12/14/17

FUEL SAVING TIPS FOR TRUCKS: REDUCE IDLING, SAVE ON GAS

STUDY PROVES TURNING YOUR VEHICLE OFF MINIMIZES BOTH FUEL CONSUMPTION AND CO2 EMISSIONS.

You may have heard that it takes more fuel to turn your vehicle off and back on again than it does to stay idling when stopped. One fast food chain even made a claim that it was “Greener” to use the drive-through than parking and walking in for a to-go order. With fuel costs and anti-idling laws being an essential consideration for vehicle owners and fleet managers, it’s important to know the facts.

The fact is that even for short stops, it saves fuel to turn off your vehicle. Idling for even 10 seconds produces more CO2 emissions and burns more fuel than simply turning your engine off, and restarting. This was found by a study done by Argonne National Laboratory, and funded by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Vehicle Technologies Program.

IDLING STUDY RESULTS
Engineers were tasked to study vehicles in the Argonne laboratory’s Advanced Powertrain Research Facility to determine the impacts of idling and restarting. Dynamometer tests were conducted at the facility and revealed that parking a vehicle, turning it off, and then restarting it uses less fuel and produces less CO2 than idling for just 10 seconds. In addition, the study also revealed that the fastest way to warm up a car engine is to drive the vehicle, not by idling it. Argonne found that depending on the vehicle’s size, 0.2 to 0.5 gallons of fuel per hour is used when idling.

EMBRACE ANTI-IDLING LAWS
With these findings, and as states, provinces, and countries continue to introduce climate change action plans and green initiatives focused on greenhouse gas emissions, now is the perfect time to start embracing an anti-idle mindset in day-to-day driving and work operations. And for those that use air compressors, the VMAC UNDERHOOD70 – Green Series Air Compressor integrates perfectly into environmentally-friendly and fuel-conscious operations.

UNDERHOOD70-GREEN SERIES AIR COMPRESSOR
The VMAC UNDERHOOD70 – Green Series Air Compressor produces up to 70 CFM at 100% duty cycle. This powerful rotary screw air compressor is installed under the hood of the work truck and its throttle control automatically adjusts truck engine idle speed just enough to match air demand, which reduces fuel consumption. What’s more, the easy-to-use VMAC intelligent digital controls also cut down on idling, as the control system shuts the truck off when air isn’t being used, and then automatically turns the truck back on when air is needed. This reduces fuel consumption and emissions as the vehicle is not idling when tools are not in use. Learn more about the VMAC UNDERHOOD70 – Green Series Air Compressor.

VEHICLE IDLING STUDY CONCLUSION
Going back to the fast food chain’s claim, no, it is not greener to use the drive-through than it is to park and pick up your order inside the restaurant. Here are the facts:

  • Idling for more than 10 seconds burns more fuel, and produces more C02 emissions than turning the engine on and off
  • Idling for an hour uses 0.2 to 0.5 gallons of fuel, depending on the vehicle, and fuel consumption increases as idling speed increases
  • Warming up a vehicle by driving is more effective than idling

Consider these findings next time you find yourself idling your truck, whether working on a job site, picking up a food order, or warming up your truck this winter. And when planning to purchase a new air compressor, consider the VMAC UNDERHOOD70 – Green Series Air Compressor.

Source and learn more at: https://www.vmacair.com/blog/


Related blogs: Going Green with VMAC: Lightweight & Fuel Saving Air Compressors

12/12/17

VMAC's UNDERHOOD70-G System Customer Testimonial


After using the amazing UNDERHOOD70-G air compressor on his high-demand roofing jobs, Dale Clozza of Aurora Roofing in Nanaimo, BC, had a lot to say about the efficiency, fuel savings and compact power of one of VMAC's newest, innovative air compressor system - including its ability to TURN HIS TRUCK ON AND OFF as his air tools need air. Learn More: http://vmacair.com/product/underhood-...

