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Fuso adds gas-powered Class 4 and 5 trucks to its lineup Josh Fisher, Fleet Owner / March 13, 2018 Adding to its diesel and electric FE trucks, Mitsubishi Fuso will manufacture new gas trucks in South Carolina. INDIANAPOLIS. Mitsubishi Fuso Truck of America introduced its new gasoline-powered Class 4 and Class 5 FE Series cabover work trucks to go with its diesel and electric-powered FE trucks. The third powertrain option gives the OEM the broadest option among medium-duty trucks today. The new gas-powered trucks feature a GM 6.0L V8 engine and Allison 1000 automatic transmission. The company is touting its new cab interior that it says is designed to improve driver comfort and efficiency and will also find a home in the FE diesel models. The V8 gasoline engine will be initially available in two Fuso Class 4 models — the FE140 (14,500 lb. GVWR) and FE160 (15,995 lb. GVWR). It will soon be available in Fuso’s Class 5 FE180 (17,995 lb. GVWR) model, making it the first Class 5 cabover with an available gasoline-fueled engine. In all models, the PSI-GM V8 engine provides 297 HP and 361 lb-ft of torque. It has a broad torque curve and engine management calibration developed specifically to integrate seamlessly into FUSO’s FE models using the Allison 1000 transmission. In future models, the engine could be equipped to use compressed natural gas (CNG) or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) as fuels, for those fleets looking to reduce their emissions footprint. “The truck demonstrates our ability to leverage the resources of our parent company Daimler,” Bill Lyons, Fuso’s vice president of sales operations, said at the Work Truck Show last week. “The entire project is a collaborative effort between Fuso and Freightliner Custom Chassis Corp. These will be the first Fuso vehicles assembled in the United States in Gaffney, SC. The truck will be produced using engines and transmissions built in the United States and chassis and cabs sourced from both Fuso in Europe and Japan.” The gasoline models, while not priced yet, will be several thousand dollars cheaper than their diesel counterparts, according to Lyons. The Class 4 trucks will be available later this year; the Class 5 trucks will start production in 2019. Along with the new V8 gasoline engine, the new Fusos are equiped with the Allison 1000 heavy-duty automatic transmission, which makes FUSO the first cabover manufacturer to offer a commercial truck transmission in a medium-duty cabover, according to Lyons. The Allison transmission was designed from the ground up for use in commercial trucks, according to the OEM, and includes a provision for an optional power take-off (PTO) that can drive a wide range of vocational-truck accessories, like lift bodies or dispensing pumps. The Allison transmission also takes advantage of Allison-exclusive Fuel Sense 2.0 transmission management software—with DynActive shifting technology. Instead of shifting gears based on a data table of fixed shift points, DynActive technology continually refines shifts via a proprietary learning algorithm, to provide a balance between performance and fuel economy for each operator’s specific duty cycle. The results yield a 2% to 6% improvement in fuel economy. In addition, Fuel Sense 2.0 management provides a “Neutral-at-Stop” feature that further reduces fuel consumption. To provide increased operating range and fewer fuel stops per shift, the new Fuso FE Gas models also include a 40-gallon, rear-mounted fuel tank, complemented by streamlined fuel line and wiring harness routing and securement. The latter improve serviceability for the lifetime of the truck while protecting sensitive fuel and wiring lines from rubbing and chafing damage, for enhanced durability and reliability. The clean frame rails that result also provide additional space for toolboxes and side-mounted vocational equipment. “We’re extremely happy to be able to offer these new gasoline-powered trucks to our customers,” said Justin Palmer, Fuso’s president and CEO. “While much of the medium-duty market still relies on diesel power, gasoline engines are increasing in popularity, and now occupy about a 40% market share, so development of a gas-engine option for our customers was a no-brainer... “We’re also proud of the fact that, by adding our new gas-engine line to our existing diesel FEs and eCanter all-electric trucks, our dealers can offer their customers the broadest range of powertrain choices in the marketplace,” Palmer said. “No other truck manufacturer, in any GVWR class, currently offers all three of these powertrain options.” Cab Enhancements In addition to the new powertrain, the FE Gas trucks will introduce a new cab interior design. Most notably, the driver seat bolstering and support is improved to provide all-day comfort, the seat cushion covering has been extended for durability, and the seatbelts are now high-visibility Fuso red. The instrument cluster colors were revised to improve visibility under all lighting conditions, and an LED cabin light has been added. Storage space, too, has been enhanced, with a new driver-side overhead console, floor tray and sun-visor pocket. Finally, for aesthetics, a new black-on-black color scheme has been implemented marked by silver trim accents throughout the cab interior, including the stereo frame, the shifter panel and the steering wheel emblem. All of the cab improvements noted above will be transferred to the FUSO FE Series diesel models, as well. “Our new Class 4 FE140 GAS and FE160 GAS models will be on dealer lots by the middle of this year,” Palmer said. “With this great addition to our line, we look forward to a very successful year in the medium-duty market.”

