In the digital age of trucking, tracking tires using some form of technology is becoming closer to reality. Tire manufacturers have been experimenting with using radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags to track a tire throughout its life for inventory, service and warranty purposes. Fortunately, steps have been taken to help ensure that the industry collectively agrees to use Continue Reading

Industry analysts continue to point to mid-2010 as the point at which dramatic improvements needed to boost truck sales will take place. According to ACT Research Co. (ACT), the trucking industry will strengthen in the second half of the year, in turn boosting demand for commercial vehicles later in 2010 and into 2011. With used truck values increasing and finance firms less likely to extend credit to keep struggling carriers Continue Reading

According to speakers on a recent webcast presented by the Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) and Fleet Owner, distractions that disrupt driving are often so random and responding to them almost voluntary that managing their number and training drivers to be more aware of them is the best method to boosting safety on the road. Even in testing, drivers showed no Continue Reading

As workforces become more mobile, Panasonic Computer Solutions Company is dedicated to giving them the necessary tools needed to succeed. Such was the driving force in the development of the Panasonic Toughbook H1 Field, a rugged handheld tablet computer. Designed for highly mobile professionals, the computer bridges the gap Continue Reading

Fifth-wheel coupler manufacturer Jost believes it is closing the gap on scaling the next frontier in vehicle aerodynamics – the gap between a tractor and trailer. Its Smart Gap System (SGS), on display at the recent Technology and Maintenance Council exhibition in Tampa, automatically alters the size of the gap while the equipment is on Continue Reading

A new Repair-Connect system will be available this March from Mitchell1. The system, which connects shop computers to the Web, guides mechanics through each step of a repair. Technicians will have the ability to input trouble codes, then the manual for the particular component deemed necessary of repairs will be sent Continue Reading

On the first day funds were available through the joint funding program between the California Air Resources Board (CARB) and the CA-based Clean Transportation Technologies and Solutions (CalStart) organization, $5 million went out. To organizers, that indicates a “pent-up” demand for hybrid technologies. The $20-million Hybrid Truck and Continue Reading

The Ontario Trucking Association is petitioning its provincial government to help subsidize the purchase of cutting edge green technologies, including 2010 engines that help reduce emissions, that are part of the Canadian Trucking Associations enviroTruck initiative. OTA President David Bradley urged the use of super-accelerated Continue Reading

For the 18th straight year, Memphis International Airport held its position as the world’s busiest for cargo. Before the recession dampened global demand, some had predicted that Hong Kong could overtake the Tennessee airport. FedEx Corp.’s home airport actually widened the gap with Hong Kong, due to a drop in shipments from Continue Reading

Total net orders for Class 8 trucks have reached their lowest levels since July of 2002, giving some analysts hope that perhaps that number has hit bottom. While it may have reach the point at which it will post gains, market researchers tend to think it may have a lot more to do with the hefty price tags 2010-emission compliant equipment carries, not to mention the uncertainty Continue Reading