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TATRA Trucks Press Release / March 8, 2018 The latest generation of the highly successful TATRA PHOENIX Euro 6 truck will be launched in April this year. Made by the oldest Czech automotive producer (and today the only Czech-owned producer of motor vehicles), the 2018 model will offer customers even more effective solutions for their transportation needs. The new TATRA PHOENIX Euro 6 2018 model is similar in appearance to the current generation – though there are some differences in the colour scheme, as the new model combines the body colour with the matte and gloss black cabin front grille sections. However, the real changes are underneath the surface, in the technological solutions developed for the 2018 model – creating a completely new generation of vehicles that offer enhanced added value to customers. Quieter, more powerful, and greener To sum up the main differences between the 2018 model TATRA PHOENIX Euro 6 and its predecessors, the new generation of this popular truck is quieter, more technically sophisticated, more powerful, and more user-friendly – as well as being able to carry an increased payload. Thanks to the compact dimensions of the new emissions control technology (consisting of the DPF filter, the SCR system and the catalytic converter), the new generation not only offers more space for the superstructure, but can also carry a higher payload without increasing the total weight. The new engines (the MX-11 and MX-13) meet Euro 6c emissions standards; the engines are quieter, more economical and greener than their predecessors, while also offering increased power. The new trucks can be fitted with a TraXon automatic transmission system (one of the world's most advanced transmission systems of its type) combined with our in-house reduction transfer case. In addition, 95% of the 2018 TATRA PHOENIX Euro 6 trucks are without hub reduction. Thanks to these features, the new-generation vehicles offer a key advantage to buyers: a very low TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) coefficient. New structural design features The TATRA PHOENIX – a combination of the unique TATRA chassis concept with components supplied by leading international manufacturers – has quickly established itself as a distinctive presence in the global automotive market. Both TATRA and our suppliers are constantly working to develop and improve the various components and assemblies used in the vehicle. Thanks to a commercial agreement with leading Dutch manufacturer DAF Trucks, we are able to offer our customers world-leading solutions in the heavy goods vehicle segment. One of the most striking innovations in the new-generation TATRA PHOENIX is the cabin, with all-new soundproofing and a new interior colour scheme. The controls and switches are all new, as is the display behind the steering wheel. The electronic architecture of the entire vehicle has undergone major changes, and now features a combination of LIN and CAN technologies. The engines have also been thoroughly modernized to reduce noise levels and maximize fuel combustion efficiency. The engine operating speed has been reduced and torque increased; maximum torque is now available from 900 min-1. The maximum power of the MX-11 and MX-13 engines has been increased by between 7 kW/10 hp and 14 kW/19 hp, and the torque has been increased by between 50 N.m and 200 N.m depending on the engine's power output. TATRA has also made major structural changes enabling the vehicles to be fitted with a 10-tonne front axles, lifting rear axles or steered rear axles (mainly for 10x10 vehicles and related versions). Another major innovation is the option to fit disc brakes. In addition to the standard 16-gear manual transmission, customers can also choose a TraXon automatic transmission (a replacement for the previous AS-Tronic automatic system). The new transmission is only available as a 16-gear unit. It features specially developed software designed to handle the most challenging terrain; experts from TATRA TRUCKS played a key role in developing the new software. .

