New Kenworth W990 To Star in Road Tours

LAS VEGAS, Nev., Sept. 28, 2018 – The new Kenworth W990 will star in two Kenworth W990 Road Tours slated to visit 20 Kenworth dealerships in the United States and Canada during October and November.

“Kenworth’s long-hood conventional is the enduring symbol of North American trucking for professional drivers, owner-operators and fleets. The new Kenworth W990 builds upon that strong legacy by delivering the significant, next-step evolution wrapped in traditional styling, craftsmanship, luxury and power,” said Kevin Baney, Kenworth assistant general manager for sales and marketing. “During the two Kenworth Road Tours, we’re bringing four Kenworth W990s out on the road for the world of trucking to see and experience.”

The first Kenworth W990 Road Tour begins Oct. 10, and showcases two W990 tractors equipped with 76-inch mid-roof sleepers. The first W990 is painted with a stunning Blackout II Metallic Black color, and is equipped with the proprietary PACCAR Powertrain consisting of the PACCAR MX-13 engine rated at 485-hp and 1,650 lb-ft of torque, the 12-speed PACCAR automated transmission and PACCAR 40K tandem rear axles. The second W990 has an Eaton® Fuller® 18-speed manual transmission, and Meritor’s 13K front axle and 40K rear axles. The truck’s paint design is a classic 3-color Sunset design in Blackout II, Sparkling Blue Metallic and Harvest Gold.

Both trucks feature the W990 Limited Edition interior, which includes rich black leather, embroidered W990 logo, Ravenwood door and dash trim accents, Royal Blue double-stitched diamond door pads, black leather wrapped steering wheel with Royal Blue stitching, and driver and passenger seats with suede charcoal inserts and perforated leather with Royal Blue backing.

The second Kenworth W990 Road Tour commences on Oct. 19, and includes two W990s. The featured truck is equipped with a 76-inch mid-roof sleeper and Limited Edition interior, PACCAR MX-13 engine rated at 510-hp and 1,850 lb-ft of torque, and Eaton® Fuller®18-speed manual transmission. It has the Strobe paint design in Blackout II Metallic Black and Surf Blue Metallic. The second truck is a heavy haul W990 day cab with a PACCAR 20K front axle, 46K Dana Spicer rear axle, and Blackout II Metallic Black paint.

The Kenworth W990 sets a powerful new industry standard, and is designed to maximize performance in line haul, pickup and delivery, and regional hauling operations. Available in day cab, 40-inch Flat Top, and 52-inch and 76-inch mid-roof sleeper configurations, the W990 is standard with the proprietary PACCAR Powertrain.

New Kenworth W990 Long-Hood Conventional – Video Debut

LAS VEGAS, Nev., Sept. 28, 2018 – Kenworth Truck Company has introduced a brand new truck model – the stunning long-hood conventional Kenworth W990, truly The Driver’s Truck. Now, dedicated and hard-working truckers from around the world can obtain their first look at the Kenworth W990 in action.

Filmed on location in the rugged, picturesque countryside of Northern Arizona and Monument Valley in Utah, the beautifully designed and powerful Kenworth W990 is the featured performer in a new Kenworth video. It’s an epic story igniting the passion and adventure of driving on the open road where each chapter reveals a different view of the W990.

The first chapter, introduces the freedom and control of life on the road accentuated by a majestic southwest backdrop. Subsequent chapters highlight the W990’s contours and chrome accents; comfort, functionality and lifestyle features of the limited edition interior; and the driver-focused smooth ride.

Overall, the video creates a sense of pride in trucking and the feeling of success and accomplishment for drivers. Watch the W990 video below.

The Kenworth W990 sets a new industry standard, and is designed to maximize performance in line haul, pickup and delivery, and regional hauling operations. Available in day cab, 40-inch flat top, and 52-inch and 76-inch mid-roof sleeper configurations, the W990 is standard with the proprietary PACCAR Powertrain consisting of the PACCAR MX-13 engine rated up to 510-hp and 1,850 lb-ft of torque, a 12-speed PACCAR automated transmission and PACCAR 40K tandem rear axles.

The Kenworth W990 offers numerous options. Special comfort and style options include the Limited Edition black cab and sleeper interior, and the Driver’s Studio package of premium options that create a luxurious home on the road living experience.

Kenworth Presents Keys To First Kenworth W990 Customers

LAS VEGAS, Nev., Sept. 28, 2018 – With smiles as big as the presence established by the new Kenworth W990, executives from Fleenor Bros., Taylor Transport and Oculus Transport received the keys as the first W990 customers from Kevin Baney, Kenworth assistant general manager for sales and marketing. The presentation took place with their W990s as part of the backdrop at the grand unveiling at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway Thursday evening.