Transport Topics / March 13, 2018 U.S. retail sales of medium-duty trucks inched up in a normally flat month, clearing 17,000 units in February, WardsAuto.com reported. Sales in Classes 4-7 were 17,543, up 4.6% compared with 16,768 a year earlier. Year-to-date, sales rose 7.1% to 33,789, according to Ward’s. Sales mirror the economy, which is operating better than it was last year at this time, one analyst said. “In general, the economy is better off. We have this lingering psychological [post-election] bump that got a punctuation mark with tax reform finally getting passed. I think we are seeing early fruits of that [tax reform] with investment in equipment, especially by small businesses,” he said. The analyst suggested truck lease/rental companies could be buying earlier than usual to meet demand by businesses that need trucks to get work done but don’t want the commitment of a purchase. “It just kind of snowballs,” he added. One truck rental company agreed that something good is going on with the economy. “As we look at our Penske Truck Leasing business, our rental is really off the charts, we have never seen January come through like it has been,” Penske Automotive Group Inc. Chairman and CEO Roger Penske said on a Feb. 8 earnings call. Penske Truck Leasing Co. provides full-service truck leasing, truck rental, contract maintenance and logistics services. In February, sales of Class 7 trucks jumped the most, rising 7.8% to 4,411. Freightliner, a unit of Daimler Trucks North America, held a 51% market share in Class 7 with 2,262 sales. Combined sales by Paccar Inc.’s two truck brands rose 40% year-over-year to 902 Class 7 units. Paccar is the parent company of Peterbilt Motors Co. and Kenworth Truck Co. Class 6 volume rose 3% to 5,819 compared with a year earlier, and was led by sales at Freightliner, International and Ford. Isuzu Commercial Truck of America Inc. announced that production of its new entry in the Class 6 segment, the 2018 Isuzu FTR, will begin in May. The truck is powered by the Isuzu 4HK1-TC 5.2-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder diesel engine. The company sold 77 Class 6 trucks in February, or 6% of its Classes 4-7 volume of 1,282. Sales for Classes 4-5 rose 4.1% to 7,313 — led by Ford in Class 5 and Isuzu in Class 4. .

Heavy Duty Trucking (HDT) / March 12, 2018 Dana Inc. has signed an agreement to merge with the Driveline division of UK-based automotive system supplier GKN plc to create Dana plc, a global provider of driveline systems, in a move that will position it for the vehicle electrification market. GKN Driveline is based in the United Kingdom and produces constant-velocity jointed driveshafts, all-wheel-drive systems, and electrified driveline solutions. The transaction also includes GKN's Off-Highway Powertrain Services business, which serves the off-highway power delivery and service market. GKN Driveline has around 35,000 employees globally with operations in 23 countries and has 61 manufacturing locations, including one of the largest driveline businesses in China via its joint venture, Shanghai GKN Huayu Driveline Systems (known as SDS). With sales of around $13.4 billion, the new company will become a global leader in vehicle drive systems across light vehicle, commercial, and off-highway markets. Dana plc will also be well-positioned for the vehicle electrification market with its core eDrive technology portfolio, according to the company. The deal also solidifies Dana’s presence in key markets, such as China. "This transformative and strategic transaction solidifies Dana as a world leader in vehicle drive systems and establishes a leading position in electric propulsion, which we see as the future of vehicle drivetrains," said James Kamsickas, president and CEO of Dana. The combined company will be based in the United Kingdom as Dana plc and will continue to trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol DAN. The deal includes $1.6 billion in cash proceeds to GKN plc, the assumption of approximately $1 billion of net pension liabilities, and 133 million new Dana plc shares issued to GKN's shareholders, valued at approximately $3.5 billion (based on Dana's share price as of March 8, 2018). Under terms of the agreements, Dana shareholders will own approximately 52.75% of the company with GKN shareholders owning 47.25%. "We believe this transaction will result in a much stronger Dana, both strategically and financially, by taking advantage of the combined company's global scale, technology leadership, strong balance sheet, and attractive cash flow profile," said Jonathan Collins, executive vice president and chief financial officer of Dana. "In the near term, we expect our business to achieve best-in-class returns on capital and continue on the path to an investment grade credit profile." Dana expects to complete the transaction, which is subject to shareholder and customary regulatory approvals, in the second half of 2018.

Hyliion HE drive axle wins Technical Achievement Award Truck News / March 12, 2018 ATLANTA, Ga. — A powered auxiliary axle for road tractors from Hyliion, a recent start-up company, won the 2018 Jim Winsor Memorial Technical Achievement Award, the awards committee has announced. Called 6x4HE, the fuel-saving electric drive-axle system was selected from five finalists by a panel of truck writers, and presented Wednesday, March 7, during the Technology & Maintenance Council’s annual meeting in Atlanta, Ga. The electric axle, when added to a truck or tractor, acts as a hybrid system, capturing braking energy and converting it to electricity, then uses that energy to help launch the vehicle and propel it up hills, explained Thomas Healy, founder and CEO of Hyliion. This relieves the engine of some of its usual work and thus saves fuel. It also reduces wear on service brakes. The 6x4HE, consisting of an axle, a motor-generator, a lithium-ion battery pack and electronic controls, can replace the second axle in a “live” tandem or be added to a 6×2 tandem to effectively turn the truck into a 6×4. Through advanced GPS and terrain maps, the system’s controllers can determine power or recharge settings to minimize fuel consumption or maximize charging opportunities while driving. Another Hyliion hybrid-electric axle product is made for trailers. “With all the great innovations in trucking this year, we are honored to have been awarded the Jim Winsor Memorial Technical Achievement Award,” said Healy. “Hyliion is focused on delivering products that are easy to adopt, deliver a significant profit improvement to the trucking industry and improve the environment. The Hyliion 6X4HE is our first.”

Navistar is an industry leader once more.

