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Big Wheels MY / March 9, 2016 Tata Motors, India’s largest commercial truck manufacturer recently launched its new Signa medium and heavy truck range at the at the 2016 SIAM Auto Expo. Tata showcased three variants from the new Signa range – the 4923.S 6x4 tractor, the 3118.T 8x4 rigid and the 2518.K 6x4 tipper. The Tata Signa 4923.S tractor has a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 49,000kg (108,027lb). It’s powered by a proven and reliable electronically-controlled Tata-Cummins ISBe 5.9-liter common rail engine delivering 227 horsepower and 850Nm of torque, paired with a nine-speed Tata G1150 transmission and Tata RA109SRT drive axle. The Tata Signa 3118.T 8x4 rigid is available with both steerable and lift axle options. With a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 31 metric tons (68,343lb), the Signa 3118.T is powered by a world-class Tata-Cummins B5.9 engine rated at 178 horsepower and 675 Nm of torque, delivering best-in-class fuel efficiency and long engine life. The Tata Signa 2518.K is 6x4 vocational truck for construction and mining operations. With a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 25 metric tons (55,116lb), the Tata Signa 2518.K is powered by the legendary Tata-Cummins B5.9 rated at 178 horsepower and 675 Nm of torque. A wide range of factory-installed bodies are available. With its smartly designed interior cab, the new Signa range offers drivers abundant space, improved ergonomics and lower NVH levels for a superior in-cab experience. Tata’s proprietary “Fleetman” telematics system empowers fleet operators with a more connected experience, to better manage their transport business through optimum driver, vehicle and fuel management. Tata Motors also launched the all-new Ultra 1518 medium truck. Featuring an extended cab design, the Ultra 1518 is designed to enhance operational efficiencies for a commercial vehicle operator, with faster turnaround. Behind the standard three seats, a narrow bunk can be specified for short rests. “For over six decades, Tata Motors have played a significant role in defining India’s commercial vehicles landscape, recognizing customer needs, introducing game-changing product and categories, touching the lives of millions every day,” said Ravi Pisharody, Executive Director, Commercial Vehicle Business Unit, Tata Motors. “Today’s launch of the new Signa range and Ultra 1518 is a showcase of that strength, presenting years of hard work, along with world-class engineering, commercial vehicle design and technologies, all aimed at increasing fleet efficiency, at the same time attracting the best drivers. With these commercial vehicle offerings, we hope to bring modern trucking mainstream, addressing emerging needs, for a safe, comfortable and connected commercial vehicle experience. “At the Auto Expo 2016, we also have on display our capabilities across the commercial vehicle spectrum, with technologies powering the future of goods and passenger movement,” Pisharody added. “From our hydrogen-based fuel-cell technologies to our CNG hybrid bus, Tata is set to revolutionize the commercial vehicle industry in India, and I am convinced that we’re setting new benchmarks for the entire industry.” Photo gallery - http://www.bigwheels.my/2016/03/tata-signa-trucks-take-the-stage/ Press Release - http://www.tatamotors.com/press/tata-motors-launches-its-new-signa-range-of-commercial-vehicles/

Tax abatement to help Peterbilt expand Denton Record-Chronicle / February 21, 2016 Peterbilt will soon begin a $23 million expansion of its current plant in Denton, now with the help of a tax abatement from the city. The Denton City Council recently approved a 70 percent tax abatement for eight years, which means the company will get about $822,000 in incentives. “Peterbilt is pleased with the City Council’s vote and we look forward to breaking ground for the expansion of our Denton manufacturing facility,” said Leon Handt, assistant general manager of operations, in a statement. “Peterbilt is proud to be the largest private employer in Denton County and we enjoy a positive working relationship with the city and county of Denton. This expansion will allow us to continue to grow and increase the efficiencies of our operations.” The expansion, the first in 16 years, will add 17,500 square feet to the property to help increase production. It will increase dock doors and expand out from two different points on the building. The renovations won’t interfere with current production. Crews are producing more than 250 trucks per day, said Aimee Bissett, director of economic development for the city. The expansion comes after the company added 500 jobs in 2014, and so far this year has added 200. In 2014, production levels increased 32 percent. When Peterbilt opened in Denton in 1980, it had just 83 employees. Even before the hires this year, Peterbilt was the top private employer in the city, according to the most recent city report from October 2014. At that time, they had 2,100 employees. Bissett said six local companies expanded and three companies relocated to Denton in 2014 because of Peterbilt’s growth. “This may be the most growth of any organization in this community — certainly a commercial organization — not only for what they do but for what they’ve brought in as well,” said Jim Engelbrecht, a City Council member.

