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WORK TRUCK WEEK 2025 PREVIEW
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TELESCOPIC POLE RAISES LIGHTS 43" - 100" ABOVE MOUNTING SURFACE For use with spot, flood, or work lights. Available at Work Truck Week 2025!
Kalyn Siebert boosts manufacturing efficiency, quality with advanced automation for the facility in Gatesville, Texas.
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Out with the bad/old, in with the better/new ... maybe
Kevin Jones Editor
As this edition of TBB is being put together, the latest trailer numbers from ACT Research and FTR landed in my inbox, and I thought the top line was a nice little Christmas present and a welcome way to start the New Year—then I read a little deeper.
The market research and analysis firms differed somewhat on totals, but the news is good either way: Trailer orders jumped in November and backlog grew for the first time in nearly a year.
U.S. trailer net orders rose 42% month-over-month (m/m) and 6% year-over-year (y/y) to 22,745 units, reported FTR. That’s the highest net order total since December 2023 and “welcome news given many months of weak orders.”
The order totals came in slightly lower in the latest ACT Research State of the Industry: U.S. Trailers report. November net trailer orders, at 20,800 units, were up 23% from October, but 4% below the November 2023 level, according to ACT Research.
The orders bring year-to-date activity to 139,100 units, down 34% from November 2023’s 211,000 year-to-date bookings—competing against a better 2023 order environment, lingering pent-up demand, and modest supply chain congestion.
“Order weakness exhibited in 2024 is made worse when viewed relative to 2023’s fuller backlogs,” said Jennifer McNealy, director of CV market research and publications at ACT Research. “For the first time in nearly a year, order intake outpaced build—and by about 6,700 units. As a result, backlogs expanded almost 11% sequentially in November.”
FTR also found November orders were “well above” total production, increasing backlogs by 10,124 units (+12% m/m) to 92,213 units. Lower m/m production and growing backlogs pushed the backlog/build ratio up to 7 months, the highest reading since February 2024. This indicates “some decreasing pressure” on OEMs to scale back production in the near term.
However—drat those ‘howevers’—FTR noted the overall 2025 order season thus far is “shaping up to be well below expectations.”
A sluggish freight market remains a challenge for trailer demand, the firm suggested. The opening of the 2025 order boards has seen continued weakness, “tempering the potential outlook” for next year.
Trailer orders thus far for the 2025 order season are down 42% y/y to 50,651 units, an average of only 16,884 units per month, FTR reported.
Total trailer build declined 20% m/m to 13,238 units, down slightly more than the typical seasonal m/m drop, and was down 43% y/y. This output is 41% below the five-year average for November and marks the lowest monthly production level since 2010. Complicating matters, the CV market “continues to see a disconnect” between trailer demand and truck demand, the FTR report continued. North American Class 8 net orders increased 2% y/y in SeptemberNovember 2024 while U.S. trailer net orders dropped by 42% y/y during the same period. For-hire fleets have been prioritizing investments in new power units over trailers in 2024 YTD, “likely influenced by reduced profitability or shifts in trade cycles.”
OEMs have notably cut back on production, but if 2025 trailer orders remain well below expectations, some OEMs may need to extend or deepen production cuts into next year, FTR hinted. “As we have discussed in the context of Class 8 truck orders, Presidentelect Trump’s plan to impose immediate tariffs on imports from Mexico, Canada, and China will add to the challenges,” Dan Moyer, senior analyst, commercial vehicles, said. “Those tariffs would significantly raise costs for fully assembled trailers imported from Mexico and Canada as well as for critical automotive parts sourced from these regions and China that are essential to U.S.-based trailer production.”
The resulting supply chain disruptions and/or cost increases could mean higher trailer prices, altered trade cycles and buyer demand patterns, and strains on fleet operator budgets, he continued.
“Slightly elevated trailer dealer inventories might temporarily meet a short-term demand surge as buyers attempt to avoid higher costs, but the potential for increased costs for Class 8 tractors might prompt some fleets to continue prioritizing purchasing power units over trailers in the near term,” Moyer concluded.
Indeed, while quotation and order activity have increased seasonally, the challenge is that data continues to suggest “macro-facing industry segments” are being hit particularly hard, McNealy explained.
“OEMs [are] struggling to keep operations intact, against a much more competitive landscape compared to the past several years as the entire industry competes to book business,” she said. “Simultaneously, strong Class 8 equipment purchases continue to oversupply the market, dampening for-hire freight rates and limiting capex for new trailers.” TBB
Maxon introduces the DMD 3.0, a next-gen liftgate designed for high-demand transport environments. Equipped with new dock impact bumpers, it delivers enhanced durability and efficient dock loading. We’ve kept all the features that made its predecessor a standout: lightweight aluminum columns, improved operator ergonomics, our Edge Guard roll-off barrier and the MAX GRIP® platform surface treatment. Plus, with three different capacities and 12V and 24V options — including a hybrid model — the DMD 3.0 is perfectly suited for the growing number of electric vehicles in the market.
Shyft to merge with Switzerland’s Aebi Schmidt
The Shyft Group Inc. is preparing to merge with Swiss peer Aebi Schmidt Group, a move Shyft President and CEO John Dunn said “supercharges” the Michigan-based company’s strategy.
The proposed combination of Shyft and Aebi Schmidt will create a company with annual sales of about $2 billion, three-quarters of which will come from North American customers, and adjusted EBITDA of roughly $200 million. The combined company will bring together Aebi Schmidt’s portfolio of vehicles and equipment for commercial trucks, snow-and-ice clearing, and street sweeping—including through the Monroe and Towmaster brands— with Shyft’s expertise in upfitting commercial, retail and service specialty vehicles.
“This transaction creates a more resilient company with meaningful growth opportunities in the commercial truck space and infrastructure-related solutions,” Dunn said in a statement. “I am confident Shyft’s talented team members will thrive within this newly combined platform and that this transaction is the best path forward to unlocking value for our shareholders.”
Aebi Schmidt investors will initially own 52% of the combined company’s shares. The merged business will be domiciled in Switzerland but still be listed on the Nasdaq stock exchange. The merger is expected to close in the middle of next year.
For Aebi Schmidt, the proposed Shyft deal builds on other North American acquisitions over the past decade. In addition to M-B
Companies in 2018 and Monroe Truck Equipment in 2021, Group CEO Barend Fruithof and his team last year also acquired the snow removal business of Oshkosh Corp. for about $17 million. Those purchases and organic growth have grown Aebi Schmidt’s North American unit to nine plants, about 1,500 workers and more than $500 million in annual sales.
Executives of Shyft and Aebi Schmidt say that bringing together their businesses will create the third-largest specialty vehicles manufacturer by revenue, behind REV Group and Palfinger. Together, the companies will leapfrog Federal Signal and Alamo Group, among other competitors.
Dunn and Fruithof, a banking veteran who has led Aebi Schmidt since 2017, said they expect the merger of their teams to over time result in $20 million to $25 million of cost savings as production and uplift work becomes more efficient across the combined company’s network of plants. Fruithof will lead the merged business and Dunn said he will stay on for a limited time to help with the integration and, with Fruithof, recruitment of a new CFO to replace the departing Jon Douyard.
Asked on a conference call about any possible impact on Shyft’s new line of BlueArc electric trucks, Dunn said the company is “fully committed” to meeting its 150-unit order from FedEx Corp. and plans to then focus on other customers’ orders. Longer term, he added, the Shyft team will work with colleagues at Aebi Schmidt, which has its own set of electric products.
Photo: Shy Group Inc.
Timpte named Nebraska Manufacturer of the Year
The Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry has named Timpte Inc. the 2024 Nebraska Manufacturer of the Year. The award recognizes a Nebraska manufacturer that implements innovative ways to conduct business using products, processes, technologies and other strategies.
Timpte was presented the award at the annual NE Chamber Manufacturing Summit.
“The Nebraska Chamber’s Manufacturer of the Year award celebrates a company that continuously betters its community and Nebraska’s overall economy, which is exactly what Timpte does,” said NE Chamber COO and EVP of Manufacturing Mike Johnson. “Timpte embodies what it means to be a Manufacturer in Nebraska, from its state-of-the-art facility to being a competitive and desired place to work. We’re thrilled to honor Timpte as this year’s Manufacturer of the Year.”
Timpte is located in David City and has been there since 1980, while the Timpte organization has been open since 1884.
“We’re a company founded on innovating transportation to help people move materials more efficiently and more effectively,” said Timpte President and CEO Tim Carpenter.
“Headquartered in David City, we take our Midwestern roots seriously, applying solid manufacturing principles and
state-of-the-art technology to produce the industry’s best dry bulk commodity trailers and equipment trailers.”
Timpte trailers are custom-built to ensure each trailer that hits the road does its job efficiently and effectively. While it is mostly known for its Super Hopper line of aluminum hopper trailers, Timpte entered the equipment trailer market in 2020 and has grown that product line from three models to over sixteen models.
Earlier in 2024, Timpte announced the construction of a second manufacturing facility that will house the production of equipment trailers and its Thunderstone Manufacturing LLC division. The new facility is scheduled to open in Q1 of 2025.
Wabash begins production of 2026 Model Year DuraPlate dry van
Wabash is producing a 2026 model year DuraPlate Dry Van featuring enhancements that elevate performance and value.
“Our 2026 model year dry van builds on the durability, performance and total cost of ownership savings that fleet owners have come to expect from Wabash,” said Drew Schwartzhoff, senior vice president, Strategic Marketing. “Wabash DuraPlate Dry Vans offer consistent reliability that addresses both operational costs and safety concerns for our customers.”
A key feature of the 2026 Wabash DuraPlate Dry Van is the Webb Vortex Drum with Wear Indicator (WI), designed to improve brake performance and extend brake life by up to 25%. Industry data shows brake systems are one of the most critical— and costly—components of fleet maintenance. Featuring patented cooling fins, the Webb Vortex Drum dissipates heat more effectively than standard brake drums, reducing wear and maintaining optimal performance. The built-in wear indicator allows fleet crews to quickly assess repair needs, minimizing downtime. Made in the U.S. and backed by a lifetime warranty, the Webb Vortex Drum provides unmatched durability and reliability.
The new dry van will also include these features:
• DuraPlate Cell Core panel construction: Provides durability while reducing trailer weight by 300 lbs for improved fuel efficiency and increased cargo capacity.
• TrustLockPlus System: Eases door operation and secures the door within 3” of the sidewall, preventing damage during loading/unloading.
• Flush mount intermediate logistics: Eliminates snag points, protects cargo from damage and shields the logistic cavity from corrosive elements.
• Upper ID/AUX stop light system: Enhances visibility and safety during road use.
• High-strength steel coupler: Delivers exceptional durability, corrosion resistance and longevity.
• Four-post rear impact guard: Lightweight, high-strength steel construction increases full-width underride protection, exceeding U.S. DOT and Transport Canada standards and earning the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s ToughGuard designation.
• EZ 7-Way electrical housing: Simplifies installation, minimizes downtime with quick replacements and offers weatherproof durability.
• LED light system: Provides enhanced visibility and long-lasting performance.
DuraPlate Dry Vans are backed by secured availability of key components through long-term domestic supplier agreements and manufactured in the United States in an ISO 9001:2015 registered facility.
Production of the 2026 model year DuraPlate Dry Van began on December 1, 2024.
