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Navistar posts Q1 loss, predicts “breakout year” Truck News / March 8, 2018 LISLE, Ill. – Navistar reported a net loss of US$73 million in the first quarter, but raised its full year 2018 guidance and grew its revenue 15% to $1.9 billion in the quarter. The quarter included $46 million in charges related to a debt refinancing. “We are off to a strong start in 2018 thanks to our ability to grow Navistar’s position in a strengthening market,” said Troy A. Clarke, chairman, president and CEO. “We grew our Class 8 market share and improved our margins, on the way to delivering our best first quarter on an adjusted EBITDA basis since 2011.” Class 8 heavy charge-outs were up 56% year-over-year, and its market share improved 1.2%, the company reported. “Our improvement this year is due largely to the market’s positive reaction to our new products, including the LT Series on highway tractor and the 13-liter A26 engine,” Clarke said. “In fact, the strong interest in our A26 engine has us nearly doubling our share of trucks with 13-liter engines in the first quarter of 2018 compared to a year ago.” Navistar rose its 2018 full year guidance to an overall market of 360,000-390,000 Classes 6-8 trucks and buses in the U.S. and Canada, with Class 8 retail deliveries of 235,000-265,000 units. “We expect market conditions to remain robust and we are determined to take advantage of opportunities to grow share while delivering strong margin performance,” Clarke said. “Given the progress made in Q1, and our positive outlook for the remainder of the year, we are confident that 2018 will be the breakout year for Navistar.”

Heavy Duty Trucking (HDT) / March 8, 2018 Truck and engine manufacturer Navistar International Corp. on Thursday reported its net loss grew during its fiscal first quarter compared to a year ago, but one top official insisted the company is headed in a positive direction. The net loss totaled $73 million, or 74 cents per share, for the three months ending on Jan. 31, compared a net loss of $62 million, or 76 cents per share, a year earlier. The latest results include $46 million of charges as a result of the company's debt refinancing in Nov. 2017. Revenues in the quarter were $1.9 billion, a 15% increase compared to $1.7 billion in the first quarter last year, driven by a 24% increase in the company's core market (Class 6-8 trucks and buses in the U.S. and Canada), according to Navistar. First quarter 2018 EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) was $55 million, compared to first quarter 2017 EBITDA of $63 million. First quarter 2018 includes $49 million in net adjustments, including the debt refinancing and other items. Adjusted EBITDA was $104 million versus $55 million in first quarter 2017. "We are off to a strong start in 2018 thanks to our ability to grow Navistar's position in a strengthening market," said Troy A. Clarke, chairman, president and CEO. "We grew our Class 8 market share and improved our margins, on the way to delivering our best first quarter on an adjusted EBITDA basis since 2011." Navistar's first quarter core chargeouts (trucks that have been invoiced to customers, with units held in dealer inventory) were up 2,400 units year-over-year led by Class 8, which was up 56% compared to first quarter last year. The company's Class 8 market share was up 1.2 points versus the same period one year ago. Navistar’s truck segment first quarter 2018 net sales increased to $1.3 billion, primarily due to higher volumes in the company's core markets, an increase in military sales, and production of GM-branded units manufactured at Navistar's Springfield, Ohio plant, which launched in the second quarter of 2017. This was partially offset by a decline in the company's Mexico and export truck volumes. The truck segment loss was $7 million in the first quarter 2018, versus a loss of $69 million in the same period one year ago. The improvement was primarily driven by the impact of higher volumes in the company's core markets, a decrease in used truck losses, and an increase in military sales, partially offset by higher structural costs. In the first quarter of 2018, the parts segment net sales were $568 million, slightly lower than the prior year primarily due to the expected runoff in Blue Diamond Parts (BDP) sales, partially offset by higher U.S. and Canada parts sales related to the Fleetrite and ReNEWed brands. The parts segment profit was $137 million, down 8%, primarily due to lower BDP margins and higher freight-related expenses. The global operations segment saw net sales increase 62% in the first quarter, totaling $81 million, primarily driven by higher engine volumes in the company's South America engine operations due to improvement in the Brazilian economy. For the first quarter 2018, the global operations segment loss was $7 million versus a $4 million loss in the first quarter 2017. Higher engine volumes and a benefit recognized as an adjustment to restructuring charges only partially offset a one-time benefit in the first quarter of 2017 of $9 million related to an adjustment to pre-existing warranties. In the first quarter of 2018, the financial services segment net revenues increased to $59 million primarily due to higher portfolio yields, higher overall finance receivable balances in Mexico and favorable movements in foreign currency exchange rates impacting the company's Mexican portfolio. Its profit increased to $20 million primarily due to a decrease in the provision for loan losses in Mexico and improved interest margins. Based on stronger industry conditions, Navistar raised its 2018 full-year guidance: Retail deliveries of Class 6-8 trucks and buses in the U.s. and Canada are forecast to be in the range of 360,000 units to 390,000 units, with Class 8 retail deliveries of 235,000 to 265,000 units. Revenues are expected to be between $9.25 billion and $9.75 billion. Adjusted EBITDA is expected to be between $700 million and $750 million. Year-end manufacturing cash is expected to be about $1.1 billion. "We expect market conditions to remain robust and we are determined to take advantage of opportunities to grow share while delivering strong margin performance," Clarke said. "Given the progress made in first quarter, and our positive outlook for the remainder of the year, we are confident that 2018 will be the breakout year for Navistar."

Heavy Duty Trucking (HDT) / March 8, 2018 Southern Eagle Distributing, one of the oldest continual Anheuser-Busch distributorships in the U.S., has purchased two propane autogas-fueled Ford F-650 delivery trucks to reduce emissions and fueling costs. The trucks will be used in Charleston, South Carolina, to deliver over 600 beverage types including beer, soda, energy drinks, juice and water. The beverage delivery trucks are equipped with Ford's 6.8-liter V-10 engine with a ROUSH CleanTech fuel system. When running propane, the engines are certified to 0.05 grams per brake horsepower-hour for nitrogen oxide. The engine is 75% cleaner than the current U.S. Environmental Protection Agency standard and 99% cleaner than diesel vehicles built before 2007, according to ROUSH. "Southern Eagle Distributing has adopted propane autogas technology to reduce our overall emissions and create a more environmentally friendly and green fleet," said Jim Henderson, vice president of operations for Southern Eagle Distributing. "We care about and support our local communities and want to impact them positively. A less polluting fleet benefits everyone." The distributor will also install a propane fueling station with a 1,000-gallon tank its Charleston location. The company is saving more than 40% on fuel compared with current diesel prices and expects to reduce maintenance expenses. "Fueling onsite is more economical for us than mobile fueling," said Henderson. "The refill station was a low entry cost for us." Southern Eagle Distributing will test the trucks later this year. "We are optimistic that the test will be successful," said Henderson "Propane autogas is easy to scale. We'll continue to evaluate our fleet needs into 2019, and I'm hopeful we will be adding more propane units as we replace older units."

