Meet Your Dealer Event

Did you know that, in August, Peterson Trucks was named the Continental Mixer dealer for the Bay Area, Northern California, and Oregon?

We'd like to invite our Peterson Trucks customers who operate mixers on their jobsites to take a look at our newest product. Join us Thursday, January 24, 2013 at the Peterson showroom at 955 Marina Blvd. for lunch and an opportunity to meet our experts.

Download a flyer at http://goo.gl/Su1wi

International ProStar+ with ISX15 Indicates a Powerful Partnership

The shipment of the first 300 Cummins ISX15-powered International ProStar+ heavy duty trucks five days ahead of schedule earlier this month is indicative of the powerful business relationship that has existed between Navistar and Cummins over the years.

The recent collaboration between these two innovative companies has lead to an SCR-based clean engine technology that exceeded expectations in the meticulous testing it underwent in both captive and customer fleets prior to its official launch. To date, the first-time quality results for the ProStar+ with ISX, based on a rigorous set of metrics, is over 98%.

The International ProStar+ with Cummins emission solutions technology incorporated into the MaxxForce 13 engine are still expected to launch in March. The ProStar+ with ISX15 is currently available to customers at International dealerships nationwide. 

First Cummins-Powered ProStar+’s Are Now Available

Last month, Navistar announced that it would be entering into an agreement with Cummins Inc. to combine MaxxForce engines with Cummins’ urea-based aftertreatment emissions technology: an effort Navistar has dubbed In-Cylinder Technology Plus (ICT+).  However, with the launch of ICT+ still several months away, Navistar is now offering customers an interim solution for purchasing new, heavy-duty International commercial vehicles that meet current CA emissions regulations: International Prostar+ trucks powered by Cummins engines.

Over the past few months, Navistar and Cummins engineers have been working closely together at Navistar’s base of operation in Lisle, Illinois to ensure that the marriage between Cummins’ ISX15 engines and Navistar’s International ProStar+ tractor bodies would meet Navistar’s stringent quality guidelines. Units were added to Navistar’s test fleet in late November, and are now in the process of being shipped to dealers nationwide.

PTI’s first ISX15-powered ProStar+ is now available to customers. “We’re excited that we can now offer a Class 8 International tractor that meets the increasingly rigorous California emissions standards,” Dave Angotti, PTI sales manager told InSight. “We can continue to meet all of our customers’ needs throughout our sales territory.”

Navistar still plans on combining its MaxxForce in-cylinder engine technology with the Cummins SCR aftertreatment system. ICT+ is scheduled to enter pilot production in March 2013, with units becoming available to customers in April 2013. Navistar will also continue to refine its in-cylinder technology in hopes of pioneering an emissions solution that does not require aftertreatment technology.

Navistar on Schedule to Offer ICT+ Emissions Solution by Early 2013

Early last month, Navistar announced that it would be combining its revolutionary in-cylinder engine technology with a certified, urea-based aftertreatment system to create a next-generation, clean engine solution called In-Cylinder Technology Plus (ICT+). And with Navistar’s announcement yesterday that it has entered into a non-binding memorandum of understanding with Cummins Inc., which includes plans to incorporate Cummins’ aftertreatment systems into MaxxForce engines, it appears that ICT+ is on schedule to be available to customers by early 2013.

This course of action will allow Navistar International to offer commercial vehicles that meet 2010 EPA emissions requirements, and will put the company into a position to meet 2014 and 2017 greenhouse gas standards ahead of schedule. It will also allow Navistar to continue to develop its exclusive in-cylinder technology to pioneer emissions solutions in the future.

"Our distinctive solution will leverage the investment and advancement we've made in clean engine technology while providing immediate certainty for our customers, dealers, employees and investors," explained Daniel C. Ustian, Navistar chairman, president and CEO. "We have made tremendous progress with in-cylinder technology and with the introduction of ICT+, our goal is to offer the world's cleanest and most fuel-efficient diesel engine—benefiting both our customers and the environment for years to come."

Visit navistar.com for more news on the company’s developments.

