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WWW.MWSMAG.COMMARCH 2023DIGITAL EDITION
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MARCH2023WWW.MWSMAG.COMEV THERMAL MANAGEMENTUNLOCK RELIABILITY & DURABILITYMITIGATE IDLING WITH VANAIRREDUCE CARBON FOOTPRINT WITH EPEQLIGHT DUTY CHEVROLET SILVERADO EVGREEN FLEETS + GREEN FLEETS + ALTERNATIVE FUELSALTERNATIVE FUELSFEATURING
CONNECT WITH US on Twitter (@mwsmag), Facebook (www.facebook.com/modernworktruck), and LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/company/modern-work-truck-solutions).MAXXIMAUNDERCARRIAGE/SCENE LIGHTSMaxxima developed the Undercarriage/Scene light to improve operator safety. Maxxima’s Undercarriage/Scene lights illuminate the ground around the vehicle, ensuring a well-lit workspace as operators move around and step in and out of their vehicle. (Photo: Phenix Truck & Van—Pomona, California) www.maxxima.comINSIDE THIS ISSUEMARCH 2023 VOL-8 NO-3MARCH2023WWW.MWSMAG.COMEV THERMAL MANAGEMENTUNLOCK RELIABILITY & DURABILITYMITIGATE IDLING WITH VANAIRREDUCE CARBON FOOTPRINT WITH EPEQLIGHT DUTY CHEVROLET SILVERADO EVGREEN FLEETS + GREEN FLEETS + ALTERNATIVE FUELSALTERNATIVE FUELSFEATURINGCOVER STORIESOPERATIONSMITIGATE IDLING WITH VANAIR ................28Reduce carbon footprint with EPEQINDUSTRY NEWS ................................INDUSTRY INSIGHT ........................... PRODUCT SHOWCASE ......................IN EVERY ISSUE22LIGHT-DUTYCHEVY SILVERADO EV FROM THE GROUND UPSUBMERGED HPUs INCREASE RELIABILITY HEAVY-DUTY36AI VIDEO TELEMATICS IMPROVE FLEET SAFETY40MEDIUM-DUTYSHOWCASEMAINTENANCEEV THERMAL MANAGEMENT ...............32Unlock reliability and durabilityGREEN FLEETS + GREEN FLEETS + ALTERNATIVE FUELSALTERNATIVE FUELSFEATURINGSHOW REVIEWWORK TRUCK WEEK 2023 RECAP ..................12A show to remember
MILESTONES KENWORTH TRUCKS CELEBRATES 100 YEARS ........................18 A century of pioneering and innovationIt’s been quite a busy month already! With trade show season well underway and OEMs and manufacturers releasing new vehicles and innovations on a regular basis, I’m excited to see the direction the industry is heading.Fleets are forced to reckon with multiple aspects of the industry. Whether it’s optimizing driver safety and satisfaction due to the growing driver shortage, employing telematics and fleet management systems to improve operations, or adopting zero-emissions vehicles and alternative fuel powertrains because of government regulations, environmental, or social reasons, fleet owners and managers have a lot on their plate.This issue can help inform fleet managers on the latter. Our Green Fleets + Alternative Fuels issue features topics ranging from an electric pickup truck showcase to how to manage the temperature of the batteries in electric vehicles. Check out the Chevrolet Silverado EV showcase on page 22 to read about the electric pickup that was built from the ground up. If charging infrastructure is the one thing keeping you from adopting EVs in your fleet, read the article on page 16 to discover how Sparkcharge charges electric vehicles “off the grid.” If idle mitigation is top of mind, check out Vanair’s ePTO, part of the brand’s EPEQ lineup. It’s a power solution that’s fully electrified—even if your fleet isn’t. And finally, read about battery thermal management on page 32. But there’s more than alternative fuel and green fleet content in this issue. We’ve highlighted Kenworth Trucks this month as the company celebrates 100 years of innovation in 2023 (page 18). Additionally, if you weren’t able to make it to Work Truck Week 2023, we’ve got a WTW Recap for you, showcasing some of the show’s highlights on page 12. This is a packed issue, so buckle up and get comfy. Happy learning!Jade Brasher EditorEDITOR’S NOTEwww.mwsmag.com 3100 Lorna Rd., Ste 101Birmingham, AL 35216DONNA CAMPBELL Editor in Chiefdonna@mwsmag.com JADE BRASHER Editorjade@mwsmag.comRANDY MOON Associate Publisher randym@mwsmag.comVAL CARRIER Media Consultantval@mwsmag.comGARY BARKER Media Consultantgary@mwsmag.comTIM O’HARA Media Consultanttim.ohara@mwsmag.comLISA AVERY Art Director lisa@mwsmag.comSETH SAUNDERS Digital Media SpecialistINGRID BERKY Office ManagerNo part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording, or any information storage-and-retrieval system without permission in writing from the publisher. The views expressed by those not on the staff of Modern WorkTruck Solutions, or who are not specifically employed by Highlands Publications are purely their own. All Industry News material has either been submitted by the subject company or pulled directly from its corporate website, which is assumed to be cleared for release. Comments and submissions are welcome, and can be submitted to jade@mwsmag.com.SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRIES OR CHANGES CALL:205.380.2048CHRIS GARMONCFO DONNA CAMPBELLVP, Editorialwww.highlandspublications.com TIM GARMONCEORUSSELL HADDOCKPresidentTONYA BROWNINGVice PresidentTalk soon! Jade18
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MARCH 20236INDUSTRY NEWSWORKHORSE GROUP UNVEILS TRUCK SHOWWorkhorse Group Inc. announced the formal unveiling of its W56 step van model at the National Truck Equipment Association’s (NTEA) Work Truck Week in Indianapolis, Indiana. The first-look presentation, hosted by Workhorse CEO Rick Dauch, took place on Wednesday, March 8th. Available in configurations tailored to meet various applications, the W56 is the company’s new Class 5/6 model. It provides a blend of high reliability, quality, and serviceability. It supports a benchmark payload capacity of up to approximately 10,000 lbs and offers a range up to 150 miles. The W56 also offers a 1,000-plus cu-ft cargo box with lowered step-in and wide door for easier entry and exit. Built with the delivery driver in mind, Workhorse ergonomically designed the cabin to provide safety and comfort during long shifts. For more, visit www.workhorse.com. With more than 30 years in the graphics industry, 3M knows that graphic films don’t need to just look impressive. 3M understands the key to finishing first is making graphics easier to install with exceptional conformability and less lift. So, 3M introduced its innovative 3M™ Print Wrap Film IJ280 with 3M™ Gloss Wrap Overlaminate 8428G—its newest print film and overlaminate for commercial vehicles. Created for impactful installation and performance, 3M Print Wrap Film IJ280 with 3M Comply v4 Air Release and 3M Gloss Wrap Overlaminate 8428G allows for efficient installations with less rework, helping save time as well as money. Installers can confidently wrap commercial vehicles with less effort so that every installation can be completed quickly without sacrificing quality. For more, visit www.3m.com. FCCC DELIVERS FIRST TWO AUNITS TO RYDERFreightliner Custom Chassis Corp. (FCCC) and Ryder System, Inc. recently delivered two MT50e all-electric walk-in van units for use in the greater Boston area. Both MT50e electric vehicles will join the Boston-area fleet of W.B. Mason, a regional office supply company covering most of New England. Further, the addition of the MT50e units is the latest step by W.B. Mason to continue electrifying, diversifying, and modernizing its delivery fleet. An exclusive battery system from Proterra powers the MT50e. The EV features a 23,000-lb GVWR as well as a range of 170 miles or more on a single charge. It also features a streamlined,