Timpte President and CEO Tim Carpenter receives the 2024 Nebraska Manufacturer of the Year award from U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts at the recent NE Chamber Manufacturing Summit.
Photo: NE Chamber
Photo: Wabash
Michelin, Trailer Aerodynamics partner on distribution
Michelin North America has entered a distribution partnership with Trailer Aerodynamics for its Michelin Energy Guard product line. This includes products such as Michelin’s drag-reducing trailer end fairings, wake reducer, aerodynamic mud flaps, bracket and slider design, and the company’s flexible trailer skirt.
“This collaboration brings together extensive industry reach and a legacy of excellence, quality and sustainability to drive the next phase of growth and innovation in the aerodynamic solutions market,” Michelin stated in a press release.
According Michelin’s return-on-investment calculator, a fleet with 100 trailers that travel 100,000 miles annually, assuming that diesel fuel costs $3.50 per gallon, can experience an estimated payback in less than six months using Michelin’s Energy Guard’s full offerings. Additionally,
Mesilla Valley Transportation Solutions (MVTS) tested the Michelin Energy Guard in 2019 and found that the system saved 10.93 gallons every 1,000 miles with the tandems fully back. MVTS also performed tests in 2020 that found the Michelin Energy Guard saved 10.31 gallons per 1,000 miles and 10.79 gallons per 1,000 miles for vehicles, with the first test using a heavier load and the second using dual tires instead of Wide Based Singles. The full system includes the following:
• Trailer end fairings, which accelerates and turns airflow around the back of the trailer for increased efficiency
• The wake reducer, which reduces the size and effect of the air recirculation zone behind the trailer for swing and roll-up doors
• Aerodynamic mud flaps, which are both angled and progressive to
reduce vehicle drag and road spray
• A bracket and slider design that reduces the load on trailer skirt panels
• A flexible trailer skirt
Trailer Aerodynamics is the manufacturer of Michelin Energy Guard and an affiliate of CC Industries, a private management company for the Crown Family. The Crown Family owns various industrial manufacturing companies, especially in the transportation and process equipment industries.
ConMet extends TruckWings warranty to 5 years/500,000 miles
ConMet has enhanced the TruckWings limited product warranty, extending coverage from 1 year or 100,000 miles to 5 years or 500,000 miles for customers operating in the U.S. and Canada. This extended warranty is meant to provide long-term peace of mind and aligns with the first-owner life of the tractor.
TruckWings is an active aerodynamic device that automatically deploys and retracts to reduce drag on Class 8 trucks. It has accumulated over one billion miles of combined real-world operation, according to ConMet. This extended warranty, announced one year after ConMet acquired TruckWings, reinforces the company’s confidence in the technology’s performance, reliability, and the advanced engineering that goes into every component.
Manufactured with rugged, weather-resistant, fiberreinforced plastic and aluminum, TruckWings assemblies are built and tested to withstand harsh road conditions—from the freezing northern reaches of Canada to the scorching heat of the American Southwest. With high-quality, resilient materials and flexible panel end treatments, TruckWings devices are designed to deliver long-lasting performance with minimal maintenance requirements.
“We know how crucial durability is in the trucking industry,” said Andrew Kelly, ConMet’s Vice President and Product Manager of TruckWings. “By extending the TruckWings warranty to five years or 500,000 miles, we’re ensuring our customers receive the highest standard of reliability, backed by ConMet’s 60 years of manufacturing excellence. This enhancement aligns with ConMet’s continued commitment to superior customer experience and over-the-road durability.”
The new warranty covers key components of the TruckWings assembly, including the actuator and airflow control box, electronics and sensors, panels, and side and top extenders. This protection excludes routine maintenance and specific parts like the side panel hinge bushings, which require regular care.
For more information on the extended TruckWings warranty, please visit ConMet’s warranty information page.
Photo: Michelin Energy Guard
Photo: ConMet
PALFINGER, AP Fleet Management partner on bucket truck rental program
To meet the growing demand for flexible, cost-effective equipment access, Palfinger partnered with AP Fleet Management to introduce a bucket truck rental program in the U.S.
This strategic partnership was formed to blend Palfinger’s engineering expertise with AP Fleet Management’s extensive experience in fleet rental solutions, giving businesses on-demand access to reliable, high-quality bucket trucks tailored to fit their specific project needs and financial requirements.
“We are excited to work alongside AP Fleet Management to bring this new rental solution to life,” said Ismael Daneluz, Palfinger vice president of Sales and Service, North and Latin America. “Businesses in the U.S. face constant pressure to keep their operations running smoothly without overextending financially. This program gives them flexible access to our premium bucket trucks, supporting their growth and enabling them to reach their goals in today’s fast-paced market.”
Commenting on this partnership, Chris Enbom, CLFP, AP Fleet Management CEO, shared, “AP has established a worldclass team in the Fleet and Mobility Business, developing systems, products, and a strong sales team to effectively expand the Palfinger mobility fleet across the United States. AP is backed by Tokyo Century Corporation, a major fleet and rental company in Japan, Southeast Asia, and other parts of the world. We look forward to working with Palfinger, a global leader in aerial work and material handling trucks.”
KEY BENEFITS
The new rental program is designed to support a wide range of business needs. Companies with short-term or seasonal projects,
smaller firms avoiding the expense of vehicle ownership, and large organizations with limited budgets can all benefit from the program’s flexible terms and options. Additionally, fleet managers dealing with unexpected vehicle repairs or those wanting to test Palfinger’s trusted bucket trucks before a full commitment will find this program a practical solution.
The program offers various Palfinger insulated and non-insulated bucket truck models, including the ETC 40 IH, ETC MH 40 IH, and ETC 35 SNT, for industries such as electric utilities, telecommunications, construction, and municipal services.
“Palfinger bucket trucks are built to deliver the highest standards of safety, durability, and performance,” Brian Heffron, VP of sales and service for aerial work platforms, service cranes and crane bodies at Palfinger North America said. “Providing them on an as-needed basis eliminates upfront expenses, making fleet management more adaptable and cost-efficient. It also helps businesses stay productive and efficient, avoiding downtime.”
With this new rental program, Palfinger reaffirms its commitment to the North American market with solutions that adapt to its unique needs. The collaboration with AP Fleet Management provides businesses with a safe and economical way to enhance operational efficiency, empowering them to expand their project capabilities with confidence.
Power Heavy Duty launches new website and private portal
Power Heavy Duty has launched a new public-facing website and corresponding private portal that provides user experience updates. The new site incorporates a mobile-responsive design with expanded functionality to offer users improved navigation and an enhanced online experience.
“With the launch of our redesigned website and private portal, we’re delivering a streamlined, intuitive experience that empowers users to access the information they need more efficiently than ever before,” said Jeff Paul, vice president of marketing at VIPAR Heavy Duty.
The Power Heavy Duty public website, www.powerheavyduty.net, is geared
toward those interested in learning more about the organization. An interactive “Find a Distributor” tool enables fleets and owner-operators to easily find their local Power Heavy Duty parts and service specialist from more than 225 locations across
the United States. Visitors can also view the portfolio of brands available through the network’s supplier partners, as well as news releases, industry event listings, and direct links to its social media platforms.
The Power Heavy Duty private portal hosts the most impactful upgrades for its distributors, providing a customizable dashboard for easy navigation to frequently referenced information, enhanced search and filter functionality, and dynamic tools to help them find the right products and supplier programs to support their business and best serve their end-user customers.
For more information, please visit www.powerheavyduty.net.
Photo: Power Heavy Duty
Photo: Palfinger
Medix adds Everest to ambulance dealer network
Medix Specialty Vehicles is expanding its dealer network with Everest Emergency Vehicles, now the authorized Medix Ambulances dealer for Minnesota and North Dakota.
“The addition of Medix Ambulances to our lineup is an exciting opportunity to meet the diverse needs of our customers,” said Bob Haselman, president of Everest Emergency Vehicles. “Medix offers a
perfect balance of quality, consistency and speed to market, providing departments with an economical solution that doesn’t compromise reliability or quality. Their competitive lead times ensure that agencies can quickly add these ambulances to their fleets, keeping their operations ready to respond when it matters most.”
Everest Emergency Vehicles is a familyowned and operated company since 1999, with more than 100 years of combined expertise across its dedicated staff, sales team, and service department.
The new partnership between Medix Ambulances and Everest Emergency Vehicles aims to bring significant benefits to emergency service providers in Minnesota and
North Dakota. Customers in the region will now have full access to Medix’s robust product lineup of ambulances. Meanwhile, fire/EMS professionals can expect a seamless experience, from sales to service, backed by a team dedicated to their success.
“With their strong relationships and deep understanding of their market needs, Everest Emergency Vehicles is the ideal partner to help Medix Ambulances expand into Minnesota and North Dakota,” said Rob Eichorst, VP of sales for Medix Specialty Vehicles. “This partnership reflects our shared commitment to providing effective solutions for first responders, ensuring they have access to the tools they need to serve their communities efficiently. Together, we’re building a stronger foundation to support those who protect and save lives every day.”
Photo:
Tata launches CV recycling program to be operated by trailer unit
Tata Motors, India’s largest commercial vehicle manufacturer, and Tata International, the global trading and distribution arm of the Tata Group, has launched a new Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facility (RVSF) in Pune. Named ‘Re.Wi.Re—Recycle with Respect’, this cutting-edge facility has an annual capacity to safely disassemble 21,000 end-of-life vehicles with environmentally friendly processes.
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This RVSF is operated by Tata International Vehicle Applications (TIVA), India’s largest trailer manufacturer, and is equipped to scrap passenger and commercial vehicles of all brands.
“Re.Wi.Re represents our commitment to creating a circular economy, leveraging advanced recycling processes that not only extract maximum value from end-of-life vehicles but also contribute to our nation’s sustainability goals,” Girish Wagh, executive director, Tata Motors, said. “Tata International has been our partner in several international markets, and we are delighted to strengthen this longstanding relationship by adding a new chapter with Re.Wi.Re.”
Speaking at the inauguration, TIVA CEO Rajeev Batracalled the launch a “pivotal step” in transforming the approach to the lifecycle of vehicles in India.
“This facility has been designed to address the growing need for efficient and safe vehicle recycling,” Batra said. “We understand the critical role of end-of-life vehicle management in shaping a sustainable and organized ecosystem for our society. This initiative supports India’s transition toward a cleaner and more regulated vehicle-recycling framework. At TIVA, we constantly push ourselves to reach new heights and remain committed to delivering our best to the communities we serve.”
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Re.Wi.Re. is a purpose-built facility for dismantling end-of-life passenger and commercial vehicles across all brands, with a focus on employing environmentally friendly practices. Five Re.Wi.Re. facilities are already running successfully in Jaipur, Bhubaneshwar, Surat, Chandigarh, and Delhi NCR.
Each Re.Wi.Re facility is fully digitalized, with all its operations seamless and paperless, according to Tata Motors. Equipped with cell-type and line-type dismantling for both commercial and passenger vehicles, there are dedicated stations for the safe dismantling of various components, including tires, batteries, fuel, oils, liquids, and gases.
Every vehicle undergoes a meticulous documentation and dismantling process designed specifically to meet the responsible scrapping requirements of passenger and commercial vehicles, guaranteeing safe disposal of all components as per the nation’s vehicle scrappage policy.
Photo: Tata Motors
Photo: Tata Motors
Randon marks export milestone
The largest manufacturer of semi-trailers in Latin America and among the ten largest in the world, Randon is highlighting its export capabilities by celebrating a company milestone.
