Truck News
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Kodiak agrees to equip 75 DTL trucks for driverless operations
Kodiak has signed an agreement for DTL Transport to operate 75 trucks using its autonomous-driving system, with initial routes planned from Dallas to El Paso and Atlanta. The deal adds to Kodiak’s Texas freight operations as it reports 99% progress on its long-haul safety case ahead of a planned driverless highway launch.
Rising costs and a shrinking driver pool challenge truck fleets
Recruiting costs rose as the available truck-driver pool contracted, according to industry reports. Findings point to pay, equipment failures, lost miles and poor scheduling as factors in recruitment and retention, prompting fleets to look beyond recruitment spending.
China-SAE identifies ten automotive technology trends for 2027
China-SAE engineers identified ten trends for 2027, including 400 Wh/kg solid-state batteries, vehicle-to-grid systems, autonomous truck demonstrations, in-cockpit AI and connected assisted driving. The list also covers magnesium body components, in-wheel electric drives and metal 3D printing.
Distraction falls but remains a leading cause of major truck incidents
NTARC analysis found inattention and distraction incidents among NTI-insured heavy vehicles fell 33.1% from 2023 to 2025, but still accounted for 13.8% of major incidents. The report does not establish what caused the decline.
Roehl offers experienced truck drivers a $10,000 retention incentive
Roehl Transport is offering experienced Class A CDL drivers who join between 2 November and 14 December 2026 up to $10,000, paid in instalments tied to hauling their first load and every 10,000 miles thereafter.
GP Transco combines truck equipment and driver coaching to improve fuel efficiency
The US and Canada-based fleet has made aerodynamic equipment and solar panels part of its truck specifications, alongside driver coaching and fuel-economy incentives. GP Transco says incremental fuel savings help fund investments in its workforce.
BYD schedules China launches for Fang Cheng Bao Ti 9 and Shark PHEVs
BYD plans to launch the Fang Cheng Bao Ti 9 plug-in hybrid SUV in China after 15 November 2026, followed by the Shark plug-in hybrid pickup in late November or early December. Prices and trims have not been announced.
Grote plans trailer camera using existing seven-way connector
Grote demonstrated a rear-view camera that sends video from multiple cameras over the existing J560 seven-way connector, with capacity for other trailer data and future two-way communication. Production is planned for the fourth quarter of 2026.
Tesla ends Cybertruck plans for Australia and New Zealand
Tesla has discontinued plans to produce the Cybertruck for Australia and New Zealand, ending the right-hand-drive market’s prospects for the electric pickup. Australian reservation holders will reportedly receive their A$150 deposits back within 30 days.
US trucking recovery driven by falling capacity, ATA economist says
ATA chief economist Bob Costello says the US freight market is improving mainly because trucking capacity has fallen, as weak demand, rising costs and regulatory enforcement push carriers out. He expects the recovery to continue, with new truck purchases largely replacing ageing vehicles.
US diesel costs remain a major concern for trucking fleets
Diesel averaged $6.276 a gallon nationwide on 19 October, up nearly 10 cents in a week and $2.656 year on year. ATA economist Bob Costello warned that low distillate stocks and limits on oil-reserve releases could keep prices high; an industry survey ranked fuel costs as trucking’s top concern.
Diesel prices top trucking industry concerns in 2026 survey
ATRI’s 2026 survey of nearly 3,100 trucking stakeholders ranked diesel prices as the industry’s leading concern, up 17 places. The economy fell from first to sixth, while lawsuit reform, insurance costs and driver shortages also featured prominently.
ATA appoints Mark Colson as president and CEO
The American Trucking Associations has named Alabama Trucking Association leader Mark Colson as its next president and CEO. He will take over on 1 December, succeeding Chris Spear, and brings state-level association and trucking advocacy experience to the role.
US proposal would codify English-proficiency out-of-service rules for truck drivers
FMCSA proposed codifying English-language proficiency violations as out-of-service offences, following a sharp rise in orders after enforcement resumed in June 2025. The article outlines roadside checks and the operational consequences for carriers.
US fuel-economy rollback could favour pickups and V8 engines
The US has lowered light-duty fuel-economy targets and ended penalties for non-compliance, potentially freeing automakers to sell more pickups and larger-engine vehicles. Analysts say the change could also shift investment away from regulatory-compliance projects.