Heavy Duty Trucking / March 7, 2016 Peterbilt Motors Company recently broke ground on a 102,000-square-foot expansion to its heavy-duty truck manufacturing facility in Denton, Texas. The expansion includes a new building that will increase the plant's production and testing capacity and is expected to be operational in January 2017. It is part of a multi-phase plant improvement project that already has increased receiving capacity on the east side of the plant and added an expansion to the west side of the plant. The third phase will be completed in October, creating a new painted parts storage and retrieval system on the second level of the building. “This expansion is Peterbilt’s largest facility investment since the construction of the Denton plant and it will make a significant impact on our operational efficiencies,” said Darrin Siver, Peterbilt general manager and Paccar vice president. .

Transport Engineer / March 7, 2016 Milton Keynes-based distributor RPL Logistics has taken delivery of six Renault Range T tractors, after a competitive deal through BRS “really made the difference”. Supplied by dealer Renault Trucks Chiltern, the 44-tonne Range T480.26s join RPL’s 32-strong fleet for UK-based general haulage which includes newspapers, consumables, liquid inks, food and drinks, DIY and building supplies. The vehicles are supplied by BRS on a full, three-year, 160,000km per annum contract which covers road tax, tyres and on-site repair and maintenance, including at weekends to minimise vehicle downtime. RPL’s operations director Danny Wright also says positive experience of Renault Magnums and a longstanding relationship with the dealer were key factors. “We’ve had a long relationship with Renault Trucks Chiltern that spans over 15 years; they listen to our requirements and are committed to providing reliable trucks together with first class back-up service. “We’ve been running Renault Magnums for many years and have found them to be great long range trucks. Business is good so we were looking for replacement and additional vehicles for our fleet and the new Range T was the natural choice.” The Range Ts are specified with the optional Comfort Pack – boosting driver appeal – which includes fridge, alloy wheels, automatic emergency braking system and lane departure warning system. Wright adds: “The competitive deal through BRS really made the difference. It included everything we needed and the on-site, weekend servicing is fantastic, as it doesn’t impact on our customers’ delivery schedules.” Photo gallery - http://www.transportengineer.org.uk/transport-engineer-news/rpl-logistics-expands-fleet-with-six-44-tonne-renault-range-ts/116405/

Renault Trucks Press Release / March 4, 2016

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Reman Components

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Iveco “Elements” Maintenance System

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Iveco Trucks Press Release / March 4, 2016 Batteries

Commercial Motor TV - sponsored by DAF Trucks / March 4, 2016

Commercial Motor TV - sponsored by DAF Trucks / March 4, 2016

Transport Engineer / March 3, 2016 Aggregates business Cemex has taken delivery of 11 eight-wheelers fitted with Hyva’s super-light FCA129 tipping cylinders – allowing each vehicle to achieve a full 20-tonne payload. Cemex national fleet engineer Paul Clarke says the business asked Hyva what it could offer over its existing tipping cylinder choice: “We’ve got a firm answer – a weight saving of some 20kg. Not a huge amount perhaps, but who wants to carry around unnecessary deadweight?” The FCA129 weighs 430kg and has been engineered specifically for aggregate operators using 32-tonne 8x4 tippers – it is not a scaled up version from a lighter vehicle category. Key to its light weight is a separate tank and ram design, which allows the non-load bearing oil tank to be made from industrial-grade plastic instead of steel. In addition to the 11 rigids, Cemex has also extended its 200-strong tipper fleet with nine tipping trailers, each fitted with Hyva FC169 tipping cylinders. Photo gallery - http://www.transportengineer.org.uk/transport-engineer-news/cemex-lightens-up-with-hyva-super-light-tipping-cylinders/116301/