All three companies, big admirers of Kenworth’s traditional W900L, are now moving ahead with the new W990 as there is nothing like owning a long-hood Kenworth.

“A well-spec’d long-hood conventional stands out in a crowd,” said Kyle Cousins, vice president of operations of Fleenor Bros., based in the southwest part of Missouri. “The big hoods get you noticed; and customers, as well as our, drivers love them. I know it’s helped in our recruiting and retention. Drivers stay in part because of our trucks. They feature 3-color paint schemes and owner-operator specs.”

According to Cousins, the W9 hood has been a fixture at Fleenor Bros. for a long time. “My dad bought the company in 1986 – it was a one truck operation, and that first truck was a W9,” he said. “Today, we run all Kenworths – 50 tractors with about a third being aero models, and the rest W900Ls. We have a 1990 Limited Edition James Bond 007 tractor, plus the first and last ICON 900s produced a few years back. The W990 we spec’d out will be a great addition to our fleet. It’s spec’d to the nines, including the limited edition interior package. When it gets back to our home, we’ll dress it up even more.”

Fleenor purchases its trucks from MHC Kenworth in Joplin, Missouri, and has won beauty contest awards at the Mid-America Trucking show the past two years. “…And who knows about next year,” Cousins said with a smile. “We very well could enter the W990.”

When the Kenworth W990 returns from Las Vegas, Cousins said he already has found a driver to make the first freight delivery. “It will be me,” he said. “I love driving these trucks just like the rest of our guys. I can’t wait.”

For Cory Heck, vice president of assets and equipment for Calgary, Alberta-based Oculus Transport, buying Kenworth long hoods has been part of Oculus’ history from Day 1. “The company started in 2011 and our owner, Ric Peterson, loved the look of the classic truck. He used to drive them too.”

Oculus operates 90 trucks, 70 percent in tanker operations, including 30 tractors used in C3+ and C4 (high vapor pressure) operations. The company’s Kenworth trucks are purchased through Inland Kenworth - Fort St. John in British Columbia. “We stand out with our long hoods and bright orange paint scheme,” said Heck. “We stick to our roots, and have pride in ownership. Image is so important to us and the Kenworth W900L, and now W990, support that image perfectly. When drivers are required to dwell in their truck, it is important that they feel rested and comfortable. I know that our equipment helps with driver retention, and we’ve seen our drivers turn up their nose at offers from other companies with lesser equipment. That really tells you something.”

The Oculus W990 is spec’d with the PACCAR MX-13 engine rated at 510-hp, and Eaton® UltraShift 18-speed transmission. “Everyone loves the PACCAR MX engine around here,” said Heck. “They’ve proven very reliable in our other trucks, plus they’re giving us better fuel economy numbers. The W990 with PACCAR MX-13 engines is a great combination for us.”

Like the other two companies, style, tradition and respect for the past is a hallmark for Taylor Transport, based outside of Atlanta. Ricky Cole is the owner of the company, but his name is not on the door. “My grandfather’s name is,” he said. “He was one of my idols growing up and he had a successful career in manufacturing and he operated seven asphalt plants. I wanted to honor him by naming our company after him.”

That recognition of the past also comes into play with his fleet of 230 trucks, which perform duty in a wide range of operations – flatbed, step deck, van, pneumatic – even dump truck. “We have a lot of operations going, but the majority is in flatbed,” he said. “We have a great team here — RJ Martin and Lewis Collum — help run our operation. People have long told us that we set trends with our equipment, and I think we do. We’ll even show our long-hood Kenworths at one or two truck beauty shows each year. In addition to our W900s, which include 16 ICON 900s, we run some Kenworth T880s and T680s, and spec them like owner-operator trucks. We’ve molded our company around our equipment and dedication to service. We don’t have a sales department – our sales come directly from our reputation, our drivers, and our equipment.”

Just like Cousins and Heck, Cole purchased the W990 sight unseen, merely a picture of the W990 shown by his Kenworth dealer. “We liked the styling and looks – it could be the truck of our future,” he said. “You have to change with the times and the W990 gives us the look of the past, coupled with better aerodynamics and comfort thanks to the new cab and sleeper interior. We’re looking forward to putting the truck to work.”

Kenworth’s W990: Behind the Design

LAS VEGAS, Nev., Sept. 28, 2018 – For the design team at Kenworth, designing a truck that took in the heritage of the company’s iconic W900 model was what Jonathan Duncan called a “once in a lifetime opportunity as a designer.”

