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John G Smith
John G. Smith is the editorial director of Newcom Media's trucking and supply chain publications -- including Today's Trucking, trucknews.com, TruckTech, Transport Routier, and Road Today. The award-winning journalist has covered the trucking industry since 1995.
Fuel-saving differences where the rubber meets the road
Premier Bulk Systems runs on wide-base single tires. Director of fleet operations Derek Varley chose to go with Michelin X-Ones, on both power units and trailers. He opted for the more aggressive XDM2 tread pattern on the drive tires, sacrificing a bit of fuel economy for better traction in the winter months.
Strong economy, $60 oil driving truck sales, Peterbilt says
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. – Peterbilt is projecting sales of Class 8 trucks in Canada and the U.S. to reach between 235,000 and 265,000 units this year, with another 85,000 medium-duty trucks to be sold on top of that. Several economic conditions back the healthy projections.
UltraLoft takes Model 579 to new heights
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. – Peterbilt has unveiled a new 80-inch integral sleeper known as the UltraLoft, adding an array of features to the Model 579 that improve comfort for team drivers and enhance aerodynamics in the process. “It has that distinctive Peterbilt style,” said Scott Newhouse, chief engineer, also referring to added storage, lower and upper bunk space, and the widest mattress in the industry. “The driver experience starts when you’re in the cab. It’s a big, open space with plenty of headroom.” The upper mattress itself measures 82 x 36 inches, while the lower bunk is an expansive 85 x 42 inches. “The lower bunk can actually handle a seven-foot-tall person,” Newhouse said.
