Ford Ropes 'Truck of Texas' Title, Best Truck Lineup, Six Other High Honors at Annual TAWA Texas Truck Rodeo

• The 2012 Ford F-150 is named Truck of Texas, the most prestigious award presented by the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) at its annual Truck Rodeo in the country’s largest truck market. In addition, Ford products and technologies win top honors in seven other categories
• The 2012 Ford Edge is named CUV of Texas
• Ford EcoBoost^® technology – available for both F-150 and Edge – is named best vehicle feature. EcoBoost uses gasoline turbocharged direct-injection technology for up to 20 percent better fuel economy, 15 percent fewer CO2 emissions and superior driving performance versus larger displacement engines
• Ford also is named Truck Line of Texas for the 12th consecutive year, in recognition of the best-in-class capability and durability of its truck lineup

2012 Ford F-150

SAN ANTONIO, Oct. 24, 2011 – Ford trucks and crossovers have earned top honors at the 2011 Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) Truck Rodeo, including the 2012 Ford F-150 being named Truck of Texas – the most prestigious award.

“Texan consumers put their trust in TAWA’s automotive journalists. After lining up vehicles from major auto manufacturers, our members determined Ford simply had the best trucks and crossover,” said Mike Herzing, president of TAWA. “But the real winners here are Texas’ truck buyers. Ford delivers the trucks that fit their lifestyles.”

Ford also swept seven additional categories for its trucks, crossovers and EcoBoost engine technology.

“These honors show Ford trucks still reign supreme in Texas, and it is rewarding to see that the truck-savvy Texas auto writers appreciate just how innovative our F-Series pickups are,” said Mark Fields, Ford's president of The Americas. “These awards validate what our customers have been telling us about our ‘Built Ford Tough’ F-150, and we are honored by their recognition of the strength of our truck lineup as well as our crossovers and EcoBoost engines.”

A total of 48 vehicles were entered in the rodeo and evaluated by the 57 registered TAWA members. TAWA is one of the largest associations of auto writers in the U.S.

At this weekend’s Rodeo, TAWA members also named Ford’s EcoBoost engine technology Best Vehicle Feature.

V6 EcoBoost engine sales have accounted for more than 40 percent of F-150 retail sales volume each of the past six months. Additionally, F-150s with EcoBoost had their best-ever sales month in September.

The V6 engines continue to outsell V8s among F-150s, with Ford’s new 3.5-liter EcoBoost and 3.7-liter V6 engines representing 57 percent of F-150 retail sales in September.

Ford F-150 EcoBoost-equipped trucks offer best-in-class trailer tow capability of 11,300 pounds and can achieve 22 mpg on the highway and 16 mpg in the city. No other truck with comparable horsepower and torque can match the F-150 EcoBoost in highway or city fuel economy.

The 2012 Ford Edge also was awarded the honor of Crossover of Texas and Best Midsize CUV of Texas.

The 2012 Edge features an all-new 2.0-liter EcoBoost® four-cylinder engine that offers 30 mpg highway and 270 lb.-ft. of torque – a combination unmatched in the segment.

Ford’s lineup of trucks also was named Truck Line of Texas for the 12th consecutive year. Ford’s dominance of the TAWA Truck Line of Texas award is further evidence of the durability and reliability of Built Ford Tough F-Series trucks.

The full list of Ford vehicles winning top honors in their categories at TAWA Truck Rodeo is:

• Truck of Texas: 2012 Ford F-150
• Truck Line of Texas: Ford Motor Company
• CUV of Texas: 2012 Ford Edge
• Heavy-Duty Pickup Truck: 2012 Ford F-250 King Ranch Super Duty
• Luxury Pickup Truck: 2012 Ford F-150 Platinum EcoBoost
• Full-Size Pickup Truck: 2012 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor
• Mid-Size CUV: 2012 Ford Edge Limited
• Outstanding Feature: Ford EcoBoost Engine Technology

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter: Start of Production in China at Fujian Daimler Automotive (FJDA)

• First Mercedes-Benz Sprinter line roll-off event celebrated at Fujian Daimler
• Sprinter is the thrid premium brand product after Viano and Vito in China’s fast growing large van market
• Volker Mornhinweg, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans: “At Mercedes-Benz Vans we are consistently pursuing a worldwide growth strategy and putting our motto into practice every day: Mercedes-Benz Vans goes global! In China we are still the only premium automaker with its own van production. And I am all the more delighted that we are now offering a bus version of our Mercedes-Benz Sprinter on the Chinese market.”

