pounds of tongue weight, class-exclusive electronic stability control (ESC) for dual-rear-wheels and a new Center High-Mounted Stop Light (CHMSL) –positioned camera, the first of its kind in the heavy-duty pickup category, to provide a full view of the bed for easier hook-up of fifth-wheel or gooseneck trailers as well as monitoring cargo.

For 2013, all Ram Heavy Duty diesels benefit from an all-new cooling system. A high-efficiency fan, dual radiators, dual transmission coolers and low-slung charge air cooler afford 25 percent more heat-rejection capacity. Lower operating temperatures deliver improved performance, durability and lower operating costs. Cummins Turbo Diesel-equipped Ram trucks also provide best-in-class 15,000-mile oil change intervals.

Ram is also introducing an industry-exclusive Ram Active Air intake system. When the intake system senses extreme heat, it draws cooler air from the front of the vehicle – a function that also engages at high altitudes for superior throttle response in low oxygen environments. When conditions are wet from snow, ice or water-fording, the system pulls air from an under-hood inlet, clear from snow packing and water.

Also among the upgrades for 2013, Ram Heavy Duty front drive shafts and U-joints are sized larger to align with the truck’s new Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR).

To handle the best-in-class towing capability of the new Ram Heavy Duty, a new front and rear suspension system with advanced geometry builds upon the chassis improvements and greatly improves overall roll stiffness. An advanced three-link front suspension on the Ram 3500 is necessary for the vehicle’s higher GVWR and for use with heavy front loads, including snow plows. Additionally, a newly designed Hotchkiss leaf spring rear suspension on the Ram 3500 offers improved ride and handling while delivering higher towing and payload capability.

1/18/13

High-Strength Steels Help Create Tough New 2014 Silverado

Adds structural strength without increasing weight on built-to-last full-size pickups


DETROIT – Full-size pickups are unique. Their owners routinely use them in ways that would horrify most car owners.  They pull heavy trailers through the mountains, haul tools and supplies down washboard gravel roads, and slog through mud and muck on farms and construction sites. And trucks are expected to perform these tasks for years on end, with a minimum of repairs.

To help the new 2014 Silverado  measure up to these tasks, engineers chose high-strength steels for the backbone of the new trucks – the fully boxed frames and the structure of the cabs that carry and protect the occupants.

“Chevy owners use their trucks for earning a living and taking care of their families,” said Jeff Luke, executive chief engineer.  “To meet the needs of these hard-working men and women, we chose high-strength steels for the key structural elements of the 2014 Silverado. That reduces the weight of these components without sacrificing the toughness and durability customers count on.”

To ensure that the new Silverado is up to the challenge, key elements of the updated frame, including the main rails and major cross members, are made from high-strength steel.  Hydroforming is used to improve strength and reduce mass of the front of the frame.

The cab structures are all new, and incorporate high strength steel in the A-pillars, B-pillars, roof rails and rocker panels. Ultra-high-strength steel is used in areas of the rocker panels and underbody in anticipation of new shallow-offset crash tests. In all, about two-thirds of the cab structure is made from high-strength steels.

Even the pickup bed benefits from tougher steels. The 2014 Silverado 1500 features a roll-formed steel pickup box, which is lighter, stronger and more durable than traditional stamped steel boxes used by major competitors.

Aluminum is used in a number of areas to reduce mass without compromising dependability.  The blocks and cylinder heads of all three EcoTec3 engines are cast aluminum, while 4WD crew cab models use forged aluminum upper front control arms and cast aluminum lower control arms and steering knuckles for a mass reduction of 42 pounds. The hoods are also aluminum, saving 17 pounds over a comparable steel panel.

The strategic use of high strength steels, aluminum and other premium materials enabled engineers to create a new Silverado that is stronger, more capable and more efficient than current models, while still being lighter than comparable models from a key competitor.

The materials and technologies used for Chevrolet pickups will continue to evolve, as truck customers face fluctuating fuel prices and truck makers engineer for strict new federal fuel economy standards, said Luke.