Navistar Caps Turnaround With Overhaul of Top Truck Transport Topics / March 8, 2018 Navistar International Corp. is rolling out the final installment of an all-new product lineup aimed at growing sales and keeping the once-struggling truck maker firmly in the black. The International MV Series — Navistar’s top-selling model in the U.S. and Canada — is a familiar sight delivering beer and other merchandise on crowded city streets. The revamped medium-duty truck unveiled March 7 in Indianapolis marks the finishing touch on CEO Troy Clarke’s turnaround plan. “As we’ve been introducing these new products, the issues we had relative to quality, productivity, cost and warranty have really fallen to the background,” Clarke said in an interview. Navistar started a comprehensive product refresh in 2013 while fighting to stay out of bankruptcy. The overhaul has reversed a stock slide that began almost a decade ago when the company tried to lower nitrogen oxide emissions by recirculating exhaust gases through the engine instead of injecting them with urea, like the rest of the industry. Navistar ultimately embraced urea in 2012, but by then, half its market share was gone. In the years since, Navistar has revamped its lineup and slimmed down its management ranks, cutting the number of vice presidents to nine from two dozen in 2013. Wall Street expects gross profit margins to exceed 22% by 2021, up from nearly 18% last year, with Gabelli & Co. analysts in December calling the company’s turnaround “Herculean.” Continued gains would be music to the ears of Navistar’s biggest shareholder, billionaire investor Carl Icahn, who holds a 17% stake. Known more for activism than patience, Icahn paid an average of $33.62 for each of his 16.7 million shares starting in 2011, Bloomberg data show. The shares closed at $37.04 on March 7. In a phone interview March 6, Icahn declined to comment on his investment, other than to praise Navistar’s CEO. “I think Troy is doing a very good job,” he said. Right behind Icahn holding 16.6 million shares is Volkswagen AG, which has announced plans with Navistar to bring an all-electric medium duty truck to market as soon as next year. VW is said to be considering an initial public offering for its own truck division, which could encourage the unit to increase its Navistar stake or buy the company entirely, according to David Leiker, a Baird Equity Research analyst. Clarke declined to comment on the takeover speculation. Heavy Haulers Mid-size, inner-city delivery vehicles like the ones Navistar is developing with VW provide a better opportunity for electrification than over-the-highway freight haulers, since they return to the same warehouse each night for recharging. Clarke predicts that by 2025, Navistar will have more electric trucks on the road than Tesla Inc. But it’s the big haulers — Class 8 trucks — that are really driving the industry’s growth. North American orders for heavy trucks surged 76% in February, the second straight month where orders exceeded 40,000 units, according to Bloomberg Intelligence. Next year could fall short of this torrid pace but not by much, Clarke said. Navistar now has an 11.8% share of the Class 8 truck market in the U.S. and Canada, up 0.7 percentage point from last year. The goal is to “pick up a couple of points a year for the next couple of years,” he said. Navistar, which releases earnings before the market opens March 8, is expected to report an adjusted loss of 29 cents a share, the average of analysts’ estimates compiled by Bloomberg. While commodity price inflation could be a headwind, according to Bloomberg Intelligence analyst Christopher Ciolino, Clarke said proposed tariffs on aluminum and steel won’t impact costs immediately, due to multiyear purchase agreements. “This company has some great years and decades ahead of it,” Clarke said. “I’m behind, but it’s a level playing field.”

By cooperating with Isuzu and Navistar, GM has successfully re-entered the commercial truck segment, with a broad portfolio, without spending any serious money. They have both bases covered, low cab forward as well as conventional cab configurations. And, they offer both gasoline and diesel. However.......... GM's trucks should be under the GMC brand if only under one brand. Most Chevrolet dealers don't know how to professionally sell commercial trucks. GM, like Ford, rates a 1 on a 10 scale in sales marketing (promotion).

Josh Fisher, Fleet Owner / March 7, 2018 SG102 Dump Truck Pump offers high performance in a compact design. Parker Hannifin unveiled a smaller, more powerful dump pump that provides a significantly faster dump cycle that the company says will yield a greater work cycle efficiency. A two-story cylindrical curtain dropped in the middle of the NTEA Work Truck Show exhibition floor to reveal the SG102 Dump Pump on Wednesday. Building upon the technology of the industry standard C102/G102 pumps, the SG102 Dump Pump provides a 37% faster dumping cycle versus the standard G102, according to Dean Jickess, the business development manager at Parker Hannifin. “We believe that this new cylinder along with the Parker system will greatly increase the value that Parker has to offer in the truck market,” Jickess said. The pump is designed to fit where space is limited and greater flow is necessary. The SG102 Dump Pump provides 25% more flow than the G102 2-inch Dump Pump, and weighs 20% less than the C102 2.5-inch Dump Pump. It uses the valve body of the larger frame size C Series Dump Pump, which provides large dump pump flow characteristics for a faster dump cycle time yielding greater work cycle efficiency. The SG102 can be configured in SAE or DIN flange, NPT or ODT ports, and can be ordered with manual or air shift configurations. “With the evolution of truck chassis and exhaust systems, there’s less space available under the truck to mount these pumps,” said Chris Johnson, sales channel manager of Parker Gear Pump Division. “So you may have an application where the larger-framed C series doesn’t fit. The G series does fit but still there’s a requirement from the user for greater flow.” That is where the new SG102 comes in. “The dump truck industry will see benefits from the pump’s power density,” Johnson said. “There is also safer operation when the cycle time for the bed to return is reduced prior to the operator moving from the job site location.” Johnson said the industry will benefit from the improved power density and safety as the dump bed returns to the lower position much faster. “We’re giving you a system that’s stronger with the strength of the new cylinder and the new SG series,” said Jeff King, marketing manager at Chelsea Products Division. The SG102 Dump Pump is on display in the Parker booth (No. 3011), at the NTEA Work Truck Show, through Friday, March 9, at the Indiana Convention Center. .