Fleet Owner / March 3, 2016 International announced that its DuraStar and WorkStar truck models will be available with the Cummins ISL9 9L engine as an option. The trucks will continue to be offered with Navistar’s own N9 powerplant. The company also said the DuraStar is now available with the Bendix Wingman Fusion collision mitigation system. Both announcements were made this week at the NTEA Work Truck Show in Indianapolis. “Adding the Cummins ISL9 to our line-up is a key part of our strategy to offer the most comprehensive options of proven components in the industry to our customers,” said Bill Kozek, president, Truck and Parts. "The addition of the Cummins ISL9 to DuraStar and WorkStar models provides customers with a winning combination of uptime, performance and durability." The ISL9 is rated up to 380 hp. and 1,250 lbs.-ft. of torque. The DuraStar is also available with the Navistar N9 engine from 275 hp. and 860 lbs.-ft of torque up to 330 hp. and 950 lbs.-ft torque. The WorkStar has the option of either the N9 or N10 engines, with ratings ranging from 275 hp. and 860 lbs.-ft of torque up to 370 hp. and 1,250 lbs.-ft torque. For even more power, customers can spec the N13 engine with 365 hp. and 1,250 lbs.-ft of torque up to 475 hp. and 1,700 lbs.-ft torque. All International medium-duty and vocational trucks feature the International Diamond Logic electrical system. DuraStar and WorkStar models are also available with a suite of traditional manual and automated-manual transmission offerings from Eaton and fully-automatic offerings from Allison. The DuraStar with Bendix Wingman Fusion combines a suite of Bendix advanced safety technologies—radar, camera, the vehicle's brake system, and SafetyDirect by Bendix CVS — into a comprehensive driver assistance system. The camera is powered by the Mobileye System-on-Chip EyeQ processor with state-of-the-art-vision algorithms. "Our uptime philosophy goes beyond our product quality," said Kozek. "Uptime is also dependent on the safety of a driver during operation of our trucks, and our goal is to offer the most innovative solutions to prevent any disruption of an operator's ability to fulfill their job." Built on the Bendix ESP Electronic Stability Program and integrated with an advanced camera and radar technology, Wingman Fusion gathers input to create a detailed and accurate data picture for the driver. Wingman Fusion is available for order on the International DuraStar this month and will be in production beginning in June.

Fleet Owner / March 3, 2016 Detroit’s new DD5 medium-duty engine got its first official U.S. viewing this week at the NTEA Work Truck Show here. The engine, first announced in 2014, will initially be built in Germany before Detroit brings production to its plant in Redford, MI. That facility will receive a $375 million update to build the engine. The 5.1-liter four-cylinder DD5 (Daimler OM934) will be available to order later this year in Freightliner Class 5 and Class 6 M2 106 truck models. A second medium-duty engine, the 7.7-liter six-cyliner DD8 (Daimler OM936), will be added in 2018. The engine will be available in additional vehicles following its production move to the U.S. in 2018. The DD5 will initially offer two power ratings: a 210 hp, 575 lbs.-ft torque and a 230 hp, 660 lbs.-ft-lb. torque. Additional ratings will be added once production shifts to the Redford. In addition, Detroit also announced the engines will have a 45,000 mi. maintenance interval and will be equipped with the Detroit Connect Virtual Technician remote diagnostics service. “We are excited to unveil the DD5 here at the NTEA Work Truck Show and offer customers their first look at what is a proud new addition to the Detroit engines line up,” Kary Schaefer, general manager marketing and strategy, Daimler Trucks North America. “We fully expect that as customers come to realize the total cost advantage of running these reliable and efficient DD5 engines in their fleets, they will Demand Detroit as the engine of choice as they have with the heavy duty DD13, DD15 & DD16 engines.” Related reading - http://www.bigmacktrucks.com/topic/42788-daimler-to-invest-375-million-to-build-diesel-engines-near-detroit/#comment-312559