As Kenworth’s design director, Duncan led the team that created the new Kenworth W990, starting with a clean slate to formulate ideas that blended tradition with the new. “First and foremost, we wanted to design a truck that had a significant ‘wow’ factor,” he said. “There is nothing like seeing a long-hood Kenworth driving down the road, signifying image, pride and freedom. The long-hood conventional is the truck that gets noticed and commands attention; it is the truck you see garnering best of show ribbons at truck beauty show across the country.”

“We set out to design a hard-working truck that shares those memories. One that can be seen down the road and makes other truckers stare and nod their heads in appreciation. One that will be proudly displayed at truck shows. The Kenworth W990 features the latest in technology, and is built on our 2.1-meter cab platform that features comfort and driver amenities that are second to none,” Duncan said.

According to Duncan, the Kenworth design team knew that the new Kenworth W990 was going to have to make a strong statement and be authentic, genuine and uniquely Kenworth. “We also knew that the W990 had to be a true driver’s truck – nothing less would do,” said Duncan. “We want drivers to take pause at the end of a hard day, look over their shoulder, and admire their ride. We wanted to reward the driver with the smoothest ride, and sharpest–looking truck out there; a truck that will make other drivers do a double take. I couldn’t be happier with the results.”

The two biggest visuals on the new Kenworth W990 are the hood and the grille. The “long hood” has a bumper-to-back-of cab (BBC) measurement coming in at a 131.5-inches, or 1.5 inches longer than its cousin, the W900L. “The grille is really the face of the new W990,” said Duncan. “Incorporating stainless steel was important. It had to be pure Kenworth and it needed to be instantly recognizable as the top-of-the-line. We maintained the traditional cathedral shape to the grille and the inset surfaces at the top to give it a refined tailored look. That powerful center spear signifies this is part of the new generation of Kenworth trucks and the tapered grille spears are there for a classic touch. It’s elegant, beautiful, and full of brawn.”

The design team added a host of other design elements, including hood-side features that complement the stainless steel air intakes. “We paid close attention to the shape of the reflection of the side air intakes in that hood side surface. In some colors, it can make the intakes look twice as deep,” said Duncan.

While the truck certainly stands out, Duncan said that inside, it conveys a special attitude as well. “Behind the wheel, the driver’s view over the hood is a huge part of the appeal of the W990. It’s really one of the keys to the success of this design. The powerful wind-split (the raised center section on the hood top) is designed to accentuate the length of the hood and the dynamic shape reflects the powerful engine underneath. The side air intakes wrap over the top of the hood so that they are visible from the driver’s seat. All of this creates a strong visual impact from behind the wheel.”

Feeling good about the ride is one thing, added Duncan. But “enjoying” the ride is another. “The interior of the W990 follows that of our flagship T680 with all the room, dash layout and sleeper amenities,” said Duncan. “But we went one step further by designing the Limited Edition interior package. We combined great color schemes along with leather and embroidery. The Limited Edition comes in classic midnight black with a glossy Ravenwood trim. The diamond-trim panels on the door pads and in the sleeper, feature Royal Blue stitching and W990 embroidery. The heated and cooled leather seats have perforated leather that is dyed blue on the backside so that the edges of the perforations are blue. That’s a small touch that the driver will notice every time they get into the cab. We also added Royal Blue stitching on the leather Kenworth SmartWheel®, another detail that only the driver will know about and a reminder that they’re behind the wheel of something special.”

Knowing that the owners and drivers of the new Kenworth W990 will want to add their own special touches, Duncan said a special effort was made to get PACCAR Parts involved early in the process. “We worked together to create aftermarket enhancements, like a special LED lighting package and stainless trim pieces,” he said. “We feel like the W990 driver is going to want to customize this truck to really be able to call it their own. Personally, I’m really looking forward to seeing what they end up doing with them. I feel like we’ve given them a great place to start.”

Kenworth Launches New Long-Hood Conventional – The W990

LAS VEGAS, Nev., Sept. 28, 2018 – Kenworth continued its tradition of driver-focused product development with the introduction of its new long-hood conventional – the Kenworth W990 – Thursday evening during a major unveiling event at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. A large audience of customers, dealers and press gathered to celebrate the launch of the new W990 with its traditional design that truly makes it The Driver’s Truck.

“The new Kenworth W990 is a reflection of the Kenworth brand, The World’s Best, which represents the quality, engineering excellence, and both customer and driver focus that goes into every Kenworth we build,” said Mike Dozier, Kenworth general manager and PACCAR vice president.

“We are passionate about our products, our customers that depend on them, and the drivers that operate them. We know that there are many customers and drivers out there who share our passion. The Kenworth W990 represents the pride, image and freedom of trucking, and captures the spirit of what trucking is all about,” Dozier said.