Peking / Fuzhou - The production line roll-off event for the first locally produced Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van was held at the Fujian Daimler Automotive Co., Ltd (FJDA) plant in the end of October.

“At Mercedes-Benz Vans we are consistently pursuing a worldwide growth strategy and putting our motto into practice every day: Mercedes-Benz Vans goes global! In China we are still the only premium automaker with its own van production. And I am all the more delighted that we are now offering a bus version of our Mercedes-Benz Sprinter on the Chinese market,” said Volker Mornhinweg, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans, at the production line roll-off event in Fuzhou.

“Local vehicle production is a cornerstone of Daimler’s commitment to the Chinese market and an important part of Daimler’s China strategy,” said Ulrich Walker, Chairman and CEO of Daimler Northeast Asia. “Thanks to the start of production of our Mercedes-Benz Vito and Viano multi-purpose vehicles at Fujian Daimler in 2010, China has instantly become a top-5 market for the Mercedes-Benz Van Division. I am convinced that the locally produced Sprinter will add another chapter to the success story of our joint venture in Fuzhou.”

The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is the third premium vehicle after Viano and Vito on the van market in China and fills a gap in the large vans segment. And the Sprinter is the third vehicle manufactured by Fujian Daimler for the Chinese market. The production location is the FJDA plant in Fuzhou, which has been building the Mercedes-Benz Vito and Viano multipurpose vehicles since April 2010. There are three Sprinter models coming to the Chinese market with three different body lengths and different kinds of seating arrangements accordingly. Depending on their different needs, customers can choose between 14-seats, 17-seats, and 20-seats for reliable and safe people transportation.

”Fujian Daimler continues to upgrade its models to meet the growing demands of Chinese customers, as evidenced by the new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter which diversifies our product line and enhances our competitiveness in the chinese market,” says Rene Reif, President and CEO of Fujian Daimler Automotive Co., Ltd. “As the first luxury brand entering the large van segment in China, the Sprinter brings superior quality and safer mobility to the discerning Chinese consumer. The locally-produced Sprinter inherits German craftsmanship and advanced technology, and is fully adapted to the needs of local customers, setting the new benchmark vehicle model in the large van segment here in China.”

In accordance with Daimler’s and Mercedes-Benz’s core principles, the highest level of passenger safety is assured with a range of electronic safety features like the most advanced ESP (electronic stability program) in its segment as well as the latest technology in passenger safety cell design. The aviation cabin-like interior brings airline travel quality to the road, with fully adjustable passenger seats with dual color leather and elegant trim and star logo.

Daimler is the only foreign company that has forged joint ventures to locally produce trucks, vans and passenger cars in China and the Sprinter convincingly extends the audience for more people to enjoy the luxury of Mercedes-Benz in China.

Fujian Daimler Automotive Ltd. (FJDA)
Established in Fuzhou in October 2007, Fujian Daimler Automotive Ltd. (FJDA) is a joint venture between Daimler AG, Fujian Motor Industry Group Company (FJMG) and the Taiwan-based China Motors Corp (CMC). The FJDA plant construction was completed in a record 18 months, starting production in April 2010, followed by the China national market launch of Vito and Viano multi purpose vehicles in June that year. The first Sprinter van rolled off the production line in October 2011.

FJDA is located in Qingkou Investment Zone of Minhou County, Fujian, with a total area of about 330,000 square meters. With a technical capacity of 40,000 vehicles, FJDA is a world-class facility incorporating the latest technology, Mercedes-Benz Production System (MPS), and strict quality control measures. Professional talent from China, Germany, and other countries work together in a dedicated and efficient international team, incorporating Daimler’s 125 years of heritage and automobile expertise.

Silver Knapheide KUV by California Work Trucks

KUV-CC mounted on dually GMC Extended Cab with custom paint

and 3 bar custom rack.

If you have a truck but want both external and internal secure storage for all your tools and components? Meet the Knapheide KUVcc, designed and manufactured with the truck owner in mind.

