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The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is seeking public comment on a potential pilot program that would allow drivers between the ages of 18 and 20 to operate trucks interstate.

The market for used Class 8s in March continued to butt heads with a lack of inventory amid still-strong demand. Sales slipped, and prices rose.

All major truck builders and several startups are preparing to develop, test and market either battery-electric vehicles or fuel-cell/battery models in the very near term. Replacing diesel-powered Class 8 trucks, though, will present numerous challenges to an industry accustomed to proven and reliable diesel-­engine technology.

Daimler Trucks North America rode its Freightliner brand to a nearly 50% market share of U.S. Class 8 retail sales in January as volume industrywide cleared 20,000 units, WardsAuto.com reported.

North American orders of Class 8 vehicles in October reached 43,600 and extended the cycle of strong demand that began a year ago, ACT Research Co. reported.

The aggressive demand for new Class 8 trucks rolled on in September, contributing to record order strength over the past three months, ACT Research Co. reported.

U.S. Class 8 retail sales in July were the second-highest of the year, increasing by more than 33% as they cleared 20,000.

Orders for new Class 8 trucks more than doubled last month versus year-ago levels, according to preliminary data from ACT Research.

U.S. retail sales of Class 8 trucks in April climbed 37% to nearly 19,000 units as all truck makers posted double-digit gains, WardsAuto.com reported. One key supplier said parts are flowing in from around the globe to meet the demand — which is expected to build this year.