The Making of an American Truck | Exceptional Engineering

Exceptional Engineering: The Making of an American Truck
The Swedish automotive group Volvo has been producing trucks for the North American market since the late 1970s. Every ten minutes, a new truck rolls off the assembly line, with a tailor-made production line equipped to cater to individual customer requirements. More than 500 color tones are available for the cab paint job alone. After just one day in assembly, the new trucks are ready to roll on public highways throughout the United States provided they have successfully completed a test drive on the factory track.

Ford Press Conference at Work Truck 2020

Mark Buzzell and Ted Cannis talk about everything Ford in their press event.

General Motors Truck Production at the Fort Wayne Assembly Plant

General Motors is making a new round of upgrades to its Fort Wayne Assembly plant to further increase production of the all-new Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 pickups – especially crew cab models.

“We are building Chevrolet and GMC crew cab pickups at record volume and mix levels to meet customer demand and the $24 million investment will allow us to build even more,” said Mary Barra, GM chairman and CEO. “The team here at Fort Wayne has done an outstanding job helping us satisfy customers throughout this launch. Our product ramp-up was very smooth and the quality has been exceptional. Crew cab sales have been very strong, and we are expanding customer choice with new models, more cab choices and innovative new powertrains.”

Combined sales of the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 crew cab pickups, which launched in the second half of 2018, were up 20 percent in the first quarter of 2019 versus a year ago. GM is projecting another significant increase for the second quarter. Customer deliveries of the double-cab models built in Fort Wayne began during the first quarter.

The $24 million will be invested to further enhance the plant’s conveyors and other tooling to support the increased production. The work will be completed this summer. With today’s announcement, GM has invested more than $1.2 billion in the plant since 2015.

Since 2009, GM has invested $23 billion in U.S. manufacturing – more than one-quarter of every dollar spent by automakers. SOURCE:

The Wheel Network

The Wheel Network

CTECH at The Work Truck Show 2020 | SuperCut

Missed out on all the fun at The Work Truck Show? Don't worry; take a good look around the CTech booth and beyond with this supercut! We had our brand new Shelving Drawers and MotionLatch™ 'Full-Bank' lock on full display as well as a variety of Tool Drawers showcased in other areas of the show.

F150 Factory Tour | How Ford Builds An F-150 Every 53 Seconds - The Haul

Justin's At Ford's F150 plant to see how the best truck on earth is built from start to finish. Ford's massive F150 plant is able to crank out an F150 every 53 seconds which helps satisfy the huge demand for the best selling truck on earth.

All-Electric F-150 Prototype: Tows 1M+ Pounds | F-150 | Ford

We’ve confirmed we are bringing an all-electric F-150 to market. Now, we’re showing you the capability you asked for by having it tow more than 1 million pounds.* This is Built Ford Tough.

*The F-150 battery-electric prototype is towing far beyond any production truck’s published capacity in a one-time short event demonstration. Never tow beyond a vehicle’s towing capacities. Always consult the Owner’s Manual.

Learn more about the All-Electric Ford F-150 Prototype here: https://ford.to/32L24kS

2020 Isuzu NTEA Presser

Isuzu Commercial Truck of America introduces two new gas engines.

FORD MARKS 35 YEARS OF COMMERCIAL VEHICLE LEADERSHIP; FORD E-SERIES, FORD F-650 AND F-750 UPGRADED WITH NEW OPTIONS

• Ford marks 35 years of commercial vehicle leadership by adding more customer-driven options, including gaseous fuel prep package for vehicles powered by its new 7.3-liter V8 gasoline engine
• Fleet and commercial customers can now order all-new 2021 Ford F-600 Super Duty chassis cab – available Summer 2020
• Fresh off their best sales in more than 20 years, Ford F-650 and F-750 Medium Duty trucks get more versatile than ever with an available air compressor that lets customers combine the cost savings of a gasoline powertrain with the stopping power of air brakes
• New flex fuel capability for Ford E-Series offers fleets an affordable option for meeting alternative fuel requirements

INDIANAPOLIS, March 3, 2020 – Ford marks 35 years as the country’s best-selling line of commercial vehicles* by adding even more customer-driven options to its F-650 and F-750 Medium Duty trucks and E-Series cutaway and stripped chassis.

