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Isuzu ready to launch new models at Brisbane show Prime Mover Magazine / May 2, 2017 Isuzu Australia has confirmed two new truck models from its ‘Ready to Work’ range will be unveiled when the 2017 Brisbane Truck Show gets under way on 25-28 May. According to the truck brand, the Isuzu NNR 45-150 AMT Vanpack and the Isuzu NLR 55-150 Tri-Tipper will headline its display. The new models, purpose-built for Australian demands and conditions, will mark the latest evolution of its popular Ready to Work range. The NLR 55-150 is fitted with a tipper body that can tilt its two cubic metre volume to the left, right or rear; while the NNR 45-150 Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) Vanpack is also sure to turn heads with its ready to work 18.2 cubic metre, pre-built van body. Isuzu Trucks’ Brisbane Truck Show stand will also feature the NLR 45-150 AMT short wheelbase Ready to Work Servicepack, along with several more truck models from its medium- and heavy-duty categories. “The versatility of the eleven vehicles on our stand will demonstrate the foundations of Isuzu Australia’s success,” said Jeff Birdseye, Isuzu Australia Advertising Manager. “It’s a selection of trucks that represent a comprehensive range of models with the right fusion of performance and reliability, supported by products from the pioneering aftersales service suite, Isuzu Care. “We’re looking forward to providing everyone, including tradespeople and truck enthusiasts, with a greater insight into the capability of Isuzu’s range at the 2017 Brisbane Truck Show.” .

Freightliner to celebrate 75th anniversary at the Brisbane Truck Show Power Torque Magazine / April 27, 2017 Freightliner is celebrating its 75th Anniversary with something old and something new at this year’s Brisbane Truck Show from May 25 to 28. It will be presenting a range of exciting new models including a tough Coronado 122 stock-hauling special, which can pull up to 140-tonnes with ease and also draw a crowd thanks to its muscular design and Bar Up bullbar and new twin exhausts stacks. There will also be an Argosy cab-over with a 110-inch sleeper and just-introduced X15 Cummins engine featuring ADEPT technology that fully integrates the Eaton UltraShift Plus transmission to maximise performance and efficiency. Freightliner will also present the CL112 tool of trade, which boasts a light tare weight, ideal axle positioning and proven reliability as well as the popular Coronado 114. A rare A64-800 1950 ‘Bubblenose’ has also been shipped from the United States to help celebrate Freightliner’s rich heritage. This was one of 116 trucks built that year for Consolidated Freightways, the freight company established by Leland James. He had approached truck companies with an idea of using lightweight aluminum for truck components instead of regular steel. They weren’t interested, so James hired a team of engineers and built the vehicles himself. Freightways Manufacturing Company was established in Salt Lake City, Utah, in 1940 before changing its name to Freightliner Corporation in 1942. It soon became North America’s leading heavy-duty vehicle manufacturer and after serving the war effort, resumed truck manufacturing at a new facility in Portland, Oregon, in 1947. The ‘Bubblenose’ model on the Freightliner stand was initially used as part of the CF on-highway fleet, but appears to have also been worked hard as a logging truck and as the basis for some sort of crane. It was found, in a rather dilapidated state, sitting in the woods near Mt Hood and was lovingly restored by the Freightliner manufacturing team at Portland, Oregon. .

All new Mercedes rigids ready to launch Big Rigs / May 4, 2017 Mercedes-Benz will launch an all-new on-highway rigid range at this month's Brisbane Truck Show. The company will also present its newly introduced prime mover models to the public for the first time at the event that runs from May 25 to 28. Mercedes-Benz successfully launched its new generation Actros family of trucks in October last year and is now ready to launch the rigid versions, which bring with them the same suite of benefits customers of the new prime mover have already been enjoying. The new rigid model was part of a comprehensive local testing program that has now included more than 35 customers, 20 trucks and more than 1.8 million km. All the details of the new rigid stable will be revealed at the show, but Mercedes has confirmed the line-up will include a mix of versatile drive combinations all the way from 4x2 through to 8x4. Standard engine options include 8-litre and 11-litre units, with up to 350hp and 460hp respectively, while 13-litre and 16-litre engines are available for individual builds. The new Euro 6 engines feature the latest technology including the X-Pulse high pressure injection system and simple and robust asymmetric turbocharger technology, which helps deliver more torque at lower engine speeds. Several measures have driven down fuel consumption, while also delivering AdBlue consumption reductions. The new rigid range will also feature a host of standard and optional advanced safety systems from stability control and safer cab structure to an Active Brake Assist 4 function (for 18-tonne and above models) that automatically performs emergency braking for most obstacles and can now even initiate partial braking for pedestrians. Mercedes-Benz will release specialist and construction-oriented rigid models later this year. The Brisbane rigid launch comes as more and more customers are taking delivery of new Mercedes-Benz prime mover models. Flooring specialist GMK Logistics has been surprised by the fuel savings it is realizing after adding one new generation Mercedes-Benz Actros to its fleet, which is part of the vast CTI fleet. "The fuel economy figures they are getting represent a 25 per cent improvement in fuel economy over the old truck," says CTI Logistics Commercial Manager, Glenn Brown. "That is significant." The results are so good that CTI has placed an order for more Actros models. Transtex is another happy Actros customer and its Managing Director, Shane Blakeborough, has taken delivery of four prime movers, with many more on the way. Initially hesitant to drive a Mercedes-Benz truck due to a preference for American metal, Mr Blakeborough is now a convert, describing the model as a "game changer". He decided to place an order after spending time in an evaluation vehicle. "With the savings we saw, it was a no brainer," Shane says. "The fuel economy figures are incredible," he adds. Blakeborough says of the new-generation Mercedes-Benz Actros: "It does everything you need a truck to do; it is extremely efficient, has the performance, it is refined and is very comfortable." .