12/10/17

2018 FORD TRENDS REPORT UNDERSCORES HOW CONSUMERS AND BRANDS ARE PUSHING THROUGH IN UNCERTAIN, INTERESTING TIMES


2018 Looking Further with Ford Trends Report highlights how global societal changes are impacting new consumer behaviors and attitudes; shifts toward activism, compassion and self-expression will shape the new year
  • Sixth annual report shows that while two-thirds of adults globally say they are overwhelmed by changes taking place around them, three-quarters believe they can influence positive change; nearly half say they expect brands to take a stand on social issues
  • Consumers are focused on world suffering, the widening gap between rich and poor, and emotional well-being, and while many express skepticism about artificial intelligence, more are hopeful about the future of autonomous vehicles
  • NEW YORK, Dec. 6, 2017 – People feel increasingly polarized by unrest, upheaval and other changes taking place in the world, and more than 60 percent of adults globally say they feel overwhelmed by things happening around them. Ford’s 2018 Looking Further with Ford Trends Report examines not only the issues dividing the world, but also the coping mechanisms that are emerging as a result.

“We’re clearly living in interesting times,” said Sheryl Connelly, Ford global consumer trends and futuring manager. “Shifting global priorities, rampant political upheaval, and a spotlight on social inequity have upended the status quo and left many disoriented. But out of the chaos and conflict, a new energy and creativity is motivating people like never before. From compassion and guilt to heightened activism, most adults believe their actions have the power to influence positive change.”

As societies cope with the rising demands of urbanization, serious threats to the environment and economic instability, Ford continues its work as a trusted mobility company developing smart transportation solutions for all. Amid concern for world suffering, a widening gap between rich and poor, and worries that  artificial intelligence will do more harm than good, Ford remains committed to the belief that freedom of movement drives human progress—and is designing sustainable, meaningful technologies to help make people’s lives better.

Each year, the company focuses on global trends to understand how consumers are changing, and how companies must respond.

Key insights from Ford’s sixth annual report include:

39 percent of adults say they do not mind sharing their personal information with companies, but 60 percent say they are frustrated by how much of their information has become public
76 percent of adults around the world say they find it creepy when companies know too much about them
52 percent of adults say they believe artificial intelligence will do more harm than good, but 61 percent say they are hopeful about a future of autonomous vehicles
68 percent of adults say they are overwhelmed by suffering in the world today, and 51 percent say they feel guilty for not doing more to make the world better
81 percent of adults say they are concerned about the widening gap between the rich and the poor
73 percent of adults say they should take better care of their emotional well-being
54 percent of adults globally say they feel more stressed out than they did a year ago, and among 18- to 29-year-olds, that number is even higher, at 65 percent
What all this means for 2018 and beyond
This report serves as a blueprint for understanding how key trends are expected to influence consumers and brands in 2018 and beyond. Ford has identified and explored these 10 trends:

1.    The Edge of Reason: Global upheaval is evident in everything from politics to pop culture, and people are responding to these changes in polarized fashion. As divisiveness grows, a sense of being overwhelmed intensifies. Consumers are hungry for inventive ways to cope and adapt.

2.    The Activist Awakening: This culture of polarization means consumers are being jolted out of complacency. Conventional wisdom and expectations are being toppled as individuals debate the change we need.

3.    Minding the Gap: Worldwide, the spotlight is on inequality. Activists and entrepreneurs are experimenting with new ways to improve access to quality education, increase productive employment, close wage gaps, and provide everyone with affordable access to basic living standards and infrastructure.

4.    The Compassionate Conscience: With an omnipresent news cycle, we are more aware than ever of the challenges consumers face around the world. People are becoming more reflective of their roles in society and more focused on how they can be more engaged.

5.    Mending the Mind: Consumers and institutions are realizing that you cannot have a healthy body unless you have a healthy mind. As such, mental health and well-being are moving to the forefront for individuals, governments and companies to address.

6.    Retail Therapy: Many consumers are on an endless hunt for something new and different – seeking material goods or experiences that bring happiness. As services aiming to provide efficiency experiences proliferate, consumers now find they can buy the one thing that was never for sale – time.

7.    Helplessly Exposed: Big Data claims to be able to interpret our behaviors, which in theory should help consumers. But with Big Data can come Big Bias, and once personal information is relinquished, all consumers can do is hope companies use it responsibly.

8.    Technology’s Tipping Point: Virtual reality, artificial intelligence and autonomous technology – long far-fetched notions – are now being incorporated into our daily lives. Worldwide, humans are wondering what the onslaught of intelligent technology will mean for society.

9.    Singled Out: Are marriage and parenthood still the desired norms for happy living? Couples today – with more choices and longer life spans to consider – are rethinking commitment and fulfillment.