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MARCH 20238INDUSTRY NEWSintegrated design with no reduction in cargo capacity. For more, visit www.electricwalkinvan.com. ANNOUNCE PARTNERSHIPBestpass, Inc., a payment platform provider and leader in toll management solutions for fleets, announced a partnership with Comdata, Inc. Comdata is a FLEETCOR company and leader in payment innovation. The relationship helps fleets and owner-operators save money ordering permits for travel across North America. Comdata offers more than 500 types of permits for fleets in need of alcohol, oversize/overweight, superloads, manuals, and more. Further, Comdata provides fleet operators every credential needed to safely and legally transport a load. Jason Walker, Bestpass CRO, says Comdata will be a great partner, helping Bestpass continue becoming a “one-stop shop” for customers. He says Bestpass looks forward to leveraging Comdata’s expertise when working to simplify processes for fleet owners and operators traveling over state lines. For more, visit www.bestpass.com. ISUZU INTRODUCES ITS FIRST ELECTRIC TRUCKIsuzu Commercial Truck of America, Inc. announced its first all-electric production model, the N-Series EV. The 2025-model-year Class 5 truck—featuring a full 19,500-lb gross vehicle weight rating, a battery electric platform developed by Isuzu Motors Limited, and an all-new cab design—will be available in the first half of 2024. Isuzu Commercial Truck introduced the breakthrough model during the National Truck Equipment Association’s Work Truck Week 2023 trade show. Every N-Series EV will be powered by a number of 20-kilowatt-hour, lithium-ion battery packs. Compared to conventional lead-acid batteries, lithium-ion batteries store more energy in less space; are lighter; last much longer; and don’t require traditional maintenance. The N-Series EV will also be available in Japan. This marks the first time that a new Isuzu model has been introduced simultaneously in three markets: Japan, the United States, and Canada. For more, visit www.isuzuvc.com. PRODUCT RELEASES AT NTEA’S WORK VMAC announced three new product innovations at NTEA’s Work Truck Week 2023. New VMAC product releases include the DTM185 direct-transmission mounted air compressor, the G30+GEN rotary screw air compressor/generator, and the 5-in-1 Multifunction power system, powered by a Honda gas engine. The DTM185 produces 185 CFM at 100% duty cycle, and installation does not require an additional drive shaft. The G30+GEN delivers compressed air at 25 CFM and AC power at 3600 W, combining two forms of power into
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MARCH 202310INDUSTRY NEWSone single innovative system powered by a Honda GX390 gas engine. The 5-in-1 Multifunction Power System includes a 40 CFM rotary screw air compressor, an 8 kW generator, a 250 amp welder, a 300 amp battery booster, and a 12/24 V battery charger. For more, visit www.vmacair.com. GREASE PRODUCT LINEChevron announced refreshed branding for its line of grease products, featuring new naming and packaging to make the product selection process more seamless for customers. This product optimization aims to future-proof its product line to serve today’s equipment needs and meet the needs of tomorrow. Addressing industry shifts, Chevron grease products will feature package designs with a simplified naming structure, categorizing products by thickening agents. The new packaging also provides key product details and a QR code for easy access to more information. This will help customers easily identify the right product based on their needs. For more, visit www.chevronlubricants.com.HYDRAULIC TELESCOPIC CRANE AT Iowa Mold Tooling Co., Inc. (IMT), provided a look into the company’s sustainable technologies with the battery-powered hydraulic telescopic crane and air compressor package displayed at Work Truck Week 2023. A Vanair EPEQ™ and ELiMENT™ battery system powers the hydraulic crane, allowing operators to use it with the vehicle off. The concept product displayed features an IMT® 7500 Series telescopic crane and EPEQ™ AIR45 compressor package outfitted on a Dominator® I mechanics truck. Additionally, the crane and compressor package operates like a traditional PTO and pump setup. This means there is no need for a full re-engineering of the hydraulic equipment to use the benefits of electrification. For more, visit www.imt.com. NETRADYNE’S LAUNCH UNVEILS TECHNOLOGIES ADDRESSING FLEET Netradyne announced its seasonal launch. The launch introduces new solutions and updates to its existing product suite. Netradyne’s new features—Recommended Coaching, Collision Management, Fleet Safety Progress Report, and Fleet Tracking—help commercial fleets address challenges and adapt to the ever-changing economic and industry climates. “Our seasonal launch provides a new feature suite that gives our customers the peace of mind that Netradyne continues to innovate in safety, fleet management, and cost optimization,” says David Julian, Netradyne cofounder and CTO. For more, visit www.netradyne.com.
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MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MARCH 202312SHOW REVIEWWhat a show!! This year’s Work Truck Week was one of the best shows I’ve been to in my years at Modern WorkTruck Solutions. Electrification wasn't just dominating the conversation, it was displayed on the show floor. Discussions about realistic expectations concerning charging infrastructure and fleet conversion took place. Upfit companies proved their focus was not only on upfits for internal combustion (ICE) vehicles, but also on electric vehicles. It seemed there were plenty of both EV solutions and ICE vehicle solutions to go around. If you were at the show, you saw the innovations first-hand. If you weren’t able to make it this year, read below for highlights from some of the biggest and most innovative exhibitors.MACK TRUCKSMack Trucks wouldn’t be left in the current—the electric current, that is. The manufacturer pulled the curtain on its Mack MD Electric at this year’s show. This medium-duty EV’s motor boasts continuous power of 185 hp equivalent and peak power of 260 hp equivalent. It offers 1,850 lb-ft of torque and a range of 230 miles. It’s made with a galvanized steel cab, features a steel front bumper, and 120k PSI steel frame rails. The Class 6 EV features a GVWR of 26,000 lbs, and the Class 7 features a GVWR of 33,000 lbs. An e-PTO (electric power take-off) is also available with the MD Electric. Mack anticipates pilot MD Electric trucks will be available by the end of this year. www.macktrucks.comISUZUNew from Isuzu is its all-new electric low-cab forward N-Series EV. The Class 5 features a 19,500-lb GVWR, four battery pack choices, and compatibility with both AC and DC fast charging. Owners can enjoy a range of up to 235 miles with a 180kW battery pack. The brand targets availability for early next year. The look of the EV will also spread throughout the Isuzu lineup, with fresh features that include LED lighting, an upgraded interior, and more. See ad page 46. www.isuzucv.comRAMRam showcased its electric pickup concept, the Ram Revolution, and it’s loaded with innovation. The Rambox cargo system that rests inside the side of the bed above the back wheels on the Ram 1500 has been amplified on the Ram Revolution. On this concept, the whole side panel raises up to reveal even more cargo space. It also features a midgate pass-through that allows operators to carry objects as long as 18 ft! Its infotainment display is available in up to 28 inches, and half of that display can be removed from the dash and used remotely. I can’t wait to see the production model of the Ram Revolution. www.ramtrucks.comFCCCNew for this year is upgraded safety equipment for FCCC’s gasoline trucks. The safety system features 360-degree camera views (that automatically engage at 10 mph), overhead detection with alerts, collision mitigation, electronic stability Work Truck Week 2023 RecapA SHOW TO REMEMBER By Jade Brasher
MARCH 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 13control, a speed limiter, and lane departure warnings—all displayed on the vehicle’s OptiView information cluster. The OptiView was designed to simplify information for the driver without causing a distraction. New for the MT50e is AC charging capabilities and a new 208-inch wheelbase. FCCC offers its E-Consulting Team at your service for information on all things electric. www.fccccommercial.comMAXXIMAMaxxima is all about making operations safer for operators and technicians, and the company showcased its Undercarriage/Scene light, designed to help operators ensure their footing when working around, walking in, and walking out of their vehicle. Check it out on the cover of this issue. The company is also excited about its new all-in-one lighting solution, delivering stop, turn, tail, backup, and warning lights in one single unit. This unit makes an upfitter’s job easier and decreases the maintenance and cost behind the purchase of a different light for each function. See ad page 27. www.maxxima.com LIGHTNING eMOTORSLightning eMotors developed yet another chassis integration with General Motors, further paving the way for the company to be certified by General Motors as an eSVM. Being an eSVM means GM certifies Lightning to replace the existing powertrains on the brand’s vehicles with an electrified powertrain. This show featured Lightning eMotors’ ZEV4, a Class 4