“We are just as passionate about the success of our customers’ businesses as they are,” said Mark Buzzell, Ford director of fleet, lease and remarketing operations. “So, we have devoted decades to developing deep insights into their wants and needs. This focus has led us to create a winning portfolio of commercial vehicles that our customers love and rely on every day.”

One of Ford’s latest innovations, the all-new F-600 Super Duty chassis cab is now available to order. Ford F-600 delivers the capability of a Class 6 truck in a familiar Class 5 package, giving a new choice to fleets and vocational customers who need additional payload or want to mount heavier upfits without moving into a bigger truck. It will be available for delivery Summer 2020.

For customers who prefer alternative fuels, Ford is offering a gaseous fuel prep package for its new 7.3-liter V8 gasoline engine in current model year Super Duty F-450, F-550 and F-600 chassis cab, Medium Duty, E-Series and F-53 and F-59 stripped chassis vehicles. The package includes upgraded valvetrain components to withstand higher operating temperatures and lower lubricity of gaseous fuels so the vehicle can be converted by a Ford Qualified Vehicle Modifier to run on CNG or propane.

Air power offered for Medium DutyFord sold more of its biggest work trucks last year than it has since 1997. Sales of F-650 and F-750 are up 37 percent year-over-year, with total volume of 16,510 trucks for 2019. Building on this momentum, Ford further enhances the versatility of its Medium Duty trucks for model year 2022 with a new option for the available 7.3-liter gas engine.

For the first time, an integrated air compressor will be available for the 7.3-liter engine. The compressor can be used to power air brakes, air suspension and other accessories like air horns or air ride seats. Currently, air brakes are only available on diesel-powered trucks.

Ford is the only manufacturer offering a choice of gasoline or diesel engine for Class 6-7 conventional cab trucks – its 7.3-liter gas V8 or updated 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel V8.

Ford Medium Duty trucks with the 7.3-liter gas engine can cost up to $9,245*** less than those with the 6.7-liter diesel. They are recommended for applications with lighter duty cycles, annual mileage and torque requirements. Adding the air compressor to the 7.3-liter engine lets customers combine the cost savings of a gasoline powertrain with the stopping power of air brakes.

“We expect this new offering to be popular in several vocational segments including propane delivery, municipalities, utilities and tree service,” explains Nathan Oscarson, Ford commercial truck brand manager. “Many customers have told us they’d like to take advantage of the cost savings provided by a gas truck, but they also want the peace of mind provided by air brakes.”

Ford E-Series gets more flexible, but passengers don’t have toFleets looking for an affordable solution to meeting alternative fuel goals will see new choices with 2022 E-Series cutaways and stripped chassis as Ford adds available flex fuel capability for the 7.3-liter V8 gasoline engine in both premium and economy calibrations. E-Series with flex fuel capability can run on gasoline or blends of up to 85 percent ethanol, or E85. Ford expects this to be a popular option for state and federal fleets.

Also new for E-Series cutaway next year is a scalloped engine access cover that provides additional legroom, in response to customer requests primarily from the recreational vehicle industry. E-Series is the most popular platform for Class C motorhomes, with 58 percent market share**.

Production of 2022 Ford F-650, F-750 and E-Series begins in January at Ohio Assembly Plant.

