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So then what becomes of the FIREMAAX? https://www.hendrickson-intl.com/Truck/Fire-Rescue/FIREMAAX-EX

Trailer-Body Builders / April 12, 2019 Hendrickson Truck Commercial Vehicle Systems recently introduced ROADMAAX heavy-duty rear air suspensions for fire and rescue vehicles in North America. ROADMAAX will serve as the new rear air suspension for Rosenbauer’s new SA Viper aerial truck, the company said. ROADMAAX is designed for heavy-duty fire and rescue markets with ride quality and equipment protection as its cornerstone features. “ROADMAAX is the future of high-capacity performance suspensions for the fire protection industry,” said Chris Batsch, director of the specialty vehicle business unit for Hendrickson. “This system was designed with a low maintenance, unique suspension geometry providing maximum control, predictable handling and premium ride quality.” The new system was put through rigorous test and validation procedures based on real world road conditions, Hendrickson said, and received “outstanding” feedback on its performance and capabilities. “We are excited to offer another innovation to the fire industry and provide first responders with the products and reliability that they need to do their job.” said Dave Scharphorn, director of sales for Rosenbauer Motors. ROADMAAX is designed to deliver enhanced handling in challenging environments where vehicles encounter sharp turns and unexpected ground and environmental conditions. The integration of Hendrickson’s main support member spring technology, with its wide stance air springs, provides a balance of predictable handling and ride quality over a variety of terrain, the company said. Available initially in capacities of 35,000 pounds per axle at Rosenbauer in North America, ROADMAAX is approved for fire and rescue applications. .

Roger Gilroy, Transport Topics / April 15, 2019 U.S. sales of medium-duty trucks in March held steady, settling above 21,000, WardsAuto.com reported. Classes 4-7 hit 21,105 units, down 0.2% compared with 21,135 a year earlier, according to Ward’s. “Nobody is looking for a lot of incremental demand to come out of this space. I think it is largely sated at this point,” one industry analyst said. “Much of what we are going to see is replacement as opposed to people trying to increase fleet size,” he said. “The amount of work is not going to change appreciably through the year.” Year-to-date, sales improved 2% to 56,166 compared with 55,041 a year earlier. “I am calling for a 2.5% gain this year. Again, no surprises,” he said. Class 7 sales fell 6.2% to 4,731. Freightliner notched a leading 43% share on sales of 2,041. Many vehicles in this class are destined for municipal customers, he said, and these include single-axle dumps and work trucks with booms and digger derricks that lift and place utility poles, for example. In related news, Kenworth Truck Co. announced an expanded list of options for its Class 7 medium-duty cabover models. For the Kenworth K370 Class 7 cabover, these options include the Dana Spicer S23-172E 23K high-entry axle, Reyco 23,000-pound rear suspension, Dana 1710 driveline series, 8,000-pound lift-axle pusher, pusher tires and wheels, and upsized park and spring brakes. These options are appropriate for heavy freight delivery, dump trucks, small concrete mixers and cranes, while also opening the door for other vocational uses, such as a larger concrete mixers or 43,000-pound dump applications. The Kenworth cabover has 55-degree wheel cut for a tight turning radius, which aids in maneuverability when operating in crowded urban environments, according to the Kirkland, Wash.-based company, a unit of Paccar Inc. “It will be fun to see [heavier cabovers] come back into the marketplace. In 2005 or 2006, before the housing bubble imploded, I think all the mainstream manufacturers had announced cabovers, and the timing of the introduction could not have been worse,” he said. “It fell apart just as they were getting their trucks to market, so, they tucked tail and ran.” Meanwhile, Class 6 sales were flat at 7,199, or two trucks more than a year ago. Classes 4-5 rose 3.2% to 9,175 compared with 8,892 a year earlier. .

Ford Trucks International / April 12, 2019 With Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Ford trucks won't be falling into any black holes. They'll be right on track, whatever happens. #FordTrucks #blackhole .

Ford Trucks International / March 19, 2019 The "New Big" Ford F-MAX caused a lot of excitement at the Croatian Road Show! The ITOY 2019 award winner Ford Trucks F-MAX was in Zagreb and Rijeka on March 19 and 21, respectively! .

Daewoo Trucks South Africa / April 9, 2019 Daewoo Trucks add robust and high efficiency on our heavy-duty truck applications. Maximum torque and fuel efficiency are improved which provides customers easier and faster maintenance for Daewoo Trucks. .

Ford Trucks International / April 13, 2019 The New Big: The Ford Trucks F-MAX was revealed in Hungary with a special product launch ! Excited to share the load of the Hungarian market! .

Commercial Motor / April 10, 2019 Turning tighter circles with MAN's Steering Brake .

