Mack Over-the-Air programming

Mack Offers LR Model in a 4×2 Configuration

Photo: Mack Trucks

Mack Trucks low-entry refuse cabover, the Mack LR is now being offered in a 4x2 configuration as a lighter, more maneuverable option for refuse collection.

With a shorter wheelbase and tighter turning radius, the 4x2 LR model has the ability to fit into smaller spaces. The 4x2 LR is also lighter than its 6x4 counterpart, improving handling, according to Mack. LR models in 4x2 configuration are available now for order.

The LR model was initially available as a 6x4 only, but some customers needed improved maneuverability that only a 4x2 configuration could offer,” said Curtis Dorwart, Mack refuse product manager. “With the addition of a 4x2 LR model, we're pleased to meet the needs of an even wider range of refuse customers.”

Mack also announced that Mack Over the Air will be available on refuse vehicles including the Mack Granite and LR models equipped with Mack 2017 GHG engines. Mack OTA allows customers to update software wirelessly through an internet connection.

Mack OTA will be available on 2018 Mack LR models equipped with a Mack engine with the availability of GuardDog Connect beginning in Q3 2017. Mack OTA for the TerraPro and Granite models is also planned for later in 2017.

“Mack refuse customers can plan for software updates and schedule them when it's most convenient,” said David Pardue, vice president of connected vehicles and uptime services for Mack Trucks. “Refuse applications demand real-time service and support because they have to be up and running and on time. Mack OTA is the next step in our uptime journey.”

Related: Mack Launches Wireless Software Updates

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Peterbilt Model 520 configurations

PrePass Trucks to Get Green Light in North Dakota

Photo: Help Inc.

Help Inc., has announced that PrePass-approved trucks will soon be able to use the electronic screening technology to bypass weigh stations in North Dakota.

Weigh stations in Mooreton and Williston will be the first sites in North Dakota to support PrePass. The North Dakota Highway Patrol will also deploy mobile PrePass equipment at locations around the state.

North Dakota is the 33rd state to offer PrePass bypassing to fleets. PrePass is a service offered by Help Inc., a public-private partnership serving the trucking industry and state safety agencies by promoting highway safety and efficiency in commercial transportation.

“We are excited our commercial vehicle enforcement officers will soon have PrePass at both fixed and mobile sites to electronically screen carriers for safety, credential and in some places weight compliance,” said Colonel Michael Gerhart Jr. of the NDHP. “This capability will allow our officers to focus their attention on carriers that may have compliance concerns while allowing compliant carriers to bypass inspection sites, saving everyone both time and money.”

In addition to deploying PrePass in North Dakota, Help Inc., recently signed renewal agreements with three longtime PrePass partner states – Arizona, California, and Missouri.

“Time means money, especially in the trucking industry,” said Karen Rasmussen, president and CEO of Help Inc. “Safe fleets and drivers like the time and fuel savings PrePass gives them, and states appreciate the value of the system in facilitating the movement of freight as quickly and as safely as possible.”

Related: PrePass InfoRM Tool Aggregates Safety and Inspection Data

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HDT Truck Fleet Innovators: It Pays to Focus on Data and People

HDT's Deborah Lockridge and Phillips' Rob Myers discuss fleet management with Innovators honorees (l-r) Altrichter, Lo Priore, Obermeyer, and Swart. Photo: Jack Roberts

Using data effectively and getting the most from your employees were the dominant topics at a roundtable discussion featuring HDT's 2017 Truck Fleet Innovators honorees held May 9 at the Heavy Duty Trucking eXchange fleet networking conference in Phoenix.

The session, moderated by HDT Editor in Chief Deborah Lockridge and Rob Myers, vice president, sales for Phillips Industries, honored four fleet executives from around the country for their forward thinking and leadership in the trucking industry.

This year's HDT Truck Fleet Innovators and their citations are:

During the roundtable discussion, which followed the awards presentation, the four fleet executives remarked on a variety of subjects concerning trucking operations today.

When asked about leveraging data effectively, Altrichter said that not all data was "actionable," and stressed that a first step in using incoming information correctly is to concentrate on relevant data only, and ignore ...Read the rest of this story

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Laval, Quebec-based Valeant said it expected 2017 earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization of $3.60 billion to $3.75 billion, excluding special items. The results came after billionaire investor William Ackman sold his entire stake in Valeant in March at a loss of more than $3 billion. Refinancing has created a more comfortable repayment schedule, Chief Financial Officer Paul Herendeen said.