The Fleet Business Authority
Issue link: http://heavydutytrucking.epubxp.com/i/221397
Freightliner's Revolution concept truck took some fairly radical approaches to designing a better truck for a regional or hub-and-spoke trucking operation. overdrive transmissions. Expect more automated transmissions, both for fuel economy and widening the driver pool. TMC's survey predicted above 60% usage of AMTs in Class 8 trucks as well as increasing use of hydraulic automatics – above 15% market share in Class 8 and above 70% in Class 6 and Class 7. There already is, and will continue to be, an increasing focus on the powertrain as a whole, with the transmission, engine and axles all working together for the optimal www.truckinginfo.com fuel economy. The next step will use data from outside and inside the truck to make drivetrains even more efficient. Sproull believes that in three to five years, using technologies such as predictive cruise control, GPS and 3D mapping, "we'll see improved predictability of the terrain to manage the vehicle for fuel economy." In fact, he said, it's already been demonstrated on the SuperTruck project. Navistar also is heading in that direction, says spokesman Steve Schrier. "One unique technology that's a couple years away is what I would refer to as a 'smart cruise control system' that takes into consideration DECEMBER 2013 • HDT 37