Volvo Trucks Malaysia / April 10, 2019 Shah Alam – Volvo Trucks, one of the world’s largest providers of commercial vehicles, is commemorating its 50th anniversary of achievements and milestones in Malaysia this year. The company was started in Malaysia in 1969 under Federal Auto Industrial Sdn Bhd and a year after the Swedish Motor Assemblies plant had begun operations in the country. Its first product brought into the country in that year was the complete built-up N Series truck, which was a tipper and heavy haulage transporter that also featured the three-point safety belt that was created by Volvo. It was one of the first trucks to have sported this important safety feature. Over the next five decades, Volvo Trucks expanded its footprint through the launching of new truck models, opening of more dealerships across Malaysia, gaining more new customers and introduction of many key aftermarket services and activities to meet the needs of its growing customer base. “Volvo Trucks is extremely glad to be celebrating our 50th anniversary in Malaysia this year. This is one of the most momentous milestones for us and we are very satisfied with everything that we have been able to accomplish over the past five decades. We also feel truly honoured to have the continuous support of the industry and our customers as they have made it possible for us to grow our business in this market,” said Mitch Peden, Managing Director, Volvo Malaysia. Highlights of Volvo Trucks Heritage in Malaysia Laying the foundation in 1969 This year marked the setting-up of Volvo Trucks’ operations in Malaysia and the introduction of the complete built-up N Series tipper and heavy haulage truck. Establishing footprints in the 70s The 70s paved way for a stronger establishment of the brand in Malaysia. The complete knocked-down assembly of the N Series truck was initiated and the 3-point safety belt equipped in all the units, making Volvo the first truck brand to emphasise safety. Over the course of this decade, Volvo Trucks made several breakthroughs including the introduction of the turbo engine used in the F Series truck. It also continued serving the country by delivering the Volvo F88 truck to the Malaysian Army, further cementing its importance in Malaysia. Charting more milestones in the 80s Volvo Trucks’ development into the eighties was built upon the introduction of new innovative technologies and features focused on improved efficiency, performance and safety. The company introduced the Euro 1 engine in the FL10 model and became the first truck brand to introduce the airbag as well as the 6x2 tag axle. With these products, business began to expand and had propelled the arrival of other new models to service the booming transport and logistics sector. Thus, Volvo expanded its portfolio with the arrival of F7, F10, F12, FL10, N10, N12 and NL12 truck models. It also delivered the N10 trucks to the local Fire Department and the first batch of N12 logging trucks to its customers in East Malaysia. Driving progress in the 90s The 90s saw the arrival of the Euro 2 engine and the latest FL10, FL12 and FH12 models and the introduction of its Blue and Gold Service Agreements to serve the customers’ demand for cost-effective preventive maintenance and repairs. In addition, Volvo also introduced its first Breakdown Service Team to ensure that its aftermarket support reaches its customers whereever they are. This was significant as Volvo Trucks continued to expand its network of dealerships across Malaysia. Making impact beyond 2000s The 2000s were significant for Volvo Trucks as it continued to build upon its successes and made bigger impacts in the industry. Realising there was an increasing demand for reliable heavy-duty trucks to meet industry needs, the Volvo FM9 and FM12 models were brought into Malaysia in 2002. This was followed by the launching of its Customer Care Centre (CCC) to provide 24/7 breakdown service support. Playing a bigger role in driving productivity and enhancing road safety, the Volvo Driver Training programme and the annual Fuelwatch Challenge to promote safety and fuel-efficient driving behaviour among truck drivers were also launched. The Volvo I-Shift transmission which uses road grade, speed, weight, and engine load to gauge the optimum time for switching gears to increase fuel efficiency was introduced as one of its latest advancement in trucking solutions. As business expanded, Volvo Trucks’ appointed Dai Lieng Machinery Sdn Bhd as its first private dealer for Volvo in East Malaysia in 2008. In the ensuing years, Volvo Trucks continued to expand its business and launched programmes to deepen its customer relationship. This included an investment of RM 75 million [TSHK1] [JO2] for its network enhancement strategy across both Peninsular and East Malaysia. This 3-year long project saw Volvo’s dealerships in Kuantan, Prai, Ipoh and Sibu being relocated to newer and bigger locations, a new Kota Bahru dealership established and other dealerships across the country upgraded with additional facilities. This also included the significant upgrading and transformation of Port Klang dealership into its flagship outlet, serving the needs of at least 2,000 Volvo trucks in the area. In 2014, two new models joined the Volvo Trucks fleet with the launch of the new facelifted and improved Volvo FM and FMX to meet different industry applications. The following year, Volvo upped the ante by introducing to the market Volvo Dynafleet – its telematics system for customers to better manage their fleet and keep track of their trucks and drivers’ performance in real-time. However, Volvo’s most significant product milestone was achieved when the premium flagship Volvo FH Series comprising two variants, FH13 and FH16, made their epic entry into Malaysia in 2017. With breakthrough innovations such as the ultra-low crawler gears and Volvo Dynamic Steering (VDS), the FH series offers superior handling, performance, safety, fuel efficiency and ergonomics and can withstand extreme heavy loads. The introduction of the Volvo FH was touted as setting a new industry benchmark for innovative trucking solutions in Malaysia. More than just business and in line with its commitment to sustainable social and environmental responsibility, in 2018 Volvo Trucks carried out its biggest local corporate social responsibility project ever in Bario, Sarawak. This project saw Volvo Trucks funding an estimated RM500,000 to build a fire-fighting system for the Bario Asal Lembaa longhouse settlement and five eco-shelters along the 25-km distance Bario ancestral jungle trail to help improve the lives of the Kelabit community there. And in the last two years, Volvo has continuously launched additional aftermarket services to ensure that its customers receive the highest global standards which Volvo has always adhered. These included the Volvo Service Planning, 24-months Fitted Parts Warranty and Extended Workshop Hours programmes to further boost customer satisfaction and long-lasting truck ownership experience. “Volvo’s strategy revolves around making bigger difference through more sustainable, smarter and efficient transport solutions for the industry, customers and communities at large. Stongly guided by our three core values which are safety, quality and environmental care, Volvo Trucks has successfully achieved 50 years in Malaysia by continuously expanding our resources, products and service offerings and giving back to communities,” commented Peden. He added, “Although today we are well positioned as the market leader in the heavy-duty European brand segment in Malaysia, there’s still a lot to achieve. The next 50 years will pose new challenges and we are thrilled and ready to embrace it as we remain focused on driving efficiency, innovation and excellence for all our stakeholders.” .

Trailer-Body Builders / April 11, 2019 Lowbed trailer manufacturer Fontain Heavy-Haul recently introduced a trailer designed to carry heavy loads in a lighter package—the new Fontaine Magnitude 55L. “The Fontaine Magnitude 55L is designed for haulers that do not need a spread axle setup and want to maximize their payload,” said Todd Anderson, vice president of sales and marketing. “Since the new Magnitude 55L operates close-coupled only, our engineering team managed to shed 2,000 pounds in the design. “So if a hauler only needs three or four axles close-coupled, the new Magnitude 55L will carry an additional ton of payload.” Fontaine said the new lowbed trailer handles 55 tons in only 13 feet. Fabricated with 100,000-pound minimum yield steel flanges, the Magnitude 55L is built tough and designed to provide years of reliable service. The trailer boasts a 26-foot clear deck length and a loaded deck height of 18 inches, with 6 inches of ground clearance. The 55L also features the most versatile hydraulic removable gooseneck in the industry, Fontaine claimed. It can be connected and disconnected in a matter of seconds—not minutes—and can connect or disconnect on uneven ground. A wide variety of accessories are available. Check with a local dealer for the right configuration for each application, and visit fontainetrailer.com for more information. .