Heavy Duty Trucking / March 2, 2016 General Motors will offer a 2.8L Duramax turbo-diesel engine with its 2017 model-year Chevrolet Express cargo and passenger full-size vans, the company announced at the Work Truck Show. The available diesel engine is the same one GM uses to power its Chevrolet Colorado diesel pickup. GM will pair the engine with an 8-speed automatic transmission. It will available on long and short wheelbase models in 2500 and 3500. It will be available with passenger and cargo models. "Each business has different needs and our fleet and commercial vehicles embody that," said Ed Peper, U.S. vice president of General Motors Fleet. "Our portfolio of pickup trucks and vans illustrate our commitment to helping you get the job done right."

Ford Offers 7 Trailer Cameras with 2017 Super Duty Heavy Duty Trucking / March 16, 2016 Ford is offering a seven-camera system with its 2017 Super Duty trucks that gives a driver additional views around the side of the truck and behind the trailer, Ford has announced. Ford is offering the Trailer Reverse Guidance system as part of the Ultimate Trailer Tow optional package. The system includes three high-resolution cameras and a color-coded bird's-eye view diagram of the truck to help avoid a jackknife. Yellow or red means the trailer angle is too tight. Four additional cameras include one behind the trailer, one inside the cargo box, one to see directly ahead of the truck, and a camera to activate a lane-departure warning. The system enhances rear-view mirrors by including a tailgate camera to track the motion of the trailer, two side-view cameras that shift the view of the trailer as the angle changes, a customer-attached camera for the back of the trailer, and a center high-mounted stop lamp camera to see inside the cargo box. Ford has submitted two patents on the technology.

All-new F-Series Super Duty offers innovative Trailer Reverse Guidance Ford Media Press Release / March 16, 2016

Ford Boosts Diesel Super Duty Chassis Cabs Heavy Duty Trucking / March 1, 2016 Ford has increased towing and payload capability for its 2017 Super Duty F-350, F-450, and F-550 chassis cabs with new frames and a next-generation 6.7L V-8 PowerStroke diesel with more horsepower and torque, Ford has announced at the Work Truck Show. Ford's second-generation 6.7L V-8 diesel adds 30 horsepower and 90 lb.-ft. of torque for a maximum rating of 330 hp and 750 lb.-ft. — a high-water mark for the trucks. The 2017 chassis cabs also get a new frame consisting of 95% high-strength steel and eight times more torsional rigidity than the previous frame with through-welded crossmembers and fully boxed rails under the cab and forward. The improvement results in a 40,000-pound gross combined weight rating (GCWR) and a 500-pound increase in front gross axle weight rating to 7,500 pounds to support bigger snowplows, taller utility buckets and cranes, as well as larger ambulance bodies or other specialized vocational body upfits. Towing capacity also increases over the outgoing models.