During its Eighth International Dealership Meeting, the company promoted the symbolic handover of a semi-trailer that marks 100,000 international products over its 75 years of history.
The number includes products exported from Brazil to different countries, as well as sales made by the Randon Argentina and Hércules Chassis manufacturing units in the United States. The milestone unit is a 3-axle platform semi-trailer, sold to the Angolan market through the dealer JAP Africa.
Randon is the leading Brazilian exporter of semitrailers, with an international network consisting of 190 distribution points.
“This result demonstrates our commitment to the legacy we have built and reaffirms our responsibility to continue moving forward, always at the forefront of the sector,” Randoncorp International Business Director Renato Franco said.
Bringing together professionals from more than 20 countries, from South America and Africa, in the countryside near São Paulo, Randon updated the global team on the current market challenges in 2025 and on investments, innovations, and new technologies that will contribute to its success. The company also provided awards for the best dealers of the year.
Over the past 75 years, Randon has delivered more than 600,000 semitrailers, including semi-trailers, trailers and bodies in Brazil and to more than 70 countries.
These products are designed and developed according to local transport requirements and adapted to each territory, guided by the brand’s principles and values built over the decades, reinforcing innovation, safety and quality in the production, according to the company.
In addition to exporting products from Brazil, Randon has also been manufacturing and exporting from Argentina for 30 years, with a unit in the province of Santa Fé. And for two years, the company has been operating in the United States under the Hercules Chassis brand, which has a production unit in New Jersey.
DRIVING
Photo: Randon
Fully invested
Texas-based trailer manufacturer optimizes output with advanced automation
By Jason McDaniel
ATESVILLE, Texas—Matt Krock spent his first two years as Kalyn Siebert’s president reducing order backlogs the old-fashioned way, going from lead times of 18-20 months to 90-120 days by leaning into lean manufacturing, emphasizing “first-pass” quality, and better staging and moving trailer components and support beams. “Dealers wanted more inventory,” Krock said. “They would take anything we had. If we could give them two more trailers in a month, they wanted them because they were selling them.
“So the name of the game was efficiency and improved production.”
Now Krock is enjoying a modern assist from Engineered Transportation International, Kalyn Siebert’s parent company, which last year earmarked $4.5 million for cutting-edge equipment intended to further bolster production capacity, manufacturing quality and trailer durability, including an advanced laser processing machine, an automated welding cell, a plasma cutter and a semi-automatic saw.
“At EnTrans, we serve over 50% of the specialized bulk transportation market, which drives our commitment to continuously enhance our capabilities,” said Jake Radish, EnTrans chief commercial officer. “As the demands of our customers evolve, particularly in the bulk and specialized transport sectors, it’s critical that we lead the market not just in production volume, but in innovation as well. Our investment in advanced technologies at Kalyn Siebert—whether it’s automated manufacturing processes or enhanced engineering systems—ensures that we maintain our position as the go-to provider for the industry’s most demanding applications, delivering solutions that are built to last and engineered to perform at the highest standards.”
The Gatesville, Texas-based manufacturer’s upgrades already are paying off.
Kalyn Siebert last year secured a contract with Quality Carriers—one of the largest bulk transporters in North America—to build all the carrier’s extendable ISO tank chassis trailers thanks to its well-established willingness to customize equipment and future-focused commitment to embracing technology.
“Their new equipment is definitely boosting throughput,” said Zeek Hernandez, Quality Carriers director of asset management.
Relationship-driven manufacturer Krock, a 10-year EnTrans veteran, arrived in Gatesville with big boots to fill.
Kalyn Siebert, founded in 1969 as a manufacturer of boat-deck trailers, joined Heil Trailer International in 2000 and transitioned to a standalone EnTrans brand after American
Industrial Partners formed EnTrans in 2014, so the top job requires expertise in both trailer sales and production— and Radish and EnTrans CEO Ryan Rockafellow both held the position before taking on their current roles. “It’s a lot more pressure,” he joked. “I can’t bamboozle them because they know this business too well.”
As one of the largest employers in the area, Kalyn Siebert also is well-known throughout the community—and the heavy-haul industry.
Kalyn Siebert today employs nearly 200 people on a sprawling 40-acre property located 40 miles west of Waco that boasts 13 total buildings with 300,000 sq. ft. of combined space. The company primarily serves the oil-and-gas, towing-and-recovery, and heavy-haul sectors but also builds fueling systems,
A heavy-haul HRG flip-neck trailer at the Kalyn Siebert manufacturing facility in Gatesville, Texas.
Photo: Jason McDaniel | Trailer/Body Builders
Matt Krock, Kalyn Siebert president
Photo: Jason McDaniel | Trailer/Body Builders
Cristobol Reza, Kalyn Siebert lead programmer and laser operator, works with the new Mazak Optiplex Neo 3015 laser processing machine.
Photo: Jason McDaniel | Trailer/Body Builders
The Kalyn Siebert shop now boasts two saws, including a new semi-automatic HydMech V-18-60 vertical band saw.
Photo: Jason McDaniel | Trailer/Body Builders
Jermaine Dickey, Kalyn Siebert engineer and lead automation programmer, at left, and Luis Gamez, an automation technician, adjust the new Miller PerformArc 2200 automated welder.
Photo: Jason McDaniel | Trailer/Body Builders
OPERATIONS PROFILE | Kalyn Siebert
and flatbed and van trailers for the agriculture, construction, defense, and forestry industries. It also creates highly specialized units, including transports for NASA space shuttles and SpaceX rockets. “Kalyn is known for customization and innovative designs when the market needs them,” Krock said. “So, just in the last seven years, we’ve come out with four new trailers that changed things.
“Our VersaMaxx is extremely popular in towing and recovery, our MiniDeck is taking off in the heavy-haul section, and our forestry chipper trailer and this year’s ISO chassis launch have really broadened our product offerings.”
The manufacturer, which built 815 units in 2023, runs six production lines with total capacity ranging from 1,000 mixed units to as many as 2,000 smaller units. Kalyn Siebert sells most of its
trailers to its 30 dealers but also deals directly with select customers, like the Israeli military, which turns to Kalyn Siebert for refuel tanks, and now—due in large part to the elbow-grease efforts of Krock’s team—Quality Carriers. The CSX-owned bulk hauler ordered 175 ISO chassis in 2024 and plans to buy more this year.
“We’re happy with the relationship,” said Shawn Harris, Quality Carriers vice president of tech services. “When we’re looking for equipment providers, we’re seeking people who are relationship-driven—not transactional.
“Kalyn has been great for us.”
Premium production equipment
Now EnTrans is rewarding Kalyn Siebert with an influx of automation.
After focusing much of its attention the last few years on its Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, Heil and Polar Tank Trailer facility—the most prolific tanker manufacturing operation in North America— Kalyn Siebert’s parent delivered four high-tech machines in 2024, and more are on the way this year. “The support they’ve given us, not only to keep business here, but to grow and improve it, has been amazing,” Krock said.
The most striking addition is the Miller PerformArc 2200 automated welder.
The expandable two-sided robot cell features a 10-ft. welding-arm reach with a 70-in. rotational diameter and 2,200
lbs. of capacity per side, boosting production efficiency and consistency. “We have a great partnership with Miller,” Krock said. “They’ve been excellent for us.” Miller installers, however, were most impressed with the Mazak Optiplex Neo 3015 that also arrived in April 2024— with a $1 million price tag. “They looked at it and said, ‘That machine will have the biggest impact on your plant,’” Krock recalled. They knew it was going to be a gamechanger.”
The 10-kW laser can cut parts from steel sheets up to 5’ wide, 10’ long, and 1” thick.
“Now we can run quicker, and we can run more accurately, with better quality and more consistency,” Krock confirmed.
The new Messer Titan III plasma cutting system with Hypertherm XPR300 technology—Kalyn Siebert’s third plasma cutter—further supports “firstpass” quality with repeatable precision for plates of aluminum and steel up to 2” thick. The advanced, CNC-controlled system comes fully equipped with an air-booster package and a vented water-injection gas console.
“If you’re cutting a sheet and the machine jogs the wrong way, or cuts at a slightly incorrect angle, you’re scrapping that material, and you have to run the program again,” Krock explained. “This new plasma cutter is far more consistent, with much tighter tolerances than our other machines can hold. It just has newer technology.”
Finally, a new semi-automatic HydMech V-18-60 vertical band saw is simultaneously boosting fabrication safety and productivity.
Krock also expects to install a Key Plant Automation submerged arc welder and automated paint booth in early 2025. The new sub-arc, which will replace an existing machine, is spec’d with a Miller SubArc DC-1000 power supply, boasts dual-table capacity for improved throughput, and uses Hobart sub-arc wire for greater weld penetration. The paint booth, which features two fully autonomous robots, will help Kalyn Siebert’s military division strengthen its long-term relationships with the U.S. Army, U.S. Marines, and
Kalyn Siebert now has three plasma cutters, including the new Messer Titan III plasma cutting system with Hypertherm XPR300 technology.
Photo: Jason McDaniel | Trailer/Body Builders
Women are welders, too. Kalyn Siebert’s team includes Natalie McCarley, at left, and Annie Lewis, in the background.
Photo: Jason McDaniel | Trailer/Body Builders
the Israeli Defense Force by meeting the increasing volume demand they’re forecasting for 2025 and beyond.
“Kalyn Siebert became a leader in heavy-haul trailers by targeting those customers who value quality and attention to detail in their builds,” Rockafellow said. “To ensure we continue setting a premium standard in all segments Kalyn serves, we’ve invested in the latest production equipment, and we’ll continue to do so. Our employees and customers all benefit from the many investments we’re making in Gatesville.”
A well-equipped, safer workforce
Highly automated equipment won’t replace employees, leaders emphasize.
Instead, automation makes their jobs easier and safer, and helps generate interest in younger workers. “It will help us address workforce challenges,” Krock maintained. “Sometimes it’s difficult to find qualified people in our area, so none of the equipment that we’re bringing in is replacing jobs. In many cases, automation is about taking skilled welders and painters, and developing them into programmers or material specialists.
“Then they can apply their welding expertise in new, more technical roles.”
Kalyn Siebert also takes an active approach to finding and retaining qualified male and female workers. The manufacturer helped Gatesville High students build a trailer for their senior project in 2023. It also partners with nearby trade schools, including TSTC Texas State Technical College in Waco and CTC Central Texas College in Killeen, and offers in-house welding and safety training. An instructor was leading an ongoing course on hand safety when Trailer/Body Builders visited in October.
Those critical iniatives are producing results as well.
Kalyn Siebert won a Truck Trailer Manufacturers Association Plant Safety Award and a CEO Most Improved Safety Award in 2023. “I’m proud to say we’ve really reenergized our focus on safety over the last several years,” Krock said. Employees also benefit from those efficiency upgrades that elevate workplace conditions.
Material handlers now use compartmented metal racks to organize and present build kits to welders, helping to reduce missing-parts time, and improve line load times and worker well-being, since material handlers aren’t running around searching for parts at the last minute while welders wait impatiently. Kalyn Siebert also uses unique “rollaround” trailers crafted from leftover iron to deliver support beams and critical components to the shop more effectively and safely. “These parts presentation racks and roll-arounds have had multiple benefits that we didn’t anticipate,” Krock said.
