At this year's Mid-America Trucking Show, some 30 manufacturers and suppliers took the wraps off new products or enhancements to their existing product line. What makes these launches notable is the fact that many companies have begun to look beyond the hardware itself and develop services that support their fleet customers.

Beyond doing more, the buzz on the show floor was how bullish market conditions appear. Informal surveys of truck manufacturers indicate record order boards and low cancellation rates; production is scheduled out through the first quarter of next year. Predictions of total North American retail sales are running from a low of 215,000 units to a high of 248,000 units.

Despite the good news, David Hovind, president of PACCAR Corp., told members of the Heavy Duty Manufacturers Assn. that there are some warning clouds on the horizon.

Fleets are having "real difficulty getting even modest rate increases," he said. "They will continue to face this challenge as so many transporters chase the same freight dollars."

While there has been some reduction in excess capacity, many carriers have watched as driver recruiting, training, and wage increases "consumed much of their rate gain." Hovind says the real winner in today's business environment is the shipper, who has been conditioned to reject any rate increase.

Today's OEM and supplier community must operate against this backdrop of greater product demands and pricing pressures. Higher volumes, teamed with the increased investment required to achieve efficient production runs, are forcing consolidation on the supplier side, which leads to a greatly reduced base.

Hovind expressed concern that such consolidation has introduced venture capitalists into ownership positions. "They don't know the industry," he said. "They don't bother to know the customers they serve, and their product quality is oftentimes compromised for the sake of cost reduction and cash flow."

Similarly, the combination of automotive suppliers with heavy-duty suppliers has resulted in a loss of focus on the commercial side.

In addition, new technologies and models are entering the market daily. "The proliferation of innovation and new technologies is fueled by customer demand for increased productivity and updating the fleet," he said.

Despite the challenges, the manufacturing community has responded with trucks that are safer, as well as more efficient, comfortable, and durable. "We need to put the same level of energy that goes into product change and innovation into providing a world-class aftermarket support network," Hovind said.

Kenworth unveils new truck, new cab, and special edition W900.

Kenworth Truck Co. debuted a new Class 8 model called the CityCab for regional daycab operations and the Studio AeroCab for longhaul fleets and owner-operators. Each is a duty-specific design. "Thanks in large part to technology, you're seeing even better matching of the equipment to the application," observed Edward B. Caudill, general manager. "These two new products are good examples."

The CityCab is designed for shorthaul operations, specifically regional delivery, and is scheduled to be available in single- or tandem-axle configurations beginning in the third quarter. Customers will be able to spec a wheelbase from 185-250 in. on 6x4 truck configurations and 160-195 in. on tractors.

Initially, Caterpillar's C10 or C12 engines -- rated up to 430 hp. and driven through a 9- or 10-speed Eaton Fuller transmission -- will power the truck, according to Stephen Gilligan, Kenworth's general marketing manager. Cummins' new-generation ISM engines are also scheduled to be available sometime in the third quarter.

Maneuverability and visibility are particularly critical in P&D, so the CityCab sports a 45-in. setback axle with a wheelcut of 42 degrees and a turning radius of 27 ft., paired with a sharply sloping hood and a one-piece windshield. Full-length, cab-mounted grab handles and low-mounted door handles are designed to make cab entry and exit easier.

The list of optional specs includes a number of amenities also selected to enhance the in-city driving experience, such as a tilt steering wheel, AM/FM cassette stereo, air conditioning, heated rearview mirrors and the Kenworth Daylite Door.

While the CityCab is intended for shorthaul operations, the new Studio AeroCab is designed to be a "home away from home" for longhaul drivers and teams. Incorporating Kenworth's Studio Sleeper concept with the company's integrated AeroCab sleeper design, the new Studio AeroCab offers a number of driver-friendly amenities, such as a sofa that pulls out to a 42-in. bunk. Two full-length closets with doors, a fold-down wooden table, fold-down cup-holders and a refrigerator/ freezer are standard.

The Studio AeroCab will be available as an option on Kenworth's W900B and W900L models, according to Gilligan. In celebration of Kenworth's 75th anniversary, a special Anniversary Edition tractor will also be offered. The limited edition, also available on W900B and W900L models equipped with the 72-in. AeroCab sleeper, features a unique paint design plus other special touches, like a personalized anniversary medallion.