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MARCH 202314SHOW REVIEWGM 4500. The brand also showcased a mobile battery charger that can be a temporary or permanent solution for charging infrastructure. See ad page 10. www.lightningemotors.comSHYFT GROUPThe Shyft Group showcased its Class 5 Blue Arc electric vehicle. The truck features a range of 200 miles and a crew cab design with a high roof that allows crew members to sit, stand, and walk through the cab. The chassis design allows for a variety of bodies and applications. The vehicle has a six-year, 180,000-mile warranty. www.theshyftgroup.comPERCThe Propane and Education Research Council showcased its new solution to the charging infrastructure problem: a portable, dual-purpose standalone fueling system. This system uses propane, solar, and wind power to generate enough energy for a “microgrid,” allowing electric vehicle fleets to recharge their vehicles with a DC level 3 fast charger—grid free! That’s one way to diversify energy sources. www.propane.comWEATHER GUARDBringing automotive features into the work truck world is a theme for many, and it’s the same for WEATHER GUARD. With PowerSync, the brand developed remote opening for, wait for it, toolboxes! No more will operators and technicians have to fumble through their keys to find the one that fits. Along with remote opening, WEATHER GUARD incorporated one key technology into these toolboxes. Eventually, PowerSync will be used in all things WEATHER GUARD Truck. www.weatherguard.comZERORPMDid you know idling a truck for one hour is the equivalent of 33 miles of wear and tear? With that statistic, it’s time fleets get their idling under control. This is possible through idle-mitigation solutions like ZeroRPM. This all-American company (designed and manufactured in our home state of Alabama, to be exact) develops batteries that act as the ICE vehicle’s alternator to power the cab’s HVAC system. Once the battery drains, the engine will automatically turn on. The lithium-iron phosphate battery can be charged via plug-in, but it also charges when the vehicle engine is running. www.zerorpm.comTHAT’S A WRAPWork Truck Week 2023 is officially in the books! What did you see at the show that is a must-have in your fleet? What did you see that inspired you? Let us know by emailing me, Jade, at jade@mwsmag.com or reaching out to our social channels. See you at next year’s show!FOR MORE INFORMATION Find out more about Work Truck Week 2023, visit www.worktruckweek.com.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MARCH 202316INDUSTRY INSIGHTAQJOSHUA AVIVA Simpler Way to Charge Electric Vehicles WE VERY BRIEFLY COVERED SPARKCHARGE A FEW YEARS AGO. OUR NEW READERS?AVIV: SparkCharge has created the world's largest mobile electric vehicle charging network. This network is now a reality due to three key factors: hardware, software, and brilliant customers. The Roadie Charging System is a portable, powerful, modular charging solution that makes DC fast charging possible anywhere regardless of infrastructure. The app and EV power delivery service SparkCharge Fleet & SparkCharge Out of Charge allows businesses to have their EVs charged wherever and whenever they want. SPARKCHARGE IS KNOWN AVIV: SparkCharge’s portable, grid-free charging solutions are battery-operated, so they’re always available to charge, regardless of power outages. SparkCharge also implements a triple redundancy charging operation to keep fleets powered up even during a natural disaster when the grid goes down.USE GRID-FREE CHARGING WITH SPARKCHARGE
MARCH 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 17: WHY SHOULD EXISTING EV FLEETS KEEP SPARKCHARGE ON THEIR RADAR?AVIV: Fleets with electric vehicles or fleet managers looking to electrify their fleet should keep SparkCharge on their radar because of several reasons.• No CapEx: SparkCharge’s mobile CaaS doesn’t require businesses to install fixed infrastructure to charge EV fleets, removing the burden of high capital investment with specialized programs combining site design, energy deployment, software, and service to make EV fleet operations seamless. • The portable, turnkey EV charging solution can be up and running in as few as 14 days in some markets, compared to the years it takes to construct and install fixed charging units.• Flexible and Scalable The SparkCharge network is built to scale to meet a company’s growing EV charging needs. It’s also designed to service EVs of all sizes and varieties and gives businesses freedom of where to place vehicle assets and allows fleets to charge vehicles in multiple locations at the same time. • 99.9% Uptime: SparkCharge’s portable, grid-free charging solutions are battery-operated, so they’re always available to charge, regardless of power outages. SparkCharge also implements a triple redundancy charging operation to keep fleets powered up even during a natural disaster when the grid goes down.• By eliminating large upfront installation costs and offering one custom monthly payment, businesses looking to electrify their fleets will save on gas and maintenance costs, as well as see a faster return on their investment.WHERE IS SPARKCHARGE AVAILABLE? DO SERVICES VARY DEPENDING ON THE LOCATION?AVIV: SparkCharge’s mobile CaaS for fleets is currently available in California in the cities of Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Jose, as well as in Dallas and Austin, Texas, and Boston, Massachusetts. It will launch in additional cities this year. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO FLEETS THAT ARE CONSIDERING SWITCHING TO EVS BUT ARE NOT YET SOLD ON THE IDEA BECAUSE OF CHARGING INFRASTRUCTURE? HOW CAN SPARKCHARGE HELP?AVIV: Electrifying a fleet doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming—our turnkey EV fast charging solutions allow businesses to make the switch from gas-powered vehicles to battery-electric, enabling them to be in compliance with green initiatives while lowering overall operations and maintenance costs. Mobile Charging as a service is a great option for decentralized and centralized fleets that might need to charge in multiple locations. It’s also beneficial if a fleet is waiting on a long lead time for fixed chargers, if they don’t plan to be at their current location for a long period of time, or if they don’t own the lots where their vehicles are parked. DOES SPARKCHARGE OFFER ANY OTHER EV PRODUCTS THAT COULD HELP FLEETS WITH RANGE ANXIETY?AVIV: Yes, SparkCharge offers the Roadie Portable, a modular charging unit that’s only available for registered businesses to purchase. Some fleets like to use it as an emergency charge source since it’s not attached to the grid when charging. It can also be used to support charging needs to keep up with operational demands.SPARKCHARGE THAT WE CAN EXPECT WITHIN THE NEXT YEAR?AVIV: SparkCharge is going to be scaling production in the United States and possible product updates later this year in addition to adding more cities in 2023.FOR MORE INFORMATIONof SparkCharge. His experience in industry spans 10 years, and he is community. Aviv has raised $50 million to advance EV charging across the country. Find out more about SparkCharge and its mobile EV charging products and services, visit www.sparkcharge.io or email sales@sparkcharge.io.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MARCH 202318MILESTONES18MILESTONESKenworth’s Journey1933Kenworth is the first truck manufacturer to use diesel engine as standard equipment.1956The 900-Series in a conventional cab and COE is introduced.1923Harry Kent and Edgar K. Worthington create Kenworth Motor Truck Company on January 22, 1923.Brand focuses on severe-duty vocational and hauling markets; new product features include the “Blue Streak” 6-cylinder engine, proprietary axles, 12-speed transmissions, enclosed cabs, and a four-wheel-drive system1936The W900 and K100 series are introduced.1963