Sean Kilcarr, Fleet Owner / March 7, 2018 ATLANTA. As Class 8 orders remain elevated – they exceeded 40,000 units in February, according to analysts – truck maker Navistar is seeing “fairly equal and constant” for both sleepers and daycab models, according to Michael Cancelliere, the company’s president of truck and parts. “We’re also seeing customers spec’ing a lot of safety equipment, with fuel efficiency remaining a hot topic,” he explained to Fleet Owner here during a press conference at the Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC) 2018 annual meeting. “And with the driver shortage situation currently being experienced by the industry, there is more focus on getting a truck that appeals to them.” Cancelliere added that Navistar’s heavy focus on vehicle uptime plays into that as well, as a driver’s time is now more fixed due in part to the electronic logging device (ELD) mandate that went into effect last December. “This focus we have on uptime; it’s not new to us or to the industry, but the urgency for uptime is far greater now,” he said. “It’s not just about improving the planning for scheduled maintenance it’s about better handling for unplanned maintenance as well. With [truck] capacity now more limited, a vehicle up and running on the road is making more money for the fleet and the driver.” Parts availability an important piece of that uptime puzzle, Cancelliere said, and it’s one reason why Navistar is revamping its Fleetrite private parts label operation and its ReNEWed remanufactured components business. “Uptime is at its heart really all about parts and service – it’s about closing the support loop between the customer and the dealer,” he said. Josef Kory, Navistar’s senior vice president for parts, noted that ReNEWed and Fleetrite offer in combination more than 100 product lines, giving customers alternatives when it comes to repairs and maintenance, lifecycle value, and total cost of ownership. “Our parts business has delivered double digit growth over the past five years, and much of that success is due in large part to our commitment of providing customers the right products to support our dealers' and customers' needs,” he said. Currently, the OEM offers over one million parts through seven distribution centers located around the U.S. that support its network of 700 International Truck-branded dealership locations. Navistar is also “re-branding” its ReNEWed remanufactured parts business with a new logo that will debut later this spring and is planning to add more products to its lineup this year, Kory noted – starting with the OEM’s 2015 model N13 engine and the 2010 through 2016 models of its I6 engine, as well as expanding its portfolio of remanufactured electronic components such as engine control modules, instrument clusters and body controllers. Fleetrite is also expanding with addition of a comprehensive all-makes radiator and surge tank program. Added to its all-makes collision parts program launched in early 2017, the Fleetrite private label parts band now offers product coverage for 24 makes and models covering 80% of the vehicles on the road, Kory said, with future efforts focused on adding bumpers, hoods, grilles and headlights to its portfolio to keep help customers lower their operating expenses. “We’re also using our OnCommand Connection [telematics] system to provide terabytes and terabytes of data to us to improve our products,” he added. “We’re using that data to help us forecast what kinds of parts are in demand so we can better fulfill our focus on providing access to our stock within 24 hours or less.” Kory also noted that, earlier this year in partnership with an International Truck dealer, Navistar launched its second Fleetrite-specific parts store in Clearwater, FL, with the company planning to add more stories in 2018 and beyond. “To supplement our dealer locations, we want to continue to expand our regional and national footprint to ensure we are doing everything possible to meet our customers' needs with increased availability and faster delivery of quality products,” he said. .

International unveils MV Series Trailer-Body Builders / March 7, 2018 International Truck launched its new Class 6/7 International MV Series at the 2018 Work Truck Show. The MV Series launch completes the company’s Project Horizon product refresh, and reflects that initiative’s improved cab design, along with the same driver-centric enhancements already launched in Class 8 vehicles. “Project Horizon was focused on delivering new levels of efficiency to customers, creating unparalleled driver satisfaction and leveraging the smartest technologies available,” said Michael Cancelliere, president, Truck and Parts. “The MV Series delivers on those promises by combining uncompromising reliability with enhanced productivity for the driver, maintainer and upfitter.” The MV Series was designed from the inside out with the goal of delivering a truck that is easily configurable to produce maximum output day in and day out. The redesigned features include new cab doors with a lower bottom glass edge and removed vent window, giving the driver a single large piece of glass to look through, greatly improving side visibility and reducing blind spots. By reshaping the doors and side glass, the position of the optional pedestal mirrors was optimized so drivers turn their heads less and keep their eyes on the road while reducing neck strain. Second, a new premium gauge cluster with a digital driver display was added to give drivers real-time monitoring of vehicle operation and other important alerts in clear sight. The new display also offers up to 15 customizable digital gauges. The new premium instrument panel features a customizable digital display suitable for any medium-duty application. The flat-panel dash contains space for up to 30 customizable switches ensuring functionality for any type of body that is mounted on the back. The switches offer large easy-to-read text and are back lit for easy viewing at night. Next, an easy-access column-mounted stalk shifter was integrated to help keep drivers’ hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. The new stalk shifter placement and the lower instrument panel design greatly improves leg room for the driver, especially at the knee. The MV Series is also equipped with a new best-in-class HVAC system, designed for reliability, which includes a high-performance MAX defrost feature. An additional vent has been added to help keep the middle front passenger comfortable. “The new International MV Series reflects our vision for the future of commercial vehicles with a host of advancements that support improved driver safety and productivity,” said Jeff Sass, senior vice president, Sales and Marketing. “We challenged ourselves to make the best even better and this new vehicle was designed to provide the best driver environment in the industry and we exceeded all of our targets.” To further improve driver productivity and safety, the MV Series features the best-in-class Diamond Logic, an advanced electrical system that streamlines chassis and body equipment integration and allows customers to program automated tasks. Equipped with the Diamond Logic electrical system, the MV Series will get the job done with both safety and precision by offering customers nearly 200 factory available body integration and driver efficiency features, plus the ability to customize infinitely more vehicle functions. “Our Diamond Logic electrical system is known for its ability to provide control and communication between trucks and body equipment,” said Sass. “We were a pioneer in custom programmable chassis electronics and multiplexing and we continue to partner with end users and body builders to further increase productivity and make it easy to integrate with our system.” Like all International models, the MV Series can be managed digitally through the OnCommand Connection platform, which features the company's leading-edge Advanced Remote Diagnostics system designed to enhance fleet efficiency, as well as Over-The-Air (OTA) programming through the nine-pin OnCommand LINK device, enabling drivers or fleet managers to utilize a mobile interface to initiate authorized engine programming at the customer's facility over a safe, secure Wi-Fi Connection. OnCommand Connection telematics, including telematics hardware and monthly data packages, are also available through International Truck dealers or through OnCommandconnection.com. “As a result of customer and Truck Equipment Manufacturer feedback during the design process, we have designed the MV Series to seamlessly integrate with any body solution,” Sass said. “This truck can be easily configurable for any application.” The MV Series was engineered to make it easier to maintain and get back on the road fast. When service is needed, customers can count on one of more than 700 International dealers with expert technicians and an extensive parts inventory throughout North America. The MV Series is available in a variety of specifications: Regular Cab, Extended Cab, and Crew Cab. It is available with the choice of either the Cummins B6.7 or L9 engine, both of which have been engineered for reliability and durability in order to deliver lower costs of ownership with maximum uptime. The standard transmission on the MV Series is the Allison 1000 HS automatic, with Allison FuelSense 2.0, with DynActive Shifting as an available option that features a patented torque converter to provide infinitely variable shift points based on vehicle configuration operating conditions. .

