DTNA Announces Technician Skills Competition Winners

PORTLAND, Ore. – (Oct. 31, 2018) – Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) recently hosted its inaugural Technician Skills Competition. This unique competition gives DTNA the opportunity to challenge and acknowledge outstanding technician abilities.

“Our service technicians work hard to deliver uptime and keep our customers on the road. The quality of our service technicians is essential to deliver an unsurpassed customer experience and serves as a critical building block for our 24 hour repair turnaround goal,” said Stefan Kurschner, senior vice president DTNA Aftermarket.

The hands-on competition tested technicians’ ability to diagnose and repair DTNA’s range of products, including the Freightliner Cascadia®, New Cascadia®, Detroit™ heavy duty engine and DT™ 12 transmission. Out of hundreds of highly skilled technicians from service locations across the U.S. and Canada, two emerged as the winners – Travis Gannon of Lonestar Truck Group in Waco, Texas in the Vehicle Competition, and Terry Podralski of W.W. Williams Midwest LLC, in Akron, Ohio in the Engine Competition.

“We’re proud of Travis and Terry and the level of expertise and commitment they demonstrate to ensuring our customers are back on the road as soon as possible. They’re great examples of the highly trained technicians we have throughout our network, who constantly strive to increase their skills and serve our customers,” said Kurschner.

Offering the largest service network in the industry, DTNA and its affiliated service locations have invested close to $5 million in technician training and development this calendar year. Some of the programs and initiatives include:

• Get Ahead Program: Get Ahead is a partnership program between DTNA, diesel schools, and DTNA service network locations that offers diesel schools access to web based training free of charge.
• Finish First: Finish First is a 12 week hands-on training program offered at select Universal Technical Institute campuses nationwide. Students earn certifications for Freightliner and Western Star trucks as well as Detroit engines.
• Trucks for Training Program: The Trucks for Training program allows top ranking Get Ahead schools to purchase used Freightliner or Western trucks at a reduced price.
• Master Technician Recognition Program: Launching in November 2018, the Master Technician Recognition Program will recognize and reward technicians that go above and beyond in the pursuit of providing an unsurpassed customer experience. Ten technicians will visit the corporate headquarters and provide feedback on what they see in the field.

For more information please visit: www.TruckTechs.com.

“Investing in technician training is one of the best investments we can make as an organization. With our industry-leading products and service network we will continue to provide the best ownership experience possible for our customers,” concluded Kurschner.

Driving a Kenworth Drives a Better Product

KIRKLAND, Wash., Oct. 31, 2018 – It’s been said that to truly understand a person, you have to walk a mile in their shoes.

That’s not a concept lost on engineers at Kenworth. When Kenworth designed its flagship truck, the T680, it received feedback from more than 850 drivers to help develop the model into a driver friendly truck that would become an industry standard.

Behind the scenes, Kenworth engineers have been living in the shoes of its customers – quietly driving the T680s themselves, learning first-hand what their customers are experiencing. “Kenworth is always looking for new ways to improve our trucks,” explained Patrick Dean, Kenworth chief engineer. “To do so, Kenworth engineers, and many in our marketing group, often grab keys to a Kenworth T680 and travel the state, getting the personal feel for what our customers experience. They also talk with truck drivers at truck stops, and fueling stations — taking in what drivers like about the truck they drive, and what they’d like to see improved.”

Through Kenworth’s “Drive and Sleep” program, Kenworth engineers are encouraged to get a CDL, so that they can personally drive the trucks they design. It’s also a staple program for new engineers at Kenworth. “Within the first three to six months, we want to get our new engineers out on the road, and we do that through this program,” said Lizbeth Davern, Kenworth’s engineering manager for the company’s cab/sleeper/HVAC group. “They’ll accompany one of our CDL engineers to experience life on the road, talk with drivers at truck stops, and sleep in one of the bunks.”

The beauty of the program, according to Davern, is the new perspective that engineers gain about the trucks they design. “It’s one thing to conceptualize what changes should be made while in the office, but getting behind the wheel to see what it’s like for a driver…that’s the next level. And, it’s a key in our effort to keep improving.”

The program officially started in 2007, although employees from the company have been earning CDLs and driving Kenworth trucks since the company’s founding in 1923. “Engineers in trucks is really a long-standing part of Kenworth’s heritage,” said Dean. “If you look back to the early years, there was a saying that Kenworth engineers wore muddy boots. That was in reference to how they would go to the job site – often times in the woods with our logging trucks -- and really understand how the equipment was being used. Personally understanding the voice of the customer – through meeting with them, or in this case, emulating what they do -- pays off in a better Kenworth product.”