Hitched to custom trailer design
Lean manufacturing improvements, led by lean coordinator Precious Ross, and advanced equipment investments convinced Quality Carriers that Kalyn Siebert could meet its demanding delivery schedule and durability requirements. But the manufacturer’s long-standing enthusiasm for collaborating with clients to develop unique transportation solutions sealed the deal on their business-boosting relationship. “We have four versions of these ISO chassis trailers in our inventory now, from four different suppliers, and theirs is by far the best,” said Randy Strutz, Quality Carriers president.
That’s why Krock intends to stick to Kalyn Siebert’s roots as a medium-volume, specialized manufacturer, even as it leverages its new capabilities to spur growth in a more normalized trailer
market. “If a customer wants something, and they’re willing to work with us, we’ll figure it out,” Krock said.
The company’s 2025 plans include relaunching its entry-level hydraulic removable gooseneck (HRG) trailer into the general construction segment—with advanced automation, Kalyn Sibert can be “more aggressive, and make more at a competitive price,” Krock explained— and introducing the new SlideMaxx trailer, a lighter-duty unit aimed at equipment rental companies, in April at the Florida Tow Show.
“We want to preserve our identity as a custom-trailer designer,” Krock said.
“That’s who Kalyn has always been— and there’s still a need for it. Everybody wants to make as many trailers as possible, but there is a place for companies that are responsive to customers with specific hauling conditions.
“Those are the people who we’re trying to serve.” TBB
Kalyn Siebert honoered the 46th work anniversary of Steve Gould by naming the street in front of its Gatesville, Texas, facility after him. Coincidentally, a Kalyn Siebert trailer transporting a SpaceX rocket engine passed by as the picture was taken.
Photo: Kalyn Siebert
A newly completed Kalyn Siebert extendable ISO chassis trailer awaits delivery to new customer Quality Carriers.
Photo: Jason McDaniel | Trailer/Body Builders
TRUCKS, TRUCKS, TRUCKS
Work Truck Week marks 25th big show
While early March weather in Indy is never a sure thing, a gathering of the work truck industry is guaranteed to be a lively, can’t-miss event, come snow, rain, or shine.
The 25th annual Work Truck Week, hosted by NTEA – The Work Truck Association, will run from March 4-7, 2025, at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis. Once again, the event will include the Work Truck Show, Green Truck Summit, NTEA Annual Meeting, Ride & Drive, educational programming, and more.
“Much like the industry it serves, Work Truck Week is constantly adapting,” said Steve Carey, NTEA president and CEO. “We maintain the elements at the core of its success, like a packed exhibit hall, relevant educational sessions and unbeatable opportunities to connect with other industry professionals, while adjusting other pieces and integrating new features to deliver the information and experiences our attendees and exhibitors need to energize their operations.”
This year, the Work Truck Show exhibit hall will feature booths from 500 companies showcasing commercial vehicles, equipment, and products for chassis, truck bodies, snow and ice control equipment, and fuel technology accessories and components. The main exhibit hall will be open March 5-7,
and the New Exhibitor Pavilion will be open from March 5-6. Additionally, this year participants can pre-purchase tickets for lunch on March 5 or March 6 during advanced registration.
On the same dates that the New Exhibitor Pavilion will be open, NTEA will also be holding its Ride & Drive event. Open to all event attendees on a first-come, first-served basis, a range of vehicles will be on hand for a spin, including all-electric vans, trucks and chassis, as well as internal combustion vehicles featuring advanced technology to improve fuel utilization and reduce greenhouse gases or particulate matter.
Meanwhile, NTEA’s Green Truck Summit (more details on following page) will be held on March 4 and cover information, solutions, and resources for work truck sustainability and efficiency. The event will also host sessions on applied and emerging technologies for the commercial vehicle market.
The educational program (see Page 24) for Work Truck Week will run from March 4-6. It will feature both in-depth special sessions and shorter breakout sessions on topics such as market data, industry trends, vehicle engineering and compliance, government regulations, workforce development, fleet management, and vehicle propulsion and sustainability solutions.
This year’s Chassis Updates will also feature 16 vehicle OEMS, including 4 EV manufacturers, to discuss vehicle changes and upfitting solutions. Keep in mind that those with the Work Truck Week and Green Truck Summit Package can access some breakout session materials on-demand after the event.
Finally, 2024’s Work Truck Week will include its opening reception on March 4, a Generation Next Leadership Workshop and reception on March 5, and, of course, the NTEA Annual Meeting on March 6. The Annual Meeting portion of Work Truck Week will include breakfast, a keynote speaker, and an update on NTEA’s resources and initiatives. A new event this year is the Inaugural Commercial Vehicle Data Exchange & Reception, which will be held later on March 6, and will focus on expanding and engaging with the commercial vehicle data ecosystem.
To register and select housing for Work Truck Week 2025, visit www.worktruckweek.com.
Photo:
A range of vehicles will be on hand for a spin at the annual Ride & Drive, including all-electric vans, trucks and chassis.
Look into the future with Ford’s Jennifer Brace at Green Truck Summit
Jennifer Brace, chief futurist at Ford Motor Company, will serve as the Green Truck Summit keynote speaker.
Held annually as part of Work Truck Week, Green Truck Summit (GTS) is a full-day immersion into advanced technology for commercial vehicles.
New for 2025, GTS Breakout Session
Tracks highlight how technology can improve vehicle productivity and efficiency in internal combustion engines and advanced fuel applications.
“As commercial vehicles become increasingly complex, it’s imperative for industry professionals to understand future technology and how it might impact their operations,” said Jennifer Mitchell, NTEA senior director of content development. “Jen Brace spends
every day exploring ‘How do we think about the stuff we don’t even know we need to think about?’ This makes her a great speaker to get everyone’s mental wheels turning.”
Green Truck Summit debuted in 2009 in response to growing interest in hybrid and alternative fuel systems for commercial vehicles. Over the last 15 years, EVs and alternative fuel commercial vehicles have become more widely adopted, so Green Truck Summit has evolved to cover not only advanced fuels, but any technology that may impact the work truck industry’s drive toward increasing vehicle sustainability, productivity, and efficiency. The 2025 program includes sessions on autonomous technology, hydrogen applications
in work trucks, telematics, strategies to achieve zero-emission targets, synthetic fuel options, and more.
As chief futurist at Ford, Brace leads discussions on long-term thinking, planning and strategic development. By researching demographic shifts, identifying market outliers and developing data-driven scenarios for the future, she challenges her colleagues to think through a broad range of possible narratives before settling on any one plan of action.
Brace has worked across the spectrum of vehicle technology in her more than 20 years with Ford. She launched multiple versions of SYNC in-vehicle technology, led user-experience research projects on autonomous vehicles, and drove mobility innovation at Ford’s Greenfield Labs research center in Palo Alto, California. She holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and a master’s degree in engineering management from the University of Michigan.
Green Truck Summit 2025 follows a similar schedule and format as the 2024 event. John Davis, managing director of MotorWeek, returns as emcee. After welcome remarks and Brace’s keynote address, there are two general sessions for all attendees.
The first is Achieving Zero-Emission Targets: Real-World Strategies and Key Takeaways for the Commercial Vehicle Industry. It’s followed by Beyond the Road: Autonomous Technology Insights
Photo: NTEA
Photo: NTEA
from Agriculture, Construction and Mining Sectors.
Following the included GTS Lunch, work truck industry leaders share their perspectives in an industry roundtable focused on advancing technology adoption. Attendees can then choose from an array of breakout sessions covering a variety of advanced vehicle and fuel technology initiatives.
These are divided by topic into three tracks:
• Applied Technology : Highlighting in-market technology with real-world applications, focusing on future-forward use and evolution within the overall commercial vehicle industry.
• Emerging Technology : Showcasing up-and-coming technology from inside the commercial vehicle industry as well as from other
The summit highlights the work truck industry’s drive toward increasing vehicle sustainability, productivity, and efficiency.
industries and segments, providing potential applications and areas for advancement.
• Sponsored Updates: Featuring the latest clean vehicle product updates from industry companies.
Finally, everyone comes back together for the Bringing It Home—Green Truck Association Closing Session, during which current and past leaders of NTEA’s Green Truck Association serve as the “voice of reason,” highlighting key learnings of the day and discussing issues affecting the industry.
CV data session added to WTW25 agenda
Join the commercial vehicle industry data revolution at Work Truck Week 2025. NTEA – The Work Truck Association is introducing the Commercial Vehicle Data Exchange & Reception, a half-day Special Session on March 6 showcasing new possibilities for obtaining, analyzing and using data; understanding market trends; and improving business processes.
“We are on the cusp of a data revolution in the commercial vehicle industry,” explains Kevin Koester, NTEA managing director. “Software-defined vehicles, telematics, artificial intelligence and other technologies are generating data and providing resources that can help businesses plan and progress in new ways. The time is right to come together to explore the tools to leverage existing data and lead the development of the next wave of data-driven decision-making.”
Commercial Vehicle Data Exchange is designed for industry professionals looking for new data sources and who are interested in leveraging their company’s data and/or collaborating with others to move the industry forward.
Schedule information
The four-hour event kicks off with a review of the current state of data availability and use in the commercial vehicle industry led by Andrew Wrobel, NTEA commercial vehicle insight strategist. This is followed by three breakouts:
• Best practices for using data in business decisions
• Evolution through telematics
• Leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) for data analysis and protection.
In the first session, Joe Langley, associate director, North American light vehicle production for S&P Global Mobility, will identify best practices for vehicle
For those who’d like to attend, GTS Conference Package registration includes all GTS sessions, any WTW Breakout Sessions, admission to Work Truck Show exhibits and Work Truck Week Ride & Drive and, new this year, a ticket to Opening Reception.
Registered GTS Conference Package attendees also can access some Breakout Session materials on-demand after the event.
Green Truck Summit is held at JW Marriott Indianapolis, which is attached to Indiana Convention Center.
analysis to make better-informed business decisions.
Steven Berube, vice president of sales for GEOTAB, will then explore the evolution of Class 3–7 multi-stage manufactured CVs through the lens of telematics. He’ll provide an overview of the macro trends that have influenced the industry and the role that telematics has played in supporting these transitions— as well as how changes in telematics will help drive the industry into the future.
Visit Booth 3401 during exhibit hall hours to talk with NTEA staff members who are experts in fleet relations, industry data, vehicle engineering and compliance, government regulations and more.
Photo: NTEA
Finally, Bucky Dodd, CEO and principal consultant at ClearKinetic, will discuss how AI is transforming data analysis, making it easier than ever to turn complex information into clear, actionable insights.
The session will uncover how AI-driven analysis makes it easier to identify trends, refine strategies and make data-backed decisions in real time. It will also examine best practices for securing data.
Koester will wrap up the conference with a look to the future of data acquisition and analysis within the commercial vehicle industry. The conference is followed by a reception to give participants the opportunity to discuss what they’ve learned and exchange ideas.
“Success in the work truck industry goes beyond hardware and software,” Koester says. “It increasingly depends on data and the people who are willing to create, leverage and collaborate on it.
Attending the Commercial Vehicle Data Exchange is an important step in understanding how to transform data into strategic actions to move operations—and the work truck industry—forward.”
The Commercial Vehicle Data Exchange & Reception Special Session runs 1:30–5:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 6, at Indiana Convention Center. It is not included in any Work Truck Week registration package – it is available for purchase separately.