The Kenworth W990 sets a powerful new industry standard, and is designed to maximize performance in line haul, pickup and delivery, regional haul, and heavy haul operations. At 131.5 inches from bumper to back-of-cab, the W990 establishes a bold presence among conventional trucks.

Available in day cab, 40-inch flat top, and 52-inch and 76-inch mid-roof sleeper configurations, the W990 is standard with the proprietary PACCAR Powertrain consisting of the PACCAR MX-13 engine rated up to 510-hp and 1,850 lb-ft of torque, a 12-speed PACCAR automated transmission and PACCAR 40K tandem rear axles.

Built on the proven and popular 2.1-meter cab platform – used in the Kenworth T680 and T880 – the Kenworth W990 features driver comfort and amenities that are second to none. Special comfort and style options include the Limited Edition cab and sleeper interior, and the W990 Driver’s Studio package of premium options that create a luxurious home on the road living experience.

The W990 Limited Edition interior comes in midnight black with glossy Ravenwood door and dash trim accents. The special interior features rich black leather, embroidered W990 logo, Royal Blue double-stitched diamond door pads, black leather wrapped steering wheel with Royal Blue stitching, and driver and passenger seats with suede charcoal inserts and perforated leather with Royal Blue backing.

The W990 Driver’s Studio offers a 180-degree swivel passenger seat and rotating table for two people, drawer-style refrigerator, and convenient space ideal for a microwave. Entertainment is provided by Kenworth’s premium audio package with 320-watt amp, 10-inch subwoofer and eight speakers; swivel TV mount for up to a 28-inch flat screen TV; and optional EpicVue pre-wire for satellite TV. There’s a full-size wardrobe space for hanging clothes, multiple storage drawers, and large storage space under the lower bunk. The 1800-watt inverter includes a shore power connection and four standard 120-volt sleeper outlets to power a range of electrical devices. Convenient LED lighting provides ample interior light throughout the sleeper.

The W990 builds upon Kenworth’s long tradition of combining cutting-edge technology with exceptional craftsmanship, performance and quality. The W990 is standard with Kenworth TruckTech+® remote diagnostics system. Kenworth NAV+HD seven-inch, color in-dash display provides access to valuable features such as truck-specific navigation, roadside assistance, vehicle data, hands-free calling, audio controls, blind-spot camera inputs and the Internet.

“The Kenworth W990’s excellent performance, classical styling, premium finishes and lifestyle amenities underscore a sense of driver achievement and pride,” concluded Dozier. “We are driven to provide the best equipment in the industry to get the job done.”

Mack Anthem Helps Raise Money for Canadian Cancer Society

GREENSBORO, NC (Sept. 28, 2018) – A Mack Anthem® model recently participated in “Trucking For a Cure,” an annual truck convoy that raises money in support of the Canadian Cancer Society.

Mack Trucks dealer Vision Truck Group in Cambridge, Ontario provided the truck, which was driven by members of the Owner-Operators Business Association of Canada (OBAC) and raised $3,340 CAD in the fight against breast cancer.

“Vision Truck Group was honored to provide a Mack Anthem model to the OBAC team for such a worthwhile cause,” said John Baker, director of sales, Vision Truck Group. “It was great to see supporters rally around the Anthem and pledge their support to help find a cure.”

“Trucking For a Cure” not only raises funds for breast cancer research, but also helps build bridges between commercial drivers, the trucking industry and the public to raise awareness among trucking enthusiasts around the fight against breast cancer. Two convoys are held each year in Woodstock and Prescott, Ontario. With nearly 130 trucks participating in this year’s events, “Trucking For a Cure” raised more than $114,500 CAD.

Peterbilt Announces Electrical Updates

DENTON, Texas – September 25, 2018 – Today Peterbilt Motors Company announced the Vehicle Electrical Control Unit (VECU) to increase customer functionality and simplify body upfitting.

“Peterbilt’s heritage is built on customers being able to order a truck that is designed and manufactured specifically to get the job done in the most efficient and reliable manner,” said Robert Woodall, Assistant General Manager – Sales and Marketing, Peterbilt Motors Company.

“The enhanced PTO functionality for the MX engine, simplified wiring harnesses and electronics capacity of VECU will provide our customers access to advanced technology functions and expanded configuration of the overall truck operation.”