Looking for an extended service-interval package, emergency breakdown support, routine preventive maintenance at a consistent price, and a fleet charge card? Kenworth is offering it all, according to Dick Von Lehman, product marketing manager.

The "Total Customer Care" program encompasses several new, expanded, and existing services. The Extended Service Interval option, for example, has been expanded to include all Kenworth Class 8 trucks in most on-highway applications, according to Von Lehman.

A new PremierCare ExpressLube program has also been added that will offer 60-minute preventive maintenance service for all makes of Class 8 trucks for $139.95 (U.S. dollars) at participating Kenworth dealers in the United States and Canada.

Kenworth's PremierCare, 24-hr./7-day emergency breakdown service and PremierCare Fleet Card for parts and service purchases and other transactions are likewise included within the Total Customer Care program. In May, an emergency tire service currently under development with Bridgestone is also scheduled to be added to the "Total Customer Care" suite of services.

OEM unveils long-nose tractor designed for driver appeal.

Navistar International Transportation Corp. rolled out its newest premium Class 8 conventional, the International Eagle 9900. According to Steve Keate, general manager-Heavy Truck Vehicle Center, the 9900 was designed to focus on driver satisfaction and retention.

The truck was developed with input from 100 drivers and owner-operators. Keate said the 9900's long-nose "classic look" is distinguished by its wider chrome grille, expansive hood, and headlights set in chrome. Other styling cues favored by drivers include external air cleaners, dual cab-mounted exhaust, and a full-width, bright-finish bumper.

"Since 1992," Keate noted, "long-nose or classic-style trucks have made a significant comeback, now accounting for 22% of all premium conventional sales. This styling is becoming key to driver retention. Fleets are purchasing more of these trucks because they hold so much appeal for drivers."

To reduce manufacturing and aftermarket complexity, the 9900 shares a common chassis with the existing 9200 and 9400 long-nose models. The new 6x4 truck boasts a 120-in. BBC and a set-forward front axle. Engine options will range from 11 to 14 liters. The 9900 will be the first International model to offer 600-hp. engines from Cat and Cummins. Drivetrain components from Dana, Eaton, and Meritor will be available.

A variety of sleeper configurations can be spec'd, including the OEM's 102-in.-high, integrated Sky-Rise Pro Sleeper. The truck also features Owens-Corning insulation in the sleeper and a new HVAC system.

The 9900 can be purchased or leased through Navistar's Diamond SPEC simplified ordering process. A Diamond PLUS package of upgraded warranty and service initiatives will be offered.

Keate said this program helps "guarantee customer uptime." Its features include a free replacement vehicle (under certain circumstances) and guaranteed parts availability. First delivery of the 9900 is scheduled for early next year.

Navistar also showed its Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV). Don DeFosset, president-Truck Group, said the "alternative-powered truck will take the use of diesel power beyond expectations." Also in the works is a V6 diesel that Navistar will develop with Ford for that OEM's light trucks.

In other news, ramp-up of Navistar's Next Generation Vehicle (NGV) product-development program is "in progress," stated DeFosset. He said that product is slated for rollout by mid-2001.

Noting that Navistar holds 11.5% of the Mexican truck market, DeFosset said production of International 4000 Series trucks is beginning at the OEM's plant near Monterrey. He also said that there's an even larger market opportunity in Brazil, where the 4000 will begin production this month.

Transmission maker reports on its best year yet

For the Allison Transmission Div. of General Motors Corp., 1997 was "a banner year," according to Lawrence E. Dewey, director of marketing, sales, and service.

He reported that the manufacturer sold and shipped nearly 140,000 medium- and heavy-duty automatics in '97 -- making it the best year in the company's history. And parts sales totaled $330 million for the year. All told, sales revenues of over $1 billion were generated.

Domestic shipments ran 12% above the year before. Growth was also realized in international markets. Combined sales in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa of more than 10,000 units set a record, and sales from the company's Mexican operations increased 42%.

Dewey said plans for future growth include the release of the 1000/2000 series, which is on track for a 1999 introduction. "From 1997 to 2002," he noted, "we see a 100% increase in demand possible for Allison automatics."