Volvo Adds More Configurations to Mack Granite MHD Truck Lineup Heavy Duty Trucking (HDT) / March 7, 2018 Mack Trucks has added new features to its Granite Medium Heavy Duty (MHD) truck, aimed at increasing its versatility and enabling more cost effective choices for customers that need a durable and light work truck. The enhancements include a new horsepower rating, under-frame exhaust system, a shorter wheelbase 4x2 configuration, and a tractor configuration to expand the applications coverage for the MHD. “Vocational customers have a wide variety of needs,” said Tim Wrinkle, Mack Trucks construction product manager. “Some require lighter weight options but still need their trucks to meet the difficult demands of the application. The MHD model delivers both without compromise.” The MHD, equipped with the Cummins L9 engine, now features a lower horsepower option, allowing customers to spec an engine with 330 horsepower and up to 1,000 ft.-lbs. of torque. The lower horsepower rating offers customers another option that may increase return on investment. A new under-frame exhaust gives customers more options for body adaptation, further expanding application capabilities, such as tankers, flatbeds, box trucks, cranes, and certain municipal applications. The MHD model can be spec’d as a Class 7 or Class 8 vehicle, is offered in either an axle back or axle forward configuration, and is available as a 4x2 or 6x4, offering customers the flexibility to choose between a heavy-duty and a lighter-weight medium-duty option. An axle back tractor option meets the needs of light tractor applications requiring maneuverability, flexibility, and durability without extra weight. A shorter wheelbase is also now available for the MHD model in the 4x2 configuration, ideal for the 10-foot dump body commonly used in municipal applications, and providing a more maneuverable, cost-effective option. .

Truck News / March 7, 2018 INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – With continued economic growth in the U.S. and truck sales surging, Mack Trucks announced a handful of enhancements to its products during the Work Truck Show today. Most notable was an increase in ground clearance in six inches to the Granite axle forward model underbody scrapers. The escalation in chassis ride height provides additional clearance enabling the scraper to have a full range of motion to move in excess of 45 degrees in both directions, making them a more versatile vocational offering for both winter and summer applications. “In the offseason, these trucks are clearing gravel off the sides of roads, so they are multi-functional,” said Tim Wrinkle, construction product manager for Mack, during the announcement in Indianapolis, Ind. “The increased ground clearance allows for easier plow installation without the need to move other chassis components like fuel tanks and exhaust aftertreatment systems, saving the customer both time and money. The new configuration also allows for a shorter wheelbase for greater maneuverability and decreased weight, offering customers a cost savings without compromising performance.” The increased clearance offers up to 21 inches of ground clearance for installation without relocating chassis components. It also maintains a 24-inch maximum first step height for no compromise to ingress or egress. The Mack Granite is available with both the MP7 and MP8 engines and the mDrive HD 14-speed automated manual transmission with creeper gears. The new heightened configuration will be available in the third quarter of this year. The Granite medium heavy-duty (MHD) model is also getting improvements. An additional lower horsepower rating of 330, a new under-frame exhaust system, shorter wheelbase 4×2 and 6×4 axle back or axle forward configuration, and all new interiors will be available on the vocational truck. “Vocational customers have a wide variety of needs,” said Wrinkle. “Some require lighter weight options but still need their trucks to meet the difficult demands of the application. The MHD model delivers both without compromise.” Wrinkle said the interior enhancements did not happen overnight. “We spent a lot of time researching and doing driver interviews to get this right,” he said. Coming with the Cummins L9 engine, the MHD lower horsepower option offers up to 1,000 lbs.-ft. of torque with the Allison 3500 transmission, gives customers the options for body adaptation with the new under-frame exhaust, such as tankers, flatbeds, box trucks and cranes, and can be spec’d as a Class 7 or 8 vehicle. The shorter wheelbase in the 4×2 configuration is ideal for a 10-foot dump body and provides better maneuverability. GuardDog Connect Mack Granite model trucks also come with GuardDog Connect, which has also seen some improvements of late. Mack’s proactive diagnostic and repair planning system, GuardDog Connect enhancement for uptime include a 50% increase in Mack OneCall staffing to assist customers with issues, a $2.5 million investment into technology for better data analytics and vehicle data, tripling the number of fault codes monitored, improved repair information in ASIST to speed repair, and Over the Air for remote repairs and parameter updates. “It’s a service, it is not a system,” said Roy Horton, Mack product strategy director, of GuardDog. “It’s about connecting the people with the technology.” Remote repairs with Mack’s Over the Air software and parameter updates have seen 20 customers, or 3,500 vehicles use the service since October 2017, averaging 23 minutes for an update, and saving more than 500 days of downtime. Horton said GuardDog Connect is the highest rated OEM uptime service in the industry, with 121,000 customer interactions last year. .

