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ARLINGTON, Va. — American Trucking Associations said last week it would become more vocal in its support for increased fuel efficiency in heavy trucks and ratified an agreement with the biodiesel industry to promote that fuel at the federal level.

Most major truck engine manufacturers said they are now testing prototypes of engines developed to meet the federal government’s 2010 diesel engine emission standards. Two of them said they will have engines available for testing next year.

For anyone who operates a commercial truck, there is little doubt about the importance of the vehicle’s fuel efficiency — especially in this era of historically high diesel and gasoline prices.

SAN ANTONIO — Truck-stop industry officials meeting here said their main focus this year would be preparing for the expected increase in biodiesel use.

to write a Letter to the Editor.
Undoubtedly, there is a need to pursue alternatives to decrease fuel consumption, lower our dependency on fossil fuels, promote cleaner air and reduce CO2 emissions.

LAS VEGAS — Leading heavy-duty truck components manufacturers said technology exists today to build a safer, environmentally friendly and low-cost heavy-duty “world truck,” but major obstacles are consumer acceptance and the lack of a single global standard for emissions and safety technology.

Crude oil futures posted their biggest one-day gain Tuesday since September 2005, rising on forecasts of continuing cold weather and expectations of a stronger U.S. economy, Bloomberg reported.

The maintenance managers of two vehicle leasing companies expect few problems in their shops as the truck-operating industry shifts to the next generation of lower-emission diesel engines.

WASHINGTON — Volvo AB and Mack Trucks Inc. last week unveiled a hybrid prototype of a heavy-duty Mack construction truck and company officials said their diesel-electric power supply will cut fuel costs 30% for stop-and-go trucks and buses while running much cleaner.

Trucks operating in California would be required to meet tighter emission standards under a plan proposed by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) to spend $3.1 billion in bond money to improve four key freight corridors.