He pointed out that the division's plants are already running "'round-the-clock, 365 days a year" to keep up with demand. He said that Allison will announce a "significant expansion of production capacity" shortly. Dewey also stated that no price increases are scheduled for the "most-in-demand products, the AT545 and MD3060/3560 models."

GMC W-Series for '99 features new cab and new engines

According to Dick Pennell, commercial brand manager for General Motors Medium-Duty Trucks, the 1999 GMC and Chevrolet W-Series low-cab-forward line will feature new badging, new weight classifications, new engines and automatic transmissions, and a new W5500 version.

"We have positioned the W-Series to compete not only against light-duty low-cab-forwards," said Pennell, "but chopped vans, 'super-duty' trucks, and cab-chassis models as well." W-Series models with GVWRs less than 14,000 lb. will be classified as W3500s. New ratings of 14,050 and 14,500 lb. will be badged as W4500s, and those with the new 16,500 GVWR as W5500s.

A new 4HE1-TC diesel is an overhead-cam, direct-injection, turbocharged and intercooled 4.75-liter engine. The engine will be offered in W3500 and W4500 models, either in a 142-hp. rating with a 5-speed manual transmission or 175 hp. with a new Aisin 4-speed automatic transmission. A 4HE1 engine rated at 175 hp. is standard in the new W5500, either with a 6-speed manual or the Aisin automatic.

Pennell also announced the arrival of a new gas engine. Developed by the GM Powertrain Group, the electronic Vortec 7400 MD engines will be offered in a 210-hp. rating at 3,750 rpm or with 270 hp., also at 3,750 rpm. "In addition," noted Pennell, "we are the only manufacturer to offer a gas-engine powertrain that is compatible with alternative fuels. Converting a gasoline engine is much cheaper than converting a diesel."

Also new is a diesel engine for GMC and Chevy T-Series medi um-duty low-cab-forwards. The Duramax 7800, developed in partnership with Isuzu, is a 7.8-liter engine that will be available in two ratings. A 200-hp. at 2,400-rpm model will have 441 lb.-ft. of torque. A 230-hp. at 2,400 rpm version will boast 517 lb.-ft. of torque. The engines have overhead cams, four-valve heads, and standard dry liners. Duramax 7800s are covered by a 3-yr./unlimited-mileage warranty. The engines will enter production this summer.

Pennell also pointed out that GM is adding the electronic Caterpillar 3126B to its engine stable. It will be available in ratings from 170 to 300 hp. and meets 1998 emissions standards.

The Caterpillar Truck Engine Div. released a new engine rating for 1998, the 15.8-liter, 575-hp. 3406E with 1,850 lb.-ft. of torque. According to Caterpillar, this configuration boosts power while holding driveline costs in check.

Cat also announced that its Electronic Fuel Management System now provides improved operating information and advanced diagnostics for all Caterpillar electronic truck engines. Information about an engine's operating condition is retrieved through the Electronic Control Module (ECM).

"The ECM is the heart of the Cat Electronic Fuel Management System," explained David N. Semlow, marketing manager of the Caterpillar Truck Engine Div. "The system has been upgraded and represents a new generation of electronics. This ECM is faster, higher quality, and provides advanced diagnostics and improved operational information."

The Cat Electronic Fuel Management System controls the four primary factors affecting fuel economy. Engine parameters limit vehicle speed; gear-down protection controls engine speed; fuel efficiency is maximized through cruise control; and idle time is controlled through idle-timer shutdown.

Concurrently, the company kicked off the Cat Driver Reward program, which helps fleets recognize and reward excellent drivers for staying within fuel-efficient operating limits.

Driver Reward measures performance based on elements the driver can control. The Cat Driver Information Display (Cat ID) enables drivers to monitor vehicle speed, idle time, and fuel performance using real-time information.

Operating Cat ID is simple. Drivers push one of four buttons to navigate through a menu selection that provides information such as vehicle speed, oil pressure, average miles per gallon, and water temperature.

Fleets can manage Driver Reward through the Caterpillar Fleet Information Software program, which generates reports identifying which drivers are meeting their goals. Drivers can see when they are "in bonus" by checking Cat ID.