Volvo launches VNX vocational and heavy-haul truck
Volvo Trucks has unveiled the VNX for North America, offering day-cab and sleeper configurations for vocational work and heavy haul. It features the D13 engine, updated safety systems and optional remote steering; sales are expected to be announced later this year.
US diesel relief measures may offer limited savings to trucking fleets
US trucking fleets face diesel prices above $6 a gallon. Potential Russian supply and temporary federal relief for highway use of dyed diesel may offer only modest savings, while tax obligations, state rules and fuel availability remain uncertain.
Volvo and Waabi begin commercial autonomous truck operations in Texas
Volvo and Waabi have started commercial freight operations in Texas for Warp, using Volvo VNL Autonomous trucks powered by Waabi Driver. The trucks run with an observer in the driver’s seat, and the companies plan to use experience on Dallas–Houston routes to prepare further routes.
South Australian construction firm fined $140,000 after truck roll-away
A civil construction company was fined $140,000 after a truck rolled from a worksite into nearby businesses. The warning system had been disabled, and two service reports recommending investigation went unaddressed.
Nissan expands China-developed Frontier Pro pickup into Mexico and global markets
Nissan is launching its Frontier Pro pickup in Mexico, followed by the Philippines and other markets. The model offers petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid powertrains, with further expansion planned across the Middle East, the Americas and Oceania.
Planning for the costs of a truck out-of-service order
An analysis of FMCSA’s proposed English-language rule estimates that driver out-of-service orders could cost carriers $800 per day. The article explains the wider costs fleets may face and ways to prepare, track expenses and limit disruption.
Ford and MongoDB explore VISS cloud integration for truck-fleet data
A VISSR proof of concept uses simulated truck telemetry sent via MQTT to a cloud backend, exploring how VISS vehicle data and truck-trailer structures can be synchronised and managed for fleet monitoring.
Trucker Path adds nearly 6,000 spaces to reserved truck parking network
Trucker Path has added nearly 6,000 spaces from Safe Truck Parking to its reserved parking network, bringing the app’s total to more than 70,000 reservable truck parking spots.
Research and testing rules complicate cannabis policies for truck drivers
Recent studies find that THC levels and drivers’ confidence do not reliably indicate driving impairment. The article examines the implications for US trucking fleets, including DOT testing rules, oral-fluid testing and proposed hair-testing guidelines.
International launches online truck parts store
International Motors has launched Fleetrite.com, an online catalogue of about 400,000 OEM, Fleetrite and aftermarket parts for trucks and buses. Customers can check live availability, order and track deliveries, with fulfilment through more than 600 dealer locations across North America.
Continental launches Generation 5 regional truck tyres
Continental has introduced the Conti HSR 5 EP steer and HDR 5 EP drive tyres for regional haulage. The company estimates mileage gains of 22% and 19%, respectively, compared with their predecessors; availability begins in October 2026.
Chery opens Australian reservations for Stockman diesel plug-in hybrid ute
Chery has begun taking refundable A$1,000 reservations in Australia for its Stockman diesel plug-in hybrid ute, its first market. The truck offers up to 100 km of electric range; official pricing has not been announced.
Fleet surveillance raises privacy and legal risks for trucking firms
GPS tracking, cameras and AI monitoring can support fleet safety, but US carriers face differing state rules on notice, consent, audio and biometric data. FleetOwner outlines steps including clear policies, limited monitoring and human review of AI alerts.
Ford Pro to launch certified pre-owned commercial vehicle programme
Ford Pro Advantage launches nationwide on 5 October, offering inspected, warrantied used commercial vehicles through more than 700 centres. The programme covers Ford and non-Ford vehicles, with two certification tiers and access to Ford Pro services.
Trimble adds AI-powered tools and workflow upgrades for trucking fleets
Trimble announced AI-enabled routing, in-cab assistance and invoice-scanning tools, alongside upgrades to its transport management systems. The company says the products combine fleet rules and operational knowledge with automation across planning, dispatch and maintenance.