Microsoft worked with Chinese military university on artificial intelligence Financial Times / April 10, 2019 Microsoft has worked with a Chinese military-run university on artificial intelligence research, a revelation that has sparked anger among China hawks on Capitol Hill. Three papers, published between March and November last year, were co-written by academics at Microsoft Research Asia in Beijing and researchers with affiliations to China’s National University of Defense Technology, which is controlled by China’s top military body, the Central Military Commission. One of the papers described a new AI method to recreate detailed environmental maps by analysing human faces, which experts say could have clear applications for surveillance and censorship. The paper acknowledges the system provides a better understanding of the surrounding environment “not viewed by the camera”, which can have a “variety of vision applications”. Samm Sacks, a senior fellow at the think-tank New America and a China tech policy expert, said the papers raised “red flags because of the nature of the technology, the author affiliations, combined with what we know about how this technology is being deployed in China right now”. “The [Chinese] government is using these technologies to build surveillance systems and to detain minorities [in Xinjiang],” Ms Sacks added. The US government is debating whether research collaborations, particularly in sensitive areas such as artificial intelligence and augmented reality, should be subject to stricter export controls. After the Microsoft work was reported by the Financial Times, Senator Ted Cruz, the Texas Republican who has emerged as a leading China hawk, warned “we must ensure that American business interests are not enabling the [Chinese Communist party’s] oppression.” “American companies need to understand that doing business in China carries significant and deepening risk,” Mr Cruz added. “In addition to being targeted by the Chinese Communist party for espionage, American companies are increasingly at risk of boosting the Chinese Communist party’s human rights atrocities.” Microsoft defended the research, saying it was part of a worldwide effort by its scientists, who were often academics, to work with their international counterparts on cutting-edge technology issues. “The research is guided by our principles, fully complies with US and local laws, and . . . is published to ensure transparency so that everyone can benefit from our work,” the company said. But Adam Segal, director of cyber space policy at the Council on Foreign Relations think-tank, noted the revelation comes at a time US authorities, including the FBI, have put academic partnerships with Beijing “under the microscope” because of fears Chinese students and scientists working on “frontier technologies” are assisting China’s People’s Liberation Army. Last week, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology cut ties with telecoms group Huawei and launched an “elevated risk” review process for its Chinese collaborations. Pedro Domingos, a professor of AI at the University of Washington, said the Microsoft paper on environmental mapping could provide crucial help to authorities seeking to monitor individuals. “Let’s suppose I’m an intelligence agency and I have pictures of people of interest,” said Mr Domingos. “I can use the system to tell something about the place they’re in that they didn’t realise they were giving away.” Microsoft’s research arm in Beijing has collaborated on at least two other papers with NUDT researchers, including in the area of machine reading — a way for computers to understand online text. “Machine reading comprehension may not seem directly concerning but it could be used for censorship, which is an interest of the Chinese government,” said Elsa Kania, a Chinese military technology expert and a fellow at the think-tank Center for a New American Security. “They see natural language processing as a way to enable censorship at scale.” The papers underscore Microsoft Research’s long-running links to Chinese military-funded academia, including its operation of several “tech clubs” for students at Chinese universities known to have military links including NUDT, Beihang University and Harbin Institute of Technology. The US commerce department is seeking public comment to help identify emerging technologies that are essential to US national security because they may improve intelligence collection, weapons of mass destruction, have terrorist applications, or provide the US with a qualitative military or intelligence advantage, according to law firm White & Case. “[These papers are] at the centre of a perfect storm with . . . issues top of mind as the US is redrawing its relationship with China,” said Ms Sacks. “There is a massive overhaul of the export regime, and emerging and foundational technology, particularly AI, is a considered category under that,” she added. “Because this is open academic research, the question is to what extent is the Chinese government exploiting the openness . . . and extensive history of joint partnerships.”

Ford's overhaul in Europe diminishes German operations Nick Gibbs, Automotive News / April 10, 2019 Ford Motor’s restructuring of its European operations and its shift toward utilities has one significant effect: Germany’s importance to the automaker in the region is gradually being diminished. Germany currently is critical to Ford of Europe. Half of the company’s 53,000 European employees work there, and last year just over half its passenger cars sold in Europe were built in either its Cologne or Saarlouis plants. Cologne has also been home to Ford of Europe’s headquarters since 1999 and is the center of Ford’s small-car development globally. Cologne also has an engine plant. But Ford of Europe’s center of gravity is shifting. In March, Ford announced it will ax the C-Max compact minivan in June, reducing Saarlouis’s shifts to two from three and leaving just the Focus compact at the plant. Cologne also lost its third shift when it started building the newest Fiesta in 2017. Ford said this year that it would cut 5,000 jobs in Germany. The Fiesta is Ford’s best-selling model in Europe and the Focus No. 2, but that could change. Demand is falling in these traditional sectors as utilites become more popular, and Ford has said repeatedly that it’s happy to sacrifice sales of cheaper, unprofitable versions of these models to concentrate on higher-margin variants such as the Fiesta and Focus Active crossovers. It’s already happening: In the first two months of the year, European sales of the Fiesta fell 24 percent to 34,523, according to market researchers JATO Dynamics. Sales of the newer Focus were up 12 percent to 36,601 but are expected to fall again. Meanwhile, Ford has announced a second small utility that’s likely to further steal sales from Fiesta: the Puma. This Fiesta-based vehicles won’t be built in Germany but instead in Craiova, Romania, where Ford has gradually been building up capacity. The Puma will be built alongside the EcoSport subcompact crossover. To accommodate the new car when it starts production this year, Ford will add a third shift at Craiova, Ford of Europe President Stuart Rowley told Automotive News Europe this month. That addition will take capacity at the plant to 100 percent, Rowley said. “We’re going to fundamentally redesign Ford of Europe, and we need to be choiceful about where we invest,” he said. Ford hasn’t communicated Craiova’s capacity, but local media reports say it could be as much as 300,000 annually with the third shift. Craiova also has an engine plant where it builds the 1.0-liter, three-cylinder EcoBoost engine. Total employment at Craiova will rise to 5,900, Ford said last year. Romania joins Turkey as a critical low-cost manufacturing hub for Ford in Europe. The two plants in Kocaeli, Turkey, build the bulk of Ford’s highly profitable Transit van range and are expected to receive more work in the future when Ford starts building a large van for Volkswagen Group, expected in 2023. Ford already sources about half of its parts for Transits built there and looks to raise that, said Steve Armstrong, Ford of Europe’s chairman. One possibility is to relocate diesel engines, currently built in Ford’s Dagenham, England, plant. Ford’s other important manufacturing base is Valencia, Spain, where it will build the newest Kuga, scheduled for launch this year. The Kuga secures the future of the plant, which is set to lose the Transit Connect van when VW begins building its replacement early next decade. Valencia also could lose the Mondeo midsize car and S-Max and Galaxy minivans if Ford decides to end them in response to falling sales. Germany is likely to remain Ford’s development hub and headquarters, but it makes little sense for a company trying to overcome persistent losses to build small, low-margin cars in such a high-cost country, no matter how efficient the plants.