For many of the Drive and Sleep trips, engineers will drive out to the Gearjammer truck plaza near Yakima -- about three hours east of Kenworth’s headquarters in Kirkland, Washington. Once they arrive, engineers spend time at the truck stop and interact with drivers.

“The Drive and Sleep program is a very rewarding experience, and it never gets old,” said Brian Langhans, who has been a Kenworth engineer with the interior group the past 11 years. “It gives us a chance to get out from behind our desks and see what it was like to be out on the open road. These trips allow us to empathize with drivers and what they go through and take what we learned back to the office designing new parts, components or systems. It’s a much different experience designing on a computer versus actually interacting with drivers in real life to see how a driver could put a new idea to work.”

What’s learned on the road is making a difference when it comes to T680 modifications. “We’re always looking at ways to get better, from both large product development programs to small refinements,” said Dean. “Drivers live and work inside our trucks, so even small issues can become annoyances.”

Case in point was when Langhans was at a truck stop, talking with some drivers about storage space under the lower bunk. “The drivers were large men, so it was difficult for them to access all the storage space the 76-inch sleeper had to offer,” he said. “We took that back with us and redesigned the lower bunk to have a 90-degree opening for easier access. It was a great solution.”

“When we talk with drivers at truck stops, they think it’s pretty cool that we’re out here and looking for insight from them,” added Davern. “The feedback we get definitely influences our future modifications and helps us build a better product. Everyone benefits from this program.”

“Exactly,” concluded Dean. “The Drive and Sleep program is a key component in Kenworth’s focus on making the World’s Best trucks. We’re always learning, always improving and wanting to make a more driver friendly truck. The more time Kenworth engineers spend on the road and talk with professional drivers, the more our trucks will continue to evolve with driver comfort and performance in mind.”

Volvo Trucks Announces Xceed Efficiency Package

Volvo Trucks announced the new Xceed fuel efficiency package for Volvo VNL 760 and VNL 860 models operating in dry van and refrigerated trailer operations. The new fuel efficiency package will be available for order beginning in January of 2019 for 2020 models. Volvo made the announcement this week at the American Trucking Associations Management Conference & Exhibition in Austin, Texas.

“The new Xceed fuel efficiency package is the most efficient package Volvo has ever offered for the VNL series, and it’s tailored for our large sleeper models operating with dry van and refrigerated trailers, which make up more than three-quarters of the trailers used in on-highway operations,” said Johan Agebrand, Volvo Trucks North America director of product marketing.

The Xceed fuel efficiency package improves fuel efficiency by up to 11 percent when compared with Volvo’s Fuel Efficiency Plus specification. Xceed is 3.5 percent more efficient than the Fuel Efficiency Advanced specification, which was Volvo’s most efficient offering prior to the new Xceed fuel efficiency package.

“The Xceed package bundles our most efficient features to help simplify the truck spec’ing process and ensure critical components of the fuel efficiency equation aren’t overlooked,” said Allison Athey, Volvo Trucks North America product marketing manager. “The Xceed packages for our VNL 760 and VNL 860 represent a systems approach, building on our learnings from the SuperTruck projects and engineering expertise, to ensure we’re including important components that work together to help maximize efficiency.”

The naming structure of the Xceed fuel efficiency package reflects several key components contributing to its unprecedented efficiency.

• X – XE powertrain packages, including Volvo I-Shift automated manual transmissions
• C – turbo Compounding
• E – Extended fairings
• E – ground Effects
• D – Volvo D13 engine

“Our Xceed package combines key lightweight options with our most efficient drivetrain and aerodynamic setups for the intended applications,” said Athey. “The Xceed package is all about freight efficiency, so we’ve included lightweight components to help maximize payload capacity while reducing fuel consumption.”

The Xceed package provides dedicated wheelbase options to ensure the optimal trailer gap of around 44 inches for dry van or refrigerated trailer applications. Lightweight components like a horizontal exhaust system, a dedicated rear axle, limited fuel tank configurations, lightweight fifth wheels, aluminum chassis components, and more help reduce the weight of the VNL models by up to 950 pounds.