MARCH 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 1919The year was 1923. The logging industry in the Pacific Northwest was booming. Harry Kent and Edgar K. Worthington sought to find a way to more efficiently move heavy loads down winding, narrow, and muddy logging roads. By March of that year, a new truck rolled off the assembly line bearing the combined name of the two men, “Kenworth.”In 1927, Kenworth opened a 120-ft by 240-ft factory in Seattle, manufacturing 50 trucks per month. The company also delivered its first Canadian-assembled truck, the J-6, in this year. By the 1930s, Kenworth produced 250 trucks per year, expanding its reaches into the fire truck market.AN INDUSTRY PIONEERIt’s hard to imagine a world where diesel engines weren’t the top choice for heavy-duty trucks, but without Kenworth’s pioneering, perhaps it wouldn’t have happened. In 1933, Kenworth began installing diesel engines as standard equipment. The first diesel-equipped trucks were also the first in the industry to have vertical exhausts along with a 4-cylinder, 100 hp HA-4 Cummins engine.The pioneering didn’t stop at the powertrain, however. Kenworth was also the first to integrate a sleeper cab into its trucks. Further, when weight restrictions and bridge laws took effect, Kenworth was also one of the first to begin using aluminum in its truck components.In 1936, truck restrictions in Mexico led to more Kenworth innovation. The country allowed more weight on the axles, but restricted truck length to 45-ft. As a result, the first cab-over-engine (COE) truck was born, Kenworth’s Model 516.During World War II, Kenworth stalled production of trucks used for vocational purposes and shifted to military vehicles. These years allowed Kenworth to perfect and further innovate with its use of aluminum, leading to yet another first with the Kenworth Trucks Celebrates 100 YearsA CENTURY OF PIONEERING AND INNOVATION1976The AERODYNE sleeper is introduced.1984K100E COE launches, setting new standards for fuel efficiency and aerodynamics.1971Kenworth produces special K100 cabover for Evel Knievel.The Kenworth W900A is featured in “Smokey and the Bandit,” and a K100 transports a space shuttle.1977Kenworth introduces the T800.1986
20MILESTONESproduction of the first aluminum frame on a Kenworth truck. TRUCK INNOVATIONMany trucks have come down the assembly line in Kenworth’s 100 years—well over 1 million to be more precise. Throughout the years, Kenworth has innovated its way to its current lineup, first introducing its popular K and W series trucks in 1963, named after the original Kenworth founders. In 1985, Kenworth introduced the T600A, featuring an aerodynamic design that resulted in a truck that was 20% more fuel efficient than the Kenworth W900. The next year, Kenworth introduced the T800, which became popular in the construction, pickup, delivery, and extreme long-haul industries. Kenworth solidified its three-peat years of innovation in 1987, introducing its first medium-duty truck, the Mid-Ranger COE. Through the late-1980s and early-1990s, Kenworth continued to expand its truck lineup, improving the design of its truck for both efficiency and comfort. Some of these improvements include aerodynamic features and the introduction of the largest sleeper cab on the market.In 1994, Kenworth introduced a conventional cab medium-duty truck, the T300. Kenworth based the T300’s design on its Class 8 trucks, resulting in a durable medium-duty truck.BIG TRUCKS, BIG SCREENNot only is the Kenworth brand well-known among drivers and fleet owners, it’s also well-known in Hollywood.Is there any big truck more famous than the Kenworth W900A featured on “Smokey and the Bandit”? We all saw that truck on the big screen, but it wasn’t actually the first Kenworth to have a spotlight. Three years prior to the release of “Smokey and the Bandit” in 1974, a Kenworth W925 was featured on the television drama “Movin’ On,” which ran for two seasons. Hollywood proved its love of the brand yet again in 1979, featuring a Kenworth K100C AERODYNE in the show “B.J. and the Bear.” Finally, in 2000, a Kenworth T2000 Advanced Technology was featured in the series “18 Wheels of Justice.”20Kenworth’s Journey1993New production facility opens in Renton, Washington. Kenworth unveils new sleeper cab.2007Kenworth introduces T370, T270, T170, K260, and K360 medium-duty trucks.1987Kenworth introduces the Mid-Ranger COE, the brand’s first medium-duty truck.The T660 is introduced; designed for fuel efficiency.2006The T880 launched, replacing the T800.2013
21THE DRIVER’S TRUCKAlthough seeing a Kenworth on the screen is exciting, Kenworth owners don’t purchase their trucks because Smokey looked cool driving it. They purchase these trucks because of the design and heart Kenworth’s engineers put into their trucks.Kenworth’s motto from the days of old have rang true throughout the decades. The motto was born not from a sentiment, but an action. “Kenworth engineers wear muddy boots” was an accurate statement, as the company’s engineers ventured into the field to troubleshoot issues, problem-solve, and continually hunt for a better way to design a truck. And that’s why Kenworth has been a pioneer in the industry for a century—solving problems that other engineers might not have known about because they didn’t get their boots dirty.Kenworth isn’t known by that exact motto today, but it is known for building the “driver’s truck”—a truck that can tackle all the hard jobs, but all while keeping the driver comfortable, safe, and efficient. Here’s to 100 more years of pioneering and innovation.FOR MORE INFORMATION visit www.kenworth100.com.2020Electric trucks are added to the Kenworth lineup.Kenworth reintroduces its medium-duty lineup.2021www.mwsmag.com
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MARCH 202322LIGHT-DUTY WORKTRUCK SHOWCASELIGHT-DUTY WORKTRUCK SHOWCASE
MARCH 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 23The Chevrolet Silverado EVAN ELECTRIC PICKUP FROM THE GROUND UPBy Jade Brasher
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MARCH 202324LIGHT-DUTY WORKTRUCK SHOWCASEChevrolet is yet another original equipment manufacturer (OEM) to tout its next electric vehicle (EV). The automaker acknowledges that it isn’t the first to debut an electric pickup truck, but at last year’s Work Truck Week, Nicole Kraatz, chief engineer of the Silverado EV, told me the reason why is because Chevrolet didn’t want to simply slap an electric powertrain on an existing vehicle. Chevrolet wanted to create an electric pickup from the ground up.This goal required a completely different body design than the Silverado trucks powered by an internal combustion engine (ICE). And because the Chevrolet Silverado EV runs on battery packs instead of a huge engine with all its moving parts and components, the Silverado EV had room for some interesting features of its own.POWER SURGEThis truck isn’t the first electric pickup to make it to market, but the folks at Chevrolet made it clear that being first wasn’t the goal. The goal was being the best. So how does it stack up?For starters, the Work Truck launch edition EV pickup can pump out up to 510 hp and 615 lb-ft of torque. It has a towing capability of 8,000 lbs and 1,200-lb payload capacity. And that’s just the specs for the introductory model. Chevrolet will also release a Silverado EV that offers up to 754 hp, 785 lb-ft of torque, and a towing capacity of up to 10,000 lbs. Chevrolet also has future plans to develop a Silverado EV with a Work Truck trim that offers a towing capability of 20,000 lbs!This electric truck is surging with power, pun intended. On a full charge, the Silverado EV can go a whopping 400 miles. That’s even better than a full tank of gasoline. Range anxiety—what’s that? For those that are traveling or have long routes, the Silverado EV’s standard DC fast charging capabilities enable the truck to add roughly 100 miles of range after just 10 minutes of charging on a public DC fast charger. The power runs throughout the cabin, as well. The Silverado EV has up to 10 outlets, providing a total of 10.2 kW of power to run a campsite, a jobsite, and even another electric vehicle (accessory charge cord required). Finally, Chevrolet helps keep its EV owners informed of their battery life with the myChevrolet Mobile App with Energy Assist. The app features route planning, public charging locations, and helps control vehicle features.SAFETY IS STANDARDChevrolet is launching the Silverado EV in the Work Truck trim, which will be available to purchase later this year. But don’t fret; just because the trim is called “Work Truck,” it doesn’t mean bare bones. The launch edition will feature several standard safety features that will allow anyone to feel like they’re driving something much more luxurious and high tech. These safety features include: automatic emergency braking; front pedestrian braking; reverse automatic braking; intersection automatic emergency braking; rear cross traffic with braking; forward collision alert; bicycle collision mitigation; following distance indicator; lane keep assist with lane departure warning; side blind zone The Silverado EV's Four-Corner Air Ride Adaptive Suspension offers a smooth ride no matter the terrain.