Heavy Duty Trucking (HDT) / March 7, 2018 International Truck launched a new medium-duty Class 6/7 vehicle called the MV Series at the 2018 Work Truck Show in Indianapolis, Ind. The MV Series was the final piece of International’s Project Horizon product refresh, reflecting the company’s initiative toward improved cab design and includes the same driver-centric features seen in the company’s Class 8 vehicles. “Project Horizon was focused on delivering new levels of efficiency to customers, creating unparalleled driver satisfaction and leveraging the smartest technologies available,” said Michael Cancelliere, president, truck and parts. “The MV Series delivers on those promises by combining uncompromising reliability with enhanced productivity for the driver, maintainer and upfitter.” MV Series Driver-Centric Design The MV Series was designed to be easily configured for the desired application. Features include new cab doors with a lower bottom glass edge and removed vent window, giving the driver a single large piece of glass to look through to improve side visibility and reduce blind spots. By reshaping the doors and side glass, the position of the optional pedestal mirrors was optimized so drivers turn their heads less and keep their eyes on the road while reducing neck strain. A new gauge cluster with a digital driver display was added to give drivers real-time monitoring of vehicle operation and other important alerts in clear sight. The display also offers up to 15 customizable digital gauges. The instrument panel features a customizable digital display which can be configured to suit the application. The flat-panel dash contains space for up to 30 customizable switches ensuring functionality for any type of body that is mounted on the back. The switches employ large text and are back lit for easy viewing at night. A column-mounted stalk shifter was integrated to help keep drivers’ hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. The new stalk shifter placement and the lower instrument panel design improves leg room for the driver, especially at the knee. The MV Series is also equipped with an improved HVAC system, designed for reliability, which includes a high-performance Max defrost feature. An additional vent has been added to help keep the middle front passenger comfortable. Diamond Logic and OnCommand Connection The MV Series also features Diamond Logic, an electrical system that streamlines chassis and body equipment integration and allows customers to program automated tasks. Through Diamond Logic, the MV Series offers customers nearly 200 factory available body integration and driver efficiency features, plus the ability to customize infinitely more vehicle functions. “Our Diamond Logic electrical system is known for its ability to provide control and communication between trucks and body equipment,” said Jeff Sass, senior vice president, sales and marketing. “We were a pioneer in custom programmable chassis electronics and multiplexing, and we continue to partner with end users and body builders to further increase productivity and make it easy to integrate with our system.” The MV Series can also be equipped with the OnCommand Connection platform which features an advanced remote diagnostics system as well as over-the-air programming that allows drivers sand fleet managers to initiate authorized engine programming over a secure Wi-Fi connection. OnCommand Connection telematics, including telematics hardware and monthly data packages, are also available through International Truck dealers or through OnCommandconnection.com. Designed for Upfitting “As a result of customer and Truck Equipment Manufacturer feedback during the design process, we have designed the MV Series to seamlessly integrate with any body solution,” said Sass. “This truck can be easily configurable for any application.” The MV Series is available in a variety of specifications: regular cab, extended cab, and crew cab. It is available with the choice of either the Cummins B6.7 or L9 engine. The standard transmission on the MV Series is the Allison 1000 HS automatic, with Allison FuelSense 2.0, with DynActive Shifting as an available option that features a torque converter to provide variable shift points based on vehicle configuration operating conditions. International is currently taking orders for the MV Series, and market availability is slated for spring 2018. .

Hino getting into Class 8 market in North America Truck News / March 7, 2018 INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – Hino Trucks today announced its all-new XL Series line of Class 7 and 8 vehicles at the Work Truck Show in Indianapolis, Ind. The Hino XL7 and XL8 2020 models – which will begin production in early 2019 – are equipped with the company’s A09 turbo diesel 8.9-liter inline 6-cylinder engine with a B10 life of one million miles. Yasuhiko Ichihashi, chairman of Hino Motors Ltd., said during the unveiling that both models were extensively tested in both Canada and the U.S. Hino Trucks North America president and CEO Yoshinori Noguchi said the time was right for the company to enter the Class 8 market in North America. “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,” said Noguchi. “No to mention, our customers and our dealer network have been asking for this for some time.” Hino XL Series trucks will be available in a variety of straight truck and tractor configurations, including from a GVWR of 33,000 lbs. to 60,000 lbs. and a GCWR up to 66,000 lbs. It will have a max performance of 360 hp with 1,150 lbs.-ft. of torque, and have wheelbase selections of up to 304 inches, and tandem axle and fifth wheel configurations. On the safety side of things, there is electronic stability control, which comes standard on the tractor, collision mitigation systems, payload management suspension options, a body designed for ease of serviceability. “The first thing you notice is the styling – the aerodynamic yet bold design could proudly represent your business,” said Glenn Ellis, vice-president of customer experience with Hino. “They 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.” For driver comfort, Hino XL Series trucks also come with air-ride cab and driver’s seat, hands-free Bluetooth, steering wheel controls, cruise control, and air conditioning. The company also announced it will expand its U.S. operations with the purchase of the Cold Water Creek distribution center in Mineral Wells, WV, where the Hino XL7 and XL8 will be assembled. .

Chevrolet Debuts Three Medium-Duty Trucks Heavy Duty Trucking (HDT) / March 7, 2018 Chevrolet has unveiled three Silverado HD chassis cab trucks — the 4500HD, 5500HD, and 6500HD — that expand its commercial lineup and give Chevrolet a greater weight range of vehicles for fleet purchasers. Chevrolet first showed the vehicles today at the Work Truck Show in Indianapolis. "We see a great opportunity for us with this truck," Ed Peper, U.S. vice president of GM Fleet, told Work Truck. "In the six years I've been with General Motors Fleet, this is the single biggest launch we've had happen in our space. This has been a hole in our commercial portfolio, and we are excited to re-enter the market moving all the way up to Class 6." The trucks will now represent GVWs from 15,000 pounds in Class 4 to 22,900 pounds in Class 6. Chevrolet hasn't offered a medium-duty chassis cab truck since 2009. This is a "Silverado on steroids," according to the automaker. The trucks will be powered by a standard Duramax 6.6L turbo-diesel engine, which is the only engine available on the Silverado, and mated to a choice of Allison transmissions. The trucks will achieve 350 hp at 700 lb.-ft. of torque. They will be offered in seven wheelbase options, two trims (WT and LT), and a Crew Cab and Regular Cab variant, providing a number of available configurations for vocational fleet needs. A few special features include tilt hood, which will make maintenance a breeze. Sometimes referred to as a "clamshell" design, the hood is hinged at the front. The truck's hood and fenders all tilt forward nearly 90 degrees, giving the operator or tech full access to the engine compartment. Another key exterior aspect is in the center bar in the truck's grille. The bow-tie is open, allowing even more airflow into the engine compartment, just like the Chevrolet Camaro Z28. "On this particular truck, we've looked for as much feedback as possible and done more canvassing of stakeholders within the industry than anything we've ever done," Peper said. "We believe it's going to be a smashing success."