Maybe you like the toughness and durability of a truck chassis or have to take your vehicle off road to make it to the jobsite or need 4 wheel drive most of the year. The Knapheide KUVcc has all the same features as a KUV for a van chassis. Since productivity is important to you, this vehicle shouldn't be overlooked. With more than enough external storage and a secure internal cargo storage area, the KUVcc can greatly increase your productivity day in and day out. If you prefer to drive a truck but prefer the efficiency of a KUV, check out the KUVcc

Features & Benefits

• KnapTight double panel rear cargo doors lock and seal into the body frame for increased security
• Two conduit chutes to transport copper pipe, pvc, and conduit
• Master Locking System locks down all side compartments in one move for an extra layer of security
• 250 lb. adjustable divider shelves for organization
• Compartment doors employ double spring over center retainers for elimination of involuntary swing and to keep your doors either open or closed
• All stainless steel continuous hinges for compartment security
• Thick bulb type neoprene door seals protect compartment cargo from the outside elements
• Stainless steel paddle-activated, rotary style latches close easily and stay closed
• Spacious cargo area for transporting oversized items such as water heaters
• Two interior dome lights with switch in cargo area for increased visibility
• All compartments can lock individually with the key cylinder located in the latch housing
• Complete immersion in Knapheide's electrodeposition prime paint system for superior corrosion resistance

This post is courtesy of Californial Work Trucks, a Knapheide distributor in Union City, CA. http://www.calworktrucks.com/ or http://www.californiaworktrucks.com/

Aluminum Contractor, Flatbed, Dump Bodies and More

Photo courtesy of Alum-Line

The Alum-Line Flat Deck and Landscape Aluminum Dump Truck Bodies brings you the strength, low maintenance, and light weight. Flat Deck and Landscape Aluminum Dump Truck Bodies use a combination of extruded flooring and heavy duty mainframe to help meet your everyday needs. Workmanship lasting a lifetime is what Alum-Line all aluminum dump truck bodies are all about. You can’t go wrong with Alum-Line’s aluminum truck bodies.

Looking professional on the road, at the show, and on the job site is important. It is also important to have aluminum truck bodies that will take the demands of hard work lasting years and years. Although Alum-Line offers a long list of standard features for the Flat Deck and Landscape Aluminum Dump Truck Bodies, their ability to customize is unmatched.

THE CLOSER YOU LOOK, THE MORE YOU'LL LIKE ALUM-LINE. http://www.alum-line.com/

Fontaine Modification Launches New Website

Charlotte, N.C. (Oct. 28, 2011) — Fontaine Modification Company, the leading provider of truck modification services for OEMs, dealers and fleets throughout North America, has redesigned and updated its website, www.fontainemod.com. Nearly 100 photos, including numerous “before and after” examples of truck modifications, now demonstrate the company’s comprehensive range of services.

The new website also offers detailed information regarding Fontaine’s technical solutions to support a wide variety of truck modifications and fleet services, including:

• Engineering Services
• Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) Installations
• All Wheel/Four Wheel Drive Installations
• Steering Conversions 
• Stand Up Right Drive (SURD)
• Sit Down Dual Drive (SDDD)
• Alternative Fuel System Installations
• Paint Services 
• Chassis and Cab Modifications.

“The new website much more accurately depicts who we are as a company and what we do for our customers,” explains Will Trantham, president. “We take great pride in our innovative solutions, excellence in engineering and superior workmanship, as well as our company history and industry insight. That experience and dedication comes through clearly in the new site, which has also been designed to improve ease-of-use for our customers.”

The website highlights Fontaine’s unique Innovation Model and includes an in-depth summary of how the company designs and develops effective engineering solutions that meet safety and regulatory standards for its customers. In addition, the site provides an at-a-glance view of available modifications for specific truck models from several OEMs.

Other website features include:

• A history of Fontaine’s 30 years of truck modification experience.
• A pressroom offering the latest company news, announcements and media coverage.
• Contact information and site details for each of Fontaine’s six strategically located modification centers.
• Technical support opportunities to “Ask a Question” or “Request a Quote”.

For more information about Fontaine Modification, call 800.FONTAINE (800.366.8246) or visit http://www.fontainemod.com/.



