Trucking news and briefs for Wednesday, June 12, 2024:
FMCSA announces dates for virtual carrier safety rating sessions
As reported last week, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is planning to host both in-person and virtual listening sessions related to the agency’s efforts to revamp its carrier safety rating system.
FMCSA announced June 6 that it will host an in-person meeting at the Texas Trucking Show on Saturday, June 29 from 1-2:30 p.m. Central. Registration with the Texas Trucking Show, which is free here, is required to attend FMCSA’s listening session.
The agency also announced on Monday, June 10, the dates for virtual listening sessions on the same topic. Those will be held Tuesday, June 25, and Wednesday, July 31.
The June 25 meeting will take place from 2-3:30 p.m. Eastern. Registration for this meeting is available here.
The July 31 virtual meeting will be held 2-3:30 p.m. Eastern with registration available here.
Topics covered during the two virtual and one in-person events will include:
Continuing the current three-tiered rating system (Satisfactory, Unsatisfactory, Conditional) versus changing to a proposed single rating, issued only when a carrier is found to be Unfit
- Utilizing inspection data and FMCSA’s Safety Measurement System (SMS)
- Incorporating driver behavior into Safety Fitness Determination ratings
- Revising the list of safety violations used to calculate the rating and adjusting the weights allocated to particular violations, including increasing the weight for unsafe driving violations
Anyone unable to attend the virtual or in-person sessions can also submit comments on the agency’s safety fitness efforts through Aug. 7 at [email protected].
[Related: FMCSA making a run at revamp to carrier safety rating system]
Kenworth announces model availability for new CARB-compliant Paccar MX-13
Following Peterbilt’s announcement last week that the new Paccar MX-13, which is compliant with the California Air Resources Board’s low nitrogen oxide (NOx) regulations, is available to order in three of its truck models, Kenworth followed up this week with an announcement that the updated engine will also be available in three of its models.
For Kenworth, customers can now order the new CARB-compliant MX-13 in the T680, T880 and W990. Production on the new engines will begin in the fourth quarter of this year.
The Paccar MX-13 CARB-compliant engine features new aftertreatment hardware, including a twin-canister selective catalytic reduction (SCR) aftertreatment, along with more optimized emissions controls systems while continuing to provide excellent reliability, performance, and efficiency, the company said.
“Our customers are looking for better options to successfully navigate the complexities of the evolving regulatory landscape, and Kenworth models equipped with PACCAR’s MX-13 CARB-compliant engine achieve compliance with stringent emissions regulations while also delivering a solution that drives increased engine efficiency and enhanced fuel economy,” said Kevin Haygood, Kenworth assistant general manager for sales and marketing.
The MX-13 is available in two options: a 510-horsepower rating with 1,850 lb.-ft of torque and a 455-horsepower rating with 1,650 lb.-ft of torque.
Cargo Transporters breaks ground on new maintenance facility
Cargo Transporters (CCJ Top 250, No. 177) has broken ground on a new, state-of-the-art tractor maintenance facility. This new shop will enhance operational efficiency and provide top-notch diagnostic and repair bays, giving technicians the latest tools and workspace, the company said.
The new shop, encompassing approximately 12,270 square feet, will feature five full bays with the capacity to accommodate up to 10 trucks. Two of the bays will be equipped with advanced truck lifts, ensuring optimal maintenance capabilities.
In addition to the shop, the facility will include a 5,300 square foot administrative space designed for maximum efficiency and comfort. The offices for service leadership, parts management, and warranty administration will be strategically located inside the facility. Drivers will benefit from a conveniently accessible shop service desk area and a lounge/waiting area.
A large parts room and secure storage will streamline operations and enhance security. For the company’s service technicians, the facility will offer locker rooms, showers, and a spacious lounge/breakroom.
“We are excited to break ground on this new facility,” said John Pope, Chairman. “This investment reflects our ongoing commitment to provide the best possible resources for our tech team and enhance our capabilities for our customers.”
Estimated completion is scheduled for the end of the year.
Nippon Express puts first electric truck into operation
As part of its climate change initiatives, Nippon Express U.S.A., Inc. (NX Group), a subsidiary of Nippon Express Holdings, has introduced its first electric truck that emits no CO2 or pollutants while running.
The truck has been in operation at the San Antonio Sales Office in Texas since May 30.
The NX Group has identified a more robust response to climate change as one of the material issues it must address to realize its long-term vision of becoming a "logistics company with a strong presence in the global market."
Nippon said it plans to introduce a total of 14 electric trucks this fiscal year in Los Angeles; Chicago; Raleigh, North Carolina, and other locations, and expects to reduce CO2 emissions from its own operations by approximately 11% during the first year of use.
The NX Group will also aid customers finding it difficult to cut their CO2 emissions from fuel combustion by setting up customized electric truck operation schedules and quantifying the amount of CO2 emissions that can be thereby reduced in support of its customers' efforts to reduce CO2 emissions in their logistics activities.