TPI Composites Press Release / March 8, 2018 SCOTTSDALE, Arizona -- TPI Composites, Inc. announced today that it has entered into an agreement with Navistar, Inc. to design and develop a Class 8 truck comprised of a composite tractor and frame rails. This collaborative development project is being entered into in connection with Navistar’s recent award under the U.S. Department of Energy’s Super Truck II investment program, which is designed to promote fuel efficiency in commercial vehicles. “We are excited about the opportunity to design, develop and validate the use of composite materials and technologies in commercial vehicles in a cost effective and high volume manufacturing environment,” said Steve Lockard, President and CEO of TPI. With 80% of all goods in the United States transported by Class 8 trucks, there is a significant opportunity to improve the freight efficiency of trucks. Incorporating composite materials into a Class 8 truck structure offers multiple performance advantages compared to traditional metals in terms of weight savings, reduced part count, and non-corrosion properties. TPI and Navistar are targeting 30% plus reduction in the weight of a Class 8 truck by replacing traditional metals with composite materials to enhance the freight efficiency. About TPI Composites, Inc. TPI Composites, Inc. is an innovation leader for composite structures in the transportation market utilizing advanced composite technology and manufacturing expertise. TPI Composites, Inc. is the only independent manufacturer of composite wind blades for the wind energy market with a global footprint. TPI delivers high-quality, cost-effective composite solutions through long term relationships with leading wind turbine manufacturers. TPI is headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona and operates factories throughout the U.S., China, Mexico, and Turkey.

2019 Chevrolet Silverado 4500HD / 5500HD / 6500HD: Chassis Cab Flexin' Tony Markovich, Car & Driver / March 2018 Chevrolet is building out its commercial-truck business with three new medium-duty Silverados, the first Class 4, 5, and 6 chassis cabs with the Silverado name. The 4500HD, 5500HD, and 6500HD broke cover at the Work Truck Show organized by the National Truck Equipment Association in Indianapolis this week. The chassis-cab trucks will offer Duramax diesel power, optional air springs, and straight one-piece frame rails, among other features intended to lure fleet buyers away from the competition. Expanding on its current heavy-duty-pickup lineup of the Silverado 2500HD and 3500HD, General Motors aims to match and overtake its rivals in the market for this type of chassis-cab unit. Chevrolet had previously announced it would be showing the 4500 and 5500 but surprised the crowd with the addition of the 6500. In contrast to the “heavy duty” pickups, these are “medium duty” in industry parlance, distinguishing them from the heavy Class 7 and 8 trucks that typically require a commercial driver’s license to operate—think box truck rather than semi. Chevy says its new Silverados will appeal to fleet operators by being more easily customizable than many competitors, and to drivers by offering a more refined driving experience. Both rear- and four-wheel drive will be offered on the new Silverados. All models get power from a 6.6-liter Duramax V-8 diesel engine that makes 350 horsepower and 700 lb-ft of torque, along with an Allison six-speed automatic transmission that has a power-takeoff option. The biggest selling point of the new trucks is their frame setup. Unlike some competitors, the new Silverado uses straight single-piece frame rails, which are painted at the factory to help fend off rust and have fuel lines routed within them for tidier packaging. Even rivets and brackets have been moved off the top of the rails to ensure a clean, smooth surface for upfitting configurations. Chevrolet will offer seven cab-to-axle-length options from 60 to 162 inches. It also has five lengths, in eight-inch increments, from the axle to the back of the frame. This wide variety should make it easier to couple multiple types of rear cargo setups without the need for additional supports or fitments. A second but equally important goal in developing these new Silverados was a comfortable driving experience. Chevrolet will offer factory-installed rear air springs, in addition to the beefy leaf springs, for a suppler ride, and the inset doors have been triple sealed to reduce noise in the cab. Additional feature points include a lightweight clamshell hood and front wheels that turn as much as 50 degrees to shrink the truck’s turning circle. These attributes also ease access for service. Modern amenities include an available 4G LTE WiFi hotspot, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability, inductive cellphone charging, and OnStar connectivty. Chevrolet intends to offer the trucks at more than 400 of its dealerships focused on the commercial market. Orders for the new trucks open this spring, and production will begin in late 2018. More details about payload, towing, and pricing will be available closer to launch. Here’s hoping that Chevy fits a conventional pickup bed to one, resurrecting the Kodiak nameplate, and that a GMC drops with Topkick on the tailgate. .