About Fontaine Modification

Based in Charlotte, N.C., Fontaine Modification is North America’s most comprehensive provider of truck modification services for OEMs, dealers and fleets. Fontaine uses established ship-thru agreements with all major truck manufacturers to streamline the final delivery process to the end-user. The company’s modification centers are conveniently located near OEM truck manufacturing facilities in Denton, Texas; Garland, Texas; Laredo, Texas; Charlotte, N.C.; Dublin, Va.; and Williamstown, W.V.

Fontaine is a Marmon Highway Technologies (MHT) company. MHT companies support the transportation industry worldwide with a wide range of high-quality products and services. MHT companies are members of The Marmon Group, an international association of business units that operate independently within diverse business sectors. The Marmon Group is a Berkshire Hathaway Company.

Cushman Introduces 1600XD 4x4 Utility Vehicle

Augusta, GA — Cushman®, a recognized leader in light-transportation vehicles for commercial, industrial and turf-maintenance applications, introduces the newest addition to its vehicle lineup – the rugged, reliable and versatile 1600XD 4x4 utility vehicle.

The 1600XD combines four-wheel-drive capability with a powerful 22 hp, 1,007cc three-cylinder OHV diesel engine to handle large tasks on tough terrain. Its performance is further enhanced by an automatic, continuously variable transmission (CVT) with low – and high-gear ratios, a user-selectable locking rear differential which can be engaged in both 2WD and 4WD operation, four-wheel independent suspension, and exceptional hauling and towing capacity, with a maximum vehicle load of 1,600 pounds.

'In the year of Cushman's 110th anniversary, it is extremely exciting to introduce the 1600XD, which brings the Cushman name and reputation for durability, quality and performance to a new class of vehicle,"' said Darryl Heffline, Vice President of Cushman Marketing and Strategy. "The 1600XD combines the traditional rugged construction and refined power of a Cushman vehicle with a 4x4 drivetrain to serve the needs of a variety of customers, from large construction and industrial sites, to agricultural producers, to golf-course superintendents."

"There's hardly a customer out there whose operation doesn't stand to benefit from this dependable and versatile four-wheel-drive machine."

The Cushman 1600XD's many features include:

• 22 hp, 1,007cc diesel engine: The three-cylinder OHV, liquid-cooled diesel engine generates exceptional torque to provide ample hauling and towing power for nearly any task.
• Automatic transmission with selectable gear ratios: The 1600XD's automatic, continuously variable transmission (CVT) can be placed in high gear for higher maximum speed, or low gear for greater torque and pulling power. Top speed is 25 mph in high gear, and 10.5 mph in low gear.
• User-selectable 4WD: The 1600XD's four-wheel-drive capability can be engaged quickly and easily using a simple lever on the vehicle's dashboard.
• User-selectable locking rear differential: The 1600XD's rear differential can be locked in both 2WD and 4WD operation, using a lever on the vehicle's dash. In addition to the locking rear differential, a limited-slip device on the front axle further enhances traction on difficult terrain.
• Large payload and towing capacity: The 1600XD has a total load capacity of 1,600 pounds, and its 14.2-cubic-foot steel cargo bed can hold a maximum of 1,100 pounds. The vehicle also can tow up to 1,300 pounds from its rear receiver hitch.
• Four-wheel independent suspension: The 1600XD features MacPherson struts on its front wheels and a double A-arm "wishbone" suspension on its rear axle to provide sure traction and a comfortable ride over deep ruts and tough trails.
• Durable construction: The 1600XD is built on a welded-steel frame with advanced powder-coat protection to withstand the rigors of everyday tasks without damage or rust. Additional features such as a front brush guard, mud flaps, and automotive-quality front cowl keep the 1600XD looking sharp, even after a hard day’s (or year’s) worth of work.
• Essential safety features: A tubular steel, rollover protection system (ROPS) and three-point seat belts protect operator and passengers. Headlights with high-beam functionality allow for maximum visibility in low-light situations.
• Ergonomic cockpit design: A carefully designed cockpit keeps all vehicle controls within easy reach. The 1600XD's dashboard provides the operator a wealth of information at a glance, with a speedometer, fuel gauge, odometer, an engine-temperature gauge, and numerous information and caution lights.
• Unexpected conveniences: A standard roof and windshield protect the 1600XD's operator and passengers from the elements. A 12-volt accessory outlet in the dashboard allows for on-the-go charging of mobile phones and other electronic devices. A glove box allows valuables to be secured, and cup holders and other storage pockets are within easy reach, making a day's work in the 1600XD to be as enjoyable as it is productive.
• Optional hydraulic power source: To further enhance its capability and versatility, the 1600XD can be equipped with an optional hydraulic power source. The system can circulate up to 6.5 gallons of fluid per minute to drive implements such as plows, augers and post-drivers. Quick-connect fittings allow implements to be quickly attached and detached from the hydraulic system without tools. The system also allows the vehicle's cargo bed to be dumped under hydraulic power.