“Spec’ing correctly for an application is a vital first step toward maximizing fuel efficiency,” said Agebrand. “With the Xceed fuel efficiency package we’re providing that starting point, but it’s equally important that those maintaining and driving the trucks follow best practices to help ensure their equipment is operating at peak fuel efficiency throughout its life. We can’t overlook the importance of preventative maintenance, updating software, monitoring alignment and tire pressure and driving for maximum efficiency.”

Kenworth W990 to Haul 54th Annual U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree

KIRKLAND, Wash., Oct. 29, 2018 – A new Kenworth W990 will transport the 54th U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree from the Nov. 2 tree-cutting in Oregon’s Willamette National Forest to more than 25 community celebrations planned en route to the tree-lighting ceremony in Washington, D.C., in early December.

To commemorate the 175th anniversary of the Oregon Trail, the Kenworth W990 and the special tree will follow a reverse path of the trail during the more than 3,000-mile journey. This year’s tour theme is “Find Your Trail” and marks the 50th anniversary of the National Trails Systems Act.

The Kenworth W990, equipped with a 76-inch mid-roof sleeper, offers an eye-catching graphics design with a brightly lit and colorfully adorned Christmas tree next to the U.S. Capitol below the words “From the Oregon Trail to the Capitol Steps.” The W990 also includes the logo of Redmond, Oregon-based Central Oregon Truck Company, which is the official hauler of this year’s tree. The company was named the “2018 Best Fleet to Drive For” in the small carrier category by the Truckload Carriers Association and CarriersEdge.

Central Oregon Truck Company was selected due to its excellent reputation in Oregon’s trucking industry, according to Bruce Ward, president of Choose Outdoors, a non-profit organization that assists the U.S. Forest Service in coordinating the annual tour.

“It is an honor to be chosen to deliver the 2018 U.S. Capitol Christmas tree and represent the state of Oregon. We look forward to a memorable trip as we share the tree with America during the journey to Washington D.C.,” said Rick Williams, CEO of Central Oregon Truck Company. Both Williams, a former flatbed driver; and business partner Phil Taylor, who serves as vice president of maintenance; will drive the W990 as a part of an overall team effort with other driving team members from the company. The flatbed carrier transports freight across the 48 continental states and Canada. The company’s Kenworth trucks are purchased from Papé Kenworth, which is a major sponsor of this year’s tour.

“For the fifth consecutive year, a Kenworth truck will deliver ‘The People’s Tree’. The annual lighting of the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree is an important American tradition. We’re especially excited that the new Kenworth W990 will transport the tree. The W990 features the PACCAR Powertrain and will provide a very comfortable work environment for this year’s tour drivers,” said Kurt Swihart, Kenworth marketing director.

The W990 has the PACCAR Powertrain, with the PACCAR’s MX-13 engine rated at 455-hp and 1,650 lb-ft of torque, 12-speed automated transmission, and 40K tandem rear axle. The truck is also specified with the limited edition interior, premium GT703 seats and audio system, Kenworth Nav+HD, predictive cruise control, 1800W inverter, 180-degree swivel passenger seat, and Kenworth TruckTech+® remote diagnostics.

For more information, including a complete tour schedule, visit the 2018 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree website at: www.CapitolChristmasTree.com.

Mack to Sponsor the 2019 Share the Road Safety Program

AUSTIN, TX (Oct. 29, 2018) – Mack Trucks today announced that it would continue to sponsor the American Trucking Associations (ATA) Share the Road program in 2019. Mack has sponsored Share the Road since 2001.

“Mack remains focused on highway safety, and we fully support the powerful message that the Share the Road drivers relay to the general public about operating safely around large trucks,” said Jonathan Randall, senior vice president of sales and marketing for Mack Trucks North America. “We incorporated many safety features into the design of the Mack Anthem®, which the Share the Road drivers utilize to deliver their messages to millions of people across the country.”

Professional truck drivers present live safety exhibitions for students, media and policy makers, demonstrating how to drive safely alongside semi-trucks through the Share the Road program. Each driver in the program has an outstanding driving record, including many with one million or more accident-free miles.

The drivers travel throughout the country in a 2018 Mack Anthem 70-inch Stand Up Sleeper model teaching the public about truck stopping distances and how that differs from passenger cars, plus potential truck blind spots while also discussing other safety considerations that can help ensure safe travels.

The 2018 Mack Anthem model donated to the Share the Road program is equipped with the 13-liter Mack MP®8 505C engine with 505 horsepower and 1,860 lb.-ft. of torque and the 12-speed Mack mDRIVE™ automated manual transmission, which allows drivers to focus on the road ahead rather than shifting gears. The Mack mDRIVE is standard on all Mack Anthem models.