California ARB awards $7M for ultra-low NOx heavy-duty diesel truck demo project with Achates opposed-piston engines Green Car Congress / March 7, 2018 The California Air Resource Board (CARB) is awarding $7 million to CALSTART to develop a Class 8 truck that will achieve a 90% reduction in NOx along with a 15-20% fuel efficiency improvement. The project will build and install diesel-fueled two-stroke compression-ignition Achates Power Opposed-Piston Engines into Class 8 demonstration trucks that will be road-road ready in 2019 and operate in fleet service in California in 2020. California’s ultra-low NOx emissions standard is 0.02 grams per brake horsepower-hour (g/bhp/hr). This program will demonstrate the first diesel engine to comply with the state standard. In addition, the engine will emit 10% less CO2 than the 2027 federal greenhouse gas requirement. The project is part of CARB’s Low Carbon Transportation and Fuels Investments and Air Quality Improvement Program. CALSTART will serve as the project grantee and administrator. The project team, led by CALSTART, includes a heavy-duty truck manufacturer as well as Achates Power and leading suppliers in the powertrain and emissions industry. California’s South Coast Air Quality Management District, the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District and the Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District also are investing in the project. Achates Power, founded in 2004, currently has a number of development projects underway spanning a variety of applications of its opposed-piston engine architecture, from light-to-heavy duty. At the 2018 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in January, Achates Power and new development parter Aramco Services (earlier post) showcased a Ford F-150 fitted with a 3-cylinder, 2.7-liter Opposed-Piston Gasoline Compression Ignition (OPGCI) engine. (Earlier post.) In 2017, engineers from Achates presented a paper (2017-01-0638) at the SAE World Congress (WCX 17) describing the development of a 55% brake thermal efficiency (BTE) commercial heavy-duty opposed-piston engine without the use of a waste heat recovery system or turbocompounding. The two-stroke OP engine described therein employed currently available engine components, such as supercharger, turbocharger and after-treatment and featured a uniquely designed piston bowl shape to enhance mixing with a swirl-to-tumble conversion as the piston bowls approach minimum volume. This design improved fuel-air mixing and hence resulted in low soot values, increased indicated thermal efficiency (ITE)—due to better combustion phasing because of faster mixing controlled combustion—and lower NOx because of improved area-to-volume ratio and lower fueling requirement per cycle. An optimized system included a high trapped compression ratio piston bowl, ports designed to provide best scavenging performance, thermal barrier coating on piston bowls and dual injector with an optimized spray pattern layout. The Achates engine model destined for the Class 8 demonstration is related to the 9.8-liter unit, but with modifications, said David Johnson, Achates CEO. For one, it’s a bit bigger: 10.6 liters. We’re aiming at the heart of the Class 8 market. The engine will deliver 450 hp and all the necessary torque, along with the ultra-low NOx. —Dave Johnson With the reduction in steady-state engine-out NOx from the engine, meeting the ultra-low NOx specification is really a problem of cold starts, Johnson said; i.e., warming up the aftertreatment catalyst quickly. Achates determined in earlier work that it could run in a “catalyst light-off mode”, creating the heat required to bring the aftertreatment fully online while running the engine in a relatively clean condition. (Earlier post.) With low engine-out NOx and high enthalpy going to the aftertreatment system, we believe that we are able to reduce the aftertreatment warmup from 600 seconds to less than 300 seconds. That will enable us to meet ultra-low NOx tailpipe standards. We also deliver a significant fuel economy improvement. —Dave Johnson Achates engineers will be presenting a new paper at World Congress this year describing more about this approach, and presenting test data. Funding for the grant comes from California Climate Investments, a statewide program that puts billions of Cap-and-Trade dollars to work reducing greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening the economy and improving public health and the environment—particularly in disadvantaged communities. The Cap-and-Trade Program also creates a financial incentive for industries to invest in clean technologies and develop innovative ways to reduce pollution. California Climate Investments projects include affordable housing, renewable energy, public transportation, zero-emission vehicles, environmental restoration, more sustainable agriculture, recycling and much more. At least 35% of these investments are made in disadvantaged and low-income communities.

GM Exec Calls For Premium Gas To Be The New Regular Forbes / March 12, 2018 During an address to the American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers, General Motors' vice president of global propulsion systems called for premium gasoline to become the new baseline going forward to enable more efficient engines. This is hardly a new idea, but it comes as a bit of a surprise right now as GM wages a battle on two fronts with announced plans for 20 new zero-emissions vehicles in the next five years while also consulting with the Trump administration on changes to fuel economy standards. In his talk, Nicholson reiterated his company’s electrification plans but also suggested that this is the right time to make a move toward making 95 RON gasoline the new minimum standard as it generally is in Europe. Fuel octane ratings are an indicator of the fuel’s resistance to self-ignition or knocking. The are two generally accepted methods of testing this, motor octane (MON) and research octane (MON). The pump octane number (PON) that appears on gas pumps in North America is the average of the two with regular typically being labeled as 87 PON and mid-grade as 91 PON. A fuel with a rating of 95 RON will typically have a PON of 91, the standard for premium fuel. Fuel retailers have long marketed the idea that using premium fuel can help improve fuel economy and this is true up to a point. Engines will only see a benefit if they are optimized for this fuel with either a higher compression ratio or more turbocharger boost. This enables a higher expansion ratio in the engine so each cylinder firing extracts more work from the fuel. Unfortunately, putting higher octane fuel in a lower compression engine will probably have little or no impact in most cases. According to Nicholson, relatively simple changes including new pistons to enable higher compression and revised calibrations can yield about a 3% improvement in efficiency with no significant added component costs. Aggregated over millions of engines a year, that adds up to some fairly substantial fuel consumption reductions. But is is worth it for the consumer? The consumer side of this equation is where things get a little muddier. While a 3% savings in fuel use is not insignificant for manufacturers that at least for now need to continue improving their efficiency across their fleets, consumers might not see the full benefit. The upfront cost for a vehicle optimized to run on 95 RON gasoline may be essentially the same as one that runs on regular, and there would be no added infrastructure costs, but the consumer may be paying more every time they go to the pump. For the week of March 5, 2018, the Energy Information Agency reported national average retail gasoline prices of $2.56/gallon while premium was $3.08, a difference of $0.52. The projected average fuel economy for 2017 model year vehicles was 25.2 mpg. Over 100,000 miles, that would amount to about 3,968 gallons of gasoline. A 3% bump would take that to 26 mpg and 3,852 gallons a savings of just 116 gallons. At $3.08 per gallon that would save $357 while the the premium fuel would cost more than $2,000 more than regular. As usual, things are never quite that simple however. According to Chet Thompson, president of AFPM, premium fuel currently only accounts for about 10% of retail gasoline sales. That relatively low volume combined with the realities of refining partly lead to that significant retail cost differential. If 95 RON gasoline were to become the new baseline standard, accounting for the majority of gasoline sales, refineries would shift their production mix, significantly bringing down the cost of this higher octane fuel. It’s too early for specifics on the new cost premium but for consumers, the change would come much closer to being cost neutral. There has been discussion in recent years of moving to even higher octane fuels with 98-100 RON ratings. Engines optimized to run on these fuels could generate bigger savings at a still modest upfront cost. However, while a 95 RON engine can generally run safely on regular, albeit at reduced performance and efficiency, a 100 RON engine would likely need some protections against misfueling. This may mean unique nozzles and pumps for this higher octane fuel much as we have for diesel fuel already. That would add cost to both the vehicle and infrastructure. One exception would be the upcoming spark controlled compression ignition SkyActiv-X engine coming from Mazda in 2019. This engine’s unique properties enable it to easily adapt on the fly to different fuel grades so misfueling isn’t really an issue. Nicholson explained that GM and other members of research consortium USCAR have done a lot of modeling of the various costs associated with higher octane fuels. Going to 98-100 RON cost effectively would require much higher concentrations of ethanol, as much as 25%. However, some states such as California don’t allow ethanol concentrations of 15% or greater. Instead Thompson, Nicholson and others are proposing an extensive revamp of the current renewable fuels standard (RFS) which mandates arbitrary annual volumes of ethanol use. They propose a performance based fuel standard that requires 95 RON with flexibility to let the market determine the best way to reach that. Blending in ethanol is still the cheapest and easiest way to boost octane and they expect that overall ethanol use would remain similar to what it is under the current RFS. However, in areas where increasing ethanol isn’t a viable option other methods could be used. If this moves forward, new engines optimized for 95 RON would begin to arrive in about the 2022-2023 time frame and they would require this higher octane fuel. Nicholson explains that “engineers from the auto and fuels industry are working together on smart solutions to protect against accidental misfueling that could cause engine damage.” Even after the proposed introduction of 95 RON gasoline as the new baseline, existing regular fuels would continue to be available for many years in transition similar to the one from leaded to unleaded gasoline in the 1970s. An alternative approach is the one now being adopted by Fiat Chrysler on the 2018 Jeep Wrangler and 2019 RAM 1500. FCA is putting 48V mild hybrid systems on these vehicles. The gasoline V6 RAM will get this mild hybrid system as standard equipment from this summer. The mild hybrid will be an option on the 5.7-liter V8 priced at just $800 with an expected bump in fuel economy of at least 10% and it will continue to run on current 87 PON regular gas. Regardless of what the administration in Washington opts to do with fuel economy regulations, automakers are pressing ahead with a range of options that include improved fuels, varying degrees of electrification and the development of shared, automated vehicles. They recognize that any regulatory changes that are implemented now will probably at best provide a brief respite. At some point in the future, they will need to continue raising the bar on efficiency. .