MARCH 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 25alert; auto high beam assist; rear park assist; rear vision camera; 360-degree camera; and a haptic seat.One thing that isn’t hard to notice from that list of safety features are the truck’s many camera views. In fact, Chevrolet will eventually offer up to 14 different camera views on the Silverado EV to help with safety and towing.FUTURE IS NOWIt seems that the addition of a new powertrain has caused many OEMs to elevate the features in their vehicles with a more, can we say, “futuristic” approach? And Chevrolet has added several new features to its electric pickup. The Silverado EV features a new 4-wheel steer. With this feature, drivers will appreciate a much smaller turning radius, taking the fatigue out of parallel parking, squeezing into tight spaces, and even easier maneuvering when towing a trailer. The electric pickup also features a new E-4WD system that delivers torque to all four wheels at once.And for those that travel off the beaten path, the Silverado EV is available with Four-Corner Air Ride Adaptive Suspension, keeping the ride smooth no matter the terrain. The Four-Corner system automatically adjusts the suspension according to road conditions. And this system also allows drivers to adjust the height of the Silverado EV for those instances when a higher clearance is necessary.The inside of the Silverado EV is also full of those “futuristic” features. By now, most of us have seen the Multi-Flex (or as GMC calls it, the Mutli-Pro) Tailgate, but the Silverado EV takes “multi” a step further with the Multi-Flex Midgate. The Multi-Flex Midgate is a pass-through between the bed of the truck and the truck’s cabin. This pass-through allows operators to carry items up to 10-ft 10-inches in length. No more tying red tape to the end of long loads—simply carry it all safely inside the truck.SILVERADO EV TECHCan we talk about futuristic approaches without mentioning the Silverado EV’s technology? Not a chance. That’s because the Silverado EV’s cockpit and interior is packed with features that improve safety and make operations more convenient. The all-digital instrument cluster is where drivers will see driving alerts, assist systems, operate cruise control, and more. And speaking of cruise control, the Chevrolet Silverado EV is available with Chevrolet’s Super Cruise. Super An 11-inch diagonal information screen keeps drivers informed. It displays Super Cruise, ADAS warnings, and more. The truck features an aerodynamic design that improves vehicle range.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MARCH 202326LIGHT-DUTY WORKTRUCK SHOWCASECruise is Chevrolet’s hands-free driving technology. The system uses cameras, sensors, GPS, and LiDAR map data to detect the road ahead, and take some stress away from the driver. The system identifies lane markers to keep the truck in the center of the lane, and it also includes adaptive cruise control. The system is also available with Lane Change on Demand, which is when the operator uses the turn signal, the truck will “look” for an opening in the traffic and change lanes without the driver’s involvement. Super Cruise is also available with automatic lane change, so that when the radar detects a slower vehicle ahead, the vehicle will activate the turn signal and change lanes. When the Chevrolet passes the slower vehicle, the turn signal is again automatically initiated, and the vehicle switches back into its original lane. And that is all without input from the driver. Super Cruise is only available on compatible roads.COMING SOONWith a range that’s comparable to a full tank of gas, a towing capacity that can take care of most daily work needs, and all the safety technology loaded in the Silverado EV, it’s no wonder Chevrolet’s goal is to phase out production of its ICE vehicles. If these electric pickups prove successful, as Chevrolet’s other electric models have been, the company sees no room for a future with ICE vehicles, according to many of the executives at General Motors. Only time will tell.In the meantime, seeing electric pickups from other OEMs on the road has personally gotten me anxious to see the Silverado EV take the streets—and the trails. What are your thoughts on the truck? Share them with us on our social channels.ABOUT THE AUTHORJade Brasher is the editor of Modern WorkTruck Soluons magazine. Reach her at jade@mwsmag.com. Chevrolet is currently taking orders for the Silverado EV, and the company expects truck availability in fall of this year. Find out more about the electric pickup, visit www.chevrolet.com. The Silverado EV will launch in the Work Truck edition, available later this year. The Silverado EV features the Multi-Flex Midgate, which allows cargo storage up to 10 ft 10 inches in length. The Silverado EV features an eTrunk for underhood storage.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MARCH 202328OPERATIONSWhether their objectives are to comply with state, county, and local idling laws, or to exhibit forward-thinking corporate citizenship, fleets increasingly have the topic of idle mitigation on their minds. Part of what concerns these fleets is the question of how they will continue to get the requisite amount of work done in this new no-idle or reduced-idle environment.Add to the equation the pressure that many fleets face to replace significant populations of their internal-combustion-engine (ICE) vehicles with electric vehicles, and you have a recipe for high anxiety. Not just the “range anxiety” that has always been a concern associated with EVs, but “work anxiety” related to whether their EVs will have the power to get to the jobsite, do the work, and get back to home base.“Having served the mobile power marketplace for just over half a century, we’ve helped fleets address evolutionary changes all along the way, but the rate of change has accelerated beyond anything any of us has experienced ever before,” says Dean Strathman, vice president of sales for Vanair.Strathman explains that Vanair has a robust voice-of-the-customer (VOC) program in place, and because of that continuous pipeline of real-world feedback, Vanair saw changes on the horizon long before others were even remotely aware they were coming. “And now they’re here,” Strathman muses, “And we’re ready.”“EPEQ” ADVANCEMENTVanair recently introduced its EPEQ Electrified Power Equipment line, which is an innovative electrified extension of the company’s already Achieve Regulatory Compliance with VanairBALANCE OF POWER
MARCH 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 29broad portfolio of what it has branded as its “Mobile Power Solutions.”The EPEQ Electrified Power Equipment product line is an end-to-end system offering 100% of the components needed for a complete green technology system. The EPEQ product lineup is designed to put viable electric mobile power solutions in the hand of fleets today. This allows any fleet to immediately reduce its carbon footprint and meet or surpass virtually any state, county, and local idling mandates.“The reality is that petroleum-driven vehicles will be with us in the field for the foreseeable future, even as their EV replacements continue to come online,” says Sara Tilden, vice president of marketing for Vanair. “Our EPEQ line of solutions enables any fleet to become a true ‘green fleet’ now, without waiting for the EV revolution to unfold, charging infrastructure issues to be solved, and the rest of the world to essentially shift on its axis.” The EPEQ product offering includes a variety of practical, fully-electric mobile power solutions that can make an immediate impact on a fleet’s carbon footprint.THE EPEQ LINEUPThe innovative EPEQ line of purpose-designed products includes:1. ELiMENT brand lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery 2. Smart Controller3. ePTO brand electric power take- off for cranes, booms, and other hydraulic equipment 4. Electric-motor-driven reciprocating, rotary screw, and oil-free air compressors5. AC power inverters6. Welders7. Level 1 and 2 EV charging8. Idle mitigation9. Alternators/regulators10. DC-DC convertersEach component in the EPEQ line is purposely designed and optimized to work within a battery-powered system. The advanced ELiMENT LiFePO4 Battery contains a one-of-a-kind battery management system (BMS) that has the ability to discharge power while being charged itself. The EPEQ Smart Controller has proprietary software technology designed to intelligently monitor and control all the components in the system. Each component can communicate signals to and from the controller’s board allowing battery power supplied to be adjusted based on a range of factors such as: temperature, heat buildup, duty cycle, assigned function priorities, and power remaining.With the EPEQ line’s breadth of functionality, Vanair has the ability to tailor a system to meet the needs of any fleet around. Depending on the form(s) of power a fleet needs, a targeted, single-function machine M 2303800