To better customize the 1600XD's performance to the specific needs of any operation, the vehicle can be outfitted with a wide variety of accessories, including fog lamps, skid plates, a heater/defroster, a hand throttle kit, bed extensions, turn signals, brake lights and horn, among others.
The 1600XD will be available in April 2011. For more information on the Cushman line of light-transportation vehicles for commercial, industrial and turf applications, please visit http://www.cushman.com/.

About Cushman
Since 1901, Cushman vehicles have been recognized light-transportation solutions for commercial and industrial applications. Today, Cushman products include more than 10 different vehicle models, from the rugged 1600XD 4x4 utility vehicle, ideal for tough hauling and towing tasks in outdoor environments, to the imposing Titan, a fully electric material-handling vehicle for indoor environments with a load capacity of 3,000 pounds, to the Minute Miser, perfectly suited for transporting people and small loads across large facilities. Cushman is owned by Textron Inc., a global, multi-industry company based in Providence, R.I.

About Textron Inc.
Textron Inc. is a multi-industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defense, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron in known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft Company, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Greenlee, and Textron Systems. More information is available at http://www.textron.com/.

Nice Looking Contractor Style Flatbed On Ford F450

Here's a sweet looking contractor style flatbed with tapered headboard, short contractor style gates that fold-down at the rear as shown. The gates are not fold-down style on the sides. This also has underbody boxes, hitch, diamond plate steel floor.

See more creations by Harbor Truck Bodies in Brea CA at http://www.htbi.net/, or call them at 800-433-9452.

PRODUCTION BEGINS OF REACH, REVOLUTIONARY NEW WALK-IN VAN POWERED BY ISUZU

Innovative Van to Be Available at Isuzu Dealers Nationwide in Early November

ANAHEIM, Calif.—Isuzu Commercial Truck of America, Inc., distributor of America’s best-selling low-cab-forward trucks, and Utilimaster Corporation, a leading manufacturer of specialty chassis and vehicles, have announced that production began today of its revolutionary, all-new Reach commercial walk-in van at Utilimaster’s assembly facility in Wakarusa, Indiana.

The Reach, with a body designed by Utilimaster atop a rugged Isuzu NPR chassis and powered by Isuzu’s legendary 3.0-liter diesel engine, achieves 35 percent better fuel economy than a traditional commercial van while offering the functionality of a custom-built work truck along with the styling and ergonomics of a cargo van. The Reach offers best-in-class mileage and meets the latest EPA emissions standards, yet still provides true commercial truck capability and delivers a dramatically lower cost of ownership than traditional walk-in vans.

Units will begin arriving at Isuzu’s network of over 285 dealers nationwide in early November.

“We’re thrilled that production of the Reach has begun and that fleet and vocational buyers will soon be able to enjoy the dramatically low cost of ownership this vehicle delivers,” said Shaun Skinner, executive vice president and general manager of Isuzu Commercial Truck of America. “The Reach truly lives up to its name—it reaches a new standard in low cost of ownership that no other commercial van can match.”

John Marshall, senior vice president of sales and marketing for Utilimaster, added, “We believe the Reach will truly revolutionize the commercial van market. We have worked extensively to design a body that offers significantly more interior height and width than other commercial vans, and it will have multiple design options to maximize utility and driver productivity.”

