Author: Trucker Talk Radio

Kenworth has unveiled its new T880E, the company’s initial Class 8 vocational battery-electric truck targeted at the North American market. Showcased at ACT Expo alongside the next-gen battery-electric T680E, the zero-emission Kenworth T880E is now ready for orders through Kenworth dealers in both Canada and the U.S., with expected deliveries commencing later this year. “The Kenworth T880E represents a significant achievement in our history, introducing the first Class 8 battery-electric solution tailored for vocational uses,” stated Kevin Haygood, Kenworth’s Assistant General Manager for Sales and Marketing. Powered by PACCAR’s ePowertrain platform, the T880E features an integrated powertrain delivering continuous power…

The self-employed truck driver Niclas Nordström found himself stranded by snow on Sweden’s E22 motorway for an exhausting 20 hours on Wednesday and Thursday, describing the experience as the worst weather he has faced in his 30-year career. Having operated his own road freight business since the 1990s, Nordström mistakenly thought that the traffic congestion would have been resolved when he set out on the E22. Along with approximately 1,000 other drivers, he realized his error around 1:45 PM near Linderöd when he was brought to a halt. “I assumed the police had already managed the situation, diverting traffic onto…

Startup Lula, positioning itself as the “Stripe for insurance,” has successfully secured $35.5 million in a Series B funding round following a significant increase in customer acquisition. After TechCrunch covered Lula’s Series A funding of $18 million in July 2021, the company initially concentrated on creating an insurance API to help businesses eliminate the need for their own insurance infrastructure. Since then, Lula’s services have expanded to provide a comprehensive insurance solution, assisting companies in lowering their insurance costs and related expenditures. Currently, Lula provides tools for risk management, claims management, policy management, and access to insurance. This strategic pivot…

WASHINGTON — The recent removal of numerous regulations by the U.S. Department of Transportation has sparked concerns among trucking industry experts regarding compliance and safety. Among the 52 deregulatory measures impacting the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and the Federal Highway Administration, most will likely be enacted after a 60-day comment period meant for public feedback. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy remarked in a press statement on Thursday, “Big government has proven to be a significant failure.” He elaborated, stating, “Under President Trump’s direction, my department is eliminating redundant and outdated regulations that…

The most extensive national study on truck driver health has revealed a prevalence of significant medical issues and mental health struggles. Key points: Truck driver Frank Black highlights his main challenges as weight management and maintaining personal relationships. Retired truck driver Jerry Brown-Barre mentions that the industry prioritizes profits, placing drivers in a secondary position. According to the Transport Workers’ Union, there is a critical need for improved access to nutritious food and exercise facilities. Over half of the 1,400 drivers surveyed were found to be obese. Dr. Ross Iles, a researcher, noted that approximately 30% of drivers had three…

Courtesy photo – Students from Midwest Truck Driving School and North Country Electrical Line and Heavy Equipment School present a check to the U.P. Honor Flight. Support for Veterans ESCANABA — The Midwest Truck Driving School and North Country Electrical Line and Heavy Equipment School have shown their steadfast dedication to veterans by donating to the U.P. Honor Flight. This event took place in Escanaba, as the schools made efforts to give back to the community while honoring those who have defended our freedoms. Presentation of Donation Scott Knauf received the check for the U.P. Honor Flight, accompanied by three…

The self-employed truck driver Niclas Nordström was stranded by snow on Sweden’s E22 motorway for an impressive 20 hours on Wednesday and Thursday, describing the conditions as the worst he has faced in his 30-year career, according to The Local. Unexpected Traffic Jam Nordström has operated his own road freight business since the 1990s. He regrettably assumed that the blocked traffic would be cleared by the time he entered the E22 on Wednesday. Along with approximately 1,000 other drivers, he realized his error when he came to a halt around Linderöd at about 1:45 PM. Misjudgment and Regrets “The incident…

Strengthened Emissions Standards for Heavy-Duty Trucks Issued by EPA The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a final rule on Tuesday that enhances emissions standards for heavy-duty trucks, set to take effect for model year 2027 vehicles. According to the agency, the new standards are 80% stricter than current regulations. EPA Administrator Michael Regan stated, “This is just the first step under the EPA’s Clean Trucks Plan to work towards a zero-emission future.” This extensive 1,153-page rule aims to cut nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions from heavy-duty trucks by over 40% by 2040 and 50% by 2045. It encompasses a broader range…

Preparing Truck Drivers in New Jersey LINDEN, New Jersey (AP) — At a local trucking school, students practice maneuvering 18-wheelers through a course marked with traffic cones. Others are inspecting vehicle hoods to carry out essential safety checks, explaining their examinations of steering components for any signs of damage. Language Instruction for Future Drivers One instructor seamlessly alternates between English and Spanish, guiding Manuel Castillo, a native Spanish speaker, in inspecting a school bus. They work from a printed script to help Castillo articulate the inspection process in English effectively during roadside checks. Executive Order Intensifies Language Importance Improving English…

Weather Causes Cancellation of USAC Eastern Storm Event Mother Nature continues to disrupt plans as the USAC Eastern Storm and 358 Modified Doubleheader scheduled for Tuesday, June 17, has been canceled due to poor weather conditions. The track faced extreme wetness and an overcast sky with 93% cloud coverage, accompanied by light mist and no sunshine, preventing the track crew from starting any preparations. There are also concerns regarding the wet grounds in the grandstand areas, making it difficult for spectators. The Eastern Storm series has already seen six consecutive nights of racing, leaving no room for rescheduling. This cancellation…