Finally, Cat has beefed up its warranty coverage of the 15.8-liter, 600-hp. Cat 3406E truck engine to 5-yr./ 500,000-mi.

Volvo Trucks North America debuted a new line of medium-hood conventional sleepers that provide operators with all the comfort of full-size sleeper cabs, yet in a smaller, 113-in.-BBC package.

The VNM 420 is available in 4x2 and 6x4 axle configurations and features a 42-in. sleeper with a single bunk and 62 in. of headroom. The VNM 610 offers a 61-in. sleeper compartment with 77 in. of stand-up height. Both new models come standard with the Volvo VE D12-345 engine, rated at 345 hp. at 1,700 rpm and featuring 1,350 lb.-ft. of torque at 1,100 rpm.

Speaking of power, Volvo also debuted a new 6-cyl., electronically controlled in-line pump diesel engine that delivers improved fuel economy and better responsiveness. The 7.3-liter powerplant is targeted at vocational applications such as refuse, dump, ready-mix, snow-removal, fire-fighting, aircraft fueling, and construction.

It can be spec'd with Volvo's VNM, WG, and Xpeditor vocational trucks. Weighing in at 1,709 lb., the new engine comes in power ratings of 250, 275, and 300 hp. at 2,200 rpm. With VECTRO II electronic controls the 300-hp. version generates 950 lb.-ft. of torque at 1,300 rpm; the 275-hp. version generates 800 lb.-ft.; and the 250-hp. powerplant kicks out 660 lb.-ft. of torque.

The new developments cap a flurry of activity in 1997 that returned Volvo to financial profitability, and the company detailed an aggressive agenda to keep the momentum going. Marc Gustafson, president and CEO, said by the end of 1998 the organization would more than double sales of the VN series from 8,400 units, increase sales of Volvo truck engines, expand its parts business, and move sales into new countries.

Retail sales for Volvo rose 24% in 1997 to 22,065 units, good enough to pace the company to a 10% market share, up 1.2 points over the previous year. More than 60% of these sales are accounted for by the VN series.

While Gustafson is growing the top line he is also whittling away at the expense side of the ledger. By reducing direct corporate sales by 15%, he has sparked renewed dealer profitability. Volvo's work force has boosted productivity by 19%, while reducing operating costs by a similar amount.

Volvo has launched an intensive brand-building campaign under the tagline "Drive Smart." Spearheaded by a 30-second Super Bowl advertisement, the campaign includes an aggressive advertising, direct marketing, and public relations effort.

Pennzoil Products Co. said its Long-Life heavy-duty multigrade engine oil has been reformulated to meet the toughest performance standards, including the new API CG-4 classification. The oil was scheduled for nationwide distribution beginning April 1.

"Our PureBase base oil blended with Long-Life's patented new additive system creates an oil that protects against all forms of engine wear," said Dan Arcy, commercial engine oils product manager. He said this includes engines under such tough conditions as high-temperature operation and extended service intervals.

Arcy noted that other benefits expected from the reformulated oil include "outstanding" soot control, reduced oil consumption, and extended drain intervals. The oil will protect against high-temperature oxidation, providing performance similar to synthetic products. He pointed out that Long-Life's new formula was among the first to receive Mack EO-M approval for use in the manufacturer's 1998-model engines. To gain that okay, the oil had to pass three rigorous tests: the Mack T-8E, Mack T-9, and Cummins M11.

Fontaine Trailer Co. introduced a platform trailer, the Infinity, with a lifetime beam warranty. In addition to original owners, subsequent owners who buy a used Infinity from a Fontaine dealer will also be covered. Specs include 130,000-psi steel flanges, web depth of 25 in., single-piece, full-width crossmember, and wide-spread air-ride suspension.

American Mobile Satellite Corp. announced that J.B. Hunt Transport Services and Dart Transit have opted to use the firm's Multi-mode Mobile Messaging Service. Hunt will use the wireless communications system in its local fleet operations, while Dart will implement it in its truckload service.

Link Mfg. Ltd. is now offering the HiSTEER line of liftable pushers and tags for trucks and trailers. Model 6000 can be steered in the tag or pusher position, while model 7000 can be steered in forward or reverse.