*Based on IHS Markit calendar year 1985-2019 TIPNet Registrations excluding registrations to individuals. TIP Registrations prior to 2010 do not include all GVW 1 and 2 vehicles.
**According to calendar year 2019 data from Statistical Surveys Inc., a market analysis company specializing in the RV, marine and manufactured housing industries.
***Based on 2021 F-650 gas versus diesel in CVT, base truck MSRP difference, with no options or add on. 7.3-liter V8 gas engine: $59,810 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 diesel: $69,055

Daimler Trucks launches additional electric Freightliner Customer Experience fleet

Stuttgart/ Portland (Oregon) – Daimler Trucks launches additional electric Freightliner trucks for customer testing in North America. The Customer Experience (CX) fleet from Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) consists of six heavy-duty Freightliner eCascadia and two medium-duty Freightliner eM2 106. Over a period of 22 months 14 different customers from a range of sectors will operate the all-electric trucks within their daily transport business. These customers are some of the largest fleet owners in the USA representing more than 150.000 heavy and medium-duty trucks (Class 6-8) on US roads. The CX test fleet complements the innovation fleet of 30 Freightliner eTrucks which, since 2018, have been in operation and recently surpassed more than 160.000 cumulative kilometers. The market launch for both the Freightliner eCascadia and the eM2 truck is scheduled for late 2021.

Freightliner eCascadia and eM2

The Freightliner eCascadia is based on the Cascadia, the most successful heavy-duty long-distance truck (class 8, 80,000 lb. gross combined weight rating (GCWR) in the North American market. At start of series production, the eCascadia is planned to have up to 730 peak horsepower. The batteries are planned to provide 550 Kwh usable capacity, a range of up to 250 miles and have the ability to charge up to 80 percent (providing a range of 200 miles) in about 90 minutes. The Class 8 tractor is designed for local and regional distribution and drayage. The Freightliner eM2 is intended for local distribution operations and last-mile delivery services (class 6, 26,000 lb. GCWR).The eM2 truck is planned to have up to 480 peak horsepower. The batteries are planned to provide 325 Kwh of usable capacity, a range of up to 230 miles and have the ability to charge up to 80 percent (providing a range of 184 miles) in about 60 minutes.

Electric truck and bus portfolio at Daimler Trucks & Buses

The Freightliner eCascadia and eM2 are part of Daimler Trucks’ global electrified truck initiative, joining Thomas Built Buses all-electric Saf-T-Liner eC2 Jouley school bus, the Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation MT50e, the Mercedes-Benz eActros, the Mercedes-Benz eEconic, the Mercedes-Benz eCitaro bus in Europe and the FUSO eCanter in Asia, Europe and North America.

SOURCE: https://media.daimler.com/marsMediaSite/en/instance/ko.xhtml?oid=45823295&ls=L2VuL2luc3RhbmNlL2tvLnhodG1sP29pZD00ODM2MjU4JnJlbElkPTYwODI5JmZyb21PaWQ9NDgzNjI1OCZib3JkZXJzPXRydWUmcmVzdWx0SW5mb1R5cGVJZD00MDYyNiZ2aWV3VHlwZT10aHVtYnM!&rs=0

BOLT Receiver Lock

If you drive a truck, haul gear or pull a trailer, then the BOLT Receiver lock is for you. The BOLT receiver lock opens with your vehicle ignition key. Simply insert your key, turn it once and your key is memorized.

Other features:
-Fits class 3,4 & 5 hitches
-Stainless Steel pin for durability
-Auto return spring longs automatically when key is removed
-Weatherproof
-Stainless steel lock shutter keeps out dirt and moisture
-Limited lifetime warranty

Pro Tech Aluminum Pickup Cross Box at the NTEA Work Truck Show

Eric talks about the beautiful Pro Tech aluminum pickup cross box. See more about Pro Tech at http://www.protech.net.

WeldMaster Truck Body - For the Jack of All Trades!

The urban welder is a jack of all trades. A little of this, and a little of that. And, of course, his or her work always includes some welding. Harbor created a jack of all trades truck just for her or him.  A service body with a welders edge!

• Standard Features
• Options
• Tech Specs

• 63-inch raised and vented front compartment with bottle brackets and rings inside to hold standard sized oxygen and acetylene tanks
• Stainless Steel self-opening pop-top lids w/ body length compartment bins & 4" dividers
• Push Button locking system with red band locking indicator
• Modern gas shocks on each side opening door to keep them open during loading and unloading
• 8" deep recessed bumper for sure footing when entering bed
• Armless and self supporting tailgate work table
• Adjustable, but lockable, shelving system
• Weather shield system around locks, doors, and hingles, preventing leaks and securing the tools of your trade. Neoprene door seals, water-proof gaskets, self-sealing stainless steel rivets, and silky smooth three-point door latches with Teflon glides.