The Share the Road Anthem also has Mack Road Stability Advantage by Bendix and Bendix Wingman Fusion. Road Stability Advantage is a fully electronic stability control system that helps reduce the risk of rollover and jackknife accidents. Bendix Wingman Fusion, a camera- and radar-based system, provides collision mitigation, adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning capabilities. Both systems are standard on all Mack Anthem models.

The Anthem is available in several configurations, including a Day Cab, a 48-inch Flat Top Sleeper and a 70-inch Stand Up Sleeper.

Mack Trucks Signs MOU with Trimble Transportation

AUSTIN, TX (Oct. 29, 2018) – Mack Trucks announced today it has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Trimble Transportation Enterprise (formerly TMW Systems), an industry-leading provider of transportation software solutions that help change the way freight is moved. Mack made the announcement during the American Trucking Associations (ATA) Management Conference & Exhibition Oct. 29 in Austin, Texas.

“We are pleased to announce our planned collaboration with Trimble Transportation Enterprise and study how we can bring their fleet efficiency solutions to our customers,” said David Pardue, vice president of connected vehicles and uptime services for Mack Trucks. “Applying Trimble Transportation Enterprise’s approach to analyzing data will provide customers a clearer view of asset performance and help boost productivity.”

Trimble Transportation Enterprise provides customers with innovative tools for routing and dispatch, asset maintenance solutions, business intelligence, transportation management and fleet visibility in order to maximize efficiencies within a customer’s fleet.

"We recognize there are numerous opportunities to improve service and repair inefficiencies, and collectively we can better solve them," said Scott Vanselous, executive vice president and general manager of asset maintenance solutions for Trimble Transportation Enterprise. "We look forward to working with Mack Trucks to continue to provide innovative solutions to our customers.”

Details regarding specific offerings to be developed have not yet been finalized.

Mack Trucks Enhances GuardDog® Connect

AUSTIN, TX (Oct. 29, 2018) – Mack Trucks is now delivering even more benefits to customers from its Mack® GuardDog® Connect telematics-based solution with help from analytics leader SAS. The partnership with SAS allows Mack to more effectively analyze the data flowing from GuardDog Connect that guides the uptime decision-making.

“With SAS solutions, we’re able to see patterns in our data that we were not seeing previously, allowing us to even more efficiently and effectively maximize uptime for our customers,” said David Pardue, Mack vice president of connected vehicles and uptime solutions.

SAS helps customers transform volumes of data into intelligence that lead to better decision making. With a proven track record of working with industry-leading companies, SAS is providing Mack cutting-edge tools to develop an advanced analytics approach to managing customer uptime.

“SAS helped Mack build a scalable, flexible, enterprise-wide analytics system that enables the company to act upon signals from the telematics system in ways that exceed the expectations of Mack’s end customers: trucking companies,” said Bill Roberts, SAS director of IoT. “The system uses analytical techniques including visualization, machine learning and artificial intelligence to interpret streaming GuardDog Connect data and drive action when specific conditions arise.”

The enhancement of GuardDog Connect with SAS is just one of many updates Mack has made to increase uptime for customers. Mack Over The Air, rolled out earlier this year, enables remote software updates for powertrain components and vehicle parameters on trucks equipped with Mack 2017 or newer engines.

In addition, Mack continues to expand its network of Mack Certified Uptime Centers. Featuring dedicated “uptime bays” for vehicles requiring shorter repairs, Mack Certified Uptime Centers help streamline the repair process, resulting in a 50 percent reduction in repair times that are four hours or less. Mack currently has 132 Certified Uptime Centers across North America.

Unplanned downtime is one of the single largest costs heavy-duty trucking customers face, reaching upwards of $2,000 per day a truck is down. Mack GuardDog Connect helps reduce downtime by proactively monitoring fault codes that could potentially shut down a truck or lead to an unplanned visit to the dealer.

When GuardDog Connect detects an issue, it notifies Mack OneCall™ agents at Mack’s 24/7 Uptime Center even before a driver realizes there is a potential problem. The OneCall team quickly diagnoses the issue to determine the best course of action. If a repair is needed, proactive repair scheduling and parts confirmation is done, all while the truck remains on the road.