Ford recalls F-150, Super Duty trucks a second time for fire risk Greg Layson, Automotive News / April 10, 2019 Ford Motor Co. is recalling about 327,000 pickups equipped with engine block heaters because cable splice connectors might have inadvertently been damaged during a service procedure for a previous recall and now pose a fire risk. The affected F-150 and Super Duty trucks are a subset of the 874,000 vehicles recalled during December 2018 to fix a wiring problem. So far, there is no immediate fix available. Ford said in a statement that it is aware of a fire in the United States and one in Canada that may be related to block heater usage following the successful completion of the 2018 recall. Ford is also aware of an additional report of fire in Canada, which led to the initial recall last year. There are now 131,068 affected vehicles in the United States and federalized territories and about 196,269 in Canada being recalled for a second time. Affected vehicles include: 2015-19 Ford F-150 vehicles built at Dearborn Truck Plant in Michigan from March 18, 2014, to Nov. 17, 2018, and at Kansas City Assembly Plant from Aug. 21, 2014, to Nov. 17, 2018; 2017-19 Ford F-series Super Duty vehicles built at Ohio Assembly Plant from Feb. 5, 2016, to Nov. 17, 2018, and at Kentucky Truck Plant from Oct. 8, 2015, to Nov. 17, 2018. Ford warns a damaged block heater cable can cause an array of problems for the truck’s owner. Problems include an inoperative engine block heater; tripping of household breakers or GFCI-equipped outlets; or a resistive short, which can increase the risk of overheated or melted wiring and fire while the vehicle is parked and the block heater is plugged in. Dealers will disable the vehicle’s engine block heater cable by cutting off the plug end prongs and sealing the end cap with silicone sealant. Customers will be notified when an engine block replacement cable is available.

Farley, Hinrichs get new top roles as Ford prepares for future Michael Martinez, Automotive News / April 10, 2019 DETROIT — As Ford CEO Jim Hackett works to transform the company, his top lieutenants will take on new roles: One will be responsible for making money and the other will spend it on future tech and innovation. Jim Farley, 56, Ford's president of global markets, will take over Marcy Klevorn's mobility role in his new title of president of new businesses, technology and strategy. He'll oversee strategy, Ford's Smart Mobility subsidiary, its autonomous vehicle unit, research and advanced engineering, corporate partnerships and global data insight and analytics. Joe Hinrichs, 52, Ford's president of global operations, will become president of automotive. He'll be in charge of Ford's global operations, including product development, purchasing, manufacturing, and marketing and sales, as well as the company's global business units: North America, South America, Europe, China and International Markets Group. Klevorn, 59, president of mobility, will retire in October after 36 years with the company. Farley and Hinrichs’ appointments are effective May 1. Additionally, John Lawler, currently Ford’s vice president, strategy, will take on an expanded role. He’ll lead corporate strategy, business development and global data insights and analytics. The move comes a few weeks after Paul Ballew, who previously led Ford’s data and analytics team, elected to retire effective April 5. This marks the second top executive shift in less than two years for Hackett, who appointed Farley, Hinrichs and Klevorn to their current roles after he was named CEO in May 2017. "In the past two years, we have made tangible progress in improving the fitness of our business, overhauled our regional strategies, created a winning product portfolio, and are working to transform Ford to succeed in an era of profound change and disruption," Hackett said in the statement. "With this strong foundation in place for our auto and mobility businesses, we can now accelerate our transformation." By expanding Hinrichs’ role, Ford is handing him the reigns to the day-to-day business. He’ll oversee the reorganizations in markets like Europe and South America, and will lead Ford’s drive to improve profit margins in North America. “Joe Hinrichs possesses the knowledge, experience and leadership to now take our automotive business to world-class levels of product excellence, customer satisfaction, efficiency and financial performance,” Hackett said. “As we enter a busy period for new product launches and further restructuring in underperforming markets, Joe’s leadership in transforming businesses through focused execution will be key.” Farley, meanwhile, now takes responsibility for Ford’s future-minded endeavors. The automaker is preparing to launch a Level 4 autonomous vehicle in 2021 for commercial use delivering packages and other goods. “Jim combines an innate feel for what customers want and need in vehicles and the ability to translate this into the vehicles and services of the future,” Hackett said. Hackett, speaking to the Detroit Economic Club earlier this week, said 2019 will be a year of execution following what he termed a “mediocre” 2018.

Elisabeth Behrman, Bloomberg / April 9, 2019 MUNICH -- Volvo AB is exploring closer ties with Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Co. in China, in a sign the Swedish truckmaker and its largest investor are taking steps to collaborate. “We see a lot of areas where we feel that Geely can add both insights and competence,” both in its domestic market and “certain technologies,” CEO Martin Lundstedt said in an interview. The CEO’s comments offer the first clues into the truckmakers’ plans since [Chinese Communist Party-controlled] Geely became Volvo’s largest shareholder in a 3.25 billion-euro ($3.7 billion) deal in December 2017, adding to Chinese billionaire Li Shufu’s growing global footprint. Li is the biggest shareholder in Mercedes-Benz maker Daimler AG, owns the Volvo Car nameplate and controls Lotus sports cars. Geely plans to make Lynk & CO branded cars in Europe from 2020. At the time of taking the stake in the truckmaker, Geely said it sought to contribute on electrification, autonomous driving and connectivity to boost development of the Swedish company. Daimler projects While Daimler and Geely have agreed to collaborate on car-sharing and ride-hailing services in China as well as building the German company’s Smart city cars, Volvo hasn’t so far outlined cooperation projects with the shareholder. Lundstedt declined to specify any details about talks with Geely. “Experience and what has been expressed has been very positive,” he said, speaking at the Bauma trade fair in Munich. Volvo boosted operating profit last year and raised its dividend, saying in January that it expects demand in key markets to hold up in the face of growing economic uncertainty. Since then, headwinds in Europe have increased, with Brexit unresolved and Italy slipping into recession at the end of 2018. Germany’s economic growth this year is expected to slow to less than half the rate previously expected amid global trade disputes. Volvo is on “strong ground” to meet any increasing challenges, even as markets are expected to weaken, Lundstedt said. “Recession might be a strong word, which we already guided for during the fourth quarter report, but some sort of correction is rather expected, actually,” he said. Related reading - https://www.bigmacktrucks.com/topic/52070-communist-party-backed-geely-buys-volvo-stake/?tab=comments#comment-388405

https://www.autoglasswarehouse.com.au/scania-5-series-p124-truck-2004-current-front-wind

The deteriorating condition of that former Mack fleet MH daycab is a sin.