Empowering the future Scania Group Press Release / May 2, 2017 The pace of development for electrified heavy vehicles, such as wirelessly charged city buses, tractor units with hybrid electric powertrains and electrically powered trucks running on electric roads, is intense. And interest in these sustainable transport solutions is gaining speed every day. When Ann-Christin Landman reaches Karlstad city limits in south-west Sweden with her Scania P 320 tractor, she pushes a button. This changes the source of the truck’s power from Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) to battery power. She makes the final leg of the journey to the city centre coffee roastery using electricity. “At first I thought there was something that was wrong,” she says. “It is unusual; the truck is completely silent.” Landman carries out daily deliveries for the Swedish coffee roaster Löfbergs, whose commitment to sustainability extends over the entire value chain – from coffee beans to coffee cup; from the farm to the end-consumer. That’s why Löfbergs has now put its first Scania hybrid tractor unit into operation. The hybrid truck can make a total of 15 daily round trips between the roastery plant and the warehouse in the suburb of Välsviken. Massive interest in electrification This is just one of many examples of the massive interest in electrification and the impact that the technology is starting to have on the transport industry. An interest that is heightened as costs for batteries and other related equipment continues to decline and global standards for common infrastructure, such as charging stations, take shape. “There is a big shift right now,” says Urban Löfvenberg, Sales Manager within Scania Sustainable Solutions. “In major bus tenders in Europe today, municipalities nearly always ask for different kinds of electrified solutions. The largest interest is in fully electric buses.” Useful in city centre traffic Löfvenberg says that battery-powered electric buses are particularly useful in city centre traffic, but adds that in a typical urban area these journeys only account for about 20 percent of the total. “For most journeys, to and from city centres, which account for about 80 percent of the total traffic in urban regions, hybrid electric solutions are more suitable, especially if biofuels are used,” Löfvenberg says. “These longer trips are ideal for recovering energy from braking, which means that up to 20–25 percent of fuel can be saved.” Zero carbon footprint Nils-Gunnar Vågstedt is responsible for Scania’s research into electrification. He also sees a tremendous momentum for electrified solutions and its environmental benefits, including the zero carbon footprint, quieter vehicles and zero particle emissions. “A lot has happened just during the last year and a half,” Vågstedt says. “We have gone from treating electrification primarily as a research area to having many discussions with customers who want to make the shift to sustainable transport.” Electrified solutions becoming financially viable Today, the driving forces for electrification come mainly from cities and city regions and the fact that electrified solutions are beginning to become financially viable in their own right, without subsidies. China is the front-runner. The country accounts for over 95 percent of the world’s electric city buses, a total of some 100,000 in rolling stock so far. “In urban traffic, both for city buses and to an increasing extent for distribution vehicles, the commercial driving forces are already in place,” says Vågstedt. “An electrified vehicle still has a higher initial investment cost, but it has the long-term benefit of lower operating costs. “The development for electrified long-haul transports are lagging a few years behind, but I am convinced that the same sustainable trend will occur here, and that we will see the same commercial driving forces,” Vågstedt adds. Broad approach to sustainable technologies Scania’s philosophy is to have a broad approach when it comes to research into sustainable technologies, rather than putting all its eggs into one basket. That’s why the company continues its research into hybrid technology, plug-in hybrids, fully electric vehicles and different kinds of biofuel. “We want to address concrete customer needs instead of convincing them of a particular solution. In cities where access to biogas for use in buses is good, biogas is a suitable solution. Another city might produce electricity from its biogas – then electric vehicles are a good solution there.” “And,” Vågstedt adds, “in places where hydrogen gas derived from solar or wind power can be produced, fuel cells make suitable energy transmitters to electric vehicles.