Service enhancements take center stage

A flurry of new support services intended to help customers order new equipment and keep it up and running was announced by Peterbilt Motors Co.

Heading the list is SmartSpec, which provides a selection of more than 200 customized sales packages. Available at all Peterbilt full-service dealerships, the service contains fully engineered specifications designed to meet a wide range of vocations in specific geographical locations.

"Custom-engineered specs provide our customers with equipment which has been tested and proven in a number of applications," said Nick Panza, Peterbilt general manager. "And each package contains a basic warranty of 2 years/ 200,000 miles."

Peterbilt also debuted its Fleet Services Card, a customized fleet management tool that can be used for parts and service purchases at Peterbilt dealerships, as well as for fuel purchases at 3,500 participating locations. The card is available at no annual fee to customers operating five or more vehicles.

The card provides customers with a single invoice for over-the-road purchases and eliminates managing large numbers of payables.

Peterbilt also has added a new service, QuickCare, to the menu. QuickCare is designed to help reduce downtime by providing fast turnaround on maintenance services, with consistent pricing, at participating Peterbilt dealer locations.

In the initial rollout, Peterbilt will standardize pricing on a lube, oil, and filter service for most trucks. QuickLube includes a 20-point inspection of the vehicle, an oil and primary oil filter change, chassis lubrication, and inspections for fuel, water, and by-pass filters.

Pricing for the program is fixed at $139.95 for Class 8 vehicles and $89.95 for Class 7. Service will begin within one hour of entering the dealership.

Ravens introduced two new aluminum dropdeck trailers, complementing its existing line of platform and dump trailers. One accommodates the need to haul taller goods such as construction equipment; the other is designed to haul concentrated loads that need a lower center of gravity.

Both new models are 48-ft. long, with 11-ft. upper decks; they are available in 96-in.- or 102-in.-wide versions. The dropdecks are built with one-piece transitions that have spliced back sections and can be equipped with floor levels for conversion to 48-ft. platforms.

The model designed for hauling machinery and construction equipment is based on the company's Eclipse II Classic platform, which features 5-in. crossmembers on 22-in. centers. The heavy-duty version for concentrated loads has crossmembers on 15-in. centers.

Meritor Automotive has developed a software program that compares the cost of its TB trailer axle with unitized hubs to a standard trailer axle with conventional wheel-ends. The program gives fleets a customized report based on their average seal and bearing routine maintenance costs, average in-service seal failure repairs, and lost equipment productivity costs.

A new line of doubles from Stoughton Trailers is said to reduce maintenance by incorporating modular lighting systems and a single-piece, extruded-aluminum lower rail. The units feature anti-snag roof bows, made of 16-gauge galvanized steel on 24-in. centers, and a laminated hardwood floor with 12-in. spacing on center crossmembers. The units are available in the following configurations: doubles exterior post van (DEVW), 102-in. wide with inside width of 99 in.; doubles fiberglass reinforced plywood (DFVW), 102-in. wide with inside width of 100 in.; doubles aluminum smoothside van (DAVW), 102-in. wide with inside width of 98.5 in.; and doubles plate wall van (DPVW), 102-in. wide, inside width of 101 in.

Kysor Cooling Systems, a division of Schwitzer Group, released the first in a series of training videos demonstrating how to maintain and repair the K-22 fan clutch. The company also showcased its direct replacement upgrade kit, designed to allow fleets to replace current fan assemblies with the K22-RA Kysor fan clutch.

Freightliner Corp.'s newest North American parts distribution center has opened in Memphis. The $30-million project doubles the parts capacity and fulfillment capabilities for Freightliner. The Memphis center will support all Freightliner heavy- and medium-duty products, Sterling Truck Corp. products, and American LaFrance fire trucks, as well as Freightliner Custom Chassis Corp. school buses, walk-in vans, and recreational vehicles.

Mack talks of Westward push and three concept trucks

Mack Trucks Inc., according to Paul Vikner, executive vp-sales & marketing, is "aggressively seeking out new strategies and business partners who can help us develop a greater West Coast presence."