Tatra receives cheque to restore unique historic train TATRA Trucks Press Release / March 8, 2018 On Monday 19 February, the Minister for Regional Development Klára Dostálová visited the Moravian-Silesian Region – and one of the stops on her itinerary was TATRA TRUCKS in Kopřivnice. The Minister met with representatives of the company, which has received EU funding to reconstruct and restore the unique historic 'Slovak Bullet' locomotive. The TATRA T 68 diesel locomotive, nicknamed the 'Slovak Bullet', has been declared a national cultural monument in recognition of its importance as an outstanding example of the Czech Republic's technical heritage. In mid-January 2018 the company's funding application for the restoration was approved, and the Minister's visit to the Region represented an ideal opportunity for her to present Tatra CEO Radek Strouhal with a symbolic cheque for almost 80 million CZK (the precise sum is 79 474 072 CZK). Dostálová expressed her strong support for the project: "There are moments when it's a great pleasure to present a funding cheque – and the restoration of the 'Slovak Bullet' is one such moment. If the company and the Moravian-Silesian Region manage to successfully complete the new TATRA automobile museum – and I have been assured that they will – it will be a phenomenal project, which will help to raise Kopřivnice's profile and attract new visitors to the town. I presented the company with a symbolic cheque for the restoration of the locomotive and the construction of an exhibition pavilion for it – and we also met with representatives from the company, the Region and the Town of Kopřivnice. The Region is coordinating the museum project, and the Town is in charge of a project to revitalize the land at the planned museum site. I am delighted that the Ministry of Regional Development is able to help implement this project by providing EU funding." TATRA will use the funding to completely restore the historic train to a fully functioning state, as well as building a special exhibition pavilion for it, to be located next to the planned TATRA automobile museum. CEO Radek Strouhal commented: "For us, the project represents a recognition of our work – of the TATRA company, our long and proud heritage, and the talented team that is planning the restoration project. The funding we have received will enable us to restore the 'Slovak Bullet' to its former glory – and above all, to make it fully functional once again. In cooperation with the Ministry, the Region and the Town of Kopřivnice we are creating a museum which will be a major visitor attraction, and we are confident that it will boost interest in technical education among young people – which will ultimately help us to recruit the next generation of talented TATRA staff." The total cost of the project is 118 million CZK; TATRA TRUCKS will also be contributing its own funds. The plans for the exhibition pavilion have already been drawn up; when restoration work is complete, the pavilion will be used to display the train. The funding approval also means that TATRA can now announce a tender for a contractor to carry out the restoration work. In the middle of last year, funding was also approved for a brand-new TATRA automobile museum. The new museum will be run by the Moravian-Silesian Region as a branch of the Nový Jičín Regional Museum. TATRA TRUCKS has donated a site for the new museum – including a former foundry building. The company will also allow the museum to use the adjacent land, as well as donating its valuable collection of unique vehicles – which could not previously be displayed due to a lack of space. The exhibition at the new museum will be created in close cooperation with the current Tatra Technical Museum. The planned costs of the new museum are 123 million CZK, of which 85% will be financed via EU funding. The goal of both projects – which are scheduled for completion during 2020 – is to raise public awareness of the unique contribution made by the TATRA company to the development of our technical heritage, as well as conserving this heritage for the benefit of future generations. .