Peterson Named Continental Mixer Dealer

In 2010, Navistar Inc. acquired Houston, TX-based Continental Mixers, a company specializing in the engineering and manufacturing of concrete mixers. And now, a year after opening its doors to the public, Peterson Trucks is pleased to announce that it has been named the official Continental Mixer dealer for Northern California and Oregon.

Continental has been supplying the Ready Mix concrete industry with quality mixers since 1982, and Peterson will be offering the full range of Continental’s truck-mounted products, from industrial-sized mixers to compact units.

Continental also manufactures a particularly advanced mixer called the SuperSlurry Precision Delivery system, which uses highly-developed suspension properties to produce a consistent, liquefied cement mix. The technology is designed to increase efficiency and reduce costs, saving energy and reducing a company’s environmental impact.

Dave Angotti, Sales Manager at Peterson Trucks, explained what acquiring Continental Mixer dealership status means for the company: “International Trucks designs great commercial vehicles for the construction industry. Now that we can sell Continental mixers as well, our status as a major supplier for the industry is strengthened. Contractors big and small need to pour concrete, and we can provide them with the technology to do it.”

Executive VP of Peterson Trucks, Larry MacDonald expounded on this idea stating: “Peterson has already been offering severe-duty trucks like the International PayStar and WorkStar, and the Cat CT660 vocational truck, which are all work horses in construction applications. Combined with Continental Mixers, these vehicles are a powerful tool for construction businesses. We are excited to bring on the Continental line, which will allow us to continue to leverage our wide range of vocational product offerings, to our current customers and lines in accordance with our Vocational Strategy for PTI.”

As of late July, Peterson sales staff has made preliminary plans to supply mixers to CEMEX, a global building materials company that owns over 450 Ready Mix concrete plants in the United States, and which will be operating Continental mixers in Northern California.

Peterson is also now authorized to provide mixer parts to its Ready Mix customers, not only from Continental, but from 90% of competing mixer brands as well. This all-makes parts strategy mirrors Peterson’s capabilities for truck engine and machine engine parts.

Peterson has been a family-owned Caterpillar dealer for seventy-five years. The Peterson family of companies serves over one hundred thousand square miles of the American West with an expansive line of equipment: Caterpillar machinery and on-highway trucks, International trucks, agricultural equipment, rental equipment, portable and stationary diesel-powered generators, natural gas turbines, air compressors, and advanced equipment guidance systems. With more than forty locations throughout northern California, Oregon, and southwestern Washington, Peterson employs over one thousand employees. For more information, visit www.petersontrucks.com.

Peterson Trucks: One Year Anniversery

Peterson Trucks is about to celebrate it's one year anniversery as the official International Trucks Dealer for the San Francisco Bay Area, and we'd like to invite our customers to the dealership to celebrate.

Join us for a complementary BBQ, givaways, and a raffel.

The celebration will be held at our Santa Rosa facility on June 15, and our San Leandro facility on June 22.

Santa Rosa: 3710 Regional Parkway
San Leandro: 2718 Teagarden Street

Call 510.618.5597 for more information.

Avoid Costly Fines During Roadcheck 2012 by Properly Inspecting Your Vehicles

If commercial-vehicle-related accidents have been declining in the past few decades, this is largely thanks to organizations like the FMSCA and the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA). Since 1988, this latter organization has been conducting Roadcheck, a 72 hour period during which CVSA-certified local, state, and federal law enforcement officials hit the roads with the goal of preventing accidents by inspecting commercial vehicles for driver, vehicle, and cargo safety. It is estimated that 14 commercial vehicles throughout Canada, the US, and Mexico are inspected every minute during Roadcheck!

This year’s Roadcheck will be conducted June 5-7, and it’s a good idea to make sure that your drivers are properly conducting their pre and post trip inspections to avoid costly fines. Your drivers should also know the proper way to react when pulled over by a law enforcement official. For information on safely and considerately interacting with law enforcement, visit:

http://www.idealease.com/safetycompliance/04_20_2012.pdf

Increasing Fleet Profitability with a Tire Gauge

Every fleet manager knows that diesel isn’t cheap, and with fuel costs continuing to rise, fuel economy is increasingly important in maintaining a profitable business. An easy way to increase fuel economy is diligent tire-care. When tires at 30% under-inflation can cost you 5% in fuel efficiency, checking tire pressure daily becomes a cash-saving procedure!