Venturo Van Cranes - An Industry First!

The newest addition to the product lines include the all-new Venturo VC1000 Van Crane for the Ford Transit model.  This crane is revolutionary in the industry for its maximum weight capacity of 1,000 LBS and reach of 6 FT for the work van market.  The crane utilizes a unique dual floor and ceiling mounted telescopic mast that integrates with the van structure itself to ensure maximum structural integrity.

The telescopic mast will allow it to fit within the Transit Mid & High Roof models.  The crane also features two unique rotation control features for the primary and secondary booms which utilize two hand levers that operate multi-positional locks.  This key feature adds an additional safeguard for the operators as the load is being loaded and unloaded.  The Venturo VC1000  allows safe and productive material handling without the need for a forklift or a heavy, expensive liftgate.

Compact footprint for interior cargo area

The VC1000 allows van owners the cargo space while including a lifting application in their work van.  With very little space utilized by the crane, you can still still install shelving units and other van accessories.

Rotation Load Stops

To safely operate and swing loads in/out of the van, the VC1000 includes (2) rotation stops that keep the load from swinging loosely and damaging the van or causing injury.

Learn more at: https://www.venturo.com/product/transit-vc1000/

Protect Your Transmission - Boss Snowplows

Transmission damage is 1 of the most common problems that occur while plowing. 

The following steps can help prevent transmission damage.

Ways to Protect Your Truck Transmission
• Do not plow in overdrive unless your vehicle’s Owner’s Manual recommends it.
• Plan your plow pattern so that you drive forward as much as possible.
• Come to a complete stop before shifting from forward to reverse.
• Wait until the transmission engages before accelerating.
• Accelerate slowly, allowing the tires to grip the road surface for better traction. Avoid spinning the
tires.
• Start driving forward before lowering the plow for a pass.
• Whenever possible, back into a cleared area.
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• If you have a manual transmission, avoid riding the clutch while plowing.
• Change the transmission fluid before and during the plowing season. If the fluid has a burnt
smell, change the fluid as soon as possible.
• You can install an inline transmission heat gauge to monitor the temperature in your transmission.
If it reaches 121°C (250°F), let the vehicle idle until the fluid cools.

Read more »

BEST-IN-CLASS 1,400-POUND FRONT PLOW RATING MAKES 2020 FORD SUPER DUTY THE ULTIMATE SNOW MACHINE

• Available Snow Plow Prep Package on the new 2020 Ford F-Series Super Duty delivers best-in-class gas 1,400-pound maximum snow plow rating which includes mounting hardware
• Other Super Duty features help fend off the weather such as an available windshield wiper de-icer, heated steering wheel and heated front and rear seats
• Truck owners can outmuscle the elements with best-in-class diesel power and torque from Super Duty’s available third-generation 6.7-liter Power Stroke® diesel V8 and best-in-class gas horsepower and torque from all-new available 7.3-liter V8

DEARBORN, Mich., Jan. 10, 2020 – The 2020 Ford F-Series Super Duty will tackle winter’s worst weather with the heaviest snow plow rating in the segment. With the available Snow Plow Prep Package, Super Duty features a maximum 1,400-pound snow plow rating accounting for mounting hardware, which is best-in-class for gasoline-powered trucks in the segment1, and maximum 1,290 pounds which is also best-in-class for the diesel segment2.

“Super Duty is a real workhorse in the snow removal industry,” said Mike Pruitt, Ford F-Series Super Duty chief engineer. “With our new Snow Plow Prep Package, we’re really delivering for folks who clear the way after a big storm. Being able to safely hook up bigger plows means roads, driveways and parking lots are cleared quickly and drivers can move on to the next job.”

The new Snow Plow Prep Package, available for 4x4 pickups, includes heavy-duty springs specific to each configuration and an up-rated alternator to deal with heavy electrical loads.