Scania Group Press Release / May 3, 2017 Scania is working on several projects to help increase the use of electrification technology within both urban and long-haul transport. All Scania’s hybrid vehicles are Euro 6 certified. Tractor with a hybrid electric powertrain Swedish coffee roaster Löfbergs recently put a hybrid electric truck into operation. The Scania P 320 tractor drives on electric power for nearly two kilometres on just a ten-minute charge, lowering the fuel costs by 18 percent and making it possible to perform silent deliveries without disturbing residents. In parallel with the electric battery, the truck runs on Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO). The combination reduces carbon emissions by more than 90 percent in comparison with conventional diesel. Battery electric city bus At the end of 2017 Scania will start field tests of battery-powered electric buses in the northern Swedish city of Östersund. The three Scania Citywide LF buses – with an additional three to be added during 2019 – will be charged through a roof-mounted pantograph at two charging stations at both ends of the 14-kilometre bus line. With a 10-minute charging time, the buses will run every 15 minutes for a total of 100 journeys each day. Hybrid truck for quiet deliveries Scania’s 18-tonne distribution truck can operate solely on electric power for up to two kilometres. The powertrain has an electric motor that delivers 130 kW (174 hp). Electric operations are primarily intended for city distribution in noise sensitive areas or where exhaust fumes must be avoided. The truck was awarded the prestigious German prize Green Truck Future Innovation 2016 by the leading trade magazine Verkehrsrundschau. Breakthrough for hybrid city bus With the launch of the hybrid powered Scania Citywide bus in 2015, Scania took another step towards carbon neutral transport solutions. The hybrid unit, comprising an electric motor and automatic clutch, is located between the engine and gearbox. The combustion engine runs on up to 100 percent biodiesel, providing CO2 savings of 60-65 percent. 2016 saw a major commercial breakthrough, when Scania started delivering 51 of these buses to the city of Madrid. World’s first electric road In June 2016, the world’s first electric road for heavy goods traffic was inaugurated near the Swedish city of Gävle. A Scania electrically-powered truck now operates the route, in open highway traffic, using conductive technology developed by Siemens. The truck operates as an electric vehicle when on the electrified road lane and as a Euro 6-certified hybrid vehicle running on biofuel at other times, such as when overtaking. Wirelessly charged city bus In December 2016, a Scania electric hybrid city bus, equipped with wireless inductive technology, was inaugurated in Scania’s hometown of Södertälje, as part of a joint research project between Scania and the KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm. The batteries are wirelessly charged while the bus stands at the terminal stop, providing it with the power it needs to complete its 10 km route in just seven minutes. Solar-cell produced hydrogen Together with Asko, Norway’s largest convenience goods wholesaler, Scania will start testing trucks with an electric powertrain in which the electrical energy is converted from hydrogen gas in fuel cells on board the vehicles. The hydrogen gas will be produced locally, using solar cells. The three-axle 27 tonne trucks will run in distribution service with distances of almost 500 km. .

Volvo Trucks Press Release / April 3, 2017 Volvo Trucks´ Collision Warning with Emergency Brake demonstrates one of the industry’s most advanced safety technologies. The system alerts the driver if there is a risk of collision with a vehicle in front, activating the brakes if necessary. It monitors the vehicles in front with the help of both radar and camera technology. The system also functions on curvy roads. The demonstration was carried out by professionals in a closed off area. .

Scania Group Press Release / April 26, 2017 In July 2017, Scania celebrates 60 years since it first entered the Brazilian market. To commence celebrations, a special edition truck commemorating the classic Scania 113 has been released. To represent the Scania 113, the current Scania Highline R 440 and Highline R 480 were selected for the 60-year special edition truck. The emblematic blue-sky colour is the same as well as the iconic side bands in pink, lilac and purple from the vintage truck. Scania-Vabis do Brasil S/A Motores Diesel started operating from offices on Rua Líbero Badaró in São Paulo back in 1957. Its first vehicles were assembled from parts imported from Sweden and were sold by Brazil’s Vemag Group. In 1962, Scania inaugurated the production plant in São Bernardo do Campo, 25 kilometres from downtown São Paulo − its first production unit outside Sweden. With 290,000 vehicles delivered, Brazil is Scania’s largest single market in absolute terms. Brazil is the country with more Scania vehicles than anywhere in the world. Some 30 percent of all heavy trucks on Brazilian roads carry the Scania brand. Scania’s long history and strong market position have also left their mark and the word “Scania” is often used as an expression for a big truck. Since 1962, Scania has manufactured 410,000 vehicles in Brazil. Trucks, buses and engines are built not only for Brazil and other Latin American countries, but also for markets on other continents. Scania continues to invest in Brazil. Last year, an investment programme of nearly 800 million euro was initiated, encompassing product development, production facility modernisation as well as to strengthen the dealership network. “We continue to invest in the best technology in the automotive sector, and this reinforces our commitment to Brazil and a sustainable transport system,” says Rogério Barretto de Rezende, Director of Institutional and Governmental Affairs at Scania Latin America. Scania in Brazil looks back on six decades of achievements in the country with a perspective on the future, explains Roberto Barral Fonseca, Managing Director of Scania Latin America. “This is part of our DNA. That is why we are pioneers: We deliver current solutions with a view towards future transport needs. Together with our customers, we have evolved with the market and will continue to offer the best solutions in the coming 10, 20 and many more years ahead.” . .

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The Freightliner Argosy shares the same cab as the Century Class, Columbia and Coronado (the Argosy version of the shared cab architecture being 305mm wider).

Kenworth Developing Hydrogen Fuel Cell T680 Heavy Duty Trucking / May 2, 2017 Kenworth announced it is developing a prototype hydrogen fuel cell version of the T680 day cab for drayage tractor operation at Southern California ports. The project is backed by a $9 million government grant awarded last August. The hydrogen fuel cell is provided by the Canadian company Ballard Power Systems and it will charge batteries on the truck, producing only water in emissions. The T680 day cab tractor will use lithium-ion batteries to power a dual-rotor electric motor, driving the rear tandem axle through a 4-speed automated transmission. Kenworth’s hydrogen fuel cell T680 is expected to be ready for initial track and on-road testing in the fourth quarter of this year. Kenworth also recently began building a T680 day cab hybrid truck powered by a Cummins Westport ISL G Near Zero NOx engine running on compressed natural gas to generate electricity. The two T680 tractors will be identical with the exception of the power generation systems. Each truck will have an electric-only range of about 30 miles, and the onboard fuel will provide sufficient range for a full day in regional haul applications, according to Kenworth. A third project received $4.8 million in funding from the California Air Resources Board with the South Coast Air Quality Management District as the prime applicant. Kenworth will build four additional, hybrid-electric T680 day cabs equipped with the Cummins Westport ISL G Near Zero NOx engine operating on CNG, and will also support customer field tests of these units in Southern California drayage operations. Kenworth will build its first unit for this project in 2018. Kenworth engineers will be able to make design and system refinements to this 2018 unit based on data collected from this year’s real-world testing of the initial, 2017 hybrid-electric T680. All six prototypes will transport freight from the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach to warehouses and railyards in the Los Angeles basin. “These T680 day cab projects provide an excellent opportunity for Kenworth to develop and advance important technologies that may play a critical role in the trucks of tomorrow,” said Patrick Dean, Kenworth chief engineer. “Within the next decade, hybrid-electric powertrains are expected to be required to satisfy emissions regulations in several major U.S. metropolitan areas. For example, California is considering regulations that will require zero-emission levels for port drayage trucks operating in specifically designated areas.” .