Mack GuardDog Connect is standard on all Mack Anthem®, Pinnacle™, Granite®, LR and TerraPro® models. Mack currently has more than 70,000 connected vehicles on the road today.

Great Dane Highlights Innovations at IFDA Conference

Savannah, Georgia – October 29, 2018 – Great Dane will demonstrate the unique features and benefits of hidden innovations at the 2018 International Foodservice Distributors Association (IFDA) Distribution Solutions Conference. The conference is being held at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas, October 28-30.

“Nothing to See Here” is the theme of Great Dane’s exhibit at Booth #419. The display will demonstrate how technology that is invisible to the naked eye, such as the company’s exclusive ThermoGuard reefer lining featuring Microban broad-spectrum antimicrobial technology, can help fight hidden threats to refrigerated trailers that can cause irreversible damage.

“As the company that pioneered the refrigerated trailer in the 1940s, Great Dane understands how invisible issues like water weight gain and bacteria growth can go largely unseen in your reefer until it’s too late,” said Chris Hammond, Great Dane’s executive vice president of Sales. “Luckily, we also know how to protect against these invisible threats. Great Dane’s exclusive ThermoGuard reefer lining featuring Microban antimicrobial technology can help improve insulation performance and provide a cleaner environment for temperature-sensitive goods. Since it’s difficult to see this technology at work, we’re using our IFDA exhibit to demonstrate how ThermoGuard with Microban protection helps protect payloads, profits and reputations with strength that’s hidden in plain sight.”

Visitors to the booth will have the chance to test their refrigerated trailer knowledge by participating in an interactive trivia game called “Trailer Pursuit.” They can also learn about the many benefits of Microban broad-spectrum antimicrobial protection, while taste-testing delicious snacks prepared by Grove Point Plantation Executive Chef Tim Filgate inside the Great Dane food trailer.

Great Dane will also be presenting in the IFDA Innovation Theater on Monday, October 29 from 1:00-1:45 p.m. Representatives from Great Dane and Microban International will discuss how the effects of foodborne illness in the supply chain and the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) have affected trailer design and the needs of the industry. They will also discuss how ThermoGuard with Microban protection can help meet these changing needs by helping prevent temperature-sensitive goods from reaching unsafe temperatures and providing a cleaner environment for transport.

The Great Dane booth will also feature three pieces of equipment: An Everest Multi-Temp refrigerated trailer, a Johnson R-Series composite refrigerated truck body and a Johnson C-Series all-electric refrigerated truck body. The Everest Multi-Temp on display was designed and built exclusively for Ben E. Keith Co., a broadline foodservice and beverage distributor. This highly-customized 28-foot reefer features several options to meet foodservice needs, including PunctureGuard lining with Microban antimicrobial protection, three temperature-controlled compartments with moveable bulkheads and remote evaporators, and two curbside doors featuring Great Dane’s unique blade lock design, which features dual-compression seals to prevent air loss around the total perimeter of the door.

The Johnson R-Series composite refrigerated truck body features six automotive-style doors, three on each side, and a low ground-to-floor height, which helps reduce injuries and lets drivers quickly identify products at ground level. The R-Series also features a back-up alarm, back-up camera system and LED strip lighting above each door that is activated with keyless entry for improved visibility and safety.

The Johnson C-Series on display is Great Dane’s prototype all-electric refrigerated truck body. This body features the latest electric evaporator and solar panel technology. It uses Great Dane’s AE Series all-electric refrigeration system, which requires no diesel fuel, reduces operating costs and virtually eliminates particulate matter, reducing overall fuel consumption and carbon footprint. The roof-mounted solar panels combined with a 48 VDC condensing unit and the composite construction of the truck body provide a complete, thermally-efficient solution for distributors and a reliable alternative to diesel-powered units.

Finally, the booth will feature information about Great Dane’s AdvantEDGE National Aftermarket Parts & Service Program, which gives members access to its Emergency Roadside Service (ERS) program, controlled ordering and invoicing, competitive labor rates and more.

Peterbilt Announces 2019 Engine Updates

AUSTIN – October 28, 2018 – Peterbilt Motors Company today announced updated offerings for the 2019 PACCAR Engines.

Peterbilt will offer the MX-13 with two new ratings for the 2019 model year engines; a multi-torque 455 HP with a torque rating of 1,650 – 1,850 lb.-ft. and a 405 HP with 1,650 lb.-ft. of torque. Each update for model year 2019 engines was specifically designed to result in increased reliability and fuel economy.