Heavy Duty Trucking (HDT) / March 7, 2018 Hino Trucks announced a new, larger lineup of Class 7/8 trucks called the XL Series which debuted at the 2018 Work Truck Show in Indianapolis, Ind. The Hino XL Series brings the company into the Class 8 market in the U.S. for the first time which the company characterized as the next step in expanding its presence in North America. “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. Both the XL7 and XL8 models are powered by Hino’s A09 8.9L inline 6-cylinder diesel engine and will be offered in both straight truck and tractor configurations. The different models will range from a GVWR of 33,000 to 60,000 pounds and a GCWR up to 66,000 pounds. Max performance will top out at 360 horsepower and 1,150 lbs.-ft. of torque. Available wheelbase selections of up to 304 inches and tandem axle, as well as fifth wheel configurations, are designed for a variety of vocational applications. The XL Series lineup features new active safety solutions with electronic stability control – standard on tractor models – and collision mitigation systems, payload management suspension options and a body builder optimized design that was engineered for better serviceability. Hino says that it also focused on the driver with good styling, ergonomics and amenities. It features a wide entry for easier access and what the company calls an automotive-grade finished interior. The XL Series will also feature air-ride cab and driver’s seat, hands-free Bluetooth audio/calling, steering wheel controls, LED headlights, cruise control, and air conditioning as standard equipment on every 2020 model year XL7 and XL8. Production of the XL7 and XL8 will start in early 2019 and the lineup will be assembled in Mineral Wells, W.Va., at a fully renovated 1 million square-foot production facility that Hino acquired in 2017. .

Chevrolet web page for the all-new 4500HD, 5500HD and 6500HD - http://www.chevrolet.com/upcoming-vehicles/all-new-silverado-chassis-cab

Chevrolet Unveils the 2019 Silverado 4500HD, 5500HD and 6500HD at NTEA The Work Truck Show General Motors Press Release / March 7, 2018 Chevrolet revealed its first-ever Silverado Class 4, 5 and 6 chassis cab trucks today at NTEA The Work Truck Show – three supremely capable conventional cab models will be the most customer-focused trucks of any major competitor. All-New Silverado conventional cabs will be the most customer-focused medium-duty trucks of any major competitor Easy to upfit: Clean, one-piece straight frame rails, seven Cab-to-Axle options Easy to drive: Excellent maneuverability, factory air suspension Easy to service: Lightweight clamshell hood allows "walk up" access to engine INDIANAPOLIS —Chevrolet revealed its first-ever Silverado Class 4, 5 and 6 chassis cab trucks today at NTEA The Work Truck Show – three supremely capable conventional cab models will be the most customer-focused trucks of any major competitor. “Chevy’s designers and engineers were obsessed with making this Silverado the most customer-focused medium duty truck of any major competitor,” said Ed Peper, U.S. vice president, GM Fleet. “By customer-focused, I mean work-ready trucks that are easy to upfit, easy to drive, easy to service and easy to own.” The Trucks Dealers, Customers and Upfitters Asked For The input of fleet managers, truck drivers, upfitters, technicians and Chevrolet dealers drove the development of the new Silverados. “It’s not just numbers on a spec sheet that make us different and better,” said John Schwegman, director of Commercial Product and Medium Duty at GM Fleet. “These new Silverados are designed to solve the most common upfit and ownership challenges fleets have with many of today’s medium duty trucks.” Challenge The Silverado Solution Cost and complexity of upfits: Frames that rust; rivets, brackets and fluid lines that interfere with body mounting. A factory-painted frame with one-piece frame rails, smooth, unobstructed top sections, and through-the-frame fuel fill lines. Frame compromises: Frame rails that are too short behind the rear axle to accommodate longer cargo boxes without extensions and reinforcements. Seven Cab-to-Axle (CA) options ranging from 60 to 162-inches, along with five unique axle-to-back-of-frame (AF) lengths sized in 8-inch increments. Service obstacles: Hood designs that force technicians to use ladders or remove vehicle components to access under-hood components for maintenance and repair. A lightweight, front-hinged “clamshell” hood that, combined with a 50-degree wheel cut, allows easy “walk up” access to under-hood components. Difficult to drive: Poor downward perspective for the driver, along with poor low-speed maneuverability due to narrow wheel cuts, and wide turning radiuses. A precisely crafted and contoured hood optimizes the driver’s perspective of the road. Maneuverability is excellent thanks to up to 50-degree wheel cuts. Noise, Vibration and Harshness: The need to retrofit aftermarket air suspensions to improve ride; loud, uncomfortable cabins. An available, factory-installed rear air suspension, not on Ford and Ram; triple-sealed, inset doors to help reduce wind and road noise; huck bolts used throughout the frame for superior clamping force. DEF tank placement: Poorly-placed and marked diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) tanks that can lead to refueling errors. The DEF tank is conveniently located on the passenger side of the truck – the opposite side of the fuel fill. Proven Power The Silverado will be available in 2WD and 4WD and will be powered by a 6.6-liter Duramax diesel engine with 350 horsepower and 700 lb.-ft. of torque and Allison transmissions with a Power Take Off (PTO) option. “When you consider all of the flexibility, capability and durability we have engineered into the Silverado, along with the proven power of Allison transmissions and the Duramax diesel engine, we have a medium duty truck line that will appeal to both Chevrolet loyalists and competitive owners alike,” said Schwegman. The Most Connected Medium Duty Truck The Silverado will also be the most connected commercial truck available, thanks to options that include OnStar and Commercial Link, a built-in 4GLTE Wi-Fi hotspot (paid data plan required), wireless cellphone charging, Bluetooth and support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Production and Ordering Production of the new Silverado begins in late 2018. Order guides will be available this spring and pricing will be announced this summer. More than 400 commercially-focused Chevrolet dealers are expected to carry the new Silverado line. GM Fleet Momentum The launch of the All-New Silverados will build on the momentum Chevrolet and GM Fleet have been building over several years. “Chevrolet’s return to the conventional cab medium duty segment is part of a multi-year strategy to earn the business and loyalty of Commercial and Government customers by expanding into new product segments, delivering innovative business solutions, superior value and an exceptional customer experience,” Peper said. In 2017, GM Fleet delivered nearly 300,000 units to Commercial and Government customers – the most since 2008 – and gained almost 1.4 percentage points of market share. Chevrolet has been the growth engine: Chevrolet’s three-truck pickup strategy, built around the Colorado mid-size pickup and the Silverado ½-ton and 1-ton models, has made General Motors the leader in pickup deliveries for four consecutive years. New dedicated Commercial and Government products, including the Colorado box-delete and Low Cab Forward, have helped turn the brand into a “one stop shop” for fleet managers and small businesses. Chevrolet has been the broadest portfolio of B20-capable diesel-powered cars, crossovers and trucks in the industry, including the Chevrolet Cruze, Equinox, Silverado 2500HD and 3500HD, Express, Low Cab Forward – and now the new Silverado in class 4,5 and 6 configurations. A very strategic and disciplined approach to the daily rental market helps to support resale values. “It’s a fact: The more choices we offer truck customers, the more we drive sales across our entire portfolio. That’s because brand and dealer loyalty run deep in this business,” Peper said. ABOUT CHEVROLET Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is one of the world's largest car brands, doing business in more than 100 countries and selling more than 4.0 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature engaging performance, design that makes the heartbeat, passive and active safety features and easy-to-use technology, all at a value. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com. .