10.  Big Plans for Big Cities: By 2050, nearly 75 percent of the world’s population is expected to live in urban areas. To capitalize on the full potential of cities – ensuring they are happy and healthy places in which to thrive – we must smartly plan for transportation, employment, housing, wellness initiatives and an infrastructure that can accommodate booming populations.

Building a smarter future

With an astounding 87 percent of consumers agreeing cities need better transportation options, Ford is uniquely positioned to provide meaningful solutions for consumers everywhere. As connected, sustainable and autonomous technologies rapidly transform transportation, Ford is committed driving progress that consumers can trust.

“In today’s fast-moving world, consumers have less patience for the frivolous, and they demand greater emphasis on what’s meaningful and impactful,” said Connelly. “This ethos is reflected in the work we do at Ford, and our relentless focus on providing trustworthy solutions that make consumers’ lives better.”

For the full Looking Further with Ford 2018 Trends Report, please visit www.fordtrends.com.

About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan. The company designs, manufactures, markets and services a full line of Ford cars, trucks, SUVs, electrified vehicles and Lincoln luxury vehicles, provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company and is pursuing leadership positions in electrification, autonomous vehicles and mobility solutions. Ford employs approximately 203,000 people worldwide. For more information regarding Ford, its products and Ford Motor Credit Company, please visit www.corporate.ford.com.

12/08/17

NEW F-150 NAMED 2018 MOTOR TREND TRUCK OF THE YEAR; FORD FIRST WITH FULL TRUCK LINE BACK-TO-BACK WINS


New F-150 earns 2018 Motor Trend Truck of the Year for the fifth time to score back-to-back wins for Ford F-Series on the heels of the all-new Super Duty capturing top honors for 2017

F-150 win comes after Motor Trend editors evaluated 2018 F-150 XL, Lariat, Platinum and Raptor trucks against the latest competitive offerings for design, engineering excellence, safety, value, efficiency and performance

Even tougher, even smarter and even more capable new Ford F-150 features best-in-class fuel economy and towing, class-exclusive technologies, plus new Built Ford Tough exterior design and freshened interiors

Los Angeles, Nov. 27, 2017 – Ford, America’s truck leader for 40 straight years, has bested all competitors to earn 2018 Motor Trend Truck of the Year honors for the new Ford F-150. This is the fifth win for F-150, and this award follows the all-new Ford Super Duty capturing the award in 2017.

“Back-to-back wins for F-150 and Super Duty reflect what we’re also seeing and hearing from customers as we celebrate 40 straight years as America’s favorite and best-selling trucks,” said Raj Nair, Ford executive vice president and president, North America. “The Ford Truck team stretched further than ever to deliver our toughest, most capable and smartest trucks.”

“This year’s competition was fierce, but the vote was unanimous,” said Ed Loh, Motor Trend editor in chief. ”The newly redesigned 2018 F-150 exceeded our expectations in every category – powertrain, performance, technology and overall execution.”

The Ford F-150 line went up against the latest competitive truck offerings in a program that combined empirical and real-world testing to find the truck that best met the award’s key criteria: advancement in design, engineering excellence, safety, value, efficiency and performance of intended function. Motor Trend editors put to the test four vehicles from the Ford pickup lineup: the 2018 F-150 XL with the all-new 3.3-liter V6 engine, F-150 Lariat with the all-new 2.7-liter EcoBoost®, F-150 Platinum with an enhanced 5.0-liter V8, and the high-performance off-road F-150 Raptor.

Judges cited overall towing capability, advanced technology functionality and powertrain performance among their favorite F-150 attributes. They also noted exemplary on- and off-road driving performance, best-in-class fuel economy and innovative cab design as F-150 strengths.

New features and improvements put F-150 over the top
The 2018 F-150 features a number of design updates and technology enhancements across its powertrain, driver-assist and connectivity offerings, making it tougher, smarter and more capable than ever.

Major exterior freshening across the lineup includes new grilles, bumpers, headlights, tail lamps, tailgate outers, wheels and more. Interior updates on XLT Sport, XLT Special Edition, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum and Limited trucks include color and material changes for seats, instrument panel and console trim. An all-new B&O PLAY™ audio system by HARMAN is also available.