And this doesn’t account for the increased longevity a tire can experience when it is kept properly inflated. Driving on under-inflated tires accelerates tread-wear and increases instances of tread separation and blowouts. Remember: with three to six thousand dollars invested in a commercial vehicle’s tires on average, your tires are a company asset and should be treated as such.

Your drivers are key in making sure that tires are always properly inflated. Have them check their tire pressure with a gauge before every trip. Also, irregular wear can be a sign of under-inflation and should be reported by your drivers.

For more on proper tire care, including determining tire age by US DOT ID number, visit: http://www.idealease.com/safetycompliance/04_13_2012.pdf.

Introducing the New Severe-Duty International LoadStar

This year’s Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville, Kentucky was an exciting one for Navistar, with the company unveiling the brand new International LoadStar, a cabover, severe-duty truck designed for waste collection, mixer configuration, and other vocational applications.

The LoadStar will be available with MaxxForce 10, 11, or 13 diesel engines, all of which offer emissions solutions that meet CA regulations. The truck’s variable-depth frame rails maximize customization options, and its stainless steel cab is designed to withstand the toughest worksites.

Navistar announced that natural gas-powered version of the LoadStar will be available in 2013.

Download an International LoadStar Brochure at International’s website.

Peterson Trucks to Host Idealease Safety Seminar in April, 2012

 On April 19, 2012, Peterson Trucks will be hosting an Idealease Safety Seminar for fleet owners and managers at Casa Real in Pleasanton, CA. Focusing on several aspects of CSA, Idealease’s safety seminars both help motor carriers understand the latest FMCSA regulations and satisfy the two hours of safety training mandated by FMCSA CFR 382.603 (attendees will receive a certificate of completion at the seminar’s end). For more information and to learn how to register online, visit:

http://www.petersontrucks.com/2012SafetySeminar

Driving Safely in Spring Weather

The first day of spring may mean longer days and warmer weather, but experienced motor carriers know that this doesn’t necessarily equate to fewer accidents. While most drivers employ extra caution in poor weather conditions—looking further up the road, checking mirrors more often, etc.—sunny weather can make some drivers let their guards down. That’s why it’s important for motor carriers to continue to emphasize safety with their drivers as the weather improves.

Better weather also means that road repair and maintenance crews are back on the asphalt full-force. Road work zones can present a variety of hazards for commercial drivers, so it is important for drivers to keep safety in mind when sharing the road with work crews.

For 10 useful tips on driving safely in work zones, check out International’s safety bulletin at:

http://www.idealease.com/safetycompliance/03_16_2012.pdf

Peterson Trucks Hosting CARB for Tractor-Trailer GHG Reporting Training

Limited space is still available for the California Air Resource Board’s (CARB) Tractor-Trailer Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Reporting Training, to be hosted by Peterson Trucks on March 22, 2012.

The Tractor-Trailer GHG Reduction Regulation, which applies to box trailers 53-feet or longer and the heavy-duty tractors that pull them, is part of CARB’s broader Diesel Truck and Bus Regulation. In order to qualify for the regulation’s flexible phase-in schedule, fleets must report by March 30, 2012 (or July 1, 2012 for those fleets that qualify for the small fleet phase-in schedule).

CARB’s training will cover GHG Reduction Regulation requirements, an overview of the automated Truck and Bus Fleet Calculator, and instructions on reporting.

To enroll in CARB’s GHG Reporting Training at Peterson Trucks (course #514) visit:

http://www.arb.ca.gov/training/myarb/login.php

Or to learn more about the Truck and Bus Regulation, visit:

http://www.petersontrucks.com/emissions

Proper Implementation of Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports

In 2010, new FMCSA regulations were implemented that were designed to increase both motor carrier and driver accountability. The daily Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR) is a requirement under CSA, and it mandates that drivers ascertain that their vehicles are in safe operating condition prior driving them. Not only does this increase driver involvement in vehicle safety, holding them accountable for reporting potential safety hazards; also, it allows the FMCSA to cite motor carriers that ignore driver reports of safety issues.

Because the DVIR regulation is split into requirements dictating pre-trip and post-trip driver responsibilities, there is some confusion regarding its proper implementation. This post will attempt to clarify the process.