2018 Ford F-650, F-750 Receive Performance and Service Updates Heavy Duty Trucking / May 2, 2017 Ford has updated its Class 6 to 7 F-650 and F-750 medium-duty trucks with performance and service improvements for the 2018 model-year. Electronic stability control and traction control brakes are now standard on 2018 F-650 and F-750 tractor models. The system will initially be optional on certain F-750 diesel air-braked straight trucks with high-center-of-gravity-body upfits. Also added for 2018 is a new high-output 240-amp alternator available with the 6.8L V-10 gasoline powertrain. Designed for applications with high electrical demands, the higher output alternator eliminates the need to specify a second alternator or generator to power auxiliary lights and equipment. An optional automatic regeneration inhibitor is being offered on 2018 diesel trucks to give the operator more control over when the engine goes into regeneration to clean the diesel particulate filter. The soot trap regeneration inhibitor allows a driver to postpone incinerating trapped soot until it can be performed in a preferred location. To limit potential hood wear and front-end collision damage, a new bumper extension moves the full-width front bumper from flush with the grille to three inches in front of it. It provides added protection to the grille and components behind it in the case of a collision, potentially reducing repair costs. Lastly, the oil and transmission fluid dipstick has been relocated on 2018 F-650 and F-750 diesel trucks to be accessible from ground level. The transmission fluid dipstick has also been moved to provide ground-level access on gasoline models. "The success of our new truck design is apparent from our growing sales and the fact it was named Medium-Duty Truck of the Year by Work Truck magazine in 2016 and 2017," said Kevin Koester, Ford's medium-duty truck and Super Duty fleet marketing manager. "For 2018, we’re enhancing this successful platform based on customer feedback."

Ford Upgrades 2018 Medium-Duty Models Trailer/Body Builders / May 3, 2017 Ford Motor Co. is making some upgrades to its 2018 model Class 6 and 7 medium-duty trucks, the F-650 and F-750, which can be ordered stating this summer with availability at dealerships expected by fall. Completely redesigned by Ford in 2016, F-650 and F-750 units are available in straight-frame, kick-up frame Pro Loader and dedicated tractor configurations, with Regular Cab, SuperCab and Crew Cab body styles, along with a choice of either gasoline or diesel powertrains. For the 2018 model year, Ford said it is making electronic stability control (ESC) and traction control brakes standard on all 2018 F-650 and F-750 tractor models, though the system will initially be optional on certain F-750 diesel air-braked straight trucks with high-center-of-gravity-body upfits. For applications with high electrical demands – such as tow trucks, road service vehicles and other well-lit work trucks – the OEM is adding a high-output 240-amp alternator as an option with the 6.8-liter V10 gasoline powertrain. Ordering the higher output alternator to power auxiliary lights and equipment can eliminate the need to specify a second alternator or generator, Ford said. The OEM is also offering an optional automatic regeneration inhibitor on its 2018 model diesel-powered medium-duty trucks to give operators more control over when the engine goes into regeneration to clean the diesel particulate filter (DPF). Finally, to limit potential hood wear and front-end collision damage, Ford is making available an optional bumper extension for the full-width front bumper from flush with the grille to three inches in front of it. This provides additional protection to the grille and components behind it in case of a collision, potentially reducing repair expenses, Ford said.