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MARCH 202330OPERATIONScan be ordered, or an “ecosystem” product grouping kit, combining just those functions needed for a specific fleet’s applications, can likewise be configured.THE INSIDE SCOOPEPEQ is a fully self-contained and independent system that can be mounted on or within ICE vehicles, electric vehicles, or even on or in trailers. On electric vehicles, it can either work with the host vehicle’s batteries or independently of those batteries.When installed in a van or enclosed body, users will experience a nearly 60% noise reduction and no exhaust. With the electrified system, maintenance is also greatly reduced and significant fuel savings benefits can be immediately realized. “The functionality of the EPEQ system has been perfect,” says Frank Wallis, service technician for San Tan Ford. “It’s quiet, there’s no pounding of a loud air compressor. It operates the balancer on our tire machine without issue. There aren’t any CO2 fumes inside the truck, so we can safely retrieve parts. It simply all works; no issues!”Vanair’s Strathman explained that the company saw early market opportunities with fleets looking for a means to work within an enclosed vehicle space, which would have been impossible before EPEQ because of fumes, noise, and other factors. A REAL TURNOFFAll EPEQ systems are designed to be scalable, allowing for the addition of different power equipment and now, Vanair’s EPEQ IDLE MITIGATION (EPEQ IM) kit provides fleets with a solution that will automatically turn off a vehicle while still allowing workers to operate the vehicle’s power equipment. “EPEQ IM can be designed to turn the vehicle on or off based on fleet-dictated parameters such as run time or battery state of charge,” Strathman explains. “The system can employ the onboard vehicle battery or Vanair’s EPEQ ELiMENT LiFePO4 auxiliary battery to power cab heat and air conditioning, emergency lights and strobes, radios, laptops, cameras, and AC electrical equipment.”The EPEQ IM system that Vanair has developed addresses not only the emission issue, but chassis lifespan extension as well. The Smart Controller module can be tucked away, out of sight, underneath the dash and can communicate through the vehicle’s J1939 CAN bus network or OBD port. According to Strathman, setting the parameters for the EPEQ IM system is easy. “Examples are: It needs to be in park or to have been in park for a set amount of time; or the chassis’ battery voltage has to be at a certain level. The system has great flexibility,” he says. “Regardless of the settings chosen, once those conditions have been met, the system forces the vehicle off automatically.”COST REDUCTIONStrathman noted that the term “ghost miles” is being used in the industry right now. He suggests that the rule of thumb is that every hour of idling time is the equivalent of approximately 30 ghost miles of wear and tear.“When you look at the fuel consumption reduction, at minimizing hours on an engine, and at DPF regeneration and periodic cleaning and replacement, you're looking at real reductions in maintenance costs,” Strathman says. “When you consider some of these basic factors, it’s really a pretty quick payback for some of these fleets.” The Vanair EPEQ systems can be paired with Vanair’s new telematics package, adding invaluable asset usage information to fleet managers.BRIDGING THE GAPNot only will Vanair’s EPEQ Electrified Power Equipment line help today’s diesel- and gas-powered fleets achieve their carbon emission reduction goals sooner, it will help them through their transition to largely electric vehicles. The system is designed to seamlessly work with all coming electric vehicles The EPEQ Light Duty Service and Maintenance Vehicle Kit has everything a fleet needs to electrify its van fleet whether that be for mobile repair service, elevator service, forklift service, and more. The fully self-contained and independent EPEQ Medium Duty Service Vehicle Kit can be mounted on, or within, combustion engine vehicles, electric vehicles, or even on trailers. Vanair has also purpose-designed the EPEQ Roadside Vehicle Assistance Kit with all the equipment and features to help tackle service and repairs in a variety of environmental conditions.
MARCH 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 31and removes the burden of powering truck-mounted equipment from an EV’s primary battery bank. “Electric vehicles will also be a great fit for our electrified products,” Vanair’s Tilden says. “We can power traditional PTO-driven components ... rather than using a PTO driven by the chassis’ engine. Today’s workers using tomorrow’s EVs will be able to operate the same equipment they’re presently using, all without extra training or having to transition to some exotic or novel solution,” Tilden says. “EPEQ makes work simpler and more productive now—and it will keep work simpler and more productive as fleets move into the future.”FOR MORE INFORMATION Find out more about the Vanair line, visit www.vanair.com. The EPEQ Field Service Kit for Electric Vehicles enables fleets and their workers to operate the same familiar crane equipment. Users will experience a nearly 60% noise reduction and know there is no exhaust for them to contend with. The EPEQ IM kit provides a function thatautomatically turns a vehicle off, enablingequipment operation without engine idle.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MARCH 202332MAINTENANCEFor nearly two centuries, humans have designed and built motorized vehicles. The choice of propulsion method was initially driven by practical considerations such as technical feasibility and availability of fuel rather than environmental impact. Although the earliest electric vehicles (EVs) were already locomoting in 1886, the internal combustion engine (ICE) remained dominant for many years. Petrochemical combustion technology is mature and well-established, and recent improvements mainly involve making it more eco-friendly. Efforts such as using alternative fuels, improving exhaust gas recirculation, and implementing hybrid drivetrains and shut-down-on-idle systems have helped reduce emissions, but these advancements are limited in their ability to reach the zero-carbon emissions threshold.As the transportation industry shifts its focus to EVs, innovation in the field is as brisk and vibrant as any change in Unlock Reliability, Performance, and Durability in Commercial EVsTHERMAL MANAGEMENT IS THE KEY By Gina Bonini Composite EV graphic showing placement of Modine's Thermal Management Systems: Electronics Cooling Package (front end), Battery Thermal Management System (body).
MARCH 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 33technology the world has ever seen. The propulsion, energy storage, and microelectronics components of EVs are experiencing rapid advancements, breakthroughs, and inventions. With this continuous drive toward faster, safer, and more efficient technology, vehicle manufacturers regularly face near-revolutionary engineering decisions.INNOVATION & ECONOMICSBolstered by the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and the Infrastructure and Investment Act (IIA), which have dedicated more financial support toward the promotion of zero-emission vehicles than ever before, commercial and specialty vehicle original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) are focused on bringing their all-electric vehicle platforms to market in time to meet growing demand. States like Washington, for example, have moved to ban registration of new ICE vehicles by 2030, leaving OEMs just seven short years to deliver zero-emission commercial fleet vehicles of all types. Furthermore, a growing number have stated their intentions to stop investing in new ICE platforms and models, while many others have already defined a specific date to end ICE vehicle production.Tax incentives and government commitments to reduce emissions Modine's EVantage Battery Thermal Management System integrates into any chassis.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MARCH 202334MAINTENANCEhave a visible and direct impact on expanding the North American EV market; however, these bills also present massive but less visible opportunities for economic growth domestically, and US-based manufacturing companies are taking action to benefit from the confluence of market growth and legislation. With this burst of momentum, EV OEMs and their suppliers now face mounting pressure as they design, validate, and ramp production on an entirely new propulsion system that must meet the range, durability, and reliability required by the commercial vehicle market. Questions about how EV platforms will perform compared to their ICE counterparts remain for many operators, including questions about which technologies best protect and optimize the performance of commercial EV components. Simply scaling up technologies from passenger EVs does not work for these working vehicles. THERMAL FACTORSThe impact of operating temperature on electronic components in EVs is both significant and different from its impact on ICE engines. These vehicles contain numerous power electronics for the inverter, converter and traction motor, and large and complex battery banks. Their longevity, performance, and safety depend on effective thermal management. Designing a thermal management system that efficiently manages thermal loads, fits within the space constraints of a commercial vehicle, and meets heavy-duty operation demands requires specialized knowledge and experience with thermodynamics.As anyone who has experienced an overheated smartphone or a car engine struggling to start in extreme cold can attest, operating temperature plays a major role in the performance of complex systems. In the case of EVs, electronic components and batteries are not just responsible for starting the vehicle or powering accessories—they are the primary power source. Commercial EVs must be reliable and productive, so the optimal performance of the electronics and batteries is crucial for their success. Extreme heat or cold can severely impact electric powertrain performance, range, and lifespan. Actively managing the temperature of EV components, therefore, is a crucial aspect of EV design.TEMP MANAGEMENTThermal management considerations for an EV battery pack include heating and cooling, as the battery is most efficient within a narrow operating temperature window, typically between 77 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit. When the ambient temperature is colder, the Battery Thermal Management System (BTMS) will increase the battery's temperature. Once the vehicle is in operation, heat generated by the battery pack must be removed to prevent overheating. The switch between cooling and heating, as well as the intensity of each, are managed automatically by the system.Ambient and operating