Peterbilt worked with customers and truck equipment manufacturers to improve the electrical integration process of a Peterbilt chassis with a vocational body. Proper electrical communication between the chassis and body is key to maintaining Peterbilt’s high standard of reliability. Peterbilt offers a variety of convenient body connectors to make the integration process simple. This includes customized settings for PTO operations, multiplex switches to improve diagnostic capabilities and additional safety interlocks. Customers will also be able to utilize a standard RP1226 connector, located inside the cab, to easily connect aftermarket electronic devices like telematics systems, ELDs and electronic body controls.

VECU will be implemented on Models 567 and 579 trucks produced in early October 2018.

Volvo Trucks’ Designers Recognized For VNL Design

The Volvo Trucks design team recently received recognition from the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA) for their work designing the new Volvo VNL series. Volvo Trucks’ design team received IDSA’s Silver International Design Excellence Awards (IDEA). The annual IDEA competition is the world’s most prestigious and rigorous design competition.

“Our first goal with our design was to bring value to customers. To receive accolades from the design community as well makes our journey even more satisfying,” said Brian Balicki, Head of Design for Volvo Trucks North America. “I’m very proud of the truly cross-functional team effort that brought the VNL to life, striking the right balance between form and function.”

In the development of the new Volvo VNL, the design team combined elements of Volvo’s design language with dynamic new exterior features. Swept back headlights include signature Volvo daytime running lights and frame a bold new Volvo grille and hood. Redesigned and repositioned engine air intakes allow for less turbulent intake air delivery. Airflow up and around the cab has also been optimized with new chassis and roof fairings.

True to Volvo’s heritage, safety was a core element of the new VNL series design. The cab is built with high-strength steel and exceeds both the Volvo Swedish Cab Safety Test and ECE R-29 rollover requirements. The industry’s only standard driver’s side airbag is now joined by an optional integrated, seat-mounted rollover airbag on the driver’s side.

“We wanted the new VNL series to make a statement on the road, but it must also make a statement to our customers’ bottom lines,” said Balicki. “The design elements we’ve brought together give the new VNL an athletic look that also delivers value for the customer. Whether it’s the enhanced aerodynamics or the new three-piece bumper that provides greater repairability, every design change we’ve made has a purpose.”

To maximize functionality, the Volvo Trucks team gathered feedback from nearly 2,000 driver interviews, so changes aligned with drivers’ needs for a comfortable and productive environment. The end result was an an all-new dashboard that puts often-used controls within the driver’s reach. Centered in the gauge cluster is a configurable, five-inch color driver information display that provides trip and diagnostic data. The driver information display is customizable, ensuring that critical information is always available to the driver at a quick glance. Volvo’s smart steering wheel puts controls for nearly all of the driver interface functions right at the driver’s fingertips and Volvo’s Position Perfect™ air-assisted, infinitely adjustable steering column, enables drivers not only to tilt and telescope the steering column, but also tilt the steering wheel relative to the steering column. This lets drivers of all statures find the perfect steering wheel position and easily view the driver information display.

The focus on comfort extends to the four sleeper cab configurations, designed to provide drivers a comfortable place to rest after a long day on the road, the sleeper options are packed with a number of space-saving, comfort-boosting innovations.

The IDEA – a high honor in the design world – highlights the value of industrial design to the quality of life and the strength of the economy. Past winners of this award have generated billions of dollars of sales, saved lives and dramatically changed the way people live, work and play.

IDSA judges designs by a variety of criteria, including innovation, benefit to user, benefit to client, design research and design strategy.

Kenworth T880S McNeilus Mixer Provides Major Donation

KIRKLAND, Wash., Sept. 24, 2018 – A Kenworth T880S bridge formula mixer chassis, recently sold during online bidding, will provide a major contribution to the RMC Research & Education Foundation, thanks to Kenworth, McNeilus, NorCal Kenworth and other participating Kenworth supplier partners. The T880S will be on display in the Kenworth booth (#633) at the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association (NRMCA) ConcreteWorks Sept. 29 – Oct. 1 in National Harbor, Maryland.

The Kenworth T880S with set-forward front axle is the go-to configuration for mixer customers required to comply with federal bridge formulas. The special T880S features a PACCAR MX-11 engine rated at 430-hp and 1,650 lb-ft of torque, and a McNeilus Bridgemaster® 11 cubic yard mixer. The McNeilus mixer body has all the latest innovations for complete operator assurance, and is equipped with an M80 Series Drum™, Award-Winning FLEX Controls™, PRECO radar detection system, back-up camera, and automatic washout system.

Other contributing supplier sponsors of equipment for the Kenworth T880S are Meritor (axles), Hendrickson (rear suspension), Watson & Chalin (lift axle), Alcoa (wheels), Bridgestone (tires), and Allison Transmission (transmission). The T880S was provided by Kenworth and NorCal Kenworth and was purchased by Concrete Supply Co. in Charlotte, North Carolina. Henry Batten, Concrete Supply chairman and CEO, serves as chairman of the RMC Research & Education Foundation. One hundred percent of the net proceeds go to the foundation.