When packaged with the PACCAR Transmission and the PACCAR 40k rear axle the new 405 HP and 1,650 lb.-ft. torque rating for the MX-13 provides one of the most fuel efficient integrated powertrains for long haul customers.

“Peterbilt and PACCAR Powertrain work closely to ensure Peterbilt customers have the most fuel efficient options available, and they already benefit from a total weight savings of more than 500 lbs. when spec’ing the full PACCAR Powertrain on the Model 579,” said Peterbilt’s on-highway marketing manager Wesley Slavin. “Peterbilt’s customers have challenged us to find even more ways to maximize fuel economy and these new ratings deliver.”

The new engine ratings will be available January 2019.

Kenworth Announces New Cab Interior Color Schemes

KIRKLAND, Wash., Oct. 26, 2018 – Kenworth has announced new colors and interior stylings on its flagship on-highway Kenworth T680 and vocational leader Kenworth T880 models. The new choices will also be available with the newly introduced Kenworth W990. The new color options will be available with both Diamond VIT and Vantage interiors on trucks produced starting in the new year.

“Our design team created some new color schemes that give our cabs a nice new refresh,” said Kurt Swihart, Kenworth marketing director. “We’ve always built The World’s Best® trucks, and that applies to our interior packages as well. We’re excited about the new color combinations and expect they will further separate the Kenworth product from the competition in terms of quality, driver comfort and overall market appeal.”

The new colors include a black dash top and updated hydrographics accent trim panels. The doorpad trim colors are updated to match, providing a nice contrast. Seats undertook the biggest visual change with new seat color and pattern options. Seat covering choices – standard cloth, DuraSupreme, Ultraleather® and leather (two-tone) – are now available in Slate Gray or Tan. Trim accent colors are offered in two trim levels, Diamond VIT and Vantage, both in Slate Gray or Tan color options.

International Truck Introduces The International LT MPG Package

LISLE, Ill., Oct. 26, 2018 -- Building on its commitment to offer customers the lowest total cost of ownership (TCO), International Truck is introducing the International® LT® Series MPG Package for Fuel Efficiency.

"At a time when every one-percent improvement in fuel efficiency can save customers hundreds of dollars per truck per year, this new fuel efficiency spec package can help customers achieve major reductions in their TCO," said Michael Cancelliere, Navistar president, Truck and Parts. "In addition to savings from fuel efficiency, the LT Series MPG Package provides customers with upfront savings through cost-effective bundling of a range of aerodynamic, fuel-saving features."

The LT MPG Package's highest-efficiency spec offers proprietary and supplier-provided enhancements, including an aerodynamic chassis package, predictive cruise control, air dam and bumper seal, as well as a roof fairing and extenders, chassis skirts and energy-efficient wheel covers. This spec delivers up to an 8 percent improvement in fuel efficiency over the International® LT® Series with just the roof fairing and extenders, air dam and bumper seal.

"Spec'ing for fuel efficiency can be a complex process," Cancelliere said. "The LT MPG Package simplifies that process while reducing customer TCO."

The International® LT® Series MPG Package is available in day cab, 56-inch hi-rise and 73-inch hi-rise/sky-rise cab models. It can be viewed from October 27 through October 31 at the International Truck booth at ATA-MC&E, Booth #5075 at the Austin Convention Center.

PACCAR Fuel Economy Package Now Available on Kenworth T680

KIRKLAND, Wash., Oct. 26, 2018 – Kenworth continues to deliver fuel economy enhancements with the introduction of the PACCAR Powertrain Fuel Economy Package. This package combines the fully integrated PACCAR Powertrain, including the PACCAR MX-13 engine with a new 405-hp at 1,650 lb-ft of torque rating, PACCAR 12-speed automated transmission, PACCAR 40K tandem rear axle, and enhanced Kenworth predictive cruise control technology.

The PACCAR MX-13 engine features a new torque curve that further refines the engine’s fuel economy performance in line-haul and regional haul applications by lowering the engine’s horsepower rating while maintaining its torque.

“This combination maximizes fuel economy and offers excellent performance for our customers,” said Kurt Swihart, Kenworth marketing director. “One of the bigger contributors is the deeply integrated predictive cruise control function, which varies the vehicle’s speed over rolling hills without reducing the average vehicle speed. The transmission software is also optimized for the PACCAR MX-13, allowing for lower engine RPMs at cruising speeds. At Kenworth, we’re continually researching ways to enhance spec’ing to find the best fuel economy combination available. The new 405-horsepower rating is just one example.”