Green Car Congress / March 9, 2018 In collaboration with Linköping-based energy recovery specialists Tekniska verken, Scania Engines is currently testing one of its engines using raw gas, biogas that is untreated—i.e., not cleaned or upgraded to remove wastewater, CO2 and other particles, as happens with the production of compressed natural gas for vehicle fuels. Instead, the raw gas is taken directly from the digestion chambers as fuel for the Scania engine, to see how it performs over 600 hours of tests. The engine is a Scania 16-liter V8, made for low-pressure compressed natural gas for power generation. The unit is switchable between 1,500/1,800 rpm to produce between 333 kW and 426 kW prime power. COP (continuous operating power) is 330 kW (50 Hz), 350 kW (60 Hz). Gas feed pressure is 50 mbar. Scania’s hope is that if the engine can work with this raw gas, it will be an even quicker and cheaper process of producing biogas for power generation, and another valuable source of alternative energy from recycled material. We have been working with Tekniska verken for the past two years, initially with compressed natural gas, and we started testing raw gas in early 2017. In September 2017 we carried out the latest round of testing and have been reviewing the results during the following months. —Holger Mattsson, Project Coordinator at Scania Engines Tekniska verken produces compressed natural gas (CNG) to be used as vehicle fuel. Indeed, the city of Linköping, which owns the company, runs its bus system exclusively on CNG. But while Tekniska verken’s focus is not necessarily on raw gas, Erik Nordell, the Development Engineer at Tekniska verken who has been coordinating the work with Mattsson and his Scania team, says Tekniska will be taking a close interest in the results of the tests. Scania is also set to work with Telge Återvinning in Tveta, Södertälje, a waste-recycling entity owned by Södertälje council. At Scania’s instigation, the pair run tests to see how Scania’s engines can run on simple gas—in other words, gas that is extracted directly from landfill sites. This will mean taking the gas directly from source—without refining or upgrading—by drilling holes directly into Telge’s landfilled waste. Even though Tveta stopped taking landfill in the 1990s, the biogas by-product from the organic waste digestion process continues to be available for up to 30 years after burial. There are landfill sites all over the world, and if we can effectively use the lower-quality gas that comes directly from these sources, there is huge potential for the market and for consumers. —Holger Mattsson .