“We’re grateful to Kenworth, McNeilus and the other companies that contributed to this donation, and we’re proud as Concrete Supply to be the winning bidder to help make the contribution a reality. The RMC Research & Education Foundation is a critical industry asset that is putting science and credibility behind our industry’s product and helping us to develop a world-class workforce through education,” Batten said. “This donation will go a long way toward maintaining the Foundation as a lasting resource for the industry’s continued success and growth.”

“This is a very generous donation that will support our efforts to increase quality, sustainability and professionalism in the ready mixed concrete industry through research and education. We thank Kenworth, McNeilus and NorCal Kenworth and all the other trucking industry participants that helped make this donation possible,” said Julie Garbini, executive director of the RMC Research & Education Foundation.

“The RMC Research & Education Foundation does excellent work in support of the concrete and construction industry. This was a great project for Kenworth and its partners, and we appreciate their participation. We thank Concrete Supply Co. for purchasing the Kenworth T880S mixer and helping to trigger the resulting donation to the foundation,” said Kurt Swihart, Kenworth marketing director.

“We recognize the importance of the RMC Research & Education Foundation’s efforts to improve and advance the concrete industry. We’re glad we can show our support with this joint donation to the cause,” said Jesus Crespo, McNeilus vice president and general manager, concrete mixers.

Houston Food Bank Depends on Kenworth Trucks To Fight Hunger

HOUSTON, Sept. 20, 2018 – The ability to feed the hungry involves more than just a generous heart and a willing spirit. As the largest Feeding America food bank in the country, the Houston Food Bank annually serves 122 million nutritious meals through community partners, including food pantries, soup kitchens, social service providers, and schools in 18 southeast Texas counties. Accomplishing such a feat is an organizational challenge, to say the least.

“Our core is really about logistics. We receive donations of surplus food from all over the country, and we’re distributing product through a network of about 1,500 partners on a daily basis,” Houston Food Bank President Brian Greene said recently in an interview with Houston’s Channel 2.

As a non-profit, the Houston Food Bank relies on donations and federal aid to fund their efforts. To keep with its pledge of efficiency, the food bank relies on a fleet of Kenworth trucks to support its effort. Its medium-duty Kenworths are used for pick up and deliveries throughout Houston and the surrounding area.

Now, throw a storm of unprecedented proportion – Hurricane Harvey, which at its peak left one-third of Houston underwater and forced tens of thousands of people out of their homes, and one will begin to understand the impact upon relief agencies, such as the Houston Food Bank.

Prior to Harvey, they did the job with some 50 trucks – a mix of makes and models, some leased; most kept in service until they began to see a significant increase in maintenance expense and a decrease in reliability.

Following Harvey, Feeding America was awarded $7.5 million from the Justin J. Watt Foundation, (J.J. Watt, from the Houston Texans football team) from which Houston Food Bank received a portion – they put some of those funds towards the purchase of additional vehicles to increase fleet infrastructure.

“As bad as Harvey was, it was a gift to us because we had so many people from all over the world give money to us to help get us through the crisis,” said Hugh Tollett, transportation supervisor for the Houston Food Bank, “As soon as it happened, we cranked things up and made the decision to buy the trucks we needed.”

Their first call was to Performance Kenworth in Houston, and the resulting order was for 35 new medium and heavy duty Kenworth trucks – six T270s bodied with reefers, 12 T370 tandem-axle units with reefers, eight T370 tractors to haul beverage trailers converted into vending units, and nine Kenworth T680s to pull various trailers, including dry vans and reefers.

The medium duty Kenworth T270s and T370s are equipped with PACCAR PX-7 and PACCAR PX-9 engines, respectively. Allison automatic transmissions were installed in the Kenworth medium duty trucks with Eaton Fuller Advantage® transmissions in the T680s.

The food bank chose Kenworth based on the brand’s reputation for dependability. “We look for equipment that’s going to last,” Tollett stated. “I like the way Kenworth trucks are built and how they hold together on the road. Kenworth also has an excellent warranty program.”

“From the get go, Houston Food Bank expressed that they are feeding the hungry so they can’t afford for their trucks to break down,” said Drew Vest, a Performance Kenworth account manager. “We really pushed our dealership as a whole, which includes parts and service, not just the high quality trucks. They know that if there is an issue with a truck we will do our best to reduce any potential downtime.”