During pre-trip inspections, drivers are simply required to verify that their vehicle is safe to drive, review the last driver inspection report, and sign that report if there is certification that any required repairs have been made and defects or deficiencies have been noted. Motor carriers are not required to document pre-trip inspections, but the practice is recommended (in the “Grid” section of the driver’s record).

Post-trip inspections are more intensive. The FMCSA mandates that drivers submit a written report on each vehicle he has operated at the end of each workday. Drivers must assess service brakes (including trailer brake connections), parking brake, steering mechanism, lighting devices and reflectors, tires, horns, windshield wipers, rear vision mirrors, coupling devices, wheels and rims, and emergency equipment.

Post-trip inspection reports must detail any defects or deficiency that might cause a vehicle to become a safety hazard (or, if there are none, the driver must indicate this). Any safety hazards that fall under Appendix G of the FMCSR must be immediately addressed by the motor carrier. Other defects can be addressed next PM or later according to regulations. Motor carriers are required to maintain DVIR’s for 90 days.

To read more, visit:

http://www.idealease.com/safetycompliance/03_09_2012.pdf

Navistar Partnership with Customer Results in Ultra-Lightweight Heavy-Duty Tractor

It is often the case that customers drive manufacturers to produce the technology that allows an industry to continuously progress. This is certainly true with a recent collaboration between Perdue Farms, and Navistar and Barr International, for which Perdue was recently awarded Navistar’s Strategic Partnership Award.

Perdue needed a tractor capable of hauling 49,000 lbs of dressed poultry that would consume less fuel than previous trucks the company had used. They approached Barr International Trucks of Salisbury, Md. with their need, and the result was an ultra-light-weight version of the International ProStar+ engineered by Navistar and Barr. The 56-inch sleeper tractor weighs only 15,920 lbs when filled with 150 gallons of fuel, significantly reducing Perdue’s fuel consumption while maximizing payload.

The truck also features an electrical system with integrated tractor-trailer controls. All trailer and PTO functions can be accessed through a control panel built into the truck’s dash.

To read more on Navistar and Barr International’s partnership with Purdue Farms, visit:

http://www.successfuldealer.com/navistar-present-perdue-farms-with-strategic-partnership-award/

Closure of Refinery May Cause Ultra-Low-Sulfur-Diesel Fuel Shortage in the Northeast

With the planned closure of Sonoco Inc’s Philadelphia refinery this July, motor carriers that operate in the Northeastern US might soon find adequate supplies of ultra-low-sulfur-diesel (ULSD) fuel difficult to come by. Sonoco’s Philadelphia operation currently produces 330 thousand barrels of ULSD daily, and with the closure of two other refineries in Pennsylvania since September, the Sonoco refinery’s end would mean a total loss of 50% of the region’s production capacity.

While 40% of the ULSD fuel in the northwestern US already comes from Gulf Coast refineries or other imports, the loss of Philadelphia’s Sunoco refinery would mean the region would likely need an additional 180,000 barrels per day of ULSD fuel to meet demand by 2013. Due to a shortage of excess pipeline to move any additional product from the Gulf Coast, it is likely that any additional fuel would need to be shipped by rail. This would likely lead to a rise in cost for northwestern consumers.

To read more, visit:

http://www.lmtruck.com/articles/lmtbase.aspx?storyid=1764&utm_source=lmt&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=newsletter

Pre-Employment Screening Program Helps Motor Carriers Collect Driver Histories

Motor carriers are aware that FMCSA regulations require them to complete past- employment inquiries on new drivers applying to operate a commercial vehicle: inquiries that must include the verification of Driver Motor Vehicle records, past employment investigations, drug and alcohol inquiries to past employers, and driver applicant drug and alcohol inquiries.

But did you know that the FMCSA offers a program to motor carriers to aid in the collection of driver records? Introduced at approximately the same time as CSA 2010, the FMCSA’s Pre-Employment Screening Program (PSP) is a voluntary program designed to provide employers with driver crash and serious violation histories during the hiring process. For an annual subscription fee of $100 ($25 for carriers with fewer than 100 power units) and an additional $10 per driver history requested, potential employers will receive a driver’s crash data covering the past five years, and his violation data covering the past three years.