Australian study finds VW diesel using up to 14% more fuel in real world driving after emissions upgrade Green Car Congress / March 12, 2018 Emissions analysis commissioned by the Australian Automobile Association (AAA) has found an affected VW diesel vehicle to be using up to 14% more diesel after being recalled for the mandated emissions system fix. Conducted in partnership with the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the real world testing was commissioned to quantify performance changes associated with the software upgrades being implemented on affected vehicles. The recall fix was implemented by VW after 2015 when it was revealed that more than 11 million VW diesel vehicles had been sold with a defeat device installed, which detected when a vehicle’s engine was being tested and subsequently changed performance to improve emission results. In late 2016, AAA commissioned research firm ABMARC to run two tests on an affected VW vehicle—one before recall and one immediately after. The test result indicates that a 2010 model Euro 5 VW Golf used an average of 7% more fuel (0.5 liters/100 km) after it had the recall completed. This ranged from using 2% more fuel while driving in urban areas, 7% more fuel on rural roads and 14% while driving on highways. The tests showed a reduction in emissions of NOx carbon monoxide and particulate matter occurred after the recall fix. However, the NOx emissions were still 4.11 times the laboratory limit after the recall when tested under real driving conditions. The aim of the study was to determine the impact of the recall fix by comparing the real world pollutant emissions of the test vehicle to the respective laboratory limits and the fuel consumption to the official figures before and after the recall fix. The results show that VW may have found a fix for reducing the level of noxious NOx emissions but as a result, the amount of fuel used has increased. The testing also indicated that both power and torque had increased slightly after the recall fix. The testing further supports the AAA’s call for a real-world emission testing program in Australia. The AAA has strongly advocated for the introduction of a real-world emissions test program following its own research program, which tested 30 Australian cars, on Australian roads, using Australian fuels. An Australian real-world test program would allow consumers to make more informed purchasing decisions, and allow policy makers to ensure that regulatory settings reflect real-world conditions. The AAA argues that there is no point in introducing tougher vehicle emissions standards in a laboratory setting unless information on real world performance is in the hands of consumers.

TATRA Trucks Press Release / March 8, 2018 The latest generation of the highly successful TATRA PHOENIX Euro 6 truck will be launched in April this year. Made by the oldest Czech automotive producer (and today the only Czech-owned producer of motor vehicles), the 2018 model will offer customers even more effective solutions for their transportation needs. The new TATRA PHOENIX Euro 6 2018 model is similar in appearance to the current generation – though there are some differences in the colour scheme, as the new model combines the body colour with the matte and gloss black cabin front grille sections. However, the real changes are underneath the surface, in the technological solutions developed for the 2018 model – creating a completely new generation of vehicles that offer enhanced added value to customers. Quieter, more powerful, and greener To sum up the main differences between the 2018 model TATRA PHOENIX Euro 6 and its predecessors, the new generation of this popular truck is quieter, more technically sophisticated, more powerful, and more user-friendly – as well as being able to carry an increased payload. Thanks to the compact dimensions of the new emissions control technology (consisting of the DPF filter, the SCR system and the catalytic converter), the new generation not only offers more space for the superstructure, but can also carry a higher payload without increasing the total weight. The new engines (the MX-11 and MX-13) meet Euro 6c emissions standards; the engines are quieter, more economical and greener than their predecessors, while also offering increased power. The new trucks can be fitted with a TraXon automatic transmission system (one of the world's most advanced transmission systems of its type) combined with our in-house reduction transfer case. In addition, 95% of the 2018 TATRA PHOENIX Euro 6 trucks are without hub reduction. Thanks to these features, the new-generation vehicles offer a key advantage to buyers: a very low TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) coefficient. New structural design features The TATRA PHOENIX – a combination of the unique TATRA chassis concept with components supplied by leading international manufacturers – has quickly established itself as a distinctive presence in the global automotive market. Both TATRA and our suppliers are constantly working to develop and improve the various components and assemblies used in the vehicle. Thanks to a commercial agreement with leading Dutch manufacturer DAF Trucks, we are able to offer our customers world-leading solutions in the heavy goods vehicle segment. One of the most striking innovations in the new-generation TATRA PHOENIX is the cabin, with all-new soundproofing and a new interior colour scheme. The controls and switches are all new, as is the display behind the steering wheel. The electronic architecture of the entire vehicle has undergone major changes, and now features a combination of LIN and CAN technologies. The engines have also been thoroughly modernized to reduce noise levels and maximize fuel combustion efficiency. The engine operating speed has been reduced and torque increased; maximum torque is now available from 900 min-1. The maximum power of the MX-11 and MX-13 engines has been increased by between 7 kW/10 hp and 14 kW/19 hp, and the torque has been increased by between 50 N.m and 200 N.m depending on the engine's power output. TATRA has also made major structural changes enabling the vehicles to be fitted with a 10-tonne front axles, lifting rear axles or steered rear axles (mainly for 10x10 vehicles and related versions). Another major innovation is the option to fit disc brakes. In addition to the standard 16-gear manual transmission, customers can also choose a TraXon automatic transmission (a replacement for the previous AS-Tronic automatic system). The new transmission is only available as a 16-gear unit. It features specially developed software designed to handle the most challenging terrain; experts from TATRA TRUCKS played a key role in developing the new software. .