With an EPA-estimated rating of 20 mpg city, 26 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined, the second-generation 2.7-liter EcoBoost-equipped F-150 delivers best-in-class fuel economy. Powered by the 3.5-liter EcoBoost, F-150 offers best-in-class towing capacity of 13,200 pounds.

F-150 shines with clever design, all-new 3.3-liter engine, towing capability
Design elements such as rear-hinged doors on the SuperCab truck that ease access to the rear passenger compartment, an available twin-panel power moonroof, and new technology features like Apple CarPlay and SYNC 3 got high marks from Motor Trend editors.

“Ford deserves a lot of credit for how the extended cab is designed,” said one judge. “Unlike its rivals with B-pillars and normal opening doors, the nearly 180-degree-opening rear doors and flat load floor allow owners to maximize utility in the back, and make it easier for passengers to get in and out.”

Praise for the F-150 XL with all-new 3.3-liter V6 engine touched on how easily the truck can tow trailers weighing 7,700 pounds – the maximum rating for the base engine.

“The 3.3-liter has zero trouble towing a 5,000-pound trailer,” said one judge. “Tow/Haul mode keeps the gears low and the engine roaring, with no shift shock. This powertrain is more than adequate to get F-150 down the road quickly.”

In terms of the overall lineup, Motor Trend editors were impressed with the ease and accuracy of features such as Pro Trailer Backup Assist and a multi-angle 360-degree camera system, as well as F-150’s competent powertrains. One judge, an admitted towing novice, said the truck’s towing capabilities are simply “fantastic.”

High series trucks, all-new EcoBoost elicit ‘wows’
Motor Trend editors were as impressed with the power and handling of the all-new 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 in F-150 Lariat as they were with the truck’s ride and level of luxury appointments. The chassis smooths out large road undulations with ease, and steering is “shockingly precise,” they reported.

“Wow, I thought this was the V8 when I first hopped in,” said one. “Power delivery is excellent, with no perceivable lag. This 2.7-liter turbo is all the engine most folks will ever need.”

Judges also tested the F-150 Platinum with 5.0-liter V8 that features significant upgrades, including advanced dual port and direct-injection technology and spray-on bore liner technology for reduced weight and best-in-class payload capacity of 3,270 pounds. The enhanced engine is paired to a segment-first 10-speed Ford SelectShift™ automatic transmission with four selectable drive modes – normal, tow/haul, snow/wet and sport. The new 10-speed automatic is shared with the 2.7-liter and 3.5-liter EcoBoost engines as well.

One Motor Trend editor said the 5.0-liter V8 is a sweetheart of an engine, with tons of power.

“It cruises oh so well, and tows like a champ,” he reported. “It didn’t seem to struggle at all with a 9,000-pound trailer attached. This truck is happy to be put to work.”

F-150 Raptor is a class of one
With 450 horsepower and 510 lb.-ft. of torque, F-150 Raptor impressed judges with the quick and responsive kick from its twin-turbocharged, high-output 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine, enhanced by its segment-exclusive Ford SelectShift 10-speed automatic and industry-leading six-mode Terrain Management System™. Raptor’s high-strength, military-grade, aluminum-alloy body saves 500 pounds over the previous model, which pays off in a stronger, more agile truck.

“As great as this thing is off-road, it’s shocking how good it is on pavement,” said one judge. “It’s more than happy to carve corners with precise steering, good brakes, great power and a suspension that hunkers down and leans into corners.”

F-150 Raptor’s competition-proven chassis sets the performance bar with its second-generation BFGoodrich KO2 tires designed exclusively for the truck’s extended off-road capabilities. In addition, FOX shocks, jointly engineered by Ford Performance and FOX, feature three-inch-diameter shock canisters and nine-stage bypass damping to optimize suspension control and provide massive suspension travel that includes 13 inches at the front and 13.9 inches at the rear.

Built at Dearborn Truck Plant in Michigan and Kansas City Assembly Plant in Missouri, the 2018 F-150 is available now at Ford dealerships nationwide.

About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan. The company designs, manufactures, markets and services a full line of Ford cars, trucks, SUVs, electrified vehicles and Lincoln luxury vehicles, provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company and is pursuing leadership positions in electrification, autonomous vehicles and mobility solutions. Ford employs approximately 203,000 people worldwide. For more information regarding Ford, its products and Ford Motor Credit Company, please visit www.corporate.ford.com.