BBC / April 9, 2019 Dick Cole, the last veteran of a World War Two bombing raid on Japan in retaliation for the attack on Pearl Harbor, has died. He was 103 years old. The famed Doolittle raid was named for then Lt Col Jimmy Doolittle, who led the first US strikes against Japan during the war in 1942. Retired Lt Cole was Lt Col Doolittle's co-pilot in the lead plane. The raid, which included 16 B-25 bombers and 80 crew members, helped boost morale after Pearl Harbor. "There's another hole in our formation", Air Force chief of staff General David L Goldfein said in a statement on Tuesday. "The Legacy of the Doolittle Raiders - his legacy - will live forever in the hearts and minds of Airmen," he continued. Who is Dick Cole? Born in 1915 in Dayton, Ohio, Mr Cole enlisted in the military in November 1940, after two years of college at Ohio University. He was on a training mission in Oregon with the 17th Bombardment Group when he heard that Japan had attacked Pearl Harbor, according to a news release from the Air Force. After he was transferred to Columbia, South Carolina, Mr Cole and his entire group volunteered for a secret mission with no known details - what would become the Doolittle Raid. It wasn't until two days into the group's voyage to begin the raid that the men were told they were on their way to Tokyo. On 18 April, 1942, the US Army Air Force and the Doolittle Raiders launched an attack on Japan in retaliation for its devastating bombing of Pearl Harbor. Though it only caused minor damage, the attack dealt a critical blow to the Japanese, undermining its assurances that the country was safe from an American air attack. Of the 80 men who participated in the raid, eight were captured by Japanese forces. Six of these men died by execution or while imprisoned. Many had to parachute out of their planes as part of the mission, including Mr Cole who jumped out at around 9,000 ft (2,743m). Mr Cole retired from the Air Force in 1966, after logging more than 5,000 flight hours in 30 different aircrafts. He remained familiar at Air Force events, including the Doolittle Raiders' annual reunions. "We will miss Lt Col Cole, and offer our eternal thanks and condolences to his family," wrote Gen Goldfein. .

Ford negotiating with Mahindra for India JV Reuters / April 9, 2019 NEW DELHI -- Ford Motor Co. is nearing a deal with Mahindra & Mahindra to form a new joint-venture company in India, a move that would see the U.S. automaker cease its independent operations in the country. Under the terms of the deal being negotiated, Ford would form a unit in India in which it will hold a 49 percent stake, while India's Mahindra would own 51 percent. The U.S. carmaker's India unit would transfer most of its current automotive business to the newly created entity, including its assets and employees. When asked for a comment, Ford would only say that both companies continue to work together "to develop avenues of strategic cooperation that help us achieve commercial, manufacturing and business efficiencies." Mahindra said it was "working together in identified areas" with Ford after a 2017 partnership arrangement, and "will announce further definitive agreements as we progress on some of the other areas." Currently, Ford manufactures and sells its cars in India through its wholly-owned subsidiary. In 2017, it also formed a strategic alliance with Mahindra under which, among other things, they plan to build new cars together, including SUVs and electric variants.

CEO Jim Hackett: Trust that Ford is 'turning the corner' Michael Martinez, Automotive News / April 9, 2019 DETROIT — Ford Motor Co. CEO Jim Hackett on Tuesday asserted that the automaker is "turning the corner" and will have positive news in the coming months. Speaking at the Detroit Economic Club, Hackett reiterated that 2019 will be a "year of execution," a phrase he's used since describing 2018 as disappointing in a year-end letter to employees. The automaker made $7 billion last year with a profit margin of 4.4 percent, down from 6.1 percent in 2017. "No one in the company was proud," Hackett said. "My reason for writing about it was not to tell them they did a bad job. It was to tell myself I can be better. I'm telling myself I can't have another year like that. Not that I'm worried about getting fired; it's like, who wants to spend their time being average?" Hackett has instituted an $11 billion global restructuring at Ford that includes a transformation of its product portfolio and cuts to its salaried work force. In North America, the automaker expects to eventually hit 10 percent profit margins. Hackett on Tuesday said the restructuring is starting to bear fruit, although he declined to go into specifics. "We're turning the corner," he said. "Just trust me on this. You're going to be reading a lot about Ford performance going forward." Hackett is approaching his two-year anniversary leading Ford. He replaced Mark Fields as CEO in May 2017 and was tasked by Executive Chairman Bill Ford with shaking up the automaker's culture and speed up decision making. But investors and analysts remain skeptical. Ford's stock price has fallen 16 percent since Hackett took over. Still, Hackett argues he has made the automaker more "fit" and better prepared it for an economic downturn. He cited the automaker's reduced time to deliver vehicles, saying when he first became CEO and ordered a Mustang it took 81 days, but that's been cut to 35 days for delivery of some Fusions. "Part of this mindset is — not to be recession-proof — but to say, 'Come on recession, we're ready for you.' " he said. "Ford will be ready for the recession." Hackett did not address Ford's ongoing salaried layoffs in North America, a process that began last November and is anticipated to wrap up at some point in the second quarter. It's unclear how many workers Ford will lay off, or how far along it is in the process. The automaker also is working on development of autonomous vehicles, which Hackett said will be ready by 2021. Tamping down expectations However, he appeared to tamp down expectations for the emerging technology. “We’ve overestimated the arrival of autonomous vehicles,” he said. “We’ll be ready, but its application’s going to be narrow, what we call ‘geofenced,’ because the problem is so complex. When we break through it, it will change the way your toothpaste is delivered.” Ford has consistently said it plans to launch a dedicated autonomous vehicle in 2021 at scale for commercial use delivering packages and other goods. It’s partnered with Domino’s Pizza to pilot autonomous delivery and with Postmates on autonomous grocery delivery. “The logistics systems that are powered today by routes and maps all folds into autonomy,” he said. “Logistics and ride structures and cities all get redesigned. I won’t be in charge of Ford when this is going on, but I see this as clearly as I saw that computer weight changing,” he said, referencing a time when he was CEO of furniture maker Steelcase that he predicted changes to computing that would affect office space.