Ford showcases ‘toughest, smartest, most capable’ Super-Duty ever Fleet Owner / March 2, 2016 There was no mistaking the message: the all-new Ford Super-Duty is the "toughest, smartest and most capable" ever built, and the automaker showed off the pickup line as well as the new Transit van series Tuesday evening, March 1. It was at the NTEA Work Truck Show in Indianapolis. Ford gathered reporters for a press event showcasing the Super-Duty's new features and the engineering and testing that went into them. The company says the all-new F-350, F-450 and F-550 chassis cab lineup is optimized to help commercial customers be more productive on the job — "from clearing snow-filled streets to rescuing stranded motorists to restoring power in a storm." "We're the only OEM in the North American market that has a product in every class: 1-7," said John Ruppert, general manager of commercial vehicle sales and marketing at Ford. "Commercial truck customers need tough, capable trucks that can haul heavy equipment to crush challenging jobs," said Craig Schmatz, chief engineer for Ford Super-Duty. "The innovations our team has put into the next-generation Super-Duty chassis cab are paying off by delivering capability that surpasses the competition." The next-generation F-350, F-450 and F-550 Super-Duty chassis cab lineup features: - Best-in-class front gross axle weight rating of up to 7,500 lbs. — 250 lbs. more than the closest competitor — that supports carrying larger equipment like snowplows, taller utility buckets and cranes, larger ambulance bodies or other specialized vocational body upfits. - Best-in-class gross combined vehicle weight rating of up to 40,000 lbs., including the truck and everything it can haul and tow. Ford reps pointed out that that is half the maximum gross combined weight rating of an 18-wheeler semi on most U.S. federal highways. - 330 hp and 750 lbs.-ft. of torque from a second-generation Ford-designed (actually AVL-designed), Ford-built 6.7L Power Stroke V-8 diesel, which the company notes are the best-ever ratings for Class 4 and Class 5 Super-Duty chassis cab All-new frame Thanks to an all-new frame, the F-350, F-450 and F-550 F-Series chassis cab delivers more work capability. The frame is the most rigid ever used in a Super Duty chassis cab. It features 95% high-strength steel with eight times more torsional rigidity than the previous frame, Ford says, thanks to welded crossmembers and fully boxed rails under the cab and forward. Open C-channel frame rails behind the cab are designed to enable easier body and vocational equipment upfits. All this helps deliver the 40,000-lb. max gross combined weight rating and 500-lb. increase in front gross axle weight rating, along with increased towing capacity over the previous Super Duty chassis cab. Weight savings Using advanced materials, Ford says it saved up to 350 lbs. in the all-new F-Series Super Duty and reinvested the savings into tougher, stronger components. For the first time, the Super-Duty body uses high-strength, military-grade aluminum alloy throughout the cab, which improves dent and ding resistance while saving weight for significant increases in towing and payload capability, according to the company. In addition to the heavier-duty fully boxed frame under the cab, Ford says many components "are more robust in the new Super Duty — including axles, suspension, driveline and towing hardware." Powered by Ford The 2017 Super Duty chassis cab with second-generation 6.7L Power Stroke V-8 diesel paired with a commercial-grade six-speed 6R140 automatic transmission adds 30 horsepower and 90 lbs.-ft. of torque for a maximum rating of 330 hp and 750 lbs.-ft. — the highest ever for Super Duty chassis cab. Ruppert said Ford is the only heavy-duty truck manufacturer to design and build its own diesel engine and transmission combination, which ensures the powertrain works seamlessly with all chassis components and vehicle calibrations. The approach enables Ford engineers to optimize vehicle performance across the entire lineup, he said. 500,000-mi. B10 life - The 6.7L Power Stroke V-8 diesel engine for the Ford F-650 and F-750 medium-duty truck line has a B10 design life of at least 500,000 mi., according to Ford, meaning 90% of the engines are expected to go farther than that without requiring a major service that involves removal of cylinder heads or dropping the oil pan to reach internal components. - The Ford 6.7L diesel engine and Ford TorqShift HD six-speed automatic transmission are designed for medium-duty use with "great power, performance and fuel economy — backed by unsurpassed warranty and national network of Ford service centers." "F-650 and F-750 customers help keep America moving," Ruppert said. "We're here to make sure they can with our all-new medium-duty trucks — whether that's trucking freight from Los Angeles to New York, or helping keep the lights on in your neighborhood." The three diesel power levels available are 270 hp/675 lbs.-ft. of torque, 300 hp/700 lbs.-ft. of torque and 330 hp/725 lbs.-ft. of torque. Built at Ford's Ohio Assembly Plant near Cleveland with available straight frame and tractor configurations, the 2017 Ford F-650 and F-750 medium-duty trucks are now available for sale.