Improve operations, build for future
From rookies to veterans, the WTW educational program has something for everyone
Attendees may explore current trends, delve into technical details and learn new strategies for success through the WTW 2025 educational program. Opportunities include new Special Sessions on talent development, commercial vehicle data, and selling and servicing the tech-driven truck, as well as a full slate of shorter Breakout Sessions.
The 2025 educational program is designed to provide insights and strategies to help commercial vehicle industry professionals plan for the future and enhance operational growth. Key topics include market data and industry trends, vehicle engineering and compliance, government regulations, chassis OEM updates, workforce development, fleet management, vehicle propulsion and sustainability solutions and more.
“Education is one of the core pillars of Work Truck Week,” says Jennifer Mitchell, NTEA senior director of content development. “We have sessions for fleet managers, vehicle upfitters, truck dealers and other industry professionals with a wide range of experience, from those just starting out to seasoned veterans.”
In-depth Special Sessions
Work Truck Week Special Sessions provide a deep dive into important industry
NTEA
topics. Space is limited and registration is required.
Navigating Today’s Workplace is the topic of this year’s Generation Next Leadership Workshop & Networking Reception on March 5. Led by Amy Hirsh Robinson, chief people officer for Kings Hawaiian, it will provide actionable tools and strategies to thrive in a competitive work environment. Robinson also leads the session Future-Proofing
Your Workforce: Strategies for Talent Development earlier the same day. This session will reveal how to develop talent from within an organization and explore new methods for sourcing diverse, skilled candidates from outside.
Truck dealers will learn from NADA/ ATD experts how automation, artificial intelligence and connected technologies are transforming the commercial vehicle industry and how these changes
Work Truck Week provides attendees access to educational sessions led by industry and technical experts covering top-of-mind industry issues.
Photo:
EVENT PREVIEW | NTEA
impact selling and repairing vehicles during Navigating the Future: Selling and Servicing the Tech-Driven Truck on March 6.
Commercial Vehicle Data Exchange & Reception showcases new possibilities for obtaining, analyzing and using data. Led by representatives from NTEA, S&P Global Mobility, GEOTAB and ClearKinetic, this new half-day Special Session is held March 6.
The popular Getting Started with Fleet Management all-day workshop returns on March 5, as does the follow-up course, Advanced Principles of Fleet Management on March 6. Both are led by experts from RTA Fleet.
Breakout Sessions
Breakout Sessions on March 4–6 run the gamut from a basic introduction to the commercial vehicle industry to preparing for the future.
Registration for a GTS or WTW Conference Package includes access to all Breakout Sessions.
Highlights include:
• Building Better Commercial Vehicles – Weight Analysis 101
• Commercial Vehicle Certification: What’s Behind the Label?
• Planning the Future: Considerations in Chassis Development for Upfitters and Manufacturers
• Future Impacts: How a Changing World is Evolving Commercial Operations
• The Future of Hybrid in Commercial Vehicle Propulsion
• U.S. Department of Energy Initiatives for the Commercial Vehicle Industry
• Heavy-Duty Technology Weigh-in:
Near-Zero vs. Zero-Emission Sustainability Solutions for Commercial Trucks
• Introduction to Work Trucks: From Chassis to Equipment and Everything in Between
• Meeting Reporting and Regulatory Requirements
• High Voltage Safety Training
• State of Emissions Regulations and the Impact on Multi-Stage Vehicles
Exclusive OEM updates
Unique to Work Truck Week are annual Chassis Updates during which leading commercial vehicle manufacturers share their latest chassis specifications and designs, review body and equipment installations and provide insight into future vehicle and technology plans.
This year, 16 manufacturers are holding Chassis Updates, including Bollinger Motors , Daimler Truck North America , Ford Pro , Freightliner Custom Chassis , GM Envolve , Hino Trucks , International, Isuzu Commercial Truck of America , Kenworth Truck Company, Lion Electric , Mack Trucks, Mercedes-Benz USA , Mullen Automotive , Peterbilt Motors Company, RAM Professional and Ree Automotive .
For the full educational program schedule, session descriptions, speaker bios and more, visit worktruckweek. com/education. TBB
Chassis Updates, during which leading vehicle manufacturers share their latest design specs and review body and equipment installations, are among the most anticipated sessions during Work Truck Week.
Photo: NTEA
Work Truck Week attendees can explore commercial vehicles and equipment from all angles. NTEA
A. L. Hansen Mfg Co 4550
A.R.E. Accessories 1937
AA Products Inc N23
ACARI Engineering Company LLC 3521
ACME Products Company 6433
Adrian Steel Company 4905
Aebi Schmidt Group
North America 1721
Aeromotive Services Inc 544
Agri-Cover, Inc. 853
Air-Flo Mfg 5601
Alamo Group Snow & Ice Team 239
Allegis Corporation 5037
Alliance Fleet 4101
Allied Mobile Systems 4920
Allison Transmission 2901
Ally 5928
ALT Enterprises 653
Altec Industries 5043
AlumiTank Inc 1142
AM Equipment 447
American Lung Association Clean Air Choice
American Truckboxes, LLC 343
Ametek Switch 154
Ampcontrol N25
Ampliroll Hooklifts - Marrel Corp 4100
Analytic Systems 1047
Anthony Liftgates Inc 2737
APSCO 3823
Arctic Equipment Mfg Corp 5825
ARI-HETRA 6141
Arkon Mounts 5922
ASA / Voyager Camera Systems 2341
ASE 1552
Associated Graphics ( AGI ) 567
Aurora Parts 6227
Austin Hardware & Supply Inc 4605
Auto Crane 1901
Automann USA 129
Automotive International Inc 5921
Avery Barron Industries 746
Axalta 843
AXIONLIFT NORTH AMERICA LLC 113
B&W Trailer Hitches 321
B20 Club of Illinois
B20 Club of Indiana
Bad Dog Tools 5920
BEAU-ROC Inc 5733
BedLock Safety Products LLC 4134
Bedrock Truck Beds 253
Bennett DriveAway 2247
Bergstrom Inc 437
Binotto USA LLC 6215
Black Fleet Network™ 118
Blue Arc | A Shyft Group Brand 2927
Blue Bird Body Co 571
Blue Ridge Manufacturing 4501
Bollinger Motors 413
BOLT Locks by STRATTEC 1343
Bonnell Industries Inc 2335
Boomerang Rubber 4334
Bosch Automotive Service Solutions 442
Boss Industries, LLC 2911
BOSS Snowplow 5933
Bostik Inc 4307
BrandFX Body Company 2621
Brandmotion 6020
Brandon Manufacturing 5701
Brigade Electronics Inc 5913
Bucher Hydraulics, Inc. 5221
Work Truck Week Exhibitor Listing
Buckstop Truckware Inc. 6443
BUILTBRIGHT 3620
Bulldog Winch Co LLC 2244
Bullet Proof Diesel 5609
Buyers Products Company .... 4329 [See ad pgs. 2-3]
C.R. Brophy Machine Works Inc
Cadet Truck Bodies 3413
CARGO EASE INC. 6015
Carlisle Polyurethane Systems 543
CARR 649
Cast Products Inc 942
Certified Power Solutions 6119
Certusoft, Inc. 347
Chemcoaters LLC N21
Clean Cities and Communities, a U.S. Department of Energy partnership 5708
Clean Fuels Alliance America 337
Clean Seal Inc 421
Cleveland Tank & Supply N14
CM Truck Beds 721
ComeUp USA Inc 6016
Command Light 228
Commercial Truck Trader 1647
Compressed Air Systems LLC 2924
CORE PRO 865
Cougar VibrationDiv of Martin Engineering 758
Coxreels 1453
Crane Composites 4350
Cranes 101 N15
Crownline By Ground Zero 462
Crysteel Manufacturing 3601
CTech Manufacturing 3321
CTW 742
Cummins Inc 763
CURT 753
Custom Hoists Inc 6028
Custom Truck One Source 5809
CVG 762
D&W Diesel, Inc. 5917
D.O.T. Tiedown 2342
Daimler Truck North America 1121
Dakota Bodies 733
Dana Incorporated 2446
DECKED LLC 6241
Dee Zee Inc 537
Deflecto, LLC 2243
Dejana Truck & Utility Equipment Co., LLC 5241
DEL Hydraulics Inc 3618
Delivery Concepts 6301
DewEze Mfg 3419
Dexter 4342
Dhollandia 101
Diamond Vogel Paint and Coatings 4018
DIG Fleet 362
DirectDrive PLUS LLC 5720
Discount Tire 562
Disolac N17
Dometic 547
Dragonfly Energy 6409
Drive Clean Indiana - GOEVIN 5710
Drive Products Manufacturing 6323
Driverge Vehicle Innovations 6209
DuraClass 3801
Dur-A-Lift, Inc. 3109
DuraMag
| A Shyft Group Brand 3032
DYNASET 960
Dynatect Manufacturing, Inc 2242
Eaton 1943
EAVX 601
Eberhard Manufacturing 5121
Eberspaecher Climate
Control Systems/Espar 1146
EBY Truck Bodies (M.H. EBY, Inc.) 3101
Electrification Coalition
Element Fleet Management 443
Elite Truck 4042
Engineered Bonding Solutions LLC 542
Engineered Components Co 4014
Entrada Group de Mexico N09
Ex-Guard Industries 110
Extendobed 4900
EZ Connector Inc 5532
EZ STAK LLC 229
Fairview USA Inc 4305
FCAR TECH USA, LLC 108
Feal Ramp 1144
Federal Signal 943
Femco USA Inc. 445
Fia Inc 150
Fiber-Tech Industries, Inc. 5127
Fill-Rite 5534
Final Vehicle Solutions, Inc. 1437
FISHER 5533
FLD Inc 1949
Fleet Services by Cox Automotive 5433
Fleetio 422
Fontaine Modification 429
FORCE America Inc 4351
Ford Pro™ 2301
Form Manufacturing 506
Freedman Seating Co 4825
Freightliner Custom Chassis 1409
Full Vision Inc 4330
Fullbay 6401
Fulterer USA Inc 4301
Gamber-Johnson LLC 5943
Garnsey Technologies 566
Gauge 620
Genesis Products 6 125
Geotab 624
Gledhill Road Machinery Co 501
Globetech Manufacturing 6425
Gloso Tech 659
GM Envolve 4629
Go Power! 646
Golight, Inc. 1043
Gray Manufacturing Company, Inc. 6417
Great Dane 301
Greater Indiana Clean Cities, Inc. 4332
Gregory Highway 6437
GRIDRACK
Grote Industries 6021
GS Engineering 847
Hamsar A Methode Electronics Company 6322
Hannay Reels Inc 4551
Hansen International, Inc. 313
Harp’s Tarps 5727
Havis, Inc. 1753
Heavy Duty Lighting 5909
Heavy Motions Inc 4044
Hellwig Suspension Products 5625
Henderson Products Inc 5541
Hendrickson .................. 308 [See ad pg. 11]
High Bar Brands 4404
High Quality Truck Parts 628
EVENT PREVIEW | NTEA
Lucerix International Corp 5615
Lytx N12
M&K Truck Centers 4141
Mack Trucks 3123
Magnadyne Corp 4028
Mailhot Industries 2825
Maintainer Corp of Iowa, Inc 3117
Manufactured Products Group 2047
Marion Body Works 3513
Masterack 601
Masterflux by Tecumseh 405
Maxilift Cranes USA 5138
MaximusGroup 952
Maxon Lift Corp 4611 [See ad pg. 7]
Maxxima 1744
MCLAREN DOORS 114
Mechanical Products Company 521
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC 1421
Merchants Fleet 6111
Merritt Aluminum Products Company 5901
Meyer Distributing 4225
Michelin North America 655
Midway Specialty Vehicles 1742
Miller Electric Mfg LLC 1851
Milwaukee Tool Sponsorship CTD02
Mi-T-M Corp 2344
Mitsubishi HC Capital America 529
Mobile Mounts 100
Modern WorkTruck Solutions 6024