Vikner reported steps already taken include the addition of several new dealerships in key Western locations, as well as a new parts-distribution center in Reno, which opened in December. It currently serves 28 Western-region distributors.

Two facilities have been established by the Oakland Truck Center to serve the San Francisco Bay area and San Jose. A new dealership, owned by the Bonar Group, has been set up in Las Vegas, and Arizona Mack has relocated to a new 40,000-sq.-ft. facility in Phoenix. Impending openings include two new dealership locations in the Los Angeles area and an additional facility to support the Seattle area.

Vikner also announced the expansion of Mack's Retail Delivery System (RDS) to include the new InteleSpec program. To be rolled out throughout the year, the program will simplify ordering and delivery of popular truck configurations in a variety of applications. The first InteleSpec vehicle is the RD688S truck with GVWR up to 80,000 lb. and 214-in. wheelbase.

Mack also introduced its newest motor oil, Bulldog Premium EO-M. The 15W-40 oil is approved for use in all Mack engines, and has been formulated to enhance the performance of 1998-model E-Tech diesels.

Mack showcased three concept vehicles. Two were cabover concepts developed jointly with Mack's French parent, Renault V.I. A high cabover, based on Renault's Magnum truck, was designed for 53-ft.-plus trailers and equipped with Mack's 460-hp. E-Tech engine and Eaton's AutoShift transmission. Vikner said a low cabover, based on Renault's Premium model, demonstrates Mack's and Renault's "new product work in the lower end of Class 8."

The third concept was a "high-tech" Mack CH600 that also featured the 460-hp. E-Tech, as well as a 74-in. high-rise sleeper. The truck also boasted a variety of supplier components recently introduced or under development, including lightweight axles, composite and aluminum chassis parts, electronic brake systems, and communications systems.

Michel Gigou, president & CEO, reported healthy financial results for Mack. He said the OEM made a $51-million contribution to the operating profit of its parent. That came on net sales of $2.45 billion, up from $2.14 billion in '96.

Gigou said '97 marked Mack's fourth straight year of profitability and fifth straight year of market-share growth. He noted that with 22,375 Class 8 sales, the OEM closed last year with 12.5% of the U.S. heavy-duty truck market, retaining its position as the number three brand.

Gigou also told FLEET OWNER that as fleets move toward "less ownership orientation about equipment," Mack is prepared to help its dealers focus on providing the level of service lessors typically offer.

Federal-Mogul Corp. introduced a line of full-ball, low-friction replacement tie rods and low-friction replacement drag links from TRW. According to Federal-Mogul, the tie rods are engineered to give the same steering precision, "solid" steering feel, and extended service life now required by most truck OEMs.

The tie rods replace traditional, internal half-ball socket configurations with a hardened full-ball stud, which is mated against a steel upper bearing and an advanced-polymer lower bearing. The company says this design reduces internal socket friction, as well as radial and axial lash.

Federal-Mogul says the replacement drag links use a dual-seat, low-end-movement socket design to eliminate the excessive lash and "sloppy" steering found with some traditional half-ball links.

Pacbrake Co. introduced the P-63A engine brake for application on 1998 Detroit Diesel Series 60 engines. Designed strictly for 12.7-liter displacement models, the new brake is also approved for pre-1998 engines. The P-63A features patented Paclash Anti-Lash Adjusters and an exclusive accumulator/regulator valve system designed to supply the brake with consistent oil pressure and volume.

Sterling Truck Corp. is making the Fleet Assistant maintenance management software system available to its customers. A product of Alliance, the parts and services division of Freightliner Corp., the software organizes the data generated by maintenance operations to aid fleet managers in making decisions.

HighwayMaster Corp. has tailored its mobile communications systems to meet the needs of small fleets. The Series 3000 offers nationwide wireless voice communications and optional proximity location reports and fax services at a flat rate of 53 cents/min., including all roaming and long-distance charges.

Infotrack 2000 is a new instrument package from Stewart-Warner Instrument that takes advantage of the SAE J1708/J1587 protocol. The data bus system includes 10 gauges. With the exception of the voltmeter, all gauges include an integral warning light. All gauges feature a 270o dial sweep for better scale definition.

Polk showcased its trucking industry profile, a centralized database of new and current commercial vehicle registrations. It provides online delivery of official title and registration records.