Tatra receives cheque to restore unique historic train TATRA Trucks Press Release / March 8, 2018 On Monday 19 February, the Minister for Regional Development Klára Dostálová visited the Moravian-Silesian Region – and one of the stops on her itinerary was TATRA TRUCKS in Kopřivnice. The Minister met with representatives of the company, which has received EU funding to reconstruct and restore the unique historic 'Slovak Bullet' locomotive. The TATRA T 68 diesel locomotive, nicknamed the 'Slovak Bullet', has been declared a national cultural monument in recognition of its importance as an outstanding example of the Czech Republic's technical heritage. In mid-January 2018 the company's funding application for the restoration was approved, and the Minister's visit to the Region represented an ideal opportunity for her to present Tatra CEO Radek Strouhal with a symbolic cheque for almost 80 million CZK (the precise sum is 79 474 072 CZK). Dostálová expressed her strong support for the project: "There are moments when it's a great pleasure to present a funding cheque – and the restoration of the 'Slovak Bullet' is one such moment. If the company and the Moravian-Silesian Region manage to successfully complete the new TATRA automobile museum – and I have been assured that they will – it will be a phenomenal project, which will help to raise Kopřivnice's profile and attract new visitors to the town. I presented the company with a symbolic cheque for the restoration of the locomotive and the construction of an exhibition pavilion for it – and we also met with representatives from the company, the Region and the Town of Kopřivnice. The Region is coordinating the museum project, and the Town is in charge of a project to revitalize the land at the planned museum site. I am delighted that the Ministry of Regional Development is able to help implement this project by providing EU funding." TATRA will use the funding to completely restore the historic train to a fully functioning state, as well as building a special exhibition pavilion for it, to be located next to the planned TATRA automobile museum. CEO Radek Strouhal commented: "For us, the project represents a recognition of our work – of the TATRA company, our long and proud heritage, and the talented team that is planning the restoration project. The funding we have received will enable us to restore the 'Slovak Bullet' to its former glory – and above all, to make it fully functional once again. In cooperation with the Ministry, the Region and the Town of Kopřivnice we are creating a museum which will be a major visitor attraction, and we are confident that it will boost interest in technical education among young people – which will ultimately help us to recruit the next generation of talented TATRA staff." The total cost of the project is 118 million CZK; TATRA TRUCKS will also be contributing its own funds. The plans for the exhibition pavilion have already been drawn up; when restoration work is complete, the pavilion will be used to display the train. The funding approval also means that TATRA can now announce a tender for a contractor to carry out the restoration work. In the middle of last year, funding was also approved for a brand-new TATRA automobile museum. The new museum will be run by the Moravian-Silesian Region as a branch of the Nový Jičín Regional Museum. TATRA TRUCKS has donated a site for the new museum – including a former foundry building. The company will also allow the museum to use the adjacent land, as well as donating its valuable collection of unique vehicles – which could not previously be displayed due to a lack of space. The exhibition at the new museum will be created in close cooperation with the current Tatra Technical Museum. The planned costs of the new museum are 123 million CZK, of which 85% will be financed via EU funding. The goal of both projects – which are scheduled for completion during 2020 – is to raise public awareness of the unique contribution made by the TATRA company to the development of our technical heritage, as well as conserving this heritage for the benefit of future generations. .

Renault Trucks Press Release / March 9, 2018 In 2017, Renault Trucks recorded an increase in invoicing with a total volume of 49,930 vehicles sold. The French manufacturer strengthened its market positions and recorded the best growth in terms of market share on the European and French markets. For Renault Trucks, 2017 resulted in increasing sales and other indicators turning green with a total of 49,930 vehicles invoiced, representing an overall increase of 4%. In the market for trucks over 6 tonnes alone, the volumes invoiced increased by 7%. In this segment, Renault Trucks recorded the strongest growth on both the European market and the French market. Breakdown of invoicing by destination - Europe (excluding France): 23,635 units invoiced - France: 21,409 units invoiced - Rest of the world: 4,886 units invoiced Renault Trucks gained 0.6 points of market share in Europe for trucks over 16 tonnes In 2017, in a European market for trucks over 6 tonnes recording slight growth (+1%), Renault Trucks grew 7.7% and achieved the highest growth in terms of market share with +0.5 points (8.4%). In a shrinking, low-volume market (-1.8%) for mid-range vehicles (6 to 16 tonnes), Renault Trucks maintained its position with its share down by 0.1 points. This slight decline can be explained mainly by the withdrawal of the D Cab 2m from the commercial market in 2017. This vehicle accounted for 1.1 points of market share. After four years of growth, the European market for trucks over 16 tonnes, up by 1.4%, has now returned to its 2008 level. Renault Trucks performed particularly well in this segment, growing in most European markets and recording an overall increase in its volumes of 9.1%. The French manufacturer recorded the strongest growth of all truck manufacturers with +0.6 percentage points, achieving a market share of 8.7%. Regaining international markets Internationally, Renault Trucks is active primarily in Africa and the Middle East. In 2017, volumes decreased by 4% with 4,886 units invoiced. This decline can be explained by the introduction of import quotas in Algeria. Despite this, Renault Trucks remains the market leader for European manufacturers in French-speaking Africa, achieving 40% market share in Algeria in the over 16-tonne segment. Renault Trucks also increased its volumes by +40% in Turkey, in a market that remains sluggish. In 2017, the manufacturer opened four new sales and service outlets, in Izmir, Istanbul, Denizli and Ankara. In Iran, Renault Trucks renewed its cooperation with Arya Diesel Motors, which relates to the import of the T, C and K ranges and assembly of the T range. Finally, 2017 also saw the launch of the T, C and K ranges in Chile. Used vehicles, a strategic business Regarding its used vehicle business, Renault Trucks maintained its volumes in a difficult market with 6,846 trucks invoiced and deployed significant resources. The manufacturer opened two new used vehicle centres in Dubai and Budapest and set up its Used Trucks Factory, a workshop for the conversion of used vehicles, at the heart of its industrial site in Bourg-en-Bresse (Ain). In this workshop, the constructor modifies trucks so that they fully satisfy the needs of its customers: tractor units are converted into rigid trucks and long-distance trucks into worksite supply vehicles. 230 used industrial vehicles were converted in 2017 and the manufacturer’s objective is to convert 1,000 trucks annually. Finally, Renault Trucks has launched an online platform for listing its used trucks. While today this digital tool is focused on showing vehicles available for sale, by 2020 it will become an e-commerce site. Aftermarket, vital for Renault Trucks The aftermarket business is vital for Renault Trucks because its customers’ success depends on it. In 2017, the manufacturer recorded a 2.6% increase in its spare parts turnover. Renault Trucks also developed a range of maintenance contracts, whose penetration rate increased by 4 points. Momentum that should continue in 2018 Renault Trucks should continue to benefit from a favourable market environment and continue to reap the benefits of its hard work. The manufacturer has just recruited 500 new employees (including 300 operatives), and 175 sales representatives have been recruited to its sales network. In addition, Renault Trucks opened 35 new sales and service outlets in 2017. In 2018, the manufacturer will focus on preparing for marketing a range of 100% electric trucks and implement a production line dedicated to these zero-emission vehicles at its plant in Blainville-sur-Orne (Calvados). .