Green Car Congress / May 3, 2017 US Hybrid has unveiled a zero-emission Class 8 fuel cell port drayage truck featuring its PEM fuel cell system during the Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo at the Long Beach Convention Center. The truck, which will be operated by Total Transportation Solutions, Inc (TTSI), is one of two fuel cell demonstration tractors scheduled for delivery at the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. (Earlier post.) The fuel cell tractor, a Navistar International ProStar day cab, features US Hybrid’s FCe80, 80 kW PEM fuel cell system and a 500 hp traction motor with 2,900 lb-ft of direct drive torque (3,750 N·m). It has a gross vehicle weight rating of 80,000 pounds, an estimated driving range of 200 miles under normal drayage operation, and can be fully refueled in less than nine minutes. US Hybrid plans to expand its Connecticut production facility via an expanded partnership with China-based Jiangsu Dewei Advanced Materials. The US FuelCell, Inc. (USFC) facility—originally a wholly owned subsidiary of US Hybrid, but now owned by both Dewei and US Hybrid—will focus on the production of US Hybrid’s PEM fuel cell systems, including the FCe80, an 80kW fuel cell engine for heavy-duty trucks and transit buses, and the FCe40, an 40kW fuel cell engine for class 6 and 7 trucks and medium-duty transit buses. (Dewei also has a small equity investment in US Hybrid.) The compact and high efficiency FCe80 and FCe40 units have been designed to be integrated, controlled, and serviced just like a conventional engine with J1939 diagnostics and easy access to critical components to minimize service time. The FC engines are utilizing US Hybrid’s advanced freeze capable technology, which enables start at temperatures as low as -30 degrees Celsius without a cold climate option package. USFC anticipates production and delivery of more than 1,200 PEM fuel cell engines in the next 36 months. The expansion of production facilities in US and China will enable the company to build and deliver 2,000 fuel cell engines per year in the US and additional 2,000 engines in China. The higher-volume fuel cell engine production capability will enable fleets to realize a comparable return on investment as other clean fuel engines. Dewei is committed to the successful development of fuel cell technology for commercial buses and trucks, as evidenced by our $42.8 million (RMB 300 million) investment in Chinese fuel cell production and establishment of a $428 million (RMB 3000 million) industrial fund. This new partnership with US Hybrid will enable US FuelCell to meet market demand cost-competitively in China, North America, and Europe. —Zhou Jianming, Dewei Chairman US Hybrid Corporation has provided electric and hybrid-traction drive systems for medium- and heavy-duty commercial trucks, municipality vehicles, and fuel cell transit buses throughout the world, with more than one million accumulated kilometers of operation. Notable recent integration projects include hybrid street sweepers for the New York Department of Sanitation, hybrid port trucks for the New York Container terminals, fuel cell buses for Sunline Transit, fuel cell powered class-8 drayage trucks for operation at the Port of Los Angeles and Port of Houston, and a range of full cell vehicles (shuttle buses, step vans, military vehicles, port trucks) for Hickam Air Force Base in Hawaii. US Hybrid is also providing Caltrans with a fuel cell street sweeper. Dewei, established in 1995, is the largest high molecular material producer and distributor in China. The rapidly growing company, which is a supplier for General Motors, Volkswagen and Toyota, and a key shareholder of Guizhou Aerospace Special Vehicle Co., has recently experienced nearly 30% year-over-year revenue increases. .

Electronic stability control and traction control brakes now standard on tractor models (optional on F-750 diesel straight frame model*) New diesel engine soot trap regeneration inhibitor allows driver to postpone incinerating trapped soot until regeneration can be performed in a preferred location, plus new easy-to-access oil dipstick location to check oil levels New high-output 240-amp alternator now available for 6.8-liter V10 gasoline engine models Available three-inch bumper extension limits potential hood wear and collision damage DEARBORN, Mich., May 3, 2017 – Ford, America’s truck leader, is updating its biggest trucks to improve performance and serviceability. Ford F-650 and F-750 medium-duty trucks are the fastest growing volume Class 6-7 brand**. Ford F-650 and F-750 trucks were completely redesigned for 2016, enjoying their best sales since 1997 last year. Ford’s largest trucks are available in straight-frame, kick-up frame Pro Loader and dedicated tractor models, with Regular Cab, SuperCab and Crew Cab body styles. Ford is the only manufacturer to offer a choice of gasoline or diesel powertrain in the medium-duty conventional truck market. All F-650 and F-750 trucks are built at Ohio Assembly Plant near Cleveland using domestic and foreign parts. “Customers are moving from other brands to Ford F-650 and F-750 medium-duty trucks because they’re affordable and Built Ford Tough in America,” says Kevin Koester, Ford medium-duty truck and Super Duty fleet marketing manager. “Our segment-exclusive gasoline engine is appealing to fleet managers who recognize not every duty cycle requires the torque of a diesel engine, and who prefer the cost and maintenance advantages of gasoline power. “The success of our new truck design is apparent from our growing sales and the fact it was named Medium-Duty Truck of the Year by Work Truck magazine in 2016 and 2017,” adds Koester. “For 2018, we’re enhancing this successful platform based on customer feedback.” Electronic stability control and traction control brakes are now standard on all 2018 F-650 and F-750 tractor models. The system will initially be optional on certain F-750 diesel air-braked straight trucks with high-center-of-gravity-body upfits. For applications with high electrical demands – such as tow trucks, road service vehicles and other well-lit work trucks – a high-output 240-amp alternator is now available with the 6.8-liter V10 gasoline powertrain. Ordering the higher output alternator to power auxiliary lights and equipment can eliminate the need to specify a second alternator or generator. Ford offers an optional automatic regeneration inhibitor on 2018 diesel trucks to give the operator more control over when the engine goes into regeneration to clean the diesel particulate filter. To limit potential hood wear and front-end collision damage, an available bumper extension moves the full-width front bumper from flush with the grille to three inches in front of it. This provides additional protection to the grille and components behind it in case of a collision, potentially reducing repair expenses. It’s easier to check the oil and transmission fluid levels on 2018 F-650 and F-750 diesel trucks thanks to relocated dipsticks that can be accessed from ground level. The transmission fluid dipstick has also been moved to provide ground-level access on gasoline models. The gasoline engine’s oil dipstick was already accessible from the ground. Powertrains purpose-built for Ford trucks Ford is the only manufacturer to design and build its own medium-duty diesel engine and transmission combination – ensuring the powertrain will work seamlessly with all chassis components and vehicle calibrations, and providing customers with streamlined service. The 6.7-liter Power Stroke® V8 turbo diesel engine delivers best-in-class standard 270 horsepower and 675 lb.-ft. of torque, as well as available engine outputs of 300 horsepower with 700 lb.-ft. of torque and 330 horsepower with 725 lb.-ft. of torque. The diesel has a B10 engine design life of more than 500,000 miles***, and is backed by an unsurpassed standard five-year/250,000-mile limited warranty. For additional braking assistance, an exhaust brake comes standard with every diesel engine. Ford’s segment-exclusive 6.8-liter V10 gasoline engine provides 320 horsepower and 460 lb.-ft. of torque for less than the cost of a diesel engine. It can be factory-prepped for conversion to compressed natural gas or liquid propane. Both engines come with the Ford-built TorqShift heavy-duty six-speed automatic transmission. An available live-drive power takeoff provision features an output gear linked directly to the diesel engine crankshaft for 300 lb.-ft. of stationary torque and 200 lb.-ft. of mobile torque. For the gasoline powertrain, the optional power takeoff’s stationary and mobile mode deliver 250 lb.-ft. and 125 lb.-ft. of torque, respectively. The transmission’s SelectShift® feature has two driver-initiated modes – progressive range select, which limits the range of gears to lock out overdrive for consistent speed over hills, and full manual mode, which provides control up and down the gearbox. Selectable tow/haul mode compensates for grade and load to reduce gear hunting and improve power delivery. Engine braking and selective gearing improve control on downhill grades and help minimize brake wear. Like all Ford trucks, Ford’s medium-duty F-650 and F-750 vehicles are supported by the company’s Commercial Vehicle Center program. Program dealers nationwide are committed to providing fleet and commercial customers the vehicles, financing options and service support their businesses need to maximize productivity and uptime. Ordering for 2018 Ford medium-duty F-650 and F-750 trucks begins this summer, with vehicles available at dealers this fall. *Electronic stability control and traction control brakes will initially be optional on certain F-750 air-braked straight trucks with high-center-of-gravity-body upfits. **Based on IHS Markit TIP registrations for gross vehicle weight Class 6-7 vehicles with sales over 1,000 units for calendar year-to-date December 2016 versus calendar year-to-date December 2015. ***B10 design life based on 330-horsepower output version and Ford engine dynamometer testing. .