Scania Trucks Press Release / April 9, 2019 Dutch crane truck specialists Gaffert recently started operating an ultra-short Scania S 520 8×2/*6. This four-axle configuration with three steered axles allows the truck to manoeuvre in tight industrial environments, as well as gain an exemption from the 72-tonne road transport weight limit. “We wanted a heavy tractor unit for normal road speeds to carry an 85 tonne-metre crane with an excellent weight distribution,” says owner Theo Gaffert. “Scania was the only manufacturer that could deliver the truck directly from factory assembly. Scania also offers has the lowest chassis in the market and that’s important to us.” Emotions figure in purchase, but profitability counts more There was a certain emotional element involved, admits Gaffert. “When we ordered the truck, we celebrated our company’s 80-year anniversary. What could be better than a V8? We also knew that it would be delivered during the Scania V8 jubilee year.” While emotions are good, Gaffert adds that operating a profitable vehicle is even better. “When I discovered that the fuel consumption for the 520 hp V8 was nearly the same as for the six-cylinder 500 hp, it was an easy decision.” Challenging configuration required inventive solutions The wheelbase is 3,950 millimetres measured from the front axle to the driven axle. Of the four axles, three are steered – two in front and one behind the drive axle. “By using a 10-tonne front axle we have a beautiful weight distribution with the crane placed very close to the cab wall”, explains Gaffert. “There are only 15 centimetres left between the cabin and crane, which we use for the hydraulic tank. Despite this short space, we added two chrome exhausts. After all, looks also matter.” With the ultra-short configuration, placing all components on the chassis was challenging. “To obtain the best result, we designed some components ourselves, such as the custom-built fuel tank and our own mudguards.” Gaffert now not only has an impressive Scania V8, but also superb lifting equipment. “The combination of a short turning radius with great lifting capacity makes this truck extremely suitable for working in industrial buildings. We are often called on to help lift new machines and hoist equipment into place.” .

Renault Trucks Press Release / April 4, 2019 Continuously improving the safety of city-dwellers, drivers and their loads is a constant focus for Renault Trucks. The manufacturer is therefore offering new features on its C and K ranges. Solutions that enable construction vehicles to better integrate in the city or on construction sites. The integration of trucks into the increasingly dense traffic of large urban areas and the development of soft modes of transport requires ever-increasing attention to safety aspects. Renault Trucks, which already equips its vehicles with a variety of safety systems, is offering new safety features. Simple, competitive and practical, these solutions meet customer requirements and improve the protection of vulnerable road users in urban environments. • Emergency park brake application (anti-runaway mode) reduces the risk of unexpected vehicle movement when the driver leaves the cab, by automatically activating the braking system to immobilise the truck; • The driver’s direct vision is improved by means of a passenger-side vision door that allows drivers to see any user on the road; • The driver’s indirect vision is improved by means of surveillance cameras placed around the vehicle. Images from the road are displayed on the Roadpad+ screen; • The detection of vulnerable users is enhanced by means of presence detectors located on the vehicle’s exterior, on the opposite side to the driver. The driver receives an audible and visual alert in the cab; • An external user alert speaker warns vulnerable road users when the vehicle is about to manoeuvre on the opposite side to the driver, when the vehicle is reversing and when the driver is using the vehicle’s equipment arm; • Two visual indicator repeaters complement the loudspeaker for road users with hearing loss or those wearing headphones, for example. These safety systems are in addition to those already available on the Renault Trucks range, such as the Automated Emergency Braking System (AEBS), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Departure Warning System (LKS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Electronic Parking Brake (EPB), automatically engaged when the engine stops. For driving safely on construction sites, trucks in the construction range are equipped with off-road mode and manual accelerator as standard. .