12/06/17

CHEVROLET TRUCKS MARKS 100 YEARS WITH CUSTOMIZED CLASSIC

Vintage C/10 concept carries Centennial theme, features ZZ6 Connect & Cruise system

2018 Centennial Edition Silverado and Colorado - To commemorate 100 years of Chevy Trucks, both trucks offer Centennial Blue exterior paint color, exclusive front and rear heritage bowties and 100 year door badges, which were inspired by colors and design cues found on early Chevrolet Trucks. Centennial Editions also include a spray-in bedliner with heritage bowtie emblem and accessory floor liners with heritage bowtie emblems.

LAS VEGAS — A customized, classic Chevrolet C/10 pickup is helping the brand celebrate 100 years of building trucks.

The pickup blends classic style with contemporary crate powertrain technology and shares the exclusive color and other heritage cues of 2018 Silverado and Colorado Centennial Edition production models.

“One hundred years and 85 million trucks later, Chevrolet trucks continue to inspire, support and reward through hard work and recreation,” said Sandor Piszar, Chevrolet Trucks marketing director. “We are celebrating this historic milestone with the customers who have trusted Chevy Trucks for generations.”

A century ago, Chevrolet’s first trucks included a half-ton light-duty model and a 1.5-ton commercial vehicle. The modern era of pickups was born with the 1960 introduction of the C/K series, which offered greater passenger comfort and fresh styling. That was largely due to a new independent front suspension that greatly improved the ride and a frame design that allowed the cab to ride lower on it, for a sleeker look.

Chevy’s second generation C/K debuted in 1967, with suspension enhancements that provided a smoother ride. It also introduced new styling that, in time, would be revered by hot rodders for its pure, timeless design. That’s where Chevy’s designers and concept craftsmen started with this project.

Built in-house by Chevrolet, the ’67 C/10 started as a long-bed model with a rare big rear window. The frame and cargo box were shortened to give the truck classic short-box proportions. The suspension was also lowered and matched with 20-inch wheels, while the rest of the truck features more styling enhancements — from the smoothed and customized bumpers and tailgate to the brushed trim and custom engine compartment closeouts — than there are pounds-feet of torque churning out of its Chevrolet Performance ZZ6 Small Block crate engine.

The ZZ6, which is rated at 405 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque, is one of approximately 50 Small Block, Big Block LS/LSX and LT crate engines offered by Chevrolet Performance. In this application, it’s paired with a 4L65-E electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission as part of Chevrolet Performance’s Connect & Cruise lineup of factory-matched powertrain systems.

Each Connect & Cruise system matches the crate engine with a complementary transmission, as well as the engine and transmission controllers, installation kits and more. There are more than 60 combinations available for all engine families, matching them with manual and automatic transmissions.

Connect & Cruise systems also include E-ROD crate engines that are emissions-compliant for millions of 1996 and older vehicles in California.

“No matter what kind of project you’re building, Chevrolet Performance has a crate engine solution to make it work,” said Piszar. “We’ve got it all.”

Additional details for the C/10 concept include:
• Centennial Blue exterior with heritage Chevrolet bowtie emblems matching cues for Silverado and Colorado Centennial Edition production models
• Suspension lowered with drop spindles, custom springs and modified original front control arms
• Disc brake conversion with Chevrolet components
• 20 x 8.5-inch front and 20 x 10-inch rear forged aluminum wheels
• 255/40R20 front and 295/40R20 rear tires
• Raised Chevrolet Centennial bowtie on the bed floor
• Brushed-finish exterior trim
• LED exterior and interior lighting
• Modified instrument cluster with custom gauges
• Modified bench seat with headrests and embossed with the Chevrolet logo
• Interior trimmed in Porcelain White

The C/10 concept joins approximately 20 additional Chevrolet models this week at the SEMA Show, Oct. 31-Nov. 3. Follow the action at ChevySEMA.com, #CHEVYSEMA, @ChevroletPerformance on Instagram and Chevrolet Performance on Facebook.