Carriers must have written consent from an applicant to request his records, and a driver may request his own records at any time. PSP records do not include conviction data.

To enroll in PSP, visit:

http://www.psp.fmcsa.dot.gov/

Or to read more about the program, read the Idealease Safety Bulletin at:

http://www.idealease.com/safetycompliance/03_02_2012.pdf

Tire Care: A Safety Bulletin from Idealease

Looking to decrease your operating costs? Damaged, worn, or improperly inflated tires aren’t just unsafe: they’re expensive! Two of the most significant costs associated with operating a vehicle are fuel and tire replacement. Ensuring that your tires are in good condition both improves your fuel economy and extends tire longevity.

Poor tire care can also cost you on the road and during inspections. Improperly inflated tires cause an alarming number of accidents, and accidents aren’t cheap! Damaged tires or tires with insufficient tread depth (below 4/32” for steer axle tires and below 2/32” for all other tires) are a leading cause of trucks being pulled out of service or cited during roadside inspections.

To improve your bottom line, you should encourage your drivers to check for tire damage and wear during pre and post trip inspections. Also, tire gauges (the only accurate method of checking for proper inflation) should be part of your drivers’ uniforms.

To read more, visit:

http://www.idealease.com/safetycompliance/02_17_2012.pdf

Peterson's Dutch Auction Starts February 27, 2012!

Beginning on February 27, Peterson will be auctioning off over 50 pieces of heavy equipment. The selection will include an assortment of new and used tractors, generators, air compressors, pumps and trucks from our various lines of equipment. Customers will have the opportunity to bid on available items between February 27 and March 23.

Click here to read more. 

Award Driver Excellence with a Recognition Program

Good drivers are an integral part of maintaining the profitability of your fleet. Safe, responsible driving means greater fuel efficiency, fewer accidents, and minimal fines from violations. Driver Recognition Awards encourage your drivers to strive for excellence and help keep your fleet in the black.

This is why Idealease recommends using February to review and update your Driver Recognition programs. State and federal programs are available to help streamline this process. You can contact the American Trucking Association or the California Trucking Association for details.

For helpful guidelines on setting up a driver recognition award program for your business, visit:

http://www.idealease.com/safetycompliance/02_10_2012.pdf

Navistar and Clean Energy Announce Partnership to Provide Natural Gas Trucks to Consumers

Navistar prides itself on its dedication to provide the trucking industry with the cutting-edge technology that can reduce operational costs while cutting emissions. As part of this vision, Navistar announced last week that it will partner with Clean Energy Fuels Corp. to provide customers with natural-gas powered vehicles at the same cost as equivalent diesel trucks.

While natural-gas vehicles would generally cost consumers up to $35,000 more than their diesel counterparts, Navistar has committed to developing and selling these models at diesel-vehicle prices. Clean Energy will contribute to this plan by providing the fuel and infrastructure necessary to power Navistar’s trucks.

Fleet owners who opt to take advantage of this program must agree to purchase the fuel for their natural gas trucks exclusively from Clean Energy, but the company guarantees that their fuel will remain 50 to 60 cents/gallon lower than diesel fuel. Clean Energy has also pledged to grow their infrastructure, unveiling a plan to open 70 natural gas fueling stations across 33 states by the year’s end.

Medium-duty trucks for this program will be available to fleets soon, and there are plans to provide heavy-duty natural gas trucks by next year.

For more information, read Navistar’s press release at:

http://lmtruck.com/articles/lmtbase.aspx?storyid=1708&utm_source=alert&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=newsletter

or call a Peterson Trucks representative at 510.618.5550.

Idealease 2012 Safety Seminars

Idealease has released the dates and information for its Safety Seminars in 2012.

Click here for details, locations, and dates!

Idealease Safety Bulletin: Mirror Safety

For professional drivers, mirrors are integral to maximizing visibility and preventing accidents. But, unfortunately, some fleet managers overlook checking their vehicles’ mirrors routinely, allowing their drivers to hit the road with damaged or poorly-adjusted mirrors. Not only is this a serious safety hazard; it can mean heavy fines during roadside inspections or FMCSA audits!