“Beyond delivery fleets, we believe this new van will appeal to an enormous segment of the commercial truck market.” Among the industries and vocations expected to embrace the Reach:

• Contractors
• Cleaning services
• Plumbers
• Moving and storage companies
• Home health care providers
• Locksmiths
• Lease/rental agencies
• Appliance repair and delivery firms
• Dry cleaners and laundries
• Heating and air conditioning technicians
• Ekectrucuans
• Airports
• Florists
• Rent-to-own outlets

Food distributorsPowering the Reach is Isuzu’s state-of-the-art, bio-diesel fuel compatible 4JJ1-TC 3.0-liter turbocharged engine generating 150 horsepower, mated to an Aisin medium-duty six-speed automatic transmission. Both the engine and transmission have class-leading B10 durability ratings of 310,000 miles, meaning that 90% will reach that mileage before requiring an overhaul. And like all Isuzu N-Series trucks, the Reach meets the most stringent emissions standards in the world.

Utilimaster guided the development of the Reach’s aerodynamic shape, along with its use of composite materials, which together improve fuel efficiency and reduce interior noise. The lightweight composite materials provide a 700-pound weight savings compared to traditional aluminum and steel materials. The Reach van also employs impact-resistant composite panels that are designed to reduce overall maintenance costs. For example, in the event of a collision, the vehicle’s lower body cladding can easily and quickly be replaced with simple tools, reducing costly downtime.

The Reach is offered with a 151-inch wheelbase with either a 12- or 14-foot body. With an interior up to 27 inches higher than a conventional van, the cargo area can offer 540 or 630 cubic feet of storage.

Unlike typical cargo vans, the Reach design allows the driver to quickly enter the cargo area without leaving the vehicle. Its array of modular vocational packages affords buyers a choice of factory- or field-installed options that are designed to take full advantage of the van’s expansive aisle width and headroom. In addition, the Reach is the only van to offer either rear swing doors or an integrated, composite roll-up door. 

Additional Reach information and images are available at http://www.isuzucv.com/cv.com

About Isuzu

Isuzu Motors Limited is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of medium- and heavy-duty trucks. Since building its first truck in 1918, Isuzu has sold over 26 million trucks worldwide. Among its innovations are the first air-cooled diesel engine in 1936, the first two-ton low-cab-forward truck in 1959, and the first direct-injection diesel engine.

Headquartered in Anaheim, California, Isuzu Commercial Truck of America, Inc. (ICTA), is the distributor of Isuzu commercial vehicles in the United States. Isuzu commercial trucks have been the best-selling low-cab-forward trucks in America every year since 1986. For more information, call (866) 441-9638 or visit www.isuzucv.com.

About Utilimaster

Utilimaster, www.utilimaster.com, a subsidiary of Spartan Motors, Inc. (NASDAQ: SPAR), is a leading manufacturer of walk-in vans and commercial truck bodies for the delivery and service marketplace. Utilimaster designs, develops and manufactures products to customer specifications for use in the package delivery, one-way truck rental, bakery/snack delivery, utility, and linen/uniform rental businesses. The company serves a diverse customer base and also sells aftermarket parts and accessories.

We test-drive first all-electric vehicle: Navistar's eStar

Public Works columnist Paul Abelson felt like he was driving a pickup, not a Class 2e -- 3 box truck. Click here http://pwmag.com/industry-news.asp?sectionID=760&articleID=1465621 for his written review from the December issue of Public Works magazine.

Cummins Off-Highway Power Evolution

Wow! That's a lot of touque and a lot of different packages. Great engine graphics too. Would be so cool with music. . .

See the evolution of power in Cummins off-highway engines, from the B3.3 up to the soon-to-be-announced larger displacement high horsepower engine platform. The new engine platform will be revealed on November 1, 2011.

http://www.cummins.com/

Aluminum Flatbed, Landscaper and Dump Bodies by Alum-Line

Photo courtesy of Alum-Line

The Alum-Line Flat Deck and Landscape Aluminum Dump Truck Bodies brings you the strength, low maintenance, and light weight. Flat Deck and Landscape Aluminum Dump Truck Bodies use a combination of extruded flooring and heavy duty mainframe to help meet your everyday needs. Workmanship lasting a lifetime is what Alum-Line all aluminum dump truck bodies are all about. You can’t go wrong with Alum-Line’s aluminum truck bodies.