MAN Truck & Bus Press Release / April 8, 2019 New Euro 6 engine family and launch of the new D15 truck engine series MAN TGE from 3 to 5.5 tonnes for the first time at bauma New MAN ComfortSteering and MAN LaneReturnAssist safety and driver assistance systems together with VAS Video Manoeuvring System MAN presenting six vehicles from all its model series on stand 325 in hall B4, and a further five vehicles in the outdoor area in front of hall B4 MAN will be exhibiting a large number of driveline innovations and sector-specific product upgrades at bauma, the world’s leading trade fair for construction, building materials processing and mining machinery, vehicles and equipment, being held in Munich from 8th to 14th April 2019. The 11 MAN vehicles will be presented on stand 325 in hall B4, as well as on an outdoor stand outside the same hall. See more information to fair bauma 2019 www.man.eu/bauma 11 MAN exhibits at Bauma MAN will exhibit six vehicles in hall B4, stand 325. The product highlights are: MAN TGE, new D15 engine, new engine family, improved efficiency across-the-board based on increased payload and sector-specific configurations. TGE 6.180 4x2 three-way tipper The largest tipper in the MAN TGE series, featuring a single cab and twin tyres on the rear axle. TGL 12.250 4x2 BL three-way tipper Complete vehicle supplied ex-works for construction, landscaping and horticulture companies. Tractor vehicle for transporting mini-excavators and equipment. TGS 32.400 8x4 BB truck mixer Very lightweight 8.95 tonne sector-specific chassis providing a high payload thanks to the new lighter D15 engine and hypoid axles. TGS 33.470 6x6H BL mobile crane tipper Medium-height chassis with MAN HydroDrive on the front axle providing traction as required. Launch of the new Euro 6 D26 engine, ComfortSteering and Lane Return Assist. With 59 tonnes gross train weight, the ideal vehicle for transporting construction machinery. TGX 18.510 4x2 BLS tipping semi-trailer tractor High-specification XLION special model with the spacious XLX cab. Launch of the Euro 6 D26 engine uprated by 10 hp and 100 Nm of torque. TGX 33.640 6x4 BLS heavy-duty tractor Compact three-axle heavy-duty tractor for transporting heavy construction equipment and machinery. Their permissible gross train weight is 160 tonnes – with an exemption of up to 180 tonnes. A further five vehicles exhibited on the open area in front of hall B4 will demonstrate the detailed sector-specific preparation of the MAN chassis units for their often specialist construction tasks: TGE 3.180 4x2 heavy transport support vehicle BF4 Box van featuring an on-roof dynamic traffic sign unit and a racking system in the interior. TGM 18.320 4x4 BB mobile crane tipper All-wheel drive vehicle fitted with winter clearing equipment ex works, for use all year round on construction sites and for municipal services. TGS 35.400 8x4 BB three-way tipper Maximum payload in the classic four-axle tipper segment. The new D15 engine and the lightweight hypoid tandem axle help to reduce weight. TGS 35.500 8x4 BL large mobile crane Sector-specific chassis to be equipped in future with 10 tonne front axles and a new front plate for front-end crane support. This will increase the load capacity for the crane superstructure and extend the working area of large loading cranes over the cab. TGS 50.500 10x4-6 BL concrete pump Five-axle chassis with steered trailing axle and offset units on the frame for installation of a concrete pump with mast. Ultra-lightweight truck mixer chassis MAN is extending its initiative offering concrete deliverers a truck mixer chassis with an extremely high load capacity by optimising the weight of various auxiliary units. MAN launched the lightweight hypoid tandem axle unit at bauma in 2016. They offer a weight saving of 180 kilograms compared to the previously installed 13 tonne axles. The upgrade to the new MAN D15 engine series in 2019 will reduce the chassis weight by a further approximately 230 kilograms. This means around 410 kilograms additional payload - a big gain in terms of efficient transportation. The chassis, weighing about 8.95 tonnes, meets the approval criteria for off-road vehicles of category N3G of standard height and with 315/80 R22.5 tyres, even with these hypoid axles. For the driver and the operating company it is important that MAN has achieved this weight reduction without any sacrifice in terms of equipment specification or cab comfort. The same payload optimisation measures will benefit companies operating MAN TGS three-axle or four-axle tippers. For those models, too, the new D15 engine and the option of the lightweight hypoid tandem axle will reduce weight by some 410 kilograms. MAN TGE at bauma for the first time The MAN TGE series covers the range from 3.0 to 5.5 tonnes gross train weight, adding new models at the bottom end of the MAN truck portfolio, which previously ranged from 7.5 to 44 tonnes. The MAN TGE marked its world premier in autumn 2016 at the IAA commercial vehicles show in Hanover. Since spring 2017, MAN has been introducing the van range into various European markets. The extensive product portfolio, featuring box vans, glazed combi vans and chassis units with single or crew cabs, covers a very wide range of applications in the construction industry as well as for landscaping and horticulture. The choice spans two wheelbases, three overhangs, three roof heights and three drive variants: front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. The 2-litre unit is available with four power ratings from 102 hp to 177 hp. New D15 engine for MAN trucks The new Euro 6 standard 9-litre D15 engine will be replacing the tried and proven D20 engine in the MAN TGS and TGX truck series in 2019,. The straight-six engine achieves higher power, lighter weight and better fuel efficiency, despite a smaller cubic capacity. The engine's light weight is a major benefit for sector-specific applications. The payload is increased by about 230 kilograms. The new engine design is a particular boon to transporters of bulk cargo, such as fuels, mineral oils and concrete. With three power ratings at 330 hp (243 kW), 360 hp (265 kW) and 400 hp (294 kW), the D15 engine is positioned in the middle range between the top-end 6-cylinder D08 engine series developing 320 hp and the bottom-end D26 developing 430 hp. The cubic capacity of the straight-six engine featuring Common Rail injection is 9037 ccm, with a stroke of 145 mm and a bore of 115 mm. Traditionally MAN derives the designation of the engine from the last of those figures. The maximum torque is 1600 Nm with power output of 330 hp, increasing by 100 Nm at each power rating. A maximum engine braking power of 350 kW is available with the Turbo EVBec. The Common Rail injection system operating at up to 2500 bar injection pressure, in conjunction with demand-based control of auxiliary units helps to reduce fuel consumption. As AdBlue fluid is readily available these days, MAN is leveraging an evolved version of the SCR technology (Selective Catalytic Reduction) combined with the self-regenerating filter system MAN CRT (Continuously Regenerating Trap) for the exhaust gas aftertreatment. The factors that contribute to the consumption efficiency are various technical solutions for the thermal management of the engine and the engine auxiliary units. These include the warm-up and constant high exhaust gas temperature, a speed-regulated coolant pump that operates as and when required or the mechanism of the 1-cylinder air compressor. Technical improvements and optimisations to the D26 and D38 engines The new engine family also includes the other MAN engine series D08, D26 and D38, which in the course of 2019 will be launched on the market as Euro 6 versions. We have introduced a completely revised version of the D26. As a result, the D26 engines will have 10 hp more power and 100 Nm more torque than the previous version. So the new power ratings will be 430 hp, 470 hp and 510 hp. The optimisations have had a positive impact on profitability by increasing the payload by around 80 kilograms and reducing fuel consumption by up to four percent. The technical improvements have now enabled the oil-change intervals in the MAN D38 engine to be increased to 140,000 kilometres – depending on usage strain. All four engine series – D08, D15, D26 and D38 – can be operated with paraffin fuels, such as hydrogenated vegetable oils, as per EN 15940, without the need for retrospective conversions. New driver assistance and safety systems for MAN trucks For many years MAN has successfully offered adaptive cruise control (ACC); now the company is adding a Stop & Go feature. When first launched back in 2018, it was offered only for two-axle on-road semi-trailer tractors. During the course of 2019 it will be available for a wide range of vehicles fitted with the TipMatic12 transmission, including particularly for the MAN TGS and TGX series used in the construction sector. Within the speed range 0 to 25 km/h, the ACC Stop & Go maintains a fixed distance from the vehicle ahead, brakes to a standstill as required, and after only a brief stoppage of a maximum of two seconds starts off again automatically. If the vehicle is stopped for longer, the driver presses the accelerator or a button on the multi-function steering wheel to move off again. This year MAN will be introducing ComfortSteering in the TGM, TGS and TGX model series featuring the new engine family. This active steering system assists the driver by adapting the steering forces to the vehicle's speed. This system also provides the technical basis for the Lane Return Assist (LRA) feature. If the driver unintentionally drifts out of the lane without indicating, the LRA activates and guides the vehicle back into the marked lane. Video Manoeuvring System for optimum near-side visibility Some of the truck exhibits on the MAN stand include the VAS Video Manoeuvring System which shows the driver the blind spot on the near-side of the vehicle, so providing early detection of critical situations when turning or manoeuvring. The system assists the driver by providing vision in addition to the rear-view mirror by means of an in-cab monitor attached to the near-side A-pillar or the dash display screen, allowing a view of the blind spot area alongside the vehicle. A wide-angle camera on the near-side of the cab captures the image. The camera monitor system can be supplemented by ultrasonic sensors on the front of the vehicle and along the near-side. These provide the driver with acoustic and visual (LED display) alerts indicating obstructions. Refurbished – all MAN trucks now with optimised interior For the 2018 model year MAN presented a new cab interior for trucks with Euro 6 engines. In the course of 2019, all TGL, TGM, TGS and TGX series models conforming to emissions standards below Euro 6 will also be fitted with the new interior. Design, functionality and ergonomics are the focus areas. Two modern interior colour schemes are available: “Sand” beige and “Urban Concrete” dark grey. The latter is more resilient to staining by dirty hands or oily workwear. The main instrument panel features a clearly laid-out 4” high-definition colour screen. The displays on it are in different colours to aid readability and orientation. The central switch and control panel also has restructured functionality. Switches are grouped by function for more intuitive operation, and functions that are used frequently, such as the rotary switch for the MAN TipMatic automated transmission, are now positioned on the main control panel. The instrument panel above and to the right of the central control panel offers more storage space with integral electrical sockets and new flexible cupholders. The repositioning of the TipMatic rotary switch also creates more space between the seats and in front of the bunk. The coolbox/storage box also contributes to this extra space, because in the long cab variant it is stowed away under the bunk. The coolbox is also larger than previously, and now has a capacity of 35 litres, with a quick cooling function and a quiet rest mode. Alternatively, a large lockable storage compartment can be provided in this location. In the optimised rest area, the lower and (optional) upper bunks are provided with more convenient electrical controls, with switches for the internal lighting, the window lifters and the sliding roof. Four high-performance sockets (12V, 24V, USB) and a new lighting design enhance user comfort. MAN Individual replaces Truck Modification In spring 2019, MAN Truck & Bus is consolidating its modification operations on trucks, buses and vans under the name MAN Individual. MAN Individual’s wide-ranging and industry-specific truck modification offering comprises work to both the exterior and interior of the cab, to the chassis and to the driveline. As an optical indication of the services commissioned, the offering also comes with an MAN Individual badge, which is attached to the instrument panel in the cab. However, this is only the case if the services largely involve making visible refinements to the vehicle. .