Mohawk Lifts 4151
Monroe Custom Utility Bodies Inc 637
Morgan Olson 601
Morgan Truck Body 601
Motiv Electric Trucks 1833
MS Foster & Associates Inc 2146
MSRC Room 110
MTE Hydraulics 4311
Mullen Automotive 4043
Muncie Power Products 3427
Myers Spring Co Inc 6214
NACHO Offroad Lighting / ARB 4x4 Accessories 6413
NAFA Fleet Management
Association 672
National Fleet Products 6333
National Fleet Services 1247
ND Defense N02
Nissan Commercial Vehicles 4135
Nortech LED / Triple C Mudflaps 468
North American Council for Freight Efficiency (NACFE)
No-Spill Systems Inc 956
Novawinch USA 135
NTEA – The Work Truck Association 3401
NTEA Partners Booth 3201
Oakmont Capital Services 234
ObeCo Inc 861
Octillion Power Systems 570
Odyne Systems, LLC 4010
OE Wheel Works Inc 139
One Nexus Group 5725
One Step GPS N03
Onspot 4623
On-Trux Ltd 136
Opti-Luxx Inc 269
Optimo Electronics 632
Optronics International LLC 300
Orbital Installation Technologies, LLC N18
Orscheln Products LLC 221
Ozinga Energy 5704
Padoan SRL 5227
Palfinger North America, LLC 2321
Palmer Power & Truck Equipment 5741
Paneloc Corporation 5617
Parker 3611
Parkhurst Manufacturing Co Inc 4321
PartnerShip®
Patriot Fleet Solutions 964
Pearl Solutions Group 2142
Penske Transportation Solutions 5824
Performance Advantage Company 132
Peterbilt Motors Company 4701
Peterson Manufacturing Co 4231
Phoenix USA Inc 6223
Piusi USA Inc 6435
Plastex Matting Inc N08
Plastic Components Inc 546
Pollak 6229
Posey Logistics Inc 5605
Powerbrace Corporation 6109
POWERSTOP 2045
Propane Education &
Research Council 353
ProTech Industries Inc 4421
Pro-Vision Video Systems 5826
Purple Wave Auction N05
Quake LED - Strobe Lux 4129
Quigley Motor Co Inc 5841
Rack-It Truck Racks 4013
RAM Mounts 6014
RAM Professional 5101
Ranger Design Inc 953
Raptor Series 420
RC Industries Inc 2821
Reading Truck 601
REDARC 469
REE Automotive 1843
REIZ AUTO PARTS
(THAILAND) CO ,LTD 630
Rhino Linings Corporation 1553
Ridge Corporation 2043
Riga Wood North America, Inc 5437
Rigidized Metals Corporation 407
Riverside Mfg , LLC 3001
Rivian 929
RKI Inc 3329
Rockport Commercial Vehicles –Division of Forest River Inc 6101
Roechling Industrial Gastonia 2143
ROLAIR Compressors 2049
Romik 158
Rosco Vision 1 345
Rostra Accessories/Vehicle Safety
Manufacturing 2441
Rotary Solutions 1029
Rotational Specialties LLC N04
ROUSH CleanTech 553
Royal Truck Body
| A Shyft Group Brand 2933
RTA: The Fleet Success Company 5613
Rugby Manufacturing 3701
Rush Truck Centers 2529
Ryder Racks 3622
S&P Global Mobility 6431
SAFE FLEET 5321
Sage Oil Vac Inc 2811
Samlex America Inc 3819
Samsara 4821
Sauber Mfg Co Sponsorship WTD05
SCHROEDER INDUSTRIES, LLC 2920
Sears Seating N01
SH Truck Bodies 5501
Sharpline Converting Inc 4035
Shenzhen Autoequips Tech Co Ltd 5536
Sherwin-Williams 4125
Shocker Hitch 525
Shur-Co 5443
Signature Series Gas Springs 752
Simplicity Air Ltd 1243
SlideMaster by Innovative Industries 349
SmartCap 5000
Smyrna Truck 2137
Sno-Way International Inc 3629
Sortimo of North America 1501
SoundOff Signal 505
SpaceKap 365
SpitzLift Manufacturing 1658
Spokane Computer 5226
Stabilit America, Inc 508
STAHL / Arbortech Truck Bodies 3719
Stealth Power 4001
Stellar Industries Inc 2629
Stertil-Koni 3829
STI / Tiger Cranes 6025
Stinger Commercial 4601
Strobes-R-US, A Shyft Group Brand 3033
Summit Truck Bodies LLC 245
Superior Signals Inc 6309
SuperSprings International, Inc 631
Swap Hogg Roll-Offs by DownEaster 461
SwapLoader USA Ltd 1743
Switch-N-Go® 5133
Swivel Storage Solutions C/O Clamca toolbox Distributors 4235
Syntech Systems, Inc /FuelMaster 152
TAFCO Equipment Co 2829
Takler N13
Taylor Pump & Lift 3013
Teak Isle 6115
TecNiq Inc 4721
Terex Utilities 3619
Terminal Supply Company 5621
The Godwin Group 5021
The Papers Inc - The Municipal 569
The Transport Project
Thieman Tailgates Inc 1536
THK Rhythm Automotive 3733
Thunder Creek Equipment 663
Tie 4 Safe 5822
TigerTough 621
Timbren Industries Inc 4315
TODCO 1613
Tommy Gate / Anteo USA 5031
TOPPER MANUFACTURING 366
Toraco & KMS 3830
TorcUP, Inc N19
TowMate, LLC 1448
TrailerDecking com 4004
Tramec, LLC 4037
Transfer Flow 5627
Transglobal Door 643
Trim-Lok, Inc 5820
Truck Covers USA 4024
Truck Paper 504
Truck Safety USA LLC 409
TruckCraft Corporation 5709
TruckOffice 4924
TruckScience
3201
Trux Accessories 6419
TTI, Inc 662
Tub O’ Towels/ Free All (FedPro) 363
U S Truck Body 232
Ultimate Power Company 5821
UniFirst 3201
Unique Truck Accessories/ BRUTE 6043
Unique Truck Equipment, Inc 6423
US Fleet Tracking 642
Utilimaster | A Shyft Group Brand 2921
Valk Manufacturing Company 401 Valley Truck Centers 1143
Vanair Manufacturing, A Lincoln Electric Company 1443
VanDOOR Europe BV 425
VB-Airsuspension 201 Vector Performance 766
Vehicle Security Innovators 857
Velvac Inc 5129
Venco Venturo Industries LLC 3313
Verax Chemical Company 647
Verity Rear Vision Systems 5712
Verizon Connect 5924
Viatec 4050
Victron Energy 6405
Visionaire, Inc N10
VMAC
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W Trucks meet tracks
A body builder’s journey into tracked vehicle upfitting
By Charley Schimmels Sales Manager, Carco Industries
hen my organization, Carco Industries, first started mounting service bodies on tracked carriers back in 2011, we were venturing into new territory. As a company that had been building truck bodies with a wide range of truck-mounted equipment since 1973, we were experts at working with conventional chassis. But the unique opportunities presented by a large copper mining operation would challenge us to think differently about how we approached vehicle upfitting.
Opportunity knocked
The customer needed to service equipment on leach pads—massive, engineered structures where microscopic gold and copper are extracted from ore using chemical solutions. Traditional wheeled service trucks were problematic because their high ground pressure was actually reducing extraction
rates by compacting the material. They needed a low ground pressure solution that could carry the same service bodies and equipment we’d typically mount on a conventional truck.
I have a tried-and-true process that I’ve developed over my 35-plus years of selling capital equipment, and it paid off here as well. In my formula, the fleet defines the duty, the duty defines the body and the body then defines the chassis. Working my way through that process led me to start looking at tracked crawler carriers and specifically at the Prinoth 3000 GT, the predecessor to today’s Prinoth Panther T12.
What we discovered was that tracked carriers offered an ideal solution. The C-channel frame rails and spacing matched what we were used to working
with on commercial trucks. This meant we could adapt our existing body designs without a complete engineering overhaul. It was like working with a conventional truck chassis, just one that happened to run on tracks instead of wheels.
That first project involved mounting a fuel and lube body for day-to-day maintenance operations at the mine. The body needed to carry diesel fuel, DEF, various lubricants and recovery tanks for used fluids. The main technical challenge wasn’t the physical mounting—it was integrating with the carrier’s power system. Unlike a conventional truck with a transmission PTO, the tracked carrier uses a hydrostatic drive system with a multi-port gearbox. We had to develop a clutching mechanism to engage and disengage our hydraulic systems from the available accessory port.
On the right track
The mining company was very pleased, and the success of that initial build led us to explore other applications. We’ve since mounted articulating cranes, flatbeds and hook-lift systems—all on crawler carrier platforms. The hook-lift configuration has been particularly interesting, as it allows customers to use one prime mover with multiple body options. Given the significant investment in a tracked carrier, this broad versatility helps justify the cost.
For body builders considering this market, there are some important considerations. First, these aren’t simply off-road variants of conventional trucks. While the mounting interface is familiar, the applications are unique. You’re building for environments where roads don’t exist and never will. This influences everything from material choices to maintenance access points.
The bodies need to be built more robustly than their on-road counterparts. Mining environments, in particular, can be incredibly harsh. When you’re dealing with chemicals like sulfuric acid used in copper leaching, material selection becomes critical. We’ve also
learned to incorporate more vibration isolation and flexible mounting systems to handle the different dynamics of a tracked vehicle.
Not for every body
From a business perspective, entering this market requires some risk tolerance. The initial engineering investment can be significant, and you won’t achieve the same margins you might see with conventional truck bodies—at least not initially. However, once you develop the expertise, there’s less competition and strong customer loyalty. These customers tend to be more focused on capability and reliability than initial cost.
We’ve found success by treating these projects as collaborative problem-solving exercises. For example, we work closely with mining customers to understand their specific maintenance requirements and environmental constraints. This has led to innovations like spring-mounted tanks to handle terrain flexing and enhanced access systems to meet strict safety requirements.
One of our most successful adaptations has been our approach to mounting systems. We use a combination of vulcanized rubber and steel products between the frame rail of the chassis and the long soles of the body, along with cradle-type mounts featuring spring relief. This allows the chassis frame to flex without transferring that movement to the body and tanks. In high-speed off-road applications, this isolation system has proven crucial for long-term durability.
Safety considerations have also driven innovation. For instance, we’ve developed comprehensive access systems including pull-down ladders, platforms and handrails that allow operators to maintain three points of contact while accessing the equipment. These features are particularly important in mining operations where MSHA regulations must be met.
The flexibility of these platforms has opened up new opportunities in various sectors. Power transmission line contractors, for example, are using
Carco has now produced somewhere in the neighborhood of 25 Leach Pad Lube Vehicles on the Prinoth chassis for that original mining company customer.