Is This the New USPS Mail Truck? Car & Driver / March 7, 2018 The current mail truck—the slab-sided, sliding-door, ubiquitous yet invisible white box perpetually pulled off to the side of the road—will soon follow the postal Jeep to that great dead-letter office in the sky. The U.S. Postal Service is shopping for a new ride, and that means proposals for the new mail truck are out testing, including this one by Turkish truckmaker Karsan. Will this be the vehicle that, when it appears outside your window, has you sprinting to the mailbox to see what bills and junk mail have arrived? Maybe. Karsan is one of six manufacturers vying for the contract to replace the USPS’s aged Grumman/General Motors Long Life Vehicle (LLV) fleet, the newest of which is now 24 years old. Others participating in the Postal Service’s Next Generation Delivery Vehicle bid include Indian automaker Mahindra, South Bend’s AM General (of Hummer fame), Wisconsin’s Oshkosh (maker of MRAP military vehicles), Utilimaster from Indiana, and VT Hackney based in North Carolina. The USPS is said to be looking for a vehicle with more cargo space for bulky packages, and given how tiny the driver of this vehicle looks behind the enormous windshield, this Karsan appears to be much larger than today’s truck. Other requirements include a sliding driver’s-side door and right-hand drive. Photo gallery - https://www.caranddriver.com/photo-gallery/dorky-delivery-is-this-the-new-usps-mail-truck-gallery#1 .

Chevy expands Silverado medium-duty lineup in bid to outgun Ford, Ram Michael Wayland, Automotive News / March 7, 2018 INDIANAPOLIS -- General Motors' new Chevrolet Silverado medium-duty truck will compete in more segments than initially expected, a strategy coinciding with the automaker's plan to expand and improve its commercial dealership network. The automaker, when unveiling the vehicle at the Work Truck Show here Wednesday, said it will compete in Class 6 chassis cab trucks in addition to Class 4 and 5, which were previously announced. The addition helps expand GM's reach and differentiate it from competitors such as Ford Motor Co. and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, according to executives. "This will be the biggest thing we've ever done for commercial," Ed Peper, U.S. vice president of GM Fleet, told Automotive News on the sidelines of the show. "I think it's a real inflection point in our business. This just says a lot about the support from our leadership and the resources that we're getting to continue to grow this business." Medium-duty trucks range from Class 4 through Class 6 based on gross vehicle weight ratings, which is the maximum operating weight/mass of a vehicle. The new Silverado has a max of 22,900 pounds, which reaches into the middle of the Class 6 trucks, where Ram does not compete, and Ford has a truck but on a different frame than its other medium-duties. "It's a different proposition in the market than what Ford and Ram have," said John Schwegman, GM's U.S. director of commercial product and medium duty. The trucks, which the company has said were built from the ground up and are not variants of existing trucks, are aimed at fleet and commercial buyers and can be upfitted with work-specific beds and boxes for work such as landscaping, emergency services, refrigeration and towing. GM expects to eventually gain upward of a 25 to 30 percent share of the medium-duty truck segment, which would equal its level prior to exiting the segment during the company's 2009 bankruptcy. "We're going to have to conquest largely from Ford, a little bit from [Ram]," Peper said. More important than the sales of the medium-duty segment is the adjacent sales, according to Peper. He said, "For every one of these trucks we sell, we think we're going to sell a van, we're going to sell a pickup and one of something else." The adjacent sales are expected to expand past vehicles to other business segments such as GM Financial, parts and accessories and OnStar, which offers a fleet service with tracking and diagnostic services called Commercial Link. Dealers The adjacent sales are a main draw for Chevy dealers. However, Schwegman said the company is being "very blunt" in letting dealers know they must be committed to their commercial business to be successful. "It's bad for the dealer if they invest in something and aren't ready for it and it's bad for our customers if they have a bad experience -- they get specked into the wrong truck; they have a service experience; a lack of knowledgeable salesperson," he said. "The best for everyone is to be a commercially-focused dealer." GM last week opened enrollment to become a commercial dealer. GM expects to expand its dealer network for medium-duty commercial vehicles, including those produced through a partnership with Isuzu, this year from 240 to about 400 with the introduction of the Chevy Silverado 4500HD, 5500HD and 6500HD. Requirements to become a commercial dealer include training for sales and service staff on commercial vehicles as well as parts and other specifications such as service door heights and lifts to accommodate the trucks. GM estimates the cost to meet the requirements at $100,000 to $200,000. However, Schwegman previously said many of the dealers already have many of the facility requirements. Incremental training and parts could cost just run $10,000 to $15,000 for those dealers, he said. Silverado The medium-duty Silverado trucks, like their light-duty counterparts, feature a mixed-use strategy that includes aluminum, high-strength steel and other materials. They also feature several exterior design characteristics of the current light-duty Silverado. On the interior, the commercial trucks also feature some of the same comfort creatures of the light-duty Silverado on the interior. Some of them include USB chargers, quieter cabins and a built-in 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. The trucks are designed to support wireless cellphone charging and Bluetooth, along with support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. They will be available in two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive and will be powered by a 6.6-liter Duramax diesel engine with 350 hp and 700 pound-feet of torque and Allison transmissions with a Power Take Off option. Unlike a decade ago, GM has no plans to sell a medium-duty GMC truck, according to execs. GM did not announce pricing, however it's expected to be $40,000-$60,000. That does not include upfitting charges for specific needs that can cost several times more than the chassis cab. GM partnered with Navistar International Corp. to develop and produce the trucks in Springfield, Ohio. Production is expected to begin in late 2018. Order guides will be available in the spring and exact pricing will be announced this summer. Photo gallery - http://www.autonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/gallery?Site=CA&Date=20180307&Category=PHOTOS01&ArtNo=307009998&Ref=PH .