DAF Trucks Press Release / March 9, 2018 'Our drivers are very happy with the transmission, the gear changing, the comfort, the interior and the mattress. The vehicle is very convincing’. Watch what the New XF means for Anhalt Logistics from Germany. .

Chevy unveils Silverado HD 4500, 5500, slips in 6500 Aaron Marsh, Fleet Owner / March 8, 2018 INDIANAPOLIS. Chevrolet revealed its Class 4 and 5 Silverado HD 4500/5500 chassis cab trucks today at the Work Truck Show — and then snuck in an unexpected 6500 Class 6 truck as well. Calling it the "biggest news in years" for the brand's commercial lineup — "literally" — the automaker has added the larger conventional cab trucks to its offerings after promising they were in the works for some time. "It all adds up to a product lineup that is, by far, the best and the broadest that Chevrolet has ever had," said Ed Peper, U.S. vice president for GM Fleet. "You don't build a dominant franchise like this overnight." He explained how the OEM gathered extensive input from dealers and customers in designing the new trucks. "There's never been a Silverado that's not a workhorse," Peper contended. "The more choice we offer truck customers, the more we drive sales across our entire portfolio." Pointing to Chevrolet's low-cab forward trucks, which offer alternative medium-duty class vehicles, he said the OEM's customers had been asking for a medium-duty conventional cab offering "because they want a one-stop shop for all of their vehicle needs." "Good things come to those who wait," Peper said. "Once we made the decision to get back into the medium-duty conventional cab business, we were determined to do it better than anyone else." So Chevy gathered input from fleet managers, truck drivers, upfitters, technicians and dealers in developing the new Silverados. John Schwegman, director of commercial product and medium duty at GM Fleet, said the new trucks "are designed to solve the most common upfit and ownership challenges fleets have with many of today's medium duty trucks." The Silverado will be available in 2WD and 4WD configurations and will be powered by the OEM's 6.6L Duramax diesel engine rated at 350 hp/700 lbs.-ft. of torque. The trucks will have Allison automatic transmissions with a power take off option. Some additional highlights of the new trucks include: — A factory-painted frame with one-piece frame rails; smooth, unobstructed top sections; and through-the-frame fuel fill lines. —Seven cab-to-axle options ranging from 60 to 162-in. along with five axle-to-back-of-frame lengths sized in 8-in. increments. —A lightweight, front-hinged "clamshell" hood that allows easier access to under-hood components combined with a 50-degree wheel cut. —A hood designed to optimize the driver's ability to see the road. —An available factory-installed rear air suspension; triple-sealed, inset doors that help reduce wind and road noise; and huck bolts used throughout the frame for superior clamping force. —A diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) tank located on the passenger side of the truck for more convenience. Connectivity options for the new HD Silverados include OnStar and Commercial Link, a built-in 4GLTE Wi-Fi hotspot (paid data plan required), wireless smartphone charging, Bluetooth and support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The new medium-duty Silverados are slated for production late this year. .

Hino enters Class 8 market with XL series Fleet Owner / March 8, 2018 INDIANAPOLIS. Hino is going big. The Toyota-owned company introduced its new line of Class 7 and 8 trucks. “Entering Class 8 is arguably something no OEM has done successfully over the past 50 years,” said Dominik Beckman, Hino’s director of marketing and dealer operations told a large crowd before the unveiling of the XL7 and XL8 models at the Work Truck Show. But Hino is betting it can do it with its A09 turbo diesel 8.9-liter inline 6-cylinder in both models, which will be manufactured the company’s new facility in West Virginia. “Considering our remarkable success in Class 4-7 in North America, and our growing global presence in the Class 8 market, entering the North American heavy duty segment makes for the next logical step. Not to mention our customers and our dealer network have been asking for this for some time,” said Yoshinori Noguchi, President and CEO of Hino Trucks North America. The Hino XL Series will include straight truck and tractor configurations ranging from a GVWR of 33,000 to 60,000 lbs. and GCWR up to 66,000 lbs. with max performance of 360 horsepower and 1,150 lb.-ft. torque. With available wheel base selections of up to 304 inches, and tandem axle and fifth wheel configurations, the company is looking to attract a variety of vocations. The lineup features new active safety solutions with electronic stability control (standard on tractor) and collision mitigation systems, innovative payload management suspension options, and a body builder friendly optimized design that was also engineered for maximum ease of serviceability. Hino Trucks set out to create a vehicle with best-in-class styling, ergonomics, and valued amenities. “Both drivers and owners are going to love this truck,” said Glenn Ellis, vice president of customer experience. “The first thing you notice is the styling – the aerodynamic yet bold design could proudly represent any business. Then you open the door to a wide, easy-access entry and an automotive grade finished interior ready to provide the best service possible to drivers and teams.” Air-ride cab and driver’s seat, hands-free Bluetooth audio/calling, steering wheel controls, LED headlights, cruise control, and air conditioning are standard on every 2020 model year Hino XL7 and XL8. The trucks will also feature HinoWatch 24/7 roadside assistance, HinoCare maintenance programs. Its fully integrated connected vehicle solution Hino Insight Telematics will be included for free for a one-year while Insight Remote Diagnostics and Insight Case Management are complimentary for five-years. The company will begin taking orders in late 2018. Production will start in early 2019 in Mineral Wells, WV, at Hino’s one-million square foot facility. .