“But whether we are engineering full-size pickups like Silverado, or our efficient new midsize trucks, we can’t forget that trucks are workhorses. The materials we select and the powertrains we engineer must be able to get the job done, and save our customers money by holding down overall cost of ownership year in and year out.”

To help validate its design and materials for the 2014 Silverado, GM’s new full-size trucks will undergo more than 6 million miles of durability testing on proving grounds and tough test roads, equivalent to 240 trips around the earth. In addition, the trucks will accumulate real-world mileage in excess of 7 million miles during final testing, bringing total test miles to more than 13 million.
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world's largest car brands, doing business in more than 140 countries and selling more than 4 million cars and trucks a year.  Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature spirited performance, expressive design, and high quality. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

1/17/13

Truck Vault In The Explorer PPV



A quick video promoting TruckVault for use in the Explorer PPV at SHOT '13. See more about the Truck Vault line of products at www.TruckVault.com

1/16/13

IAA Hannover 2012 - Ford Transit Interview



Barb Samardzich, Vice President Product Development for Ford of Europe, spoke to VansA2Z Editor Neil McIntee about Ford's ambitious plans to replace its entire light commercial vehicle range by the end of 2014. www.VansA2Z.com

1/15/13

Future of the Vocational Truck Industry on Display at The Work Truck Show® 2013

FARMINGTON HILLS, MI (Jan. 11, 2013) — The first opportunity industry professionals have to see all the newest trucks, equipment, technology and components this year is The Work Truck Show® 2013. More than 80 exhibitors have already started promoting new products they will introduce at the show. The Work Truck Show 2013 is held at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, IN, March 6-8. Educational programming, including the Green Truck Summit and more than 60 intensive educational sessions, starts March 5.
“This is the best show of the year for seeing all the latest products from across the work truck industry,” says Shawn Jacobs, 2013 NTEA Convention chairman and president & CEO of STS Trailer & Truck Equipment (Syracuse, NY). “In one place, you can check out everything from a new work truck body to an improved backup camera. There’s a good chance that something you see at the show this year will change the way you do business in the future.”
Attendees hoping to see all the new products and maximize their time in Indianapolis can download the Work Truck Show app, which is available for most mobile devices and will be updated for the 2013 show on Feb. 1. The app allows users to view the show’s floor plan, browse educational sessions, schedule appointments and find exhibitors featuring products in the New Product Spotlight or Green Product Showcase. To get it, scan the QR code at www.ntea.com/worktruckshow/index.aspx?id=25950 or visit www.guidebook.com/getit with a smart phone or device. Follow the prompts to download the Guidebook app. Then, open the app, select “Download Guides” and search for “The Work Truck Show.”
Some of the new products currently scheduled to be part of The Work Truck Show 2013 include:
Exhibitor
Product
Booth
A.R.E. Accessories
Lightweight truck cap
2225
Altec Industries
Aluminum body aerial vehicle
5765
American Midwest Fleet Solutions
Brush/grill guard
5749
Arctic Fox LLC
Inline diesel fuel warmer
3680
Arctic Fox LLC
Insulated, sleeved coolant hoses
3680
ASA / Voyager Cameras
Radio head unit
4386
Auto Meter Products Inc
Fuel economy gauge
2451
BAE Systems
Heavy-duty hybrid systems
5571
BEAU-ROC Inc
Stainless steel dump bodies
4687
BEDNET Cargo Restraint Systems
Cargo restraint systems
726
Boss Industries Inc
Compressor control system
3776
Bucher Hydraulics Inc