IVECO Trucks Press Release / April 8, 2019 IVECO joins CASE Construction Equipment at the Bauma 2019 exhibition to showcase its offering of vehicles for the quarrying, recycling, urban construction and road-building sectors on stand FN817. IVECO presents the latest generation Daily 4x4, which introduces the first 7-tonne GVW 4x4 vehicle with payload up to 4,300 kg in the market and an extended offering with a full line-up of off- and all-road light commercial vehicles. IVECO is present at the Bauma 2019 exhibition, which is taking place in Munich from the 8th to the 14th of April 2019, with a display focused on the construction sector on a joint stand with CASE Construction Equipment. The vehicles on show are representative of the brand’s wide offering for every mission – quarrying, recycling, urban construction and road-building – ranging from the heavy-duty off-road IVECO Astra HHD9 to the Stralis X-Way range, specially developed for construction logistics, as well as the new generation Daily 4x4. The application-based layout of the stand with the quarrying, recycling, urban construction and road-building sectors each having a dedicated area, highlights how IVECO’s vehicles for the industry complement the CASE equipment to provide a complete solution to meet the specific requirements of customers. For the recycling sector, the natural gas powered Stralis NP 6x2 crane-tipper truck provides the perfect solution, combining the advantages of extremely clean and quiet operation with the payload and performance benefits of its diesel equivalent. The noise level as low as 71 dB (Piek Quiet Truck test) is a definite asset when operating in recycling facilities. All this, together with the outstanding manoeuvrability, compact overall dimensions, towing capacity (44 tonnes GVW) and big payload of the truck makes it ideal for recycling operations. The Stralis X-WAY rigid three-way tipper truck on display in the road building area of the stand is representative of IVECO’s range specifically developed for construction logistics to provide the perfect crossing for on-road applications requiring off-road mobility. It combines IVECO’s best fuel-efficiency and safety technologies with the renowned off-road robustness of its toughest vehicles to deliver high productivity with best-in-class payload and outstanding Total Cost of Ownership. It can be relied on to deal with the driving conditions on a construction site while carrying the biggest payload in the sector, then go on to perform with excellent fuel-efficiency, safety and comfort on the road. It is available with a switchable hydraulic front-wheel drive, which presents particular advantages for a truck required to drive on- and off-road: fewer moving parts resulting in less wear and reduced consumption, lower weight and quieter running on the road. The urban construction area features the top-of-the-range model of the new IVECO Daily 4x4: the first 7-tonne Gross Vehicle Weight 4x4 vehicle with payload up to 4,300 kg in the market with a choice of body lengths up to 5 m. It is part of IVECO’s latest generation ‘go anywhere’ vehicle range, which builds on this family’s heritage of unlimited versatility, extreme robustness and high driving comfort, and extends the offering with new all-wheel drive configurations, manual or the class-exclusive 8-speed Hi-Matic gearbox, and new van versions. The extensive line-up includes cab, chassis cowl and crew cab models in 3.5, 5.5 and 7.0 tonnes and van models in 5.5 and 7.0 tonnes GVW versions with a choice of single wheels off-road and twin wheels all-road configurations. The van models offer cargo volumes ranging from 9 to 18 m3 for the single wheel off-road and from 16 to 18 m3 for the twin wheel all-road showing the extreme versatility of the range. Powered by the F1C Euro VI 3.0-litre engine generating 180 hp and 430 Nm torque the Daily 4x4 can accomplish every mission on all terrains with ease. Drivers also benefit from features such as disk brakes with ABS and Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) specifically developed for the 4x4 vehicle to guarantee top braking performance and durability. The quarrying display features the 65-tonne GVW new IVECO Astra HHD98x6 Euro VI in dumper configuration with a 24 m3 reinforced body, a full automatic transmission and special CE equipment allowing for the CE Certification according to the Machinery Directive. It is part of the Astra range of vehicles designed for heavy off-road applications in oil & gas, mining, quarrying, heavy construction and heavy haulage. It is among the most cost-efficient solutions for daily heavy-duty use under extreme conditions, when productivity and reliability are a priority. It combines the robustness, payload and reliability advantages of the rigid or articulated heavy-duty bodies typical of the industry with significantly lower Total Cost of Ownership. With the possibility to provide the CE Certification, this machine complies with the most stringent regulations in terms of safety in quarries and construction sites. Also on the stand is a Daily Hi-Matic in the set up and livery of a CASE Service van equipped as a mobile workshop by bodybuilder SORTIMO. The vehicle features IVECO’s class-exclusive 8-speed automatic transmission and is powered by the F1C 3.0-litre engine, which delivers 180hp and 430 Nm torque. The rear air suspension reduces vibration, ensuring a smooth ride for the tools and equipment in the mobile workshop. .