Within any given month, the food bank fleet covers more than 113,000 miles over 7,600 stops. Most of that is within the city, so automatics are the most driver-friendly. According to the Virgil Scott, logistics manager for the Houston Food Bank, automatic transmissions also represent less maintenance concerns.

Drivability was also a big factor in selecting the Kenworth T270 and T370 models. The majority of donation pick-up and deliveries are inside the city, so trucks need to be easy to maneuver in close quarters. The food bank utilizes the T370 as a bobtail, for example, for their Kids Cafe program, delivering hot meals to Boys & Girls Clubs which are not set up to receive large combinations. Kenworth medium duty conventionals, being standard with a 50-degree wheel cut, solved that issue by providing a tight turning radius.

Today, the food bank is operating at triple its previous output, each day distributing 750,000 pounds of supplies — the equivalent of 18 trailer loads.

“It’s definitely neat to see their new Kenworth trucks throughout Houston helping distribute food to the hungry,” Vest remarked.

“The trucks do everything we need and ask them to do. Everything we have, we use every single day,” Scott remarked. “Hopefully something like Hurricane Harvey doesn't happen again. But, if it does, we’re prepared.”

DTNA Brings Vocational, Electric Solutions to the IAA 2018

Hannover (Sept. 20, 2018) – Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) is showcasing the Freightliner® EconicSD™, Freightliner 114SD and the Thomas Built Buses Saf-T-Liner® C2 all-electric school bus at the IAA Commercial Vehicles 2018. The products will be part of the Daimler exhibit (#FG P98), which will feature Daimler commercial vehicle solutions from around the world.

“At DTNA, our local market solutions often begin with a collaborative effort and shared expertise from our global partners,” said Kary Schaefer, general manager of marketing and strategy for the Freightliner and Detroit brands within DTNA. “The IAA provides DTNA with the perfect opportunity to share a few of our recent innovations from these collective endeavors for the first time outside of the North American market.”

DTNA vehicles displayed at the IAA 2018 include:

• The Freightliner EconicSD - Introduced in April 2018, the Freightliner EconicSD is one of the most modern and innovative refuse trucks on the market. Based on the Mercedes-Benz Econic, the Freightliner EconicSD is adapted from the European design for the North American refuse industry. The vehicle has a unique low-entry concept for easy entry and egress, and a panoramic windshield for enhanced visibility. The Freightliner EconicSD comes standard with the Detroit™ Assurance® suite of safety systems, including lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control and active brake assist.
• The Freightliner 114SD - Built for severe duty, the 114SD can be upfit for many different applications, including construction, concrete, plow, fire and rescue, and utility. With optimized mid-chassis packaging and a strategically mounted aftertreatment system, the 114SD chassis layout simplifies upfitting. The truck’s automotive-style interior, expansive windshield and low seating provide a comfortable and productive environment for drivers.
• The Saf-T-Liner C2 all-electric school bus- Also referred to as Jouley, the bus is the first generation of Thomas Built Buses’ electric series production school bus and is part of DTNA’s electric truck initiative. Named after the joule unit of energy, the bus produces zero emissions and has the ability for exportable power. The first generation of the Jouley is equipped with the PowerDrive™ 700ev powertrain from Efficient Drivetrains, Inc., which provides 100-160kWh of battery energy and a range of up to 120 miles.

Noted Caley Edgerly, president and CEO of Thomas Built Buses: “DTNA’s breadth of offerings across multiple industries is based on the fact that we are all driven by the same goal: to deliver solutions that positively impact our customers’ business.”

For more information, visit www.daimler-trucksnorthamerica.com.

Mack Anthem® Design Team Wins Prestigious Award

NEW ORLEANS (Sept. 19, 2018) – The Industrial Designers Society of America today awarded Mack Trucks’ design team a Silver International Design Excellence Award (IDEA) in recognition of their work on the all-new Mack Anthem® model. The team accepted the award at the 2018 International Design Conference IDEA Ceremony & Gala in New Orleans.

“For those of us in this field, being recognized with an IDEA award is among the top honors you can receive,” said Lukas Yates, Mack chief designer – exterior. “I’m extremely proud of the team effort that helped make the Mack Anthem such a striking statement to the trucking world.”

With a commanding, distinctively Mack look, the Mack Anthem is the truck of choice for drivers wanting to make a statement. Yet despite its chiseled appearance, the Mack Anthem was designed with several new aerodynamic enhancements to improve fuel efficiency by up to 3 percent. In addition to a new hood and grille, a new roof, chassis fairings, front bumper and air dam were created to help the truck more easily cut through the wind.