Looking professional on the road, at the show, and on the job site is important. It is also important to have aluminum truck bodies that will take the demands of hard work lasting years and years. Although Alum-Line offers a long list of standard features for the Flat Deck and Landscape Aluminum Dump Truck Bodies, their ability to customize is unmatched.

THE CLOSER YOU LOOK, THE MORE YOU'LL LIKE ALUM-LINE

See the entire line of aluminum truck beds and trailers at http://www.alum-line.com/

Isuzu Forms Backbone Of MC Truck Rental’s New Short-Term Hire Fleet

MC Truck Rental Ltd has added 10 new Isuzu trucks to its existing hire fleet, to be used primarily in the daily rental market. All the trucks are the Isuzu N75.190 7.5t rigids, specified with the Easyshift transmission for ease of driving, reduced downtime, and improved fuel economy.

According to MC Truck Rental Ltd, the Isuzus have been chosen for their class-leading payload, driver acceptability, and the reliability that customers have come to expect from Isuzu. The vehicles, which went into service during September, have been specified with a mixture of GRP box bodies and curtainsiders with tail lifts, offering choice and flexibility for most customers.

The trucks were all supplied by MC Truck and Bus Ltd, a sister company to MC Truck Rental. Bodybuilder Wessex Vehicle Services Ltd was chosen to supply the bodies.

Operations Director of MC Truck Rental, Joe Ryder comments "Our Isuzu trucks have proven extremely reliable across our fleet, with around 160 already in service. With our experience of operating Isuzus for many years, choosing them for the daily rental fleet was an easy decision. In this market, what really sets these trucks apart is their class leading payload, the ease of driving and a great fuel performance, compared to other truck brands."

Full details of the current Isuzu Truck range can be viewed and downloaded from the company’s website on www.isuzutruck.co.uk

Isuzu impresses Canute at 11.00 tonnes, as well as 7.5 tonnes

First four Isuzus in new partnership

When reassessing the make-up of its network distribution fleet, the 2011 Isuzu truck range ticked the boxes for The Canute Group at 7.5 tonnes and, most significantly, at 11.00 tonnes too. As a result, Canute has now acquired four new Isuzu trucks, comprising of three Isuzu F110.210 rigids and one Isuzu N75.190 rigid. These are currently working on a mix of network distribution operations as well as parcel and palletised freight for next-day deliveries, predominantly under the Canute Distribution banner.

This is the first time that The Canute Group has operated the Isuzu marque in its fleet and the reasons for this were explained by David Emslie, group sales director at The Canute Group, "Our development strategy has always been to offer our customers a genuine balance between service and cost, crucial to this policy is a continual review of our methods, equipment and infrastructure. Isuzu offered Canute an invaluable opportunity to introduce competitive alternatives on mid-payload vehicles and to increase operational efficiency."

David continued, "Having closely considered the commercial vehicle market, the Isuzu products are clearly well suited to offer diverse operations like Canute’s with improvements in both running costs and payload. Inner city transport solutions are becoming increasingly the most challenging for our sector and we feel Isuzu is well placed to partner Canute in this most demanding of areas." 　

Earlier this year, Canute put Isuzu to the test operating their 7.5 t demonstration vehicle on chosen distribution routes. The Isuzu 7.5 tonner impressed Canute not just with its performance and payload potential but also by the support they received from Isuzu Truck (UK) Ltd.

Such impressions paved the way for Canute to evaluate the Isuzu 11.00t rigid as well, since Canute has begun to increase the number of heavier rigid vehicles within its fleet as a result of driving licence regulations affecting the availability of drivers for 7.5 tonners.
　
"This is where the Isuzu range comes into its own," as Keith Child, marketing director at Isuzu Truck UK said; "The beauty of the Isuzu 11.00t rigid is that its compact footprint is the equivalent to many of the competition’s 7.5 t vehicles, but the higher GVW gives operators the distinct advantage of significantly increased payload. Within the Canute operation so far, the 11.00 tonne Isuzus are giving an impressive payload in excess of 6 tonnes. Plus, for operator’s peace of mind, just as we do with our lighter vehicles, our 11.00 tonners have 3-year’s unlimited mileage warranty too."