temperatures similarly affect the various electrical components, such as inverters, converters, traction motors, and related power electronics that charge the batteries. Although these issues have been largely resolved in passenger EVs, commercial, purpose-built, and off-highway EVs face bigger workloads and torque requirements, requiring higher power and battery capacities. This is why commercial EVs are typically equipped with a cooling package for inverters, converters, and traction motors, each with a coolant loop to cool the power electronics, which is then routed through the cooling package to reject the heat to ambient. This circuit keeps the power electronics within the appropriate temperature ranges, ensuring the best performance and the lowest risk of damage to sensitive components.By regulating temperature and ensuring components operate within their ideal ranges, thermal management improves performance, range, longevity, and speeds up battery charging. Innovations in temperature control for EV propulsion components are crucial for making commercial fleet vehicles viable. Similarly—and perhaps even more so—thermal management will be at the forefront as the industry pivots again from EV technology to fuel cells. So, keep an eye on the thermostat in this space.ABOUT THE AUTHORGina Bonini is the vice president and general manager of Advanced Thermal Systems at Modine. Find out more, visit www.modine.com. Schematic overview of Modine's EVantage Battery Thermal Management System, which maintains ideal battery pack temperatures in all environments.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MARCH 202336MAINTENANCESpecialized work trucks like snowplows, street cleaners, garbage trucks, dump trucks, and truck-mounted cranes are often custom ordered with diverse equipment variations and body styles. Many rely on Hydraulic Power Units (HPUs) to provide the “muscle” behind critical operating machinery used to lift or control articulating arms or accessories. However, frequent exposure to moisture splashed from roadways and worksites as well as weather, washdowns, humidity, and other corrosion-causing factors can wreak havoc on the hydraulic component parts.COMPONENT EXPOSUREFor decades, there has been little variation in the basic component configuration of HPUs, which convert electrical power to hydraulic energy. Highly complex hydraulic systems consist of many components including New Submerged HPUs Increase Reliability of Work TrucksPATENTED DESIGN PLACES MOTOR AND GEAR PUMP IN OIL RESERVOIR, PROTECTS CRITICAL COMPONENTSheavy-duty feature
MARCH 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 37manifolds, directional valves, heat exchangers, pressure gauges, and the system’s motor and pump, which are mounted to the top of the oil reservoir. Additional components such as filters, pressure gauges, and heat exchangers may also be needed to meet application requirements. While the design is technically sufficient, OEMs have long sought ways to improve the overall reliability of hydraulic systems that must operate in inhospitable, moisture-prone environments.One challenge is that high-value components like the motor and pump are also the most likely to require repair or replacement in many cases. Yet current HPU design involves mounting the motor and pump to the reservoir, which exposes the components to the environment and potential corrosion damage. Even if the HPU is in a toolbox with the vehicle battery, it is regularly exposed to moisture from various To provide more flexibility in design, a Submerged HPU like one from KTI Hydraulics is offered with a variety of common and customizable hydraulic circuits.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MARCH 202338MAINTENANCEsources. Accelerated corrosion only leads to premature service, repair, and replacement.Since critical equipment and machinery cannot function without a sound hydraulic system, downtime and lost revenue can result as well. When this occurs, OEMs receive service calls and complaints from customers that are having problems with the unit. This can reflect poorly on the brand, lead to negative online reviews, and even a loss of future sales.In addition, while not a concern in all applications, smaller, more compact HPUs are generally preferred where space is limited.KTI’S SOLUTIONTo significantly increase HPU reliability and provide greater design flexibility, a leading hydraulic parts manufacturer, KTI Hydraulics Inc., redesigned these vital components to create the industry’s first “Submerged DC HPU.” Founded in 1998, the Santa Ana, California-based company provides Hydraulic Power Units and components for use in commercial and industrial hydraulic equipment. In the patented design, the motor and gear pump are protectively submerged in the reservoir fluid, rather than the typical configuration of mounting the motor/gear pump and manifold to the top of the reservoir. Protecting the motor and gear pump in this manner has many benefits. When the motor and gear pump are submerged, the high-value parts require substantially less maintenance and replacement. The new units are particularly ideal for equipment and machinery operated in harsh, corrosive environments. The oil also functions as coolant, resulting in a longer duty cycle.HPU CUSTOMIZATIONSKTI Hydraulics Inc. offers the Submerged HPU with a 1.8 KW 12V and 24V DC motor with superior ingress protection (IP) ratings (a The custom configurable approach of the Submerged HPU allows for a variety of common hydraulic circuits with one base unit that uses multiple circuits. The Submerged HPU allows the OEM to change the manifold to work with a multitude of different standard or custom circuits. With the submerged HPU, the distributor can purchase a single SKU item to hold in inventory along with the needed manifolds, like this Double-Single manifold from KTI Hydraulics.
MARCH 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 39measure of an enclosure’s resistance to dust or liquid intrusion). The HPU includes a pressure-loaded gear pump, potted solenoid, and a reservoir with five quarts of usable volume. Several optional add-ons are available as well.The new, innovative HPU configuration also enables a more compact design (15 1/2-inches x 9 1/2-inches x 8-inches), which is ideal for OEMs looking to minimize the space required for hydraulic components.To provide more flexibility in design for OEMs, the Submerged HPU is offered with a variety of common hydraulic circuits. Custom circuits can be designed upon request. This configurable approach allows for one base unit to use multiple circuits. The Submerged HPU allows the OEM to change the manifold to work with a multitude of different standard or custom circuits. This contrasts with current HPU designs that lock the OEM into either a single-acting or double-acting configuration. PROTECT & SAVEFor hydraulic equipment distributors, the capability eliminates the need to stock four different types of HPUs, conserving inventory space and capital. With the submerged HPU, the distributor can purchase a single SKU item to hold in inventory and then the needed manifolds.Given the critical importance of Hydraulic Power Units in the work truck industry, Submerged HPUs are bound to appeal to OEMs experiencing excessive service calls. By ensuring the motor and gear pump are protected within the oil reservoir from wet, corrosive environments, the result will be fewer repairs and greater equipment reliability. KTI Hydraulics has provided hydraulic power units for over 20 years. Whether AC or DC motors, manifolds, pumps, reservoirs, controls, or complete power units, the company’s products are designed for reliability and longevity. FOR MORE INFORMATION Founded in 1998, KTI Hydraulics Inc. designs and engineers hydraulic power units, AC and DC motors, manifolds, pumps, reservoirs, and remotes. Find out more about KTI
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MARCH 202340SAFETYRoad safety is increasingly coming under the spotlight across the US at both a state and national level. Latest statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimate 20,175 people died in motor vehicle traffic crashes in the first half of 2022, an increase of about 0.5% compared to 20,070 fatalities estimated by the NHTSA for the first half of 2021. The human cost is huge, but the additive cost of overall motor vehicle crashes to American society is a worrying $340 billion per year according to recent insights from the NHTSA.Reducing these overall figures is very much in the sights of the US Department of Transportation. In the words of Secretary Pete Buttigieg: “These deaths are preventable, not inevitable, and we should act accordingly. Safety is our guiding mission at the Department of Transportation, and we will redouble our efforts to reduce the tragic number of deaths on our nation’s roads."SAFETY POLICIESAt a city-by-city level, more than 45 communities have committed to “Vision Zero” in the US—a strategy to How AI Video Telematics Transforms Road Safety and Saves LivesNEW DEVELOPMENTS IN AI IMPROVES FLEET SAFETY By Richard Kentmedium-duty feature