ABOUT CHEVROLET
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is one of the world's largest car brands, doing business in more than 100 countries and selling more than 4.0 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature engaging performance, design that makes the heart beat, passive and active safety features and easy-to-use technology, all at a value. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

12/04/17

GMC Sierra All Mountain Concept Conquers Uncharted Territory at Vail Mountain


VAIL, Colo. — The 2018 GMC Sierra 2500HD All Mountain concept, a one-of-a-kind snow-climbing machine, will debut this week at Vail Mountain. The Sierra All Mountain concept takes GMC’s signature bold design and engineering excellence to new heights, adding tank-like tracks that help it navigate rugged, snow-covered terrain.

Built on a GMC Sierra 2500HD Denali 4WD Crew Cab platform, the epitome of GMC’s strength and design, the All Mountain concept stands ready to tackle steep slopes and extreme weather conditions. It combines the power of the 6.6L turbo-diesel V-8 engine and first-class interior appointments of the Sierra 2500HD Denali and adds enhanced capability and features through concept Mattracks® technology and GMC Accessories.

“With GMC’s focus on premium capability and design, we wanted to ensure that this concept took these signature attributes to an entirely new level,” said Carl Zipfel, GMC exterior designer. “The Sierra All Mountain concept Mattracks® technology enables the truck to conquer uncharted territory while highlighting premium interior features such as Bose speakers and upscale leather treatments.”

Sierra All Mountain Concept Features:
• Mattracks® 150 Series Tracks with GMC Red finish
• Bodyside graphics
• Wheel well and underbody LED lights
• Snowboard Racks, associated accessories by Thule®
• Amplifier and Dual Pod Speaker Kit, associated accessories by KICKER®
• RIGID E-Series 30-Inch Light Bar
• Soft roll-up tonneau cover by Advantage
• Duramax® 6.6L Turbo Diesel engine with 445 horsepower and 910 lb-ft of torque
• Allison® 1000 six-speed automatic transmission

The GMC Sierra All Mountain will remain on display at Vail for the winter season as part of an exclusive partnership announced earlier this year with Vail Resorts, Inc. (NYSE: MTN), the leading global mountain resort company. In addition to the main partnership with Vail Resorts, Inc., GMC has extended its presence by also collaborating with the Vail Valley Foundation and the Town of Vail. GMC will have a large presence in the Town of Vail through vehicle displays, courtesy vehicles, signage and special events.

“The Sierra All Mountain concept is perfectly suited for the outdoor activities offered at Vail properties,” said Rich Latek, director of GMC Marketing. “This unique concept truck is a fun way to attract attention to GMC and highlight our partnership with Vail Resorts.”

A similar Sierra All Mountain concept, built on a Sierra 2500HD All Terrain X platform, will be on display at the 2017 Los Angeles Auto Show.

About GMC
With a strong foundation of manufacturing trucks since 1902 and now selling in a dozen countries across the world, GMC offers purpose-built vehicles designed and engineered to the highest standard. From the all-new compact SUV Terrain to the Sierra HD, our trucks and crossovers deliver GMC’s signature combination of intuitive technologies and premium execution, with the popular Denali sub-brand representing the pinnacle of GMC design, performance and amenities. Details on all GMC models are available at www.gmc.com, on Twitter at @thisisgmc or at www.facebook.com/gmc.

About the Vail Valley Foundation
The Vail Valley Foundation is a nonprofit with the mission to enhance and sustain the quality of life in the Vail Valley by providing leadership in arts, education and athletics. The organization has hosted premiere events, operated two world-class performing arts venues, and provided education enrichment to Eagle County residents since 1981.

About Vail Resorts, Inc. (NYSE: MTN)
Vail Resorts, Inc., through its subsidiaries, is the leading global mountain resort operator. Vail Resorts’ subsidiaries operate 11 world-class mountain resorts and three urban ski areas, including Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge and Keystone in Colorado; Park City in Utah; Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood in the Lake Tahoe area of California and Nevada; Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia, Canada; Perisher in Australia; Stowe in Vermont; Wilmot Mountain in Wisconsin; Afton Alps in Minnesota and Mt. Brighton in Michigan. Vail Resorts owns and/or manages a collection of casually elegant hotels under the RockResorts brand, as well as the Grand Teton Lodge Company in Jackson Hole, Wyo. Vail Resorts Development Company is the real estate planning and development subsidiary of Vail Resorts, Inc. Vail Resorts is a publicly held company traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: MTN). The Vail Resorts company website is www.vailresorts.com and consumer website is www.snow.com.