GM expects $100 million hit to profits from Venezuela action Automotive News / May 2, 2017 General Motors said it would deconsolidate its operations in Venezuela, reducing global profits by up to $100 million after the government seized GM’s plant there last month. The deconsolidation, announced Tuesday, means GM will no longer include earnings or losses from Venezuela in its South American results, but it does not necessarily signal that GM is pulling out of the country permanently. GM has ceased operations and terminated its workers there while it appeals the plant seizure to Venezuela’s Supreme Court. “The company expects a prompt decision and favorable outcome,” GM said in a statement. “GM executives have expressed a willingness to talk with government officials and union leaders about the circumstances under which it could be possible to start production and employ some number of workers with a new, viable business model.” GM’s deconsolidation of Venezuela follows a similar move by Ford in that country two years ago. Ford’s action resulted in an $800 million charge, but the effect on GM’s finances will be much smaller because it had not produced any vehicles in Venezuela for more than a year. “The illegal seizure of the plant accelerated some decisions that we needed to make,” GM CFO Chuck Stevens told reporters last week. “We don’t necessarily want to exit the country, but certainly it’s not an environment that you can invest in or run a normal business at this point.”

Automotive News / May 2, 2017 Dana Inc.’s first-quarter net income rose 67 percent to $75 million on the strength of new business with automakers, greater demand for light trucks and improvement in various other business lines. The longtime Ohio-based axle and powertrain supplier said higher sales were offset somewhat by higher transaction costs related to acquisitions such as U.S. Manufacturing Corp., a company that makes axle housing and driveline shafts in the Detroit suburb of Warren, Mich. Revenue bumped up 17 percent to $1.7 billion in the quarter. Among its business lines, Dana said light-vehicle revenue reached $761 million, up by 24 percent, and off-highway business climbed 36 percent to $328 million. The company said it will maintain a cautious outlook for power technology sales, despite a strong incremental quarter. Dana reported record sales in the department -- $283 million -- compared with last year’s $262 million -- because of strong demand in North America, Europe, and China. “Broadly speaking, we had a really strong performance in power technology,” Dana CFO Jonathan Collins said during a conference call. “Candidly, the business is just performing really well.” Dana anticipates full-year revenue of $6.2 billion-$6.4 billion. Dana Inc., formerly Dana Holding Corp., is headquartered near Toledo in Maumee, Ohio. It ranked No. 39 on the Automotive News list of top global suppliers in 2016.