The PACCAR Powertrain Fuel Economy package will be available in the first quarter of 2019.

Mack Displays Anthem Models at ATA Conference & Expo

GREENSBORO, NC (Oct. 25, 2018) – Two Mack Anthem® models will be on display in Mack Trucks booth no. 4073 at the American Trucking Associations Management Conference & Exhibition 2018, Oct. 28-31 in Austin, Texas.

The Mack Anthem model combines a bold yet still highly aerodynamic design and an all-new driver-inspired interior with Mack’s legendary integrated powertrain to give customers a reliable and cost-effective truck they can count on to get the job done.

The Mack Anthem 70-inch Stand Up Sleeper model to be displayed is equipped with the Mack® HE+ package, which combines aerodynamic components and the Mack MP®8HE engine with Mack Energy Recovery Technology to improve fuel efficiency by up to 9.5 percent.

Mack Energy Recovery Technology captures energy from the engine that would otherwise be wasted, and converts it into mechanical energy fed back into the powertrain, allowing the engine to run at lower RPM for improved fuel efficiency and less stress on key components.

Both Mack Anthem models feature Mack Over The Air, which enables remote programming of powertrain components and other vehicle parameters like road speed limits. Mack Over The Air is powered by Mack’s standard, fully integrated telematics solution, Mack GuardDog® Connect, and delivers software updates directly to customers when it’s convenient for their operations.

Mack GuardDog® Connect proactively monitors truck performance, detecting fault codes and enabling real-time diagnosis of issues that could lead to unplanned downtime. Working with the Mack ASIST online service management system and Mack OneCall™ uptime agents in Mack’s 24/7 Uptime Center, GuardDog Connect maximizes customer uptime by scheduling repairs and confirming that needed parts are in stock and ready to install, all while the truck is still on the road.

Mack’s uptime services are a part of Mack Connect, a connected solution that integrates intelligent software, predictive analytics and driver assist technologies to help boost customer productivity and profitability. Solutions under Mack Connect are aligned into three pillars: connected support, connected business and connected driving.

Mack models on display in the Mack booth at ATA MC&E include:

Mack Anthem 70-inch Stand Up Sleeper

• Engine: Mack MP8HE with Mack Energy Recovery Technology; 425 horsepower; 1,560 lb.-ft. of torque
• Transmission: Mack mDRIVE™ 12-speed, overdrive
• Features: Mack HE+ package; Bendix Wingman Fusion; Mack Advantage chassis; Mack FXL 12.5 12,500 lb. front axle; Mack Maxlite 40EZ 40,000 lb. rear air suspension

Mack Anthem Day Cab

• Engine: Mack MP7-425E; 425 horsepower; 1,360/1,560 lb.-ft. of torque
• Transmission: Mack mDRIVE 12-speed, direct drive
• Features: Full aerodynamics package; Mack Advantage chassis; Mack FXL12 12,000 lb. front axle; Mack Maxlite 40EZ 40,000 lb. rear air suspension

Kenworth Introduces T880S Twin Steer

KIRKLAND, Wash., Oct. 24, 2018 – Kenworth is adding a factory installed twin steer configuration to its T880S vocational model. The Kenworth T880S Twin Steer features a set-forward front axle with a 61-inch axle spread to maximize payload.

The Kenworth T880S Twin Steer offers a very short 114-inch BBC. This allows larger bodies to be installed farther forward and closer to the cab.

“Kenworth continues to expand the excellent diversity of the T880 platform. The T880S Twin Steer is the next step in that evolution,” said Kurt Swihart, Kenworth marketing director.

The 61-inch axle spread enables customers in the provinces of Alberta and British Columbia to get a factory built T880S Twin Steer that meets Western Canadian tandem axle requirements, specifically for ready-mix application. It also means that the Kenworth T880S chassis can be upfitted much faster, saving between three and six weeks in delivery times to the body builder versus alternative options.

For customers in the United States, the T880S Twin Steer will address applications, such as ready mix, block trucks, cranes, and concrete pumpers. Depending on the detailed specs, as well as federal and state bridge laws, the T880S Twin Steer can handle 1,500 or more pounds of additional payload as compared to a non set-back axle twin steer.

“We strive to enhance productivity for our customers whenever we can. Kenworth has a long history of building factory twin steers, including the 72-inch axle spread available on our set-back axle T800 and C500 models,” Swihart said.