In order to assure that their vehicles are in safe operating condition, managers should inspect mirrors at least once a week to ensure proper adjustment and tightness.

Drivers and fleet managers should also keep these Idealease safety tips in mind:

1. A professional driver watches his mirrors nearly as much as he watches the road ahead.

2. Vision is restricted when using mirrors.

3. As a precaution, you should always check for traffic with and without mirrors.

4. Proper adjustment of mirrors is essential in safe driving.

5. To adjust mirrors accurately on a combination unit, the vehicle must be in a straight line. The driver must

be in a normal position behind the steering wheel while making adjustments

6. Mirrors should be clean and without cracks

7. Mirror heads and support brackets should be properly tightened to reduce vibration at the mirror head.

8. Keep your eyes moving while you are driving! Do not stare at any one object for more than two seconds.

To read more, visit:

http://www.idealease.com/safetycompliance/02_03_2012.pdf

Potential Defect with Bendix ATR 6 Valves

Please see the Navistar release below:


Bendix has determined that a potential defect related to motor vehicle safety exists with Bendix ATR 6 valves. The link below describes the current situation and actions underway.


Units affected were built January through December 2011 and equipped with either traction control and/or ESP (exact date codes of affected valves are specified in the FAQ) . International will begin directly notifying affected customers shortly.
Under cold conditions (0 F or colder ) internal leakage can potentially develop, resulting in pressure being delivered to the affected delivery circuit.
If you your fleet operates in severe cold conditions please review the link to the FAQ that provides details for a temporary remedy that disables the solenoid and minimizes the risk of service brake apply when operating in cold weather.


Bendix will begin shipping the permanent remedy kit to affected OEM's Feb 3.

http://www.bendix.com/media/documents/recallcenter/atr_6/ATR-6_Issue_Overview__UPDATED.pdf

Navistar Continues to Lead the Trucking Industry in Emissions Solutions

Meeting California’s emission standards is a daunting task for fleets of all sizes; however, Navistar is dedicating to providing its customers with cutting-edge emissions solutions that continue to set the bar for the trucking industry. Below are facts released by Navistar to its dealer network yesterday:

·         All trucks sold in CY 2012 will be certified to operate in all 50 states and Canada.

·         Navistar will submit a 0.2g NOx in-cylinder Big Bore engine for production certification in the coming weeks.  We have been working with the EPA for several months in anticipation of our submission and expect production of the engine to begin later this year.

·         While the EPA is processing this submission, Navistar will continue to build engines with credits we’ve earned by producing and selling cleaner engines in advance of the regulation requirements.  In the event this process takes longer, the EPA has recently published a rule, as was always contemplated in the Clean Air Act, that provides multiple paths for companies to continue producing engines.

·         When submissions and certification is complete: Navistar will be the only manufacturer in the world who has achieved a 0.2g NOx solution without SCR and our products will continue to represent the best solution for our customers. 

·         We believe the burden of emissions requirements is an OEM’s responsibility and thus, our compliance strategies remain focused on providing solutions without the complexity and operating hassles associated with SCR.

·         The true mark of a leader is to continue to move ahead of the competition by understanding and anticipating where the market is going.  Watch for our announcement on Natural Gas next week to see where Navistar is headed next.

ATA's Truck Tonnage Index Shows Positive Growth for 2011.

The American Trucking Association (ATA) has released its Truck Tonnage Index for December 2011, and the results indicate that last year was characterized by positive growth for the industry. The ATA’s seasonally adjusted For-Hire Truck Tonnage Index jumped an astounding 6.8% in December over November 2011.

With this latest gain at the end of the year, the Truck Tonnage Index grew 5.9% over 2010, which is the largest increase in the index since 1998.

In an ATA press release, the organization’s chief economist, Bob Costello, commented: “While I’m not surprised that tonnage increased in December, I am surprised at the magnitude of the gain.” Indeed, this unprecedented growth, the largest month to month gain since January 2005, seems to signal that the manufacturing and retail sectors are recovering more quickly than expected.

To read more on the ATA’s 2011 Truck Tonnage Index, visit:

http://www.truckline.com/pages/article.aspx?id=974%2F8e1c7279-ed27-4c03-b189-ceeee26bbb12.