Renault Trucks’ global sales results.....versus the Volvo brand: January 2015 Renault up 24% Volvo down 4% February 2015 Renault up 26% Volvo down 13% 1st quarter 2015 Renault up 35% Volvo down 8% April 2015 Renault up 12% Volvo up 9% May 2015 Renault up 5% Volvo down 1% 2nd quarter 2015 Renault up 7% Volvo down 4% July 2015 Renault up 8% Volvo down 5% August 2015 Renault up 60% Volvo down 6% 3rd quarter 2015 Renault up 20% Volvo down 2% October 2015 Renault up 16% Volvo down 1% November 2015 Renault up 54% Volvo down 10% 4th quarter 2015 Renault up 29% Volvo down 7% Full Year 2015 Renault up 22% Volvo down 4% 1st quarter 2016 Renault up 8% Volvo down 8% 2nd quarter 2016 Renault up 12% Volvo down 9% 3rd quarter 2016 Renault down 5% Volvo down 12% 4th quarter 2016 Renault down 5% Volvo down 8% Full Year 2016 Renault up 2% Volvo down 9% 1st quarter 2017 Renault up 3% Volvo down 2%

The Numbers In Q1 2017, sales (deliveries) from Volvo Group’s truck operations amounted to 43,927* units, down 5 percent from 46,110 units in Q1 2016. Volvo brand Q1 2017 truck sales (overall) fell to 23,720 units globally, down 2 percent from 24,315 units in Q1 2016. Volvo brand Q1 2017 truck sales in North America plunged to 3,484 units, down 40 percent from 5,797 units in Q1 2016. This follows a 49 percent sales decline in Q4 2016 versus Q4 2015, and another 49 percent sales decline in Q3 2016 versus Q3 2015. Volvo brand Q1 2017 truck sales in Europe rose to 13,325 units, up 4 percent from 12,852 units in Q1 2016. Volvo brand Q1 2017 truck sales in Africa/Oceania (includes Australia, New Zealand) rose to 1,105 units, up 1 percent from 1,095 units in Q1 2016. Mack brand Q1 2017 truck sales (overall) fell to 3,925 units globally, down 24 percent from 5,176 units in Q1 2016. This follows a 46 percent sales decline in Q4 2016 versus Q4 2015. Mack brand Q1 2017 truck sales in North America fell to 3,530 units, down 27 percent from 4,843 units in Q1 2016. This follows a 42 percent sales decline in Q4 2016 versus Q4 2015. Mack brand Q1 2017 truck sales in South America fell to 140 units, down 4 percent from 146 units in Q1 2016. Mack brand Q1 2017 truck sales in Africa/Oceania (includes Australia, New Zealand) rose to 255 units, up 37 percent from 186 units in Q1 2016. Renault Truck Q1 2017 brand sales (overall) rose to 11,533 units globally, up 3 percent from 11,222 units in Q1 2016. Renault Truck Q1 2017 brand sales in Europe rose to 10,277 units, up 2 percent from 10,065 units in Q1 2016. UD (Nissan Diesel) Q1 2017 brand sales (overall) rose to 4,749 units, down 12 percent from 5,397 units in Q1 2016. UD (Nissan Diesel) Q1 2017 brand sales in Asia rose to 3,938 units, down 10 percent from 4,394 units in Q1 2016. Total Global Deliveries by Brand Q1 2017 Q1 2016 % Change Volvo 23,720 24,315 -2 Renault Trucks 11,533 11,222 3 UD (Nissan Diesel) 4,749 5,397 -12 Mack 3,925 5,176 -24 Total Deliveries 43,927 46,110 -5 Total Global Deliveries by Truck Size Q1 2017 Q1 2016 % Change Heavy Duty (>16 metric tons) 36,764 38,282 -4 Medium Duty (7-16 metric tons) 3,548 3,765 -6 Light Duty (<7 metric tons) 3,615 4,063 -11 Total Deliveries 43,927 46,110 -5 Total Global Deliveries by Region Q1 2017 Q1 2016 % Change Europe 23,602 22,917 3 North America 7,065 10,740 -34 South America 1,889 1,890 0 Asia 8,470 7,854 8 Africa & Oceania* 2,901 2,709 7 Total Deliveries 43,927 46,110 -5 * includes Australia, New Zealand