The Kenworth T880S Twin Steer’s front axles are rated at 40,000 pounds. The front end components, including axles, springs, and steering gears are shared with non-twin steer T880S. The front suspension is “equalized” between the front and rear steer axles for greater driver comfort and payload distribution between the two.

The T880S offers the PACCAR MX-11 and PACCAR MX-13 engines up to 510-hp with torque up to 1,850 lb-ft. An Allison automatic transmission is available when ordered with PACCAR wide or standard track front axles.

Mack Improves Driver Comfort and Visibility on LR Model

TORONTO (Oct. 24, 2018) – Mack Trucks’ leading refuse vehicle, the Mack® LR model, now offers improved safety and driver productivity features for its customers. Mack made the announcement at Canadian Waste and Recycling Expo, Oct. 24-25 at the Enercare Center, Toronto.

A passenger side sliding glass window for superior visibility, and Sears C2 PLUS air suspension seat for enhanced driver comfort, are now standard on the LR model and available for order. Mack also announced that an exterior stainless steel sun visor and 315 series tire coverage for the Hendrickson HAULMAAX suspension are now available for order.

“Mack designs every product and service with our customers in mind,” said Curtis Dorwart, refuse product manager for Mack Trucks. “Refuse customers have a unique set of challenges facing them on the job, so Mack took their input and developed features that would help improve safety, comfort and productivity.”

The new sliding glass window improves ventilation and allows easy access to the passenger side mirror during right-hand stand-up or sit-down operation. The exterior stainless steel sun visor, available as an option, improves heat deflection and reduces glare, while standing up to harsh refuse operating conditions.

The Sears Seating C2 PLUS air suspension seat offers an even more comfortable ride, while a Sears Seating multi-position right-hand seat is standard for customers who spec right-hand operation LR models. The multi-position seat, engineered exclusively for the Mack LR, enables more adjustability for right-hand operators whether standing or sitting, as both the seat back and seat base are adjustable.

Spec’ing the Mack Granite®, Mack TerraPro™ and LR models with 315 series tires in all wheel positions greatly simplifies the ordering process for customers and enables them to more efficiently manage their tire programs.

Also now available for order on Mack LR and TerraPro models is TMC RP170A, a set of chassis-to-body electrical interface guidelines for refuse trucks. The electrical interface was developed through industry collaboration by the American Trucking Associations’ Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC), and allows for easier upfit, standardization and ease of troubleshooting and maintenance.

The Mack LR was designed to meet the challenges of refuse customers needing superior maneuverability, increased productivity and improved visibility, and is available in 6x4 and 4x2 configurations. Customers can specify left-hand drive, right-hand drive, dual-drive and left-hand drive with right-hand stand-up/sit down drive.

Mack’s 11-liter MP®7 diesel engine is standard in the LR model, delivering up to 355 horsepower and 1,260 lb.-ft. of torque. The LR is equipped with an Allison RDS five-speed or six-speed automatic transmission.

Mack Trucks Pre-wire for Lytx Solutions Now Available

TORONTO (Oct. 24, 2018) – Mack Trucks refuse customers who want to help improve the safety of their drivers and others on the road can now order the Lytx DriveCam and Lytx Video Services pre-wire option. The factory-installed wiring system enables the customer to simply plug-in the Lytx event recorder, reducing installation costs and streamlining the purchase.

Mack made the announcement during the Canadian Waste and Recycling Expo Oct. 24-25 at the Enercare Centre in Toronto.

The pre-wire option will be available for the Mack® LR, TerraPro™ and Granite® models. Mack and Lytx, the global leader in video telematics, announced their partnership in October 2017.

“The availability of the pre-wire option enables Mack to offer yet even more features to enhance the safety of our customers and those in the neighborhoods in which our customers’ vehicles operate, mitigating the potential for accidents,” said David Pardue, vice president of connected vehicles and uptime services for Mack Trucks. “We are pleased that this option is now available for order.”

The Lytx DriveCam safety program can help reduce unsafe driving behaviors through video-based driver coaching and predictive analytics. When combined with Lytx Video Services, which delivers features like on-demand continually recorded video, optional live stream and support for multiple cameras, clients can go beyond safety to help eliminate fleet and operations blind spots that keep them from being their most efficient, productive and profitable.

Fleets can, for example, use video to identify new and overlooked revenue opportunities such as overflowing bins or to provide video confirmation, such as proof of service or delivery verification.