Photo: Carco Industries
UPFIT FOCUS | Carco Industries
tracked carriers with hook-lift systems to transport multiple specialized bodies to remote locations. This eliminates the need for building temporary access roads, saving both time and environmental impact.
The future of this market segment looks promising. Beyond mining, we’re
seeing increased interest from utility companies needing to access remote infrastructure and environmental services firms working in sensitive areas. The ability to carry conventional truck bodies into unconventional locations creates opportunities that simply didn’t exist before.
A lot riding on it
For body builders considering this market, my advice is to start with a thorough understanding of the carrier platform. With a bare chassis weight of 28,793 lbs and a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 57,900, the Panther T12 is a brute. With its 250-horsepower CAT C7.1 diesel engine and hydrostatic drive system, it has plenty of power to move a load, even on challenging terrain, but it’s not just about the T12’s strength and hauling capacity. You need to understand a crawler carrier’s remarkable climbing ability, its center of gravity limitations, hydraulic system integration requirements and operator access considerations.
But where it really differentiates itself is in its ground-handling capabilities. The T12 exerts only about 3.5 psi of ground pressure when unloaded and 6.2 psi fully loaded—that’s less pressure than a person walking. Plus, with
The Leach Pad Lube Vehicle includes custom on-deck storage; a 4-drawer tool storage unit; a full access walking platform; and a rear reel cabinet with containment and an aluminum roll-up door.
Photo: Carco Industries
a top speed of 8.4 miles per hour, it can cover ground quickly while carrying full loads. The 29.5-in-wide metal-embedded rubber tracks and high-travel suspension system let it handle just about any ground condition you can throw at it, from deep mud to rocky terrain.
It’s also important to recognize that while the mounting interface might be familiar, the operating environment is completely different. Design decisions need to account for ground clearance, vehicle articulation and the fact that these units often work on significant grades of up to 60% or 30 degrees, on virtually all types of terrains and in up to six feet of water. Also keep in mind that what works perfectly well on a conventional truck might need substantial modification for a tracked application.
One aspect that’s particularly relevant for body builders is the width consideration. While highway trucks need to stay within standard vehicle width restrictions, tracked carriers often work
addition to the crawler carrier’s “remarkable
in environments where overall width is less critical. This can actually provide more flexibility in body design, allowing for features that might not be practical on a road-going truck.
Looking ahead, I expect we’ll see continued evolution in this segment. The increasing focus on environmental
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protection and the need to access ever more remote locations will drive demand for these specialized vehicles. For body builders willing to invest in understanding this market, it represents a significant opportunity to expand beyond conventional truck-mounted applications. TBB
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In
climbing ability,” The Prinroth T12’s top speed of 8.4 miles per hour can cover ground quickly while carrying full loads.
Photo: Prinroth
Welcome to Reno
Trailer Tech Expo Powered by NATDA tackles technology, training
Registration is still open for the inaugural Trailer Tech Expo Powered by NATDA, sponsored by Dealer Spike and Novae. The event, organized by the North American Trailer Dealers Association, will take place at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center in Reno, Nevada, from February 25-27.
The three-day immersive event will focus on trailer innovations and technologies for the light- to medium-duty trailer industry and features a full day of dealership education, two-and-a-half days of technician training, a full day of exhibits, NATDA’s very first industry awards banquet and more, according to the association.
“This event provides the most expansive hands-on technician training curriculum that NATDA has ever hosted,” NATDA Executive Director Andria Gibbon said. “We are proud to partner with Dexter to offer technicians
a chance to earn credit towards the NATDA Technician Certification.”
The dealer education program, sponsored by Dura-Haul Trailers, will offer Tow Talks, seminars and in-depth software demonstrations on Tuesday, February 25. Topics covered will include the use of technology and AI in sales and operations, dealership succession
planning, recruiting and retaining employees, measuring service productivity and more.
The program will feature industry experts such as Sara Hey from Bob Clements International, Kent Lewis from FreeGren, and Jeff Robertson from Jeff Robertson Consulting, among others.
On Wednesday, February 26, the event’s Expo Hall will be home to interactive displays and demonstrations featuring the latest groundbreaking products, design enhancements, and partnerships from trailer and truck bed manufacturers, as well as related industry vendors.
“To qualify to exhibit at this event, companies must showcase a new innovation or technology,” Gibbon said. “So, attendees are guaranteed to see the latest from our exhibitors.”
Attendees will have time to explore attractions and areas of interest in the burgeoning Reno-Tahoe area. Shown above is the Truckee River in winter. Nearby Lake Tahoe, right, is one of the top winter recreation destinations in North America.
Photos: VisitRenoTahoe.com
Photo: VisitRenoTahoe.com
NATDA will host its first-ever awards banquet, also on Wednesday, to recognize and celebrate the most forward-thinking dealers, manufacturers, and vendors in the industry.
“The trailer industry is changing rapidly,” Gibbon noted. “You cannot afford to run a business without embracing technology and innovation. We’re excited to be able to acknowledge and showcase those businesses that exemplify the very
best practices that will move the industry forward.”
On Thursday, February 27, the event will close with a keynote breakfast focused on “The Future of Technology in the Trailer Industry.”
Attendees will have time on Thursday to explore attractions and areas of interest in the burgeoning Reno-Tahoe area.
“This event location is truly something special,” Gibbon added. “It’s our
NATDA, Dexter combine for training, certification opportunities
The North American Trailer Dealers Association (NATDA) has formed a new partnership with Dexter, a leading name in trailer axles and components, to deliver a higher level of technical training and certification program. The program will start with an expanded technical training curriculum for the upcoming 2025 Trailer Tech Expo
“The 2025 Trailer Tech Expo will be a game-changer for our members and other dealerships, thanks to this groundbreaking collaboration with Dexter,” said Corey Langley, director of exhibits and partnerships at NATDA. “By offering a comprehensive training and certification program, we’re not only meeting the needs of today’s dealerships but setting new standards for excellence in the trailer industry.”
Elevate industry standards
The partnership reflects NATDA’s commitment to dealer success. By combining NATDA’s dedication to education and Dexter’s technical expertise, this program offers members access to resources that improve service capabilities, boost customer satisfaction, and position businesses for long-term growth.
“NATDA is more than a business association—it’s a community committed
to fostering success across the trailer industry,” said NATDA Executive Director Andria Gibbon, CEM. “This long-term commitment from Dexter allows us to provide dealerships with industry-leading training programs that elevate their service expertise and overall offerings.”
Sessions are available for $50 per session; NATDA members enjoy a 50% discount, reducing the cost to $25 per session.
More training opportunities
For those unable to attend the Trailer Tech Expo in Reno, NATDA and Dexter will offer additional training opportunities at the 2025 NATDA Trailer Show in Nashville, Tennessee, taking place in August 2025.
Credits earned at both events will contribute toward completing NATDA’s service certification program, which will offer a streamlined pathway for service professionals to elevate their credentials.
hope that our attendees will take advantage of this exciting destination with their families.”
Member companies and new members are eligible to receive a free night stay in Reno, the association notes.
Trailer dealers interested in registering for this event can do so at natda.org/ trailer-tech-expo. Companies interested in exhibiting at the event can learn more and apply at natda.org/tte-exhibit.
Trailer Tech: Schedule
Tuesday, Feb. 25
9am - 9:45am
Matrack software demo
9am - 9:50am
Sell More with Less: A step by step guide to identifying which sales and marketing activities to double down on 9am - 9:50am
Stay Competitive Online by Improving the Website Experience
9am - 10:30am
Axle Suspension: Sprung, Torflex* 10am - 10:45am
TrailerOps software demo
10am - 10:50am
SEMINAR: Do’s and Don’ts of building and running a successful service department
11am - 11:45am
DealerSpike software demo
11am - 11:50am
ChatGPT in the Dealership: Enhancing Customer Interaction, Streamlining Operations, and Driving Sales
11am - 11:50am
How do I analyze my technician’s productivity? Using a Flat Rate Manual to identify lost time
11am - 12pm
Trailer Alignment*
1pm - 1:45pm
Blackpurl software demo
Photo: Dexter TV/YouTube
(Tuesday, Feb. 25, continued)
1pm - 1:50pm
TOW TALK: How to Stay Sane when Dealing with Challenging (Difficult) Employees
1pm - 2pm Dexter Tow Assist*
2pm - 2:45pm
Lightspeed software demo
2pm - 2:50pm
How to Leverage Generative AI to Improve your Digital Marketing
2pm - 2:50pm
Managed by the Numbers:
Taking you back to the basics of business how to increase revenue by channeling through service departments
2:45pm - 3:45pm
Heavy Duty—Steer Axles/Air Ride*
3pm - 3:45pm
Transax software demo
3pm - 3:50pm TOW TALK: How to Leverage the Art of Story Telling to Boost Social Media in your Dealership
4pm - 4:45pm
Whole Hog software demo
4pm - 4:50pm
Attracting and Retaining Top Talent: How to Hire ONCE
4pm - 4:50pm
Exit Strategies: Should I sell my Dealership? Or Let my Kids Take Over?
5pm - 6pm
Welcome Happy Hour, hosted by NATDA
The Reno-Sparks Convention Center will host the inaugural Trailer Tech Expo Powered by NATDA. Photo: VisitRenoTahoe.com
Wednesday, Feb. 26
9am - 10:15am
Comprehensive Service of: Bearings, Hubs and Rotors*
10:30am - 11:45am
Electric Brake Functionality and Brake Controllers*
12pm - 1:30pm
Actuator Service, Surge and Electric/Hydraulic. Air Brakes and System Troubleshooting*
2pm - 3:15pm
Electric Brake Functionality and Brake Controllers*
3:30pm - 5pm
Actuator Service, Surge and Electric / Hydraulic. Air Brakes and System Troubleshooting*
Trailer Tech exhibitors
Explore the Expo Hall Floor on Wednesday, February 26, to see the latest new products, processes, partnerships, and more from these leading-edge companies:
• Air-Tow Trailers
• Alcom LLC
• Bear Track Trailers
• Bostail
• CellTech Trailers
• Clicklease
• Dealer Spike
• Delco Trailers
• Demco
• Dexter
• Diamond C Trailers
• Gen Y Hitches
• Iron Ox Products
• Liberty Trailers
• Novae
• Novawinch USA
• Polar King Mobile
• Red Oak Inventory Finance
• Shelby Trailer Service LLC
• The Rachet Depot
• Transax
• Voltswitch GPS
• Valcrum LLC
6pm - 9pm
Industry Excellence Awards Banquet, hosted by NATDA
Thursday, Feb. 27
8am - 10am
Keynote Breakfast: Today’s Technology—The Trailer Industry’s Place in a Tech-Driven Future
10am - 11am
Trailer Alignment*
11am - 12pm Tow Assist*
* Dexter technical training curriculum
Demountable Concepts launches Victory Truck Body
Demountable Concepts is launching their newest business unit: Victory Truck Body. Victory was created to fulfill an uptick in demand for truck bodies predicted to occur over the next decade in North America. Along with drawing on customer feedback, Victory is founded on three guiding principles: focus on customer; build a superior product; and deliver customers’ truck body when promised.
“We’re excited to bring our Victory straight truck bodies to the North American market,” said Founder and CEO Rustin Cassway, “Victory is the culmination of over three decades of niche bodybuilding experience, innovative thinking, and customer input.”