12/02/17

New Commercial Electric Vehicle Summit, Set to be Co-Located with 2018 ACT Expo

The new event will showcase the latest advancements in battery-electric and fuel cell vehicle technologies for the medium- and heavy-duty market


Santa Monica, CA — Gladstein, Neandross & Associates (GNA), North America’s leading clean transportation and energy consulting firm and conference organizers of the Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo, announced today that they are launching a new event that will highlight advancements in the commercial electric drive vehicle market. This new event will further expand the annual ACT Expo, which is now in its eighth year and is the industry’s largest gathering of commercial fleets, clean fuel and charging infrastructure providers, and advanced transportation vehicle and technology suppliers for all weight classes. ACT Expo is scheduled April 30-May 3, 2018 in Southern California.

“The market momentum for medium- and heavy-duty electric-drive technologies has been incredible this year as evidenced by the recent onslaught of headlines from OEMs that are developing and commercializing products in response to increasing market demand in California and beyond,” stated Erik Neandross, CEO of GNA. “We’ve decided to co-locate the Commercial Electric Vehicle Summit with ACT Expo, as it provides a built-in audience of more than 3,000 clean transportation stakeholders and has been the venue of choice for companies debuting electric drive fleet products, including BYD, Kenworth, ADOMANI, Lightning Systems, TransPower, US Hybrids/US Fuel Cell, ClipperCreek, among others.”

This announcement comes on the heels of several headlines from truck manufacturers who are developing battery-electric and fuel cell drive technologies. Cummins, one of the biggest diesel engine manufacturers in the nation, unveiled an electric powertrain for a Class 7 tractor just last week. Peterbilt unveiled a prototype Class 8 battery-electric truck earlier this year. Companies like BYD and Motiv offer electric powertrains for numerous medium- and heavy-duty commercial applications. Tesla has announced that it will unveil its long-anticipated battery-electric Class 8 long-haul truck later this month. Start-up Nikola Motor Co. is developing a hydrogen fuel cell electric powertrain for long haul trucks, and Toyota Motor Co. recently unveiled a working prototype fuel cell drayage truck.

As the transportation industry continues to see an increased focus on environmental performance and fuel cost savings, electric drive technologies will continue to see growing momentum. The key themes for the inaugural Commercial Electric Vehicle Summit will include:


  • Product availability – showcasing the growing participation from global engine manufacturers in the medium- and heavy-duty electric vehicle market
  • Fleet success stories – highlighting early electric vehicle market deployments from top fleets across weight classes and transportation sectors
  • Charging infrastructure – developing scalable solutions and industry-wide standards
  • Financing and incentives – discussions on incentives and grants, dedicated utility rates, special lane access, and other creative financing models
  • Battery advancements – evolving battery technologies and performance, production capabilities, and a look at real versus perceived weight limitations
  • Reliable payback estimates – understanding how to assess (and reduce) upfront versus lifetime vehicle and infrastructure costs
  • Speakers, sponsors, and partnerships will be announced in the coming months. Registration will open in January 2018. For more information, visit www.actexpo.com


About Gladstein, Neandross & Associates (GNA)

GNA is the leading North American consulting firm specializing in market development for low-emission and alternative fuel vehicle technologies, infrastructure and fuels for both on and off-road applications. For more than 20 years, GNA has pioneered the nation’s largest and most innovative alternative fuel projects in the on-road and off-road sectors. In addition to its technical consulting practice, GNA hosts North America’s leading alternative fuel and advanced vehicle technology conferences—including the Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo, the Rethink Methane Symposium, and the High Horsepower (HHP) Summit. www.gladstein.org

 About the Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo

ACT Expo is North America’s largest clean vehicle event, representing all weight classes and alternative fuels—including electric, hybrid, hydrogen, natural gas, propane autogas, renewable fuels, and advanced technologies. The eighth-year conference and expo is set for April 30—May 3, 2018 in Long Beach, California and is expected to assemble thousands of attendees from across the advanced vehicle and alternative fuels industries. The annual event is produced by Gladstein, Neandross & Associates (GNA), the leading North American consulting firm specializing in market development for low-emission and alternative fuel vehicle technologies, infrastructure and fuels for both on and off-road applications. Learn more at www.actexpo.com and www.gladstein.org