Pressure-balanced pump
1713
CALSTART
Clean technology consulting and services
5459
Certified Power Inc
Touchscreen spreader controls
1801
Chelsea Products Div of Parker
560V clutch pack
3013
ChemSpec USA
Industrial topcoat system
2112
Chevrolet & GMC Commercial Truck
2013 CNG bi-fuel Silverado and Sierra 2500
1835
Cirus Controls LLC
Touchscreen spreader controls
3677
Clean Seal Inc
Compression, torsion, wave and extension spring applications
3020
Clean Seal Inc
Automotive hoses
3020
Dee Zee Inc
Collapsible ladder rack
619
DewEze Manufacturing
Clutch pump kit
3424
Doosan Portable Power
Truck-mounted utility air compressor
5783
Eberhard Manufacturing Co
Complete door system product line
1331
ECHO Automotive
Plug-in hybrid electric kit for fleet vehicles
633
Efficient Transportation Solutions
Composite truck body kit
630
eNow Inc
Solar-based auxiliary power systems
1901
Fastway Trailer Products
Coiled breakaway trailer cable
5653
Godwin Group
Conversion hoist for 10-foot bodies
3519
GPS Insight
Fuel-optimizing GPS software
5959
Greater Indiana Clean Cities
Midwest LNG provider
3609
Hino Trucks
Class 5 195 and 195h COE trucks
4139
Husky Liners
Backup camera mounting kit
604
Husky Liners
Point-of-purchase product display
604
Insta-Chain
On-demand, instant ice/snow tire chains
5074
InterMotive Vehicle Controls
Medium-duty truck idle reduction system
3027
Knapheide Manufacturing Company (The)
Van partitions
3739
LADD Distribution
Power connectors for harsh environments
5876
Leggett & Platt Commercial Vehicle Products
Ventilation air and electrical power system
1421
Leggett & Platt Commercial Vehicle Products
Docking station for Panasonic Toughbook 53
1421
Leggett & Platt Commercial Vehicle Products
Cargo management system
1421
Maxon Lift Corp
Steel/aluminum platforms and cart stops
1717
Maxon Lift Corp
Stainless steel, dual-cylinder rail lift
1717
Meyer Distributing
Grille guard
3119
Meyer Products LLC
Insert hopper
4347
Miller Electric Mfg Co
Welder/generators
2421
Mobile Power
Under-hood generator system
5678
Muncie Power Products
Telescopic cylinders
3229
Newgistics Freight Services
Freight management services
3579
NexTraq
Efficient route management software
5890
Nortech Innovative Products
LED light string kit
2110
Optronics International
LED stop/turn/tail lights with glowing rings
5292
Palfinger North America Group
Sprinter van aerial splicing unit
3559
Power-Packer Inc
Motion control solutions
2325
Pride Bodies LTD
Aluminum crane bodies
939
PRO-VISION Video Systems
Wide-angle camera
4891
RAM Mounting Systems
Smartphone holder and mount
5376
RAM Mounting Systems
iPad cradle and mount
5376
RAM Mounting Systems
No-drill laptop mount
5376
Rand McNally
Mobile fleet management system
2106
RKI Inc
Service body window grilles
3433
Roll-Rite LLC
Wireless controls for side-roll tarps
1124
Rotary Lift
Mobile column vehicle lift
4191
ROUSH CleanTech
Propane autogas Ford F-650 and E-250
5099
RSC Bio Solutions
Biodegradable, synthetic hydraulic fluids
5468
S&S Truck Parts Inc
PTO and hydraulic systems
705
SAF-HOLLAND Inc
2,750-pound capacity liftgate
945
Sage Oil Vac Inc
Lube skids with enclosed reel cabinets
917
Sortimo NA
Roof-mounted shelving system
4038
SuperSprings International Inc
Coil spring suspension enhancer
3054
Switch-N-Go/AmeriDeck/Bucks Fabricating
Detachable truck body
815
Terex Utilities
Hybrid digger derrick system
5365
Terminal Supply Company
Flame-resistant wire sleeving
5775
Transglobal Door
Composite roll-up door
4387
TriMark Corporation
Two-point paddle handle
3130
TruckCraft Corp
Aluminum service body
3373
Vanair Manufacturing Inc
Power system with six forms of power
3049
Venco/Venturo Manufacturing Inc
Subframe conversion hoist
1605
VMAC - Vehicle Mounted Air Compressors
Multi-function stand-alone diesel drive
4677
Westport
Power system for Ford F-450/550
5199
Whelen Engineering Co Inc
LED lighting series
2209
Xantrex Technology
Inverter/chargers
5277
Zip's Truck Equipment Inc
Storage compartments
5883
 