Demountable Concepts started Victory by building an incubator facility dedicated to designing and manufacturing truck bodies. Inside that building, the company’s innovators were tasked with rethinking the ubiquitous box truck body’s design.
Victory also leveraged customer input and Demountable’s experience building, modifying, and repairing trucks of all types to bring a fresh perspective to their new line-up of truck bodies. Victory currently offers four models of straight truck bodies to the North American market: Dry van, curtain side, flatbed/platform, and refrigerated/climate-controlled. Each is available as a standard fixed body or with the company’s Demountable Swap Body system.
Notable features of the Victory dry van truck body include composite panel construction for durability and an optional smooth “rivet-less” surface for mounting graphics, a stainless
Emerald upfits Class 3 EV reefer truck
Refrigerated vehicle upfitter Emerald Transportation Solutions is working with the Papé Group to develop a reefer upfit for the Mullen Three electric truck, which is opening new categories for food and beverage transportation.
The Class 3 all-electric truck features a versatile chassis that provides a clean top-of-rail for easy upfitting with bodies up to 14 ft long and over 5,300 lbs of payload capacity, making it an ideal platform for the reefer upfit, the companies reported.
“Transportation of perishable goods is a great segment
rear frame with engineered corner gussets for structural integrity, a standard composite roll-up rear door, and distinctive cast aluminum front corner caps. Liftgates, ramps, cargo control and other options can be configured to meet specific needs.
Victory Truck Body currently operates out of a 50,000-sq.-ft. facility in Glassboro, New Jersey. The building is equipped with modern fabrication equipment including robot welding, CNC laser cutters, press brakes, shear, and overhead cranes. Plus, it includes a paint booth that can accommodate multiple trucks. The company has started construction on an additional 65,000sq.-ft. manufacturing facility to house Victory Truck Body and their other growing divisions.
For more information, visit victorytruckbody.com
for our commercial EVs and we’re working with Emerald and Papé to bring this innovative reefer upfit of the Mullen Three to market,” David Michery, Mullen Automotive CEO and chairman, said in a news release. “This collaboration aligns with our commitment to providing sustainable and efficient transportation solutions for businesses of all sizes and industries.”
Mullen’s commercial EV lineup includes the Mullen One Class 1 EV cargo van and Mullen Three, a purpose-built chassis cab designed to meet the demands of urban last-mile delivery. Both vehicles comply with U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, EPA and CARB certifications.
The Mullen Three recently qualified for a $15,000 incentive through the state of Massachusetts MOR-EV program and a $45,000 cash rebate voucher through the California HVIP. Emerald is a commercial vehicle upfitter with more than 55 years of combined experience. The company can outfit service trucks and vans and sells and installs refrigeration equipment to for commercial vehicles.
Visit emeraldtransportationsolutions.com
Photo: Demountable Concepts Inc.
Photo: Mullen Automotive
Shur-Co enhances tarp locking system
Shur-Co has introduced its new and enhanced rear lock for the ShurTite Retractable Tarping System.
The new rear lock, crafted from high-quality materials, brings added durability to Shur- Co’s retractable tarping system. This new low-profile compact lock that flips out of the way and travels with the rear bow is now standard, replacing ShurTite’s previous steel Aframe bracing structure, which remained stationary.
By removing the A-frame structures and replacing them with the new low-profile locks, the ShurTite system offers increased rear deck space, allowing customers to load from front to rear with greater ease, according to Sur-Co. Operators no longer need to manually remove heavy bracing for loading and unloading, saving time and reducing physical strain. The reduced weight—by up to 80 lbs— enhances operator safety, minimizing potential workers’ compensation concerns for all users.
“We’re thrilled with the improved rear lock, which offers the best loading clearance in the market among retractable tarping systems,” said Jeff Boyd, vice president of Flatbed Sales. “Without the need to remove heavy braces, it’s faster to operate and optimizes rear trailer loading space.”
Visit www.shurco.com for more information.
Coxreels fortifies hose reels with ‘Brawny’ option
Coxreels now offers a “Brawny” option for most 100 Series hose reels.
The company’s 100 Series reels can be mounted to a floor, wall, ceiling, bench, or truck. They’re made of steel, enhancing strength and durability, and feature a U-shaped frame for two-point axle support, providing stability during operation. They also have a brake assembly for braking or locking the drum to a desired length of hose.
The Brawny option adds strength to the drum, minimizing potential damage under increased or pulsing pressure usage, Coxreels said. By strengthening the drum, these professional-grade reels are better prepared to tackle the toughest jobs in the industry.
To order the Brawny upgrade, simply add prefix “BX” to standard 100 Series reels. The Brawny option is available for 8-, 12.5- and 18-in drum widths. Visit www.coxreels.com for more information.
West Point adds live-floor landcape trailer to line
Bulk commodity trailer manufacturer
West Point Design has added a new Live Floor P3 Model Landscape-All trailer to its line.
The P Series was developed specifically for the landscape industry and can save up to 70% on labor input cost on most mulch installation or other landscape projects, according to the West Point, Nebraska-based company, which has been building trailers and ag equipment for more than 30 years.
West Point Design bills the unit as popular with landscape employees, noting “less back-breaking work.” The model comes with an easy-to-operate self-contained 23 hp power unit with RF remote as standard. Other Landscape-All Trailer features include:
• Ease of maneuverability with a P3 single axle design, or the P2 tandem
• Can deliver multiple bulk landscape products to the jobsite such as peat moss, recycled asphalt, yard waste, tree trimmings, soil, mulch, fill, sand, rocks (3/4” or smaller), palletized pavers, and retaining wall blocks to the same jobsite
• Lightweight and able to take higher payload per trip
• No more hand unloading with shovels from a flatbed truck
• Fast unloading time with minimal jobsite cleanup through the 22” wide side discharge chute, or rear door using the “reversible” live floor chain and sprocket reliable design; and
• A heavy-duty steel shaft that includes rotating tines that‘fluff’ the product for smooth discharge.
Visit www.westpointimp.com for more information.
Photo: Coxreels
Photo: West Point Design
Photo: Shur-Co
Brawny option
January 20-23, 2025
Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week
Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center Grapevine, TX www.hdaw.org
January 20-23, 2025 World of Concrete Las Vegas (NV) Convention Center www.worldofconcrete.com
February
February 25-27,
NATDA Trailer Tech Expo Reno-Sparks Convention Center, Reno, NV www.natda.org/tte-exhibit
March 4-7, 2025
Work Truck Week Indiana Convention Center, Indianapolis, IN www.worktruckweek.com
March 10-13, 2025
TMC Annual Meeting & Transportation Technology Exhibition Music City Center, Nashville, TN tmcannual.trucking.org
March 25-27, 2025
World of Asphalt America’s Center Convention Complex St. Louis, MO www.worldofasphalt.com
March 27-29, 2025
Mid-America Trucking Show Kentucky Expo Center, Louisville, KY www.truckingshow.com
April 22-24, 2025
NTTC Annual Conference JW Marriott Tampa (FL) Water Street www.tanktruck.org
April 23-25, 2025
TTMA 83rd Annual Convention Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Puerto Rico Golf & Beach Resort www.trucktrailer.org
April 28-May 1, 2025
Advanced Clean Transportation Expo Anaheim Convention Center, CA www.actexpo.com
June 1-4, 2025
Electric Utility Fleet Managers Conference Williamsburg Lodge & Conference Center Williamsburg, VA www.eufmc.com
August 27-28, 2025
North American Trailer Dealers Association (NATDA) Trailer Show, Music City Center, Nashville, TN www.natda.org/trailer-show
September 8-11, 2025
FTR Transportation Conference, Union Station, Indianapolis, IN www.ftrconference.com
September 16-18, 2025
NATM Trailer Expo
Oklahoma City Convention Center, OK www.trailerexpo.com
September 22-23, 2025
NTEA Executive Leadership Summit Ann Arbor Marriott Ypsilanti at Eagle Crest Ypsilanti, MI www.trailerexpo.com
Truck, trailer, and body OEMs
M.H. Eby Inc. has added Andy Weaver as fleet sales manager to the truck body division in Ephrata, PA. Weaver will focus on building and maintaining relationships with truck dealers, end users, and fleet management companies. He will oversee key accounts for fleet truck bodies, particularly in the landscaping, construction, and service trades. He brings more than two decades of experience in sales, customer relationship management, and operational leadership to the role, including his recent post at Keystone Koating LLC, where he specialized in powder coating applications for metal products.
Freightliner Custom Chassis Corp. (FCCC) has promoted Chris Wolff to product manager for commercial chassis. In his new role, Wolff will oversee the strategy and sale of FCCC’s commercial chassis product line. He previously served as FCCC’s project manager for the Specialty Vehicle E-mobility Group, and joined the company in May 2022.
TRATON has appointed Niklas Klingenberg, currently head of TRATON GROUP R&D, to its Executive Board. In his current role, Klingenberg helped establish a group-wide R&D organization that developed the TRATON Modular System. In 2023, he took over the role as head of Group R&D in addition to his tasks as CTO and head of R&D at Scania.
Samara Strycker has accepted the position of executive vice president and chief financial officer at International Motors She succeeds Do Young Kim, who was named executive vice president and CFO of Scania Group at the end of November 2024. Strycker will report to Mathias Carlbaum, International president and CEO, in her new role and serve on the company’s executive leadership team.
Suppliers and distributors
R. Bruce McDonald has been appointed as chairman and chief executive officer of Dana Incorporated. McDonald succeeds James Kamsickas after his retirement, although Kamsickas will remain as an advisor to the company through March 2025. McDonald has been a member of the Dana Board of Directors since 2014, and previously served as chairman and chief executive officer of Adient plc.
Oshkosh Corp. has named Matthew Field as chief financial officer of the company. He succeeds Michael Pack, who is now president of Oshkosh’s Vocational segment. Prior to his appointment, Field served as CFO of Joby Aviation, and before that role, Field spent over 20 years at Ford Motor Co., including as CFO of Ford North America.
Pressure Systems International (P.S.I.) is promoting Ben Morgan to engineering manager for electronics and integrations. This newly-created position will see Morgan managing the development of electronic solutions and providing support for the company’s TireView and TST brands. Prior to his appointment, Morgan worked in engineering at Airstream and then joined P.S.I. in 2019.
Daniel Winter is now president of Danfoss Power Solutions. He succeeds Eric Alström, who is departing the company after 12 years of service. Winter will leave his current position as chief financial officer for Danfoss. Prior to that job, Winter served as SVP and head of Finance Functions as well as SVP, Finance and Controlling, at Sauer-Danfoss.
Grote Industries has named Jim Haremza director of operations for Star Safety Technologies in Avon, NY. Haremza comes to Grote with over 20 years of manufacturing operations experience in sporting goods, dental equipment, and packaging. During his career, he has worked for companies such as Crosman Corp. and the Steris/Hu-Friedy Group.
Pete Denk has been named president and COO of Eaton’s Industrial Sector, succeeding Paulo Ruiz, who has been promoted to president and CEO following Criag Arnold’s retirement. Denk will be responsible for the company’s Mobility business, among others, and will report to Ruiz as part of Eaton’s senior leadership team.
Andy Weaver
Chris Wolff
Niklas Klingenberg
Pete Denk
R. Bruce McDonald
Ben Morgan
Daniel Winter
Jim Haremza
Samara Strycker