Freightliner Corp. took the wraps off a proprietary shift mechanism for automated mechanical transmissions. Called SmartShift, the unit is designed exclusively for Freightliner and Sterling trucks.

SmartShift is mounted to the steering column, which frees up additional space for better access to living areas and promotes safer shifting. A small display lets the driver know which gear is engaged and which are available under existing driving conditions.

Shift-by-wire transmissions work by electronically matching engine speed and torque with road speed to actuate the shift at the optimal time, without the need for the clutch. The only time the clutch is used is when starting the vehicle or bringing it to a complete stop.

To start the truck, the driver eases up on the clutch. Once the truck is rolling, the driver pulls the lever toward the steering wheel. Downshifts are accomplished by pushing the lever away from the wheel. To bring the vehicle to a complete stop, the driver depresses the clutch. SmartShift, which initially can be purchased with either Meritor or Eaton automated mechanical transmissions, will be available early next year.

Freightliner revealed that Cummins electronic engines, as well as one-piece stainless steel bumpers, are now available on its Business Class trucks. Wabco hydraulic antilock brakes are standard.

A new low-forward cab has been added to Freightliner's American LaFrance Eagle product line. The unit shaves 6 in. off the overall cab height, bringing it to a standard 100-in. height. This gives fire departments that face height limitations flexibility to accommodate any aerial and still fit in the stationhouse doors.

Getting into the unit is easier too, as the height of the cab's first step is 18.5 in., a 3-in. reduction. Features include seating for eight, standard cab air suspension, and front and rear heating and air conditioning. The unit also meets the Economic Commission for Europe R29 crashworthiness standards.

Goodyear introduced its new G302 FED (fuel-efficient drive) and G244 MSD (mixed-service drive) tires. The company also explained the improved casing design offered on its ECD (enhanced casing design) tires and debuted its new Truckwise network.

The G302 FED is specifically designed for use on tandem-axle linehaulers. According to Donn Kramer, marketing director for commercial tires, millions of miles of testing by national fleets has shown the G302 "may improve fuel economy between 6 and 8%, thanks in part to the tire's low-rolling-resistance compounds and its redesigned contact area." The tire features a 26/32-in. tread depth and shorter lug elements to reduce heel and toe wear. It is offered in 295/75R22.5 and 11R22.5 sizes. Also available is the G302 retread.

The G244 MSD uses Goodyear's new ECD, which features a monofilament polyamide top belt. The belt acts as a protective barrier, making the tire more resistant to cuts and sidewall punctures, and helping stop moisture before it reaches the tire's belts.

The G244 boasts cooler running tread compounds and a polyamide top belt. The tire also has a 27% increase in tread depth to 28/32-in., compared to its predecessor, the G144. The G244 will be first offered in 11R24.5 and 11R22.5 sizes in both G and H load ranges. This November, the tire will also come in sizes 12R22.5 and 1100R22 in load range H.

Kramer said Goodyear is strengthening its marketing and distribution strategy through its new Truckwise service network. Eligible Goodyear commercial-tire dealers and retreaders may elect to join the Truckwise network. He said fleets will benefit from "the convenience of one service provider managing their tire needs from cradle to grave."

Goodyear also announced it has released an upgraded version of its Tools to Manage Your Fleet CD-ROM. The software now includes Goodyear's Tire Vehicle Tracking System (TVTRACK) for Windows, TVTRACK Quick Survey, and Tire Value Calc II (TVC II) program.

For fleets with fewer than 50 trucks, HammerLane Software Systems Inc., Troutdale, Ore., introduced HammerLane Fleet software. The management system is designed to allow smaller companies to track and produce reports on each truck, as well as on their entire operation. Numerous functions include monitoring and reporting of income, expenses, maintenance, trips, mileage, and fuel purchases. According to program developer Fred Gasperson, the software will be available later this spring for a purchase price of $2,000. Orders are now being accepted by HammerLane.

Champion Laboratories, manufacturer of Luber-finer filtration products, has received QS-9000 registration. This signifies quality in automotive manufacturing processes in the company's three Illinois facilities and its York, S.C., facilities. The company also announced its new Web site: www.champlabs.com.