Kodiak plans driverless Dallas–Houston freight service by end of 2026
Kodiak says its trucks are completing the 219-mile I-45 route without a safety observer intervening. The company plans to launch driverless freight service between Dallas and Houston by the end of 2026; its long-haul safety case was 93% complete at the end of August.
WEX launches vetted vendor service for trucking customers
WEX has launched Verified Vendors, a portal connecting trucking customers with vetted third-party services, including financing, toll reconciliation, hotel booking and navigation. Customers can contact participating providers through the platform at no cost, with more vendors expected to join.
EEOC Sues Texas Trucking Company Over Alleged Age Discrimination
The EEOC alleges that Texas-based Trancasa USA refused to hire applicants over 65 and applied stricter driving-record standards to applicants over 60 because of its insurer’s policy. The allegations have not been decided by the court.
BYD teases Fang Cheng Bao Shark PHEV pickup for China launch
BYD has teased the Fang Cheng Bao Shark plug-in hybrid pickup for a domestic China launch. The model, already sold in export markets, uses a 1.5-litre engine, dual-motor all-wheel drive and an LFP battery.
Renault Trucks opens Madrid customer and service centre
Renault Trucks has opened a Getafe facility bringing together its Spanish headquarters, sales, servicing, technical support, finance and training. The digitalised Truck Center includes an automated parts warehouse and facilities to service electric trucks.
Nussbaum, Roehl and ATS announce driver pay increases
Nussbaum and Roehl have announced their second driver pay increases of the year, while Anderson Trucking Service is raising mileage pay for its company flatbed drivers. Changes include higher activity, detention and weekly guarantee payments, with Roehl’s increases taking effect on 4 October.
Used-truck remarketing becomes a strategic, lifecycle-wide business
Daimler Truck Remarketing executives explain how residual commitments, maintenance, warranty, vehicle condition, inventory discipline and buyer expectations increasingly shape used-truck values. Fleets, dealers and OEMs are treating remarketing as a profit-driven business rather than a by-product of new-truck sales.
Aurora targets 200 driverless trucks and profitability by 2028
Aurora Innovation is operating 20 driverless semitrucks on Texas routes and plans to expand its autonomous fleet to 200 by year-end. The company is targeting positive free cash flow by 2028 as it develops a per-mile driverless trucking service.
Diesel supply crisis keeps US trucking fuel prices at record levels
War, disrupted shipping, tanker shortages and constrained refinery capacity are driving record US diesel prices. Government measures, including a temporary driver-hours waiver and fuel-market interventions, are unlikely to provide trucking fleets with rapid relief.
Germany authorises cab-less Level 4 autonomous truck for daily logistics
Einride and Lidl are operating Germany’s first cab-less SAE Level 4 autonomous truck on public roads under a KBA permit. The vehicle transports goods between Lidl facilities, with plans to expand the route and consider further Schwarz Group deployments.
Mentorship programme supports safer commercial drivers
Southeastern Freight Lines driver Harold Perry explains how its Driver Mentor Programme pairs experienced and newer drivers to build judgement, confidence and safer habits. He also outlines how fleet managers can support driver training and safety.
Private fleets expand their share of company freight, NPTC survey finds
NPTC’s 2026 Benchmarking Survey, covering 89 private fleets and 2025 operations, finds respondents handled 72% of outbound freight and 64% of inbound movements. Seventy-one per cent expect to add equipment or handle more company freight over the next five years.
Powerstar to put VL 550 through its paces at South Africa’s Truck Test
Powerstar will enter its VL 550 extra-heavy truck in Truck Test 2026 on South Africa’s Johannesburg–Durban route. The 405kW Weichai-powered vehicle will be assessed for fuel consumption, journey times, speed and productivity under long-haul operating conditions.
Powerstar showcases trucks and tests Euro 5 prototypes in South Africa
Powerstar distributor Ever Star Industries showcased construction and mining trucks at Electra Mining Africa, while testing new 6×4 Euro 5 manual and automatic prototypes. The company also highlighted local assembly, expanded production and demand for water tankers in South Africa.
GM launches new V8 engines for 2027 full-size pickups
General Motors has detailed two new V8 engines, a carryover diesel and an upgraded turbocharged option for its 2027 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pickups, as US automakers renew competition in the profitable full-size truck market.