According to a study conducted by the Snow and Ice Management Association® and Wolfworx/Singer Consulting, clearing the white stuff is an $18 billion industry in the United States, one growing at a rate of about 3 percent annually. It’s comprised of more than 22,000 commercial contractors and more than 75,000 sole proprietors. 2019 SIMA survey data indicates F-Series is the overwhelming choice, with nearly 50 percent of market share in an industry that values reliability, service network and, of course, rated plow weight.

Owners will also appreciate other new features such as a windshield wiper de-icer, which pre-heats the windshield under the wipers to keep blades free of ice, as well as available heated steering wheel and heated front and rear seats. Optional white or amber LED strobe lights on XL, XLT or Lariat series trucks take a step out of the upfitting process. Deep Snow/Sand drive mode is available on models equipped with the all-new 10-speed heavy-duty TorqShift® automatic transmission. The special drive mode changes throttle mapping and traction control settings to allow for added control and greater confidence in snowy or slick conditions.

Plow operators can rely on the quality and craftsmanship of a high-strength steel boxed frame and high-strength, military-grade, aluminum-alloy body that provide a sturdy backbone. Customers have a choice of engines, including a standard 6.2-liter gas V8, an available all-new 7.3-liter gas V8 with best-in-class1 430 horsepower and 475 lb.-ft. of torque and an available third-generation 6.7-liter Power Stroke® diesel V8 with best-in-class2 475 horsepower and 1,050 lb.-ft. of torque.

Ford F-Series Super Duty is proudly built at Kentucky Truck Plant in Louisville, Kentucky, and Ohio Assembly Plant in Avon Lake, Ohio. Trucks are shipping to dealers now.

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1 Available max weight on F250/F350 SRW, gas engines, 4x4, Regular Cab/Crew Cab, SuperCab short box only. Class is Full-Size Pickups over 8,500 lbs. GVWR.

2 Available diesel max weight on F250/F350 SRW, 4x4, 6.7L, Regular Cab. Class is Full-Size Pickups over 8,500 lbs. GVWR.

2020 Ford Super Duty Chassis Cabs Ready for the Next-Generation of Work

The 2020 Ford Super Duty is the toughest, hardest-working generation of Class 3-5 chassis cab vehicles yet. Its high-strength, military-grade, aluminum alloy body is lighter than steel yet incredibly strong, meaning some of that weight savings can be invested in more robust axles, chassis and steering components. The fully boxed under-cab and C-channel aft-of-cab frame are 95 percent high-strength steel. This makes for dependable towing and hauling performance with a wide weight range of service bodies suitable for any vocation.

The lineup has been given a technology update for 2020 starting with standard modems featuring 4G LTE Wi-Fi for up to 10 devices to help keep drivers and crews connected whether on the job or on the road. Ford Co-Pilot360^™ technologies are now available. These include available auto high-beam headlamps and available lane departure warning. Automatic Emergency Braking, now available on 2020 Super Duty starting with the base XL truck, can help operators avoid or mitigate collisions. Vocational customization is simplified with an available programmable upfitter interface module.

New Ford Telematics^™ and Ford Data Services^™ are available across the Super Duty lineup to help commercial customers operate their fleets more efficiently. The technology enables fleet managers to enhance uptime and asset utilization, optimize running costs, improve driver behavior and protect their fleets using Ford original equipment-grade telematics software. It integrates with a company’s existing telematics service provider or can take vehicle data directly into its own information technology system – giving customers the power of choice. Vocational customization is simplified with an available class-exclusive programmable upfitter interface module.

Ford is the only Class 3-5 manufacturer that designs and builds all of its own engines and transmissions. Offering a choice between the standard 6.2-liter gas V8, all-new 7.3-liter gas V8 and third-generation 6.7-liter Power Stroke^® diesel V8 allows customers to spec the performance, efficiency and cost benefits that are right for their business. All engines are available with Ford’s all-new TorqShift^® heavy-duty 10-speed automatic transmission with optional live drive power takeoff, which comes standard with diesel-powered models.