Another step in the evolution of automated transmissions

Meritor Automotive unveiled a new shift-by-wire transmission that is mounted to the driver's seat, making the job of shifting easier, smoother, and quieter. Called the SureShift, the transmission can be spec'd with any 9- or 10-speed Meritor transmission and any electronically controlled engine.

"We designed this new technology after identifying a need to dramatically reduce shifting effort and complexity while keeping the driver in control," said Prakash Mulchandani, president of Meritor's Heavy Vehicle Systems business.

The new shift system offers the ease of an automated transmission, but keeps manual control at the driver's fingertips.

SureShift technology prevents improper shifting. If the driver selects a gear that would over-rev or lug the engine, the system beeps.

The clutch must be engaged to start the rig rolling, but after that the driver merely has to push the seat-mounted joystick forward for upshifts and pull back for downshifts. A dash-mounted display indicates the appropriate time to upshift, downshift, or skip a shift.

The transmission electronically times the shift by synchronizing the engine speed and roadway speed, maximizing fuel economy, and helping to reduce premature clutch wear, brake lining wear, and drivetrain damage.

Under the floor, the system relies on a unique X-Y actuator, bolted onto the transmission case, in place of a conventional shift lever. The X-Y actuator is linked directly into the transmission control unit, which in turn is connected to the engine control unit, the shift module, the speed sensor on the transmission, and the range shift solenoids.

This seat-mounted design folds out of the way when not in use for easy access to the rest of the cab. By eliminating the traditional gearshift lever and the hole in the floorboard, cab noise is reduced.

To provide greater payload, Western Star Trucks says its new Star Light Sleeper model weighs in more than 400 lb. lighter than any of its previous Constellation sleepers. Unit also boasts improvements in noise reduction, insulation, styling, and finish. Construction features aluminum-skinned panels with honeycombed polypropylene cores.

Mark Sept. 16-18, 1999, on your calendar as the dates for the trucking industry's newest trade show, scheduled to be held at the Dallas Convention Center. The "Great American Trucking Show" is being sponsored and produced by the management of the Mid-America Trucking Show.

A new PowerPulse Battery Maintenance System from PulseTech Products maintains peak battery efficiency, extends battery life, and increases battery charge acceptance. Unlike conventional battery chargers, the new system is an electronic device that works continuously, emitting a pulsating DC current into the battery, re-energizing the crystallized sulfates, and removing them from the plates. By using the battery's own energy, it helps eliminate one of the leading causes of battery death -- sulfation buildup.

Eaton Corp.'s AutoShift automated transmission technology will be available on the Super 18 transmission in July. AutoShift combines shift-by-wire automatic shifting with the durability and efficiency of a manual transmission. Manual lever shifts have been totally eliminated, and the clutch is required only when starting or stopping the vehicle. Once the truck is in motion, shifting is fully automatic, thereby reducing driver fatigue and optimizing shifting.

AutoShift is intended for the type of demanding, high-horsepower, on/off-highway applications where the Super 18 has been popular, such as logging, construction, and heavy hauling.

The AutoShift features electronic controls with electromechanical actuators that take the place of the shift lever, resulting in smooth, accurate shifts. The transmission and engine electronic control units (ECU) communicate via the J-1939 data link. On-board computers in the AutoShift constantly monitor vehicle speed, engine speed, and throttle input, initiating shifts automatically to maximize vehicle efficiency and performance.

Located on a floor-mounted tower, the AutoShift control features four driving modes: "reverse," with four usable reverse ratios; "drive," which has automatic shifting between gears; "hold," which keeps the current or any driver-selected gear in place; and "low," which is used for startups requiring deeper reduction.

Eaton also announced the availability of three additions to its Super 10, Super 13, and Super 18 low-inertia transmission family for today's more powerful engines. The new high-torque models are the RTLO-20918B Super 18, rated at 2,050 lb.-ft. torque capacity; the RTLO-18913A Super 13 at 1,850 lb.-ft.; and the RTLO-18610B Super 10, also at a 1,850 lb.-ft. rating.

Four new 6-speed medium-duty transmissions are also available for applications ranging from 560 to 860 lb.-ft. of torque.