To see the most up-to-date list of new products, including detailed product descriptions, use the Work Truck Show app or go online to www.ntea.com/worktruckshow, select “2013 Floor Plan” from the “About the Work Truck Show” drop-down menu, and then click on “Featured Exhibitors.”
Produced annually by the NTEA, The Work Truck Show brings together thousands of work truck industry professionals, including fleet managers, equipment buyers, maintenance personnel, manufacturers, distributors and dealers. To register for The Work Truck Show 2013, visit www.ntea.com or call 1-800-441-6832.
Connect with the NTEA on Facebook at www.facebook.com/NTEA.TheAssociationForTheWorkTruckIndustry, and join the Work Truck Show conversation on Twitter with the official hashtag: #wts2013.
 
About NTEA
Established in 1964, NTEA, the Association for the Work Truck Industry, represents more than 1,550 companies that manufacture, distribute, install, sell and repair commercial trucks, truck bodies, truck equipment, trailers and accessories. Buyers of work trucks and the major commercial truck chassis manufacturers also belong to the Association. The NTEA provides in-depth technical information, education, and member programs and services, and produces The Work Truck Show. The Association maintains its administrative headquarters in suburban Detroit and a government relations office in Washington, DC.

1/14/13

IAA Hannover 2012 - Volkswagen Interview



Alexander Siebeneich is responsible for the eT! concept in the Volkswagen Research Group. VansA2Z editor Neil McIntee caught up with him at the 2012 Hannover CV Show.

See more videos from VansA2Z at www.vansa2z.com

1/13/13

Kenworth T370 Adds Front Frame Assembly Option for Customer-Installed Winch Bumpers

KIRKLAND, Wash., Dec. 27, 2012 - Kenworth has introduced a new, heavy-duty front frame assembly option for its Kenworth T370 medium duty truck that makes it easy for body builders to install customer winch bumpers.

The new Kenworth T370 option includes durable Austempered ductile iron (ADI) cast front drive brackets, 3/8-inch thick steel front adapters, enhanced radiator crossmember assembly brackets, and C-channel front frame sections that can accept a winch bumper. The bumper adapters can be used with other specialty bumpers commonly installed on utility, overhead automobile haulers, and fire and emergency vehicles.

T370 Front Frame
 
T370 Front Frame Assembly 
Rams Horn tow hooks are provided for vehicle transport. The T370 must be specified with front springs rated at 13,200 lbs. or more, and may be ordered with either a front or non-front drive axle.
"The T370 front frame option assembly package especially targets customers, such as utilities and municipalities, that operate medium duty winch trucks," said Doug Powell, Kenworth medium duty marketing manager. "This option simplifies and standardizes the installation of specialty winch bumpers and further expands the benefits and value of the Kenworth T370 for customers."

Winch Bumper
Customer-Installed Winch Bumper
Kenworth Truck Company is the manufacturer of The World's Best® heavy and medium duty trucks. Kenworth is an industry leader in providing fuel-saving technology solutions that help increase fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. The company's dedication to the green fleet includes aerodynamic trucks, compressed and liquefied natural gas trucks, and medium duty diesel-electric hybrids. Kenworth is the only truck manufacturer to receive the Environmental Protection Agency's Clean Air Excellence award in recognition of its environmentally friendly products. In addition, the fuel-efficient Kenworth T700 equipped with the low-emission PACCAR MX engine was named the 2011 Heavy Duty Commercial Truck of the Year by the American Truck Dealers. Kenworth also received the "Highest in Customer Satisfaction with Heavy Duty Truck Dealer Service, Two Years in a Row", according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2011-2012 Heavy Duty Truck Customer Satisfaction StudiesSM. Kenworth's Internet home page is at www.kenworth.com. Kenworth. A PACCAR Company.

1/12/13

Trip Edge Base Angle



Knowing when to add a replacement cutting edge to a base angle trip edge plow is an important plow maintenance tip. Watch this video for helpful advice on the key indicators to watch for. See more at www.bossplow.com