Renault Trucks Press Release / March 9, 2018 In 2017, Renault Trucks recorded an increase in invoicing with a total volume of 49,930 vehicles sold. The French manufacturer strengthened its market positions and recorded the best growth in terms of market share on the European and French markets. For Renault Trucks, 2017 resulted in increasing sales and other indicators turning green with a total of 49,930 vehicles invoiced, representing an overall increase of 4%. In the market for trucks over 6 tonnes alone, the volumes invoiced increased by 7%. In this segment, Renault Trucks recorded the strongest growth on both the European market and the French market. Breakdown of invoicing by destination - Europe (excluding France): 23,635 units invoiced - France: 21,409 units invoiced - Rest of the world: 4,886 units invoiced Renault Trucks gained 0.6 points of market share in Europe for trucks over 16 tonnes In 2017, in a European market for trucks over 6 tonnes recording slight growth (+1%), Renault Trucks grew 7.7% and achieved the highest growth in terms of market share with +0.5 points (8.4%). In a shrinking, low-volume market (-1.8%) for mid-range vehicles (6 to 16 tonnes), Renault Trucks maintained its position with its share down by 0.1 points. This slight decline can be explained mainly by the withdrawal of the D Cab 2m from the commercial market in 2017. This vehicle accounted for 1.1 points of market share. After four years of growth, the European market for trucks over 16 tonnes, up by 1.4%, has now returned to its 2008 level. Renault Trucks performed particularly well in this segment, growing in most European markets and recording an overall increase in its volumes of 9.1%. The French manufacturer recorded the strongest growth of all truck manufacturers with +0.6 percentage points, achieving a market share of 8.7%. Regaining international markets Internationally, Renault Trucks is active primarily in Africa and the Middle East. In 2017, volumes decreased by 4% with 4,886 units invoiced. This decline can be explained by the introduction of import quotas in Algeria. Despite this, Renault Trucks remains the market leader for European manufacturers in French-speaking Africa, achieving 40% market share in Algeria in the over 16-tonne segment. Renault Trucks also increased its volumes by +40% in Turkey, in a market that remains sluggish. In 2017, the manufacturer opened four new sales and service outlets, in Izmir, Istanbul, Denizli and Ankara. In Iran, Renault Trucks renewed its cooperation with Arya Diesel Motors, which relates to the import of the T, C and K ranges and assembly of the T range. Finally, 2017 also saw the launch of the T, C and K ranges in Chile. Used vehicles, a strategic business Regarding its used vehicle business, Renault Trucks maintained its volumes in a difficult market with 6,846 trucks invoiced and deployed significant resources. The manufacturer opened two new used vehicle centres in Dubai and Budapest and set up its Used Trucks Factory, a workshop for the conversion of used vehicles, at the heart of its industrial site in Bourg-en-Bresse (Ain). In this workshop, the constructor modifies trucks so that they fully satisfy the needs of its customers: tractor units are converted into rigid trucks and long-distance trucks into worksite supply vehicles. 230 used industrial vehicles were converted in 2017 and the manufacturer’s objective is to convert 1,000 trucks annually. Finally, Renault Trucks has launched an online platform for listing its used trucks. While today this digital tool is focused on showing vehicles available for sale, by 2020 it will become an e-commerce site. Aftermarket, vital for Renault Trucks The aftermarket business is vital for Renault Trucks because its customers’ success depends on it. In 2017, the manufacturer recorded a 2.6% increase in its spare parts turnover. Renault Trucks also developed a range of maintenance contracts, whose penetration rate increased by 4 points. Momentum that should continue in 2018 Renault Trucks should continue to benefit from a favourable market environment and continue to reap the benefits of its hard work. The manufacturer has just recruited 500 new employees (including 300 operatives), and 175 sales representatives have been recruited to its sales network. In addition, Renault Trucks opened 35 new sales and service outlets in 2017. In 2018, the manufacturer will focus on preparing for marketing a range of 100% electric trucks and implement a production line dedicated to these zero-emission vehicles at its plant in Blainville-sur-Orne (Calvados). .

DAF Trucks Press Release / March 9, 2018 'Our drivers are very happy with the transmission, the gear changing, the comfort, the interior and the mattress. The vehicle is very convincing’. Watch what the New XF means for Anhalt Logistics from Germany. .