Shell Debuts Fuel-Efficient Starship Concept Truck Heavy Duty Trucking (HDT) / March 6, 2018 Shell and Airflow Truck Company have debuted the full-size version of the company’s Starship Project truck – a concept Class 8 truck that maximizes fuel efficiency using a combination of currently available technologies. The long-teased Starship Project concept truck was finally unveiled at The Technology and Maintenance Council Annual Meeting in Atlanta. The project was first announced in 2015 and was designed by Bob Silwa’s AirFlow Truck Company, which produces hyper-efficient commercial trucks. “We seek projects such as the Starship initiative to keep Shell at the leading edge of technology development and energy efficiency,” said Bob Mainwaring, technology manager for innovation, Shell Lubricants. “The transportation industry is constantly changing, and our goal is to be at the forefront of innovation by collaborating with companies like AirFlow and others to develop creative solutions that provide benefits for years to come.” The body of the Starship Project tractor is a custom-made aerodynamic design made of carbon fiber. This includes the side skirts, hood, and front end. A custom, Department of Transportation-approved wrap-around windshield was designed specifically for the truck. The trailer includes energy efficient features such as full side skirts to reduce drag and a 5,000-watt solar array on top of the trailer to power interior accessories and reduce the energy load. The Starship is powered by a 2017 Cummins X15 Efficiency 6-cylinder engine with 400 horsepower and 1,850 ft.-lbs. of torque that has been paired with a transmission that has been calibrated to run at very low speeds, down to 800 rpm. The truck also makes use of Shell’s low viscosity synthetic lubricants, running on the Shell Rotella T6 Ultra 5W-30, which is an API-FA-4 engine oil that has been formulated to provide better fuel economy, improved high and low temperature performance and meets the requirements for many low emissions engines. It will also use a number of full synthetic Shell Lubricants products including Spirax S6 GXME 75W-80 transmission oil, Spirax S5 ADE 75W-80 differential oil and Spirax S6 GME 40 wheel hub oil. In addition, Shell Rotella Extended Life Coolant will provide excellent high-temperature protection and heat transfer. Shell Rotella Diesel Exhaust Fluid, a high purity diesel exhaust fluid, will also be in the truck. .

Heavy Duty Trucking (HDT) / March 6, 2018 Mitsubishi Fuso Truck of America will begin selling its gasoline-powered 2019 FE cabovers this month, after showing production-ready versions at the Work Truck Show in Indianapolis. A General Motors-sourced 6.0L V-8 will power a Class 4 and Class 5 FE cabover. The Daimler AG-owned unit will also show a production-ready model of its battery-electric eCanter. The trucks will be sold alongside diesel models. Class 4 models will include the FE140 (14,500 lb. GVWR) and the FE160 (15,995 lb. GVWR). Later this year, Fuso will offer the Class 5 FE180 (17,995 lb. GVWR), which would be the first gasoline-powered Class 5 cabover. In all models, the PSI-GM V-8 engine will make 297 horsepower and 361 pound-feet of torque. Fuso will eventually offer a gaseous-prep package from the factory to allow buyers to use compressed natural gas (CNG) or propane autogas. The trucks come equiipped with a 40-gallon rear-mounted fuel tank. The gasoline engine will be paired with an Allison 1000 automatic transmission with Fuel Sense 2.0 transmission management software, including DynActive shifting technology that improves fuel economy by as much as 6%. The software uses a Neutral-at-Stop feature that further reduces fuel consumption. The FE gasoline trucks will also arrive with enhancements in the cab's interior, including improved driver seat bolstering. The seat cushion has been extended and the seatbelts are now red for higher visibility. Instrument cluster colors have been improved under various lighting conditions, and the trucks now come with an LED cabin light. Storage space has been enhanced with a new driver side console, floor tray, and sun-visor pocket. The truck is available with a black-on-black color scheme with silver trim accents in the interior. The cab improvements will also be offered on diesel-powered trucks. Fuso will assemble the models at the Freightliner Customer Chassis Corp. (FCCC) plant in Gaffney, S.C. .

Transport Topics / March 6, 2018 Joe Kory of Navistar announces the company's Renewed branding that makes "a significant investment in our private-labeled product portfolio." .

Ford adds diesel option, tech to Transit Connect cargo van Michael Martinez, Automotive News / March 6, 2018 DETROIT -- The technology upgrades and new diesel engine that Ford Motor Co. announced last month for its 2019 Transit Connect wagon are coming to the cargo van variant, too. Aimed at businesses ranging from dog groomers to package-delivery companies, the freshened van is meant to bolster Ford's 46 percent market share in the segment. "It is a critical tool with smart features to help improve productivity out in the field," Tim Stoehr, Ford general fleet marketing manager, said Tuesday in a statement. Ford introduced the Transit Connect to the U.S. in 2010 and last redesigned it in 2014. In 2017, Ford sold 34,473 Transit Connects, nearly double the sales of the second-place Nissan NV200. The company says about 97 percent of the roughly 300,000 small vans sold since its introduction are still on the road. The 2019 cargo van, on sale this fall, will come standard with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine mated to an eight-speed transmission. That replaces the 2.5-liter four-cylinder on today's van. A new 1.5-liter EcoBlue diesel engine, also paired with an eight-speed transmission, is available as the only diesel option in the segment. Ford expects it to be rated at 30 mpg highway. The cargo van also will offer a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with a six-speed automatic transmission and a prep package for fleets to use either compressed natural gas or propane. Officials say the vehicle will offer a class-leading towing capacity of 2,000 pounds when equipped with an optional trailer tow package. It will also feature rear cargo doors that swing out 180 degrees and can be locked in the open position to easily load and unload goods. Ford says the 2019 cargo van will come with the most driver-assist technology in the segment. That includes standard automatic emergency braking, part of Ford's efforts to make that technology standard on all of its models by 2022. Available technologies include adaptive cruise control, a blind-spot information system with cross-traffic alert and lane-keeping assist. It will feature a standard embedded 4G LTE modem that provides Wi-Fi for up to 10 devices, part of a companywide initiative to connect every vehicle by 2019. The Sync 3 infotainment system is optional. The vehicle is part of Ford's dominant lineup of commercial vehicles, including the F-series pickup and full-size Transit van. The automaker accounted for 43 percent of all U.S. commercial vehicle sales in 2017 through November, according to Polk registration data. .