Test Drive: Hendrickson ZMD suspension delivers shockingly smooth ride — without shocks
TORONTO, Ont. -- Hendrickson's Zero Maintenance Damping (ZMD) technology was originally unveiled as a maintenance strategy, but equipment editor Jim Park says the trailer suspension also delivers a surprisingly smooth ride.
Simulators, VR systems enhance driver training
BEAMSVILLE, Ont. – The developers at iMVR Canada live in a world that straddles the virtual and reality. Their work spaces overlook actual tractor-trailers pulling through a local truck stop; the trucks on their computer screens travel no further than a hard drive. There is a clear connection between the two worlds, though.
EPA adds day cabs to SmartWay program
TORRANCE, Calif. -- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is making some changes to its SmartWay program that offers information on verified fuel-efficient technologies. Day cabs are now eligible for the SmartWay designation, and research into fuel-efficient retreads will result in changes to how those products are classified.
Logbooks fading away as Canada prepares to mandate ELDs
TORONTO, Ont. -- Transport Canada announced this month that it will mandate electronic logging devices (ELDs) as of June 2021 – more than three years after the U.S. first required the time-tracking equipment in the place of paper logbooks. And that's despite the fact that Canada had a head start on developing the underlying technical standards.
Michelin exec discusses 3D printing, telematics, and the future of tires
MONTREAL, Que. – Laurent Bourrut is clearly focused on the future of tires. As the Michelin’s executive vice-president – long distance and urban transportation business lines, and a member of the tiremaker’s group executive committee, it’s his job. But the future of tires involves more than tracking sales trends. Michelin is exploring ideas that could radically transform the rolling rubber.
Fleet safety gains driven by telematics data
NIAGARA FALLS, Ont. – The John Deere fleet already has an impressive safety record. Its trophy case includes no fewer than seven annual private fleet safety honors from the Private Motor Truck Council of Canada (PMTC). But there’s always room to improve. The data doesn’t lie.
Trailer electrical system maintenance is about more than lights alone
TORONTO, Ont. -- As trailers become more complex – thanks to onboard telematics and diagnostics systems, more auxiliary equipment, and more-sensitive electronics – maintenance demands will become more complex as well. Is your wiring in good shape?
Airless tires, autonomous tech, and future of mobility at Movin’On
MONTREAL, Que. – The annual Movin’On Summit is a free-flowing think tank of sorts, sharing ideas about sustainable transportation against a backdrop that looks something like the setting for a post-apocalyptic movie. Maybe the exhibit at a modern art museum.