Since 1980, the annual IDEA awards have celebrated the peak of design achievement. With 20 competition categories, the awards demonstrate the expansive nature of industrial design and the impact it has on daily life. Designers from around the world participate in the awards program, each striving for the career-defining achievement of winning an IDEA.

Hurricane Florence Forces Bandit Series to Move Season Finale

(Blooming Prairie MN Sept 19, 2018) – Hurricane Florence and its devastating effect on Virginia and the Carolinas has forced the Minimizer Bandit Big Rig Series to cancel its scheduled event at Myrtle Beach Speedway on September 29th.

"We're really disappointed because we wanted to show the fans in Myrtle Beach a great time," Bandit General Manager Jason Johnson said. "But with Florence's damage to the area, it doesn't make sense to run a race when so many people are suffering."

The new season finale is set for Elko Speedway on Oct. 13th .

"Elko has been very accommodating. This is a last-minute change - to our season finale, no less - and we're excited to run it at a great track like Elko," Johnson said.

Organizers say the 2018 Bandit Series Awards Party will take place after the race at Elko's Champions Club.

"It's going to be a lot of fun," Johnson said. "Fans that purchase tickets will get into both the race and the awards ceremony, so two great events for the price of one."

Also, the Minimizer Fan Series Truck Show takes place the morning of the event.

"We had 30 trucks the last time at Elko and would like to see some more," Johnson said. "Suites are also available for any fans that want a VIP experience."

Ricky Rude sits atop the Bandit season standings, as he goes for his second straight points title.

"Lots of guys are in the running. I can't wait to see who takes home the title," Johnson said.

Tickets for the season finale at Elko Speedway are available online.

'Highway Thru Hell’ Star Jamie Davis Visits Mack Trucks

GREENSBORO, NC (Sept. 17, 2018) – Jamie Davis, star of the international hit television show “Highway Thru Hell,” recently visited Mack Trucks’ Lehigh Valley Operations in Macungie, Pennsylvania, where all Mack® truck models for North America and export are assembled. Davis followed his Mack Anthem® model (left) through the assembly process, even lending a hand to help install the iconic Mack Bulldog.

Davis’ Discovery Channel film crew captured the day’s events, which will be featured during the upcoming seventh season of “Highway Thru Hell.”

“Highway Thru Hell” features Jamie Davis Motor Truck, Davis’ legendary heavy truck rescue company, as they navigate the extreme roads and relentless weather of Canada’s Rocky Mountains. Taking on high-risk vehicle recoveries, Davis and his team help keep open some of the most economically important – and most inhospitable – trucking routes in North America. “Highway Thru Hell” airs on the Discovery Channel in Canada, the Weather Channel in the U.S. and streams on Netflix around the world.

Kenworth Mid Atlantic – Baltimore Joins Kenworth Dealer Network

ROSEDALE, Md., Sept. 12, 2018 – Kenworth Mid Atlantic – Baltimore recently became the newest addition to Kenworth’s dealer network of more than 400 locations in the United States and Canada with its recent opening through a partnership between Tri-State Kenworth and Chesapeake Truck.

“We look forward to offering The World’s Best trucks and delivering the best parts and service support to fleet and truck operators in the Baltimore metro area. We see a tremendous opportunity because of a great need for Kenworth trucks brought on by significant investments in new distribution centers by Amazon, Under Armour and Tradepoint Atlantic,” said Scott Patrohay, dealer principal of Tri-State Kenworth and CEO of Kenworth Mid Atlantic.

“Trucking companies are vying for the best drivers, and Kenworth models such as the T680 and T880 can provide compelling comfort and other benefits to drivers. With our well-equipped full-service dealer location, Kenworth Mid Atlantic – Baltimore also will provide fleets and truck operators with responsive parts and service support, helping drivers get back on the road quickly,” he said.

Kenworth Mid Atlantic – Baltimore features 20 service bays, with 2-hour truck diagnosis through Kenworth PremierCare® ExpressLane. The 26,000-square-foot full-service dealership, located at 8540 Pulaski Highway, near the intersection of U.S. Highway 40, U.S. Interstate 695, and U.S. Interstate 95, also features a 12,850 square-foot parts department.

“The addition of Kenworth medium and heavy duty trucks fully complements the array of products and services delivered by Chesapeake Truck aimed at helping commercial clients power their businesses,” added Wendy Nieberlein, president of Kenworth Mid Atlantic.

Chesapeake Truck was founded in 1967 by Al Kleeman. Since 2002, the dealership has been run by Al’s son, David (now vice president of Kenworth Mid Atlantic), with the goal of providing high quality 24/7 service to its commercial customers. Tri-State Kenworth operates Kenworth dealerships in Enfield and Milford, Connecticut.