Latest News Updates From John Baxter

Business, Technology, Equipment, Fuel

Ducted Fuel Injection Shows Promise for Diesel

Researchers have developed a promising yet surprisingly simple modification to diesel engines that could hold the key to reducing the complexity, maintenance, and size and weight of emission aftertreatment systems.

July 17, 2020
Business, Technology, Equipment, Fuel

Taking a Look Under the Hood of Electric Trucks

The introduction of electric-­powered trucks represents a new frontier for the transportation industry, but this new breed of commercial vehicle will not be completely unfamiliar to fleets and maintenance shops.

April 24, 2020
Business, Technology, Equipment, Fuel

One Major Fleet’s Experience Testing Electric Trucks

Fleets that have been at the forefront of testing electric trucks are gaining insights into how these new vehicles perform in real-world freight operations.

April 24, 2020
Business, Technology, Equipment, Fuel

Diagnostics Could Ease Adoption of Electric Trucks

The advance of diagnostic programs has improved maintenance and uptime for diesel trucks, and it appears the same will be true for electric-powered vehicles.

April 24, 2020
Business, Technology, Equipment

Rear Axle Ratios Are Still Moving Downward

Downspeeding saves fuel, and with aerodynamics and tires continuing to improve, truck manufacturers are experimenting with still lower rear axle ratios.

January 24, 2020
Technology, Equipment

Avoid Aftertreatment Woes With Routine Preventive Maintenance

Heading off engine exhaust aftertreatment headaches can be as simple as doing preventive maintenance by the book, representatives of fleets and truck and engine makers said. Diesel particulate filtersand selective catalytic reduction systems have helped Class 8 trucks cut emissions of particulate matter, or soot, and nitrogen oxide compounds.

October 25, 2019
Business

Trucking Market Is ‘Hot,’ Says SVP of Mack Trucks

A sales executive with Mack Trucks expressed optimism about the trucking industry during a recent briefing with the press in Portland, Ore., and Seattle.

July 25, 2019
Business, Equipment, Fuel

The Upside of Downspeeding

Industry experts and fleets tell us that engine downspeeding is a great way to save fuel at highway speeds and that it affords additional benefits.

April 26, 2019
Technology, Equipment, Safety

Diesel Engine, Drivetrain Spec’ing Prove Crucial

Careful attention to diesel engine and drivetrain spec’ing is essential to ensure that Class 8 trucks have the highest productivity and lowest cost per mile for their specific applications.

January 25, 2019
Business, Technology, Equipment

Don't Skirt Proper Maintenance on Trailer Aero Devices, Experts Say

Trailer side skirts and various types of air deflectors, which are intended to boost a tractor-trailer’s aerodynamic efficiency, will save motor carriers more fuel with frequent inspections and proper repairs.

November 9, 2018