MARCH 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 41eliminate all traffic fatalities and severe injuries, while increasing safe, healthy, equitable mobility for all. Vision Zero acknowledges that many factors contribute to safe mobility including roadway design, speeds, behaviors, technology, and policies—and sets clear objectives to achieve a shared goal by engaging stakeholders that span local traffic planners and engineers, policymakers, and public health professionals. ON BOARD WITH AI But policymaking alone will not deliver on the journey to shrink road deaths. It needs buy-in from fleet operators and the helping hand of some tech-led innovations. Of course, we aren’t talking driverless vehicles yet, but the NHTSA sees driver assisted technologies next on its “Road to Full Automation.”Artificial Intelligence (AI) is already having an ever-greater influence on our everyday lives, so it’s no surprise that it has a growing role to play within the fleet sector to help improve driver performance, support duty of care, and cut costs. Particularly in new developments, AI video telematics is expected to transform how vehicle operations approach road safety. In the broadest sense, AI is about using machines to perform tasks that would typically have required some form of human intervention and demonstrate behaviors associated with human intelligence. Powerful in-vehicle AI video telematics will make it easy to identify key areas of risk, reduce collisions and near misses, and ensure employees get home safely.BEYOND THE CABAI-powered vehicle cameras, using Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS), Driver Status Monitoring (DSM), and Blind Spot Detection (BSD) technologies, are now enabling fleet operators to maintain safety levels for both their drivers and other road users. By automatically monitoring hazards on the road and high-risk behaviors, these devices make it possible to provide real-time feedback straight to the driver. Distractions such as cell phone use, eyes away from road, smoking, eating, and drinking can be detected alongside other fleet risk, such as fatigue, tailgating, and nearby vulnerable road users, so drivers can be encouraged to change potentially dangerous habits. In fact, in one international deployment of AI-powered video telematics installed across 16,000 public sector vehicles, there was a reduction in risky driver behavior of over 80% within the first three months.The latest intelligent detection cameras can even identify and track vulnerable people where driver visibility is poor and risk of injury high. These devices can establish the severity of risk dependent on the proximity of a worker, pedestrian, or cyclist to the vehicle, activating internal and external alarms when they enter virtual exclusion zones. This provides the driver with increased time to react ATTENTION WORK FLEETSOF 100+ VEHICLES$199 MONEY-BACK REGISTRATION COST INCLUDES hotel accommodations, meals, all events & sessions and comes with travel reimbursement. We oer a number of scholarships for eet leaders who may not have travel budget to attend. “If you’re directly involved in your eet’s decision-making and have any needs for products or solutions that will help your eet run more safely and eciently, then we invite you to apply to attend this year’s Work Fleet Forum”CONNECT with the best ideas, the newest solutions and the brightest minds all in one location.LEARN about new products and solutions with private demos and small presentations. You can even customize your event based on who you’d like to meet with.NETWORK with other top eet managers in a relaxed and productive setting at the beautiful Marriott Champions Circle. You’ll add to what - and who - you know in the eet industry. e Work Fleet Forum is for those who run hard-working eets. It’s designed to be more productive, more valuable, more fun and just for eet leaders like you. Organized by Eaton Hall Exhibitions NOV 6-92023Register Today!(800) 746-9646 www.workfleetforum.comanthony@eatonhall.comLimited Vendor Opportunities Still Availablee Marriott Champions Circle in Fort Worth, Texas.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MARCH 202342SAFETYand warns other road users of the potential risk. HUMANIZED AIMoving forward, advances in Vulnerable Road User (VRU) perception technology will enable AI-powered cameras to provide a nuanced understanding of human behavior. Using machine learning techniques, it will be possible to train devices to accurately predict a person’s actions, and as such, provide drivers with potential collision warnings that give them vital moments to avoid an incident. Backed by a dataset of hundreds of millions of human behaviors, the edge-based software analyzes age, direction, speed, and distraction to deliver a much higher degree of accuracy than traditional ADAS technology.ANALYSIS & DECISIONFleet managers can use the added insight provided by AI video telematics to better understand risk within their vehicle operations and take steps to address issues before they result in a driving incident. However, no vehicle operation has the time and resources to manually review every triggered collision, near miss, or driving event when video uploads can exceed hundreds per day. Due to the size and weight of many vehicles—especially vans, trucks, and specialist vehicles—dashcams require highly-sensitive g-force settings to detect a collision, which results in large levels of generated events data.THE NOWComputer vision algorithms can now be used to review huge amounts of data, which means fleet managers are only presented with information that requires immediate intervention. AI post analysis can, for example, help overcome the challenge of manually checking hours of downloaded footage by automatically validating in seconds whether a collision occurred and determining if any action is required. The technology will continue to evolve in the future to detect, monitor, and analyze near misses and driver behavior, which will support data-driven safety decision-making and problem-solving.AI post analysis uses advanced object recognition software to identify different types of vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians, making it possible to distinguish between collisions and false positives that can be generated by harsh driving, potholes, or speed humps. This added layer of analysis enables rapid intervention and the ability to quickly summon emergency assistance, resulting in enhanced duty of care and driver welfare, as well as reduced insurance claims costs.THE TECH DELIVERYThere are two types of technology, edge-and cloud-based, that will see AI delivery become increasingly embedded in video telematics hardware and software. For edge-based solutions, the processing takes place close to the data source, such as a connected camera device, to provide real-time insight. Cloud-based solutions collect and process information in a centralized data center for powerful post analysis.A SAFER FUTURE The new generation of AI video telematics will ensure fleet operators can access the right information at the right time, presented in a way that enables them to achieve significant change and encourage drivers to operate in the most responsible manner. By automating management processes, data analysis, and incident detection, they can take advantage of intelligent solutions to keep drivers, road users, and pedestrians safe and reduce the number of collisions.The US Department of Transportation Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) shows large trucks account for nearly 13% of fatalities on the nation’s roads. This indicates an opportunity to embrace AI innovation and immediately save lives. We must not ignore its ability to reduce cost to society, as well. We all want a future where no one is killed or injured on US roads, and fleet technology such as AI has a significant role to play in safer transportation for all.ABOUT THE AUTHOR Richard Kent is the vice president of global sales at VisionTrack. Find out more, visit www.visiontrack.com.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MARCH 202344WORK TRUCK PRODUCTSVMACVMAC’s DTM185 direct transmission mounted PTO driven air compressor is a high performance underdeck air compressor that delivers 185 CFM at 2,100 RPM and 125 CFM at PTO idle. The DTM185 provides a continuous supply of compressed air that allows efficient operation of two 90-lb jackhammers simultaneously or one jackhammer at PTO idle to maximize productivity and minimize fuel costs. The DTM185 features fast and easy installation—up to 50% faster than other underdeck air compressor systems. No additional drive shafts are required, eliminating potential alignment issues, installation complexity, and extra costs, and the DEF tank can remain in its original place on most vehicles.FREIGHT DEFENSEFreight Defense’s new CAT-RAP cables protect against catalytic converter theft. Designed for anyone to install, CAT-RAP is made from durable, all stainless steel components that resist corrosion even when exposed to the harshest environments. The CAT-RAP’s universal design can be installed on many vehicle platforms, and installation can be done in as little as 30 minutes, regardless of the catalytic converter’s orientation. Optimized cable length provides flexibility for wrapping techniques while installing. Freight Defense suggests a wrapping strategy that uses a combination of tight and loose wraps, because the looser the cable, the harder it is to cut. WAYTEK WIRESealed In-line Fuse Holders from Littelfuse are the perfect way to protect overflow and auxiliary circuits in your work truck. They are designed with an integral cover that seals the product, allowing it to provide a high level of protection against environmental conditions. With the ability to be mounted universally anywhere, they are perfect for use in applications where space is limited. Available in a variety of sizes and configurations, you can easily find the perfect one for your needs to keep your truck up and running.MONROE TRUCK EQUIPMENTCAT CAGEMonroe Truck Equipment’s mTEC products were created to address its customer’s core concerns. The latest mTEC product is the Cat Cage, a 14-gauge stainless steel box that “cages” the catalytic converter, keeping it safe from theft. The Cat Cage features tamper-resistant fasteners and can be easily installed to the frame using OEM attachment points. It’s a lightweight design that deters catalytic converter theft, while still offering bottom access for greasing the driveshaft. Keep vehicles profitable by avoiding weeks of repair and eliminating replacement costs. The design is currently available for several gas engine chassis, and more will be available in the future.SEE ADPG 13SEE ADPG 5SEE ADPG 8