Every day is a new day when it comes to truck specs. A truck spec’d today can be much more fuel-efficient than one produced three years ago. And three years from now, we can expect even more improvement options. Advancements are coming faster than ever before. It’s an exciting time as the industry brings new thinking to improving operations for customers.
As you enter the truck buying process, there’s much more to consider than payment. Look at the quality, efficiency and dependability of the vehicle. Here are five areas to consider:
Fuel Economy
MHC’s goal is to lower your costs, while improving your truck’s lifecycle. Our truck experts can spec the full complement of fairings that Kenworth, Volvo, Isuzu, Hino and Ford offer, plus spec components from our Preferred Partners.
Aerodynamics
MHC looks closely at the gap between the tractor and trailer, and will often spec sliding fifth wheels with an optimum wheel base. This ensures the tractor-trailer gap is at the best spacing for optimal fuel economy.
Idle Time
MHC evaluates idle time and offers solutions if idling for a long-haul fleet is greater than 10-15 percent. MHC maintains relationships with major APU system manufacturers including Kenworth’s battery powered APU, as well as Carrier Transicold, which works great for most applications.
Component Integration
PACCAR is seeing great success with its 12-speed automated transmission. When engineers integrate the transmission and axles with a PACCAR engine, the optimization makes customers more fuel efficient.
Automated Transmission
Improving fuel economy is not just a goal for long-haul fleets. MHC works hard to improve MPGs for regional customers as well. While the miles are less, every uptick in fuel economy counts. Close to 80 percent of regional fleets have moved over to the automated transmission. With so much stop and go, it makes sense, and takes the driver out of the shifting equation. This has real impact on fuel economy savings.
Blue Max Trucking Succeeds with 12-Speed Automated Transmissions >>
These are just a few items that will help you get the most money for your truck when it comes time to trade or sell. Talk to your local MHC dealer today to find your next truck.