Volvo Group Press Release / April 25, 2017 In Q1 2017 net sales increased by 8% to SEK 77.4 billion (71.7). Adjusted for currency movements and acquired and divested units sales increased by 4%. Adjusted operating income amounted to SEK 7,029 M (4,459), corresponding to an adjusted operating margin of 9.1% (6.2). Currency movements had a positive impact on operating income of SEK 289 M. Operating cash flow in the Industrial Operations amounted to SEK 1.5 billion (-10.4). UD Trucks launched all-new heavy-duty Quon and medium-duty Croner truck ranges. New Volvo VNR regional haul tractor launched in North America. CEO’S COMMENTS Continued improved profitability In the first quarter, both the Group’s sales and profitability increased. Net sales increased by 8% and amounted to SEK 77.4 billion. Volumes of heavy-duty and medium-duty trucks were down by 4%, which was off-set by 34% higher volumes of construction equipment. The good order trend from the end of last year continued, with order intake for trucks being up by 11% to 55,600 vehicles and order intake for Volvo CE rising 34% to 17,500 machines. The trend with increased services sales also continued with a positive development in all segments and markets. Sales of services grew by 6% currency adjusted, driven by increased focus in our sales and service operations as well as high fleet utilization for our customers. The Group’s adjusted operating income improved to SEK 7.0 billion, with earnings improvements coming from all business areas with the most significant impact from Trucks and Volvo CE. The adjusted operating margin was 9.1%. Demand for trucks in Europe remained high. Our customers continue to benefit from a good freight environment and we see good demand also in the construction segment. When it comes to market shares, we have started the year well, noting a 17.6% share for Volvo and Renault Trucks growing to 8.7%. After the downwards correction in the long haulage segment in 2016, the North American market seems to be bottoming out. We see positive signs of increased order activity. In April, Volvo Trucks launched the new Volvo VNR regional haul tractor, marking the first step in the renewal of the Volvo range in North America. With its modern, ergonomic and more aerodynamic cab, the new vehicle will significantly improve Volvo’s position in the regional haul market. Product features are focused on delivering the maneuverability, productivity and safety that are so important to customers in this segment. Demand for trucks in Japan remained at a high level. With the launch of new heavy- and medium-duty truck ranges with associated services, UD Trucks takes important steps in strengthening its product portfolio. The all-new heavy-duty UD Quon delivers higher levels of performance across features compared to its predecessor and also addresses a broader market by catering to a wider range of customer applications. In addition, UD Trucks extended its product offer aimed specifically at growth markets by complementing the UD Quester heavy-duty range with the all-new UD Croner range of medium-duty trucks. The first quarter also saw growing truck markets in India and China. Both our joint-ventures, VECV and DFCV, increased sales as well as profitability, contributing to the improved earnings for the Group’s truck business. It is also great to note that the European truck segment in Asia is growing, with a 41% volume increase for Volvo Trucks, which holds a strong position in this segment. This development is fuelled by higher commodity prices, which has sparked a recovery in the mining industry as well as a rapid growth of e-commerce in China. Customers operating in these industries value the uptime and productivity that our Volvo trucks deliver. All in all, the improved performance in our trucks business resulted in an operating margin of 9.9%. The recovery in the mining industry is good also for Volvo CE. After years of tough market conditions, the Volvo CE business is growing again, with a sales increase of 30%. Higher sales volumes linked with increased internal efficiency and a lower cost base resulted in an operating margin of 10.0%. Volvo CE is on the right track with the performance improvement plan yielding results. However, we see further opportunities to structurally improve the long-term competitiveness of Volvo CE. Volvo Buses delivered 10% fewer buses and had an operating margin of 1.8%, which was a slight improvement. Volvo Penta grew sales by 15%, while maintaining an operating margin of 15.5%. The Volvo Penta team continues to successfully drive and develop the industrial engine business. Volvo Financial Services’ credit portfolio continued to perform well with low credit losses. Operating income increased and VFS had a return on equity of 13.8%. With the new truck ranges launched this quarter, we take an important step in strengthening our product portfolios in North America, Japan and growth markets in Asia. Our strategy, with brand and business area driven organizations with decentralized accountability, is developing well with an increased focus on driving the service business. We are becoming a faster and more agile organization that is closer to customers. Martin Lundstedt President and CEO Report on the first quarter 2017(PDF, 0.7 MB)

Kenworth Truck Co. Press Release / May 2, 2017 Kenworth continues its advancements on low/zero emission projects focused on Kenworth T680 day cabs for drayage tractor operation in Southern California ports, which are backed by $9 million in government grants awarded last August. Kenworth is developing a prototype Class 8 hydrogen fuel cell tractor designed to provide true zero-emissions operation. By using the fuel cell – provided by Ballard Power Systems in Burnaby, British Columbia – to recharge the batteries, the only emission coming out of the tailpipe will be water. The T680 day cab tractor uses lithium-ion batteries to power a dual-rotor electric motor, driving the rear tandem axle through a 4-speed automated transmission. Kenworth’s hydrogen truck is expected to be ready for initial track and on-road testing in the fourth quarter of this year. This week, Kenworth began building a second prototype series hybrid-electric T680 day cab designed to produce near-zero-emissions. The truck will use the currently available Cummins Westport ISL G Near Zero NOx engine fueled by compressed natural gas (CNG) to generate electrical power. Initial track and road testing is expected to start in the fourth quarter. These two T680 tractors will be identical, with the exception of their power generation systems. Each truck will have an electric-only range of approximately 30 miles, and the on-board fuel – hydrogen or natural gas –will provide sufficient range for a full day in regional haul applications. Kenworth’s work on these programs is supported by grants of $2.1 million for each project from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE), with Southern California’s South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) as the prime applicant. A third project received $4.8 million in funding from the California Air Resources Board (CARB), again with the SCAQMD as the prime applicant. Kenworth will build four additional, hybrid-electric T680 day cabs equipped with the Cummins Westport ISL G Near Zero NOx engine operating on compressed natural gas, and will also support customer field tests of these units in Southern California drayage operations. Kenworth will build its first unit for this project in 2018. Kenworth engineers will be able to make design and system refinements to this 2018 unit based on data collected from this year’s real-world testing of the initial, 2017 hybrid-electric T680. All six prototype T680 day cab drayage tractors, produced as a result of these Kenworth programs, will transport freight from the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach to warehouses and railyards in the Los Angeles basin. “These T680 day cab projects provide an excellent opportunity for Kenworth to develop and advance important technologies that may play a critical role in the trucks of tomorrow,” said Patrick Dean, Kenworth chief engineer. “Within the next decade, hybrid-electric powertrains are expected to be required to satisfy emissions regulations in several major U.S. metropolitan areas. For example, California is considering regulations that will require zero-emission levels for port drayage trucks operating in specifically designated areas. We look forward to playing a leadership role to meet the opportunities and challenges ahead.” .

Navistar Defense / April 27, 2017 .