Chevy unveils Silverado HD 4500, 5500, slips in 6500 Aaron Marsh, Fleet Owner / March 8, 2018 INDIANAPOLIS. Chevrolet revealed its Class 4 and 5 Silverado HD 4500/5500 chassis cab trucks today at the Work Truck Show — and then snuck in an unexpected 6500 Class 6 truck as well. Calling it the "biggest news in years" for the brand's commercial lineup — "literally" — the automaker has added the larger conventional cab trucks to its offerings after promising they were in the works for some time. "It all adds up to a product lineup that is, by far, the best and the broadest that Chevrolet has ever had," said Ed Peper, U.S. vice president for GM Fleet. "You don't build a dominant franchise like this overnight." He explained how the OEM gathered extensive input from dealers and customers in designing the new trucks. "There's never been a Silverado that's not a workhorse," Peper contended. "The more choice we offer truck customers, the more we drive sales across our entire portfolio." Pointing to Chevrolet's low-cab forward trucks, which offer alternative medium-duty class vehicles, he said the OEM's customers had been asking for a medium-duty conventional cab offering "because they want a one-stop shop for all of their vehicle needs." "Good things come to those who wait," Peper said. "Once we made the decision to get back into the medium-duty conventional cab business, we were determined to do it better than anyone else." So Chevy gathered input from fleet managers, truck drivers, upfitters, technicians and dealers in developing the new Silverados. John Schwegman, director of commercial product and medium duty at GM Fleet, said the new trucks "are designed to solve the most common upfit and ownership challenges fleets have with many of today's medium duty trucks." The Silverado will be available in 2WD and 4WD configurations and will be powered by the OEM's 6.6L Duramax diesel engine rated at 350 hp/700 lbs.-ft. of torque. The trucks will have Allison automatic transmissions with a power take off option. Some additional highlights of the new trucks include: — A factory-painted frame with one-piece frame rails; smooth, unobstructed top sections; and through-the-frame fuel fill lines. —Seven cab-to-axle options ranging from 60 to 162-in. along with five axle-to-back-of-frame lengths sized in 8-in. increments. —A lightweight, front-hinged "clamshell" hood that allows easier access to under-hood components combined with a 50-degree wheel cut. —A hood designed to optimize the driver's ability to see the road. —An available factory-installed rear air suspension; triple-sealed, inset doors that help reduce wind and road noise; and huck bolts used throughout the frame for superior clamping force. —A diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) tank located on the passenger side of the truck for more convenience. Connectivity options for the new HD Silverados include OnStar and Commercial Link, a built-in 4GLTE Wi-Fi hotspot (paid data plan required), wireless smartphone charging, Bluetooth and support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The new medium-duty Silverados are slated for production late this year. .

Hino enters Class 8 market with XL series Fleet Owner / March 8, 2018 INDIANAPOLIS. Hino is going big. The Toyota-owned company introduced its new line of Class 7 and 8 trucks. “Entering Class 8 is arguably something no OEM has done successfully over the past 50 years,” said Dominik Beckman, Hino’s director of marketing and dealer operations told a large crowd before the unveiling of the XL7 and XL8 models at the Work Truck Show. But Hino is betting it can do it with its A09 turbo diesel 8.9-liter inline 6-cylinder in both models, which will be manufactured the company’s new facility in West Virginia. “Considering our remarkable success in Class 4-7 in North America, and our growing global presence in the Class 8 market, entering the North American heavy duty segment makes for the next logical step. Not to mention our customers and our dealer network have been asking for this for some time,” said Yoshinori Noguchi, President and CEO of Hino Trucks North America. The Hino XL Series will include straight truck and tractor configurations ranging from a GVWR of 33,000 to 60,000 lbs. and GCWR up to 66,000 lbs. with max performance of 360 horsepower and 1,150 lb.-ft. torque. With available wheel base selections of up to 304 inches, and tandem axle and fifth wheel configurations, the company is looking to attract a variety of vocations. The lineup features new active safety solutions with electronic stability control (standard on tractor) and collision mitigation systems, innovative payload management suspension options, and a body builder friendly optimized design that was also engineered for maximum ease of serviceability. Hino Trucks set out to create a vehicle with best-in-class styling, ergonomics, and valued amenities. “Both drivers and owners are going to love this truck,” said Glenn Ellis, vice president of customer experience. “The first thing you notice is the styling – the aerodynamic yet bold design could proudly represent any business. Then you open the door to a wide, easy-access entry and an automotive grade finished interior ready to provide the best service possible to drivers and teams.” Air-ride cab and driver’s seat, hands-free Bluetooth audio/calling, steering wheel controls, LED headlights, cruise control, and air conditioning are standard on every 2020 model year Hino XL7 and XL8. The trucks will also feature HinoWatch 24/7 roadside assistance, HinoCare maintenance programs. Its fully integrated connected vehicle solution Hino Insight Telematics will be included for free for a one-year while Insight Remote Diagnostics and Insight Case Management are complimentary for five-years. The company will begin taking orders in late 2018. Production will start in early 2019 in Mineral Wells, WV, at Hino’s one-million square foot facility. .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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