One Isuzu 11.00tonne rigid is fitted with a GRP box body and is based at the Canute Distribution Midlands depot in Coventry. A further Isuzu 11.00t rigid, specified with a curtain sided body, is operating out of their Nottingham depot, whilst the third 11.00t Isuzu is working on pallet distribution based at Purfleet. Also operating out of Canute’s Purfleet depot is the Isuzu N75.190 7.5t rigid, which also features a curtain sided body. All 4 Isuzu trucks have rear tuckaway tail lifts as standard.

During the initial trials, Canute was also impressed by the operational performance and benefits arising from the specification of Isuzu’s ‘Easyshift’ automated transmission on the 7.5t rigid truck. With the exception of the 11.00t Isuzu based in Purfleet, all of the new Isuzus have the Easyshift transmission fitted.

"The instantly recognisable Canute vehicle fleet is an everyday sight on our roads today and the introduction of the first Isuzu’s into their national fleet is a major landmark for Isuzu Truck UK. This partnership with The Canute Group clearly demonstrates the general acceptance of the Isuzu marque within the mainstream distribution sector in the mid-weight vehicle range," commented Keith Child.
Full details of the current Isuzu Truck range can be viewed and downloaded from the company’s website on www.isuzutruck.co.uk

Rack-it and SureFit Rack Accessories

Gary Kank of Rack-it Truck Racks, shows off a truck with most of the options that Rack-it and SureFit Racks sells. These include the water jug holder, rack holder, rack straps, window protector, load locks/dividers, cross bar and more.

This presentation was done at a Nor Cal Ford Truck Club event held at the Woodbridge Country Club in Woodbridge CA next to Lodi. See more about the Nor Cal Ford Truck Club at www.norcalfordtruckclub.com.

See more from Rack-it Truck Racks at www.rackitinc.com and SureFit Truck Racks at www.surefitracks.com.

Alternative Fuel Training Class Dates Announced

Alternative Fuel Training Class Dates Announced

Register Now For Transfer Flow's Alternative Fuel Training Program With an Emphasis on Propane Autogas Conversion Vehicles!

Next Class is Nov. 7 - 9 in Sacramento, California

Co-sponsored by the Sacramento Clean Cities Coalition and the East Bay Clean Cities Coalition

* This FREE 3-day class is designed to educate fleet managers, auto mechanics, service & maintenance personnel, and high school and college vo-tech teachers about the characteristics and benefits of alternative fuels with emphasis on propane autogas

* The training class will help city and county managers and planners understand how LPG vehicles and other types of AFVs will provide them important compliance options for their AB 32-required Climate Action Plans

* Converting vehicles from costly gasoline to cleaner burning propane autogas requires a highly skilled and qualified workforce, and reducing your business or agency carbon footprint will improve your "green" image - making knowledgeable administrators and technicians valuable employees

* Attendees of the FREE 3-day course will receive innovative instruction from industry professionals and hands-on training with a ROUSH CleanTech system

* Each class is open to only 30 students, so contact us today to reserve a seat

* Lunch will be provided on all 3 days!

* Class requirements: Must be 18 years of age or older, a high school graduate and have proof of US citizenship

Dates and Locations of FREE 3-Day Class

Nov. 7 - 9, 2011

TEECO Products

7471 Reese Road

Sacramento, CA 95828

or

Dec. 5 - 7, 2011

Transfer Flow, Inc.

1444 Fortress Street

Chico, CA 95973

Cost:

FREE!
Lunch will also be provided on all 3 days!

Register Today - Limited Seats Available!

Register now for this FREE 3-Day Course!

Call Warren Johnson at (530) 893-5209 ext. 12,

or e-mail wjohnson@transferflow.com

Additional Class Information

and Curriculum

http://www.transferflow.com/propane_training.html

Transfer Flow, Inc., in collaboration with Alliance for Workforce Development, Inc., NoRTEC, and California Employment Development Department, has launched Northern California's first Alternative Fuel Training Program. The training is funded by the California Energy Commission's Alternative and Renewable Fuel and Vehicle Technologies Program (ARFVTP), with the intention of deploying alternative fuels such as propane autogas to decrease air and water pollutants, while reducing the environmental impact of modern transportation. It also aims to sustain the state's natural resources thanks to the major cost savings associated with this readily available alternative fuel.