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Tag: Newsletter 5th Article

  • ASE webinar focuses on heavy-duty truck HVAC

    ASE webinar focuses on heavy-duty truck HVAC

    The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence is hosting a free webinar on Tuesday, March 17 at 4 p.m. ET entitled “Heavy-Duty
    HVAC Systems.”

    Heavy-duty truck (class 6-8) HVAC systems continue to become more complex, and incorporate many items seen on light-duty systems. In this webinar, Ryan Kooiman with Standard Motor Products will educate participants on how different systems operate and review refrigeration principles to ensure accurate system diagnosis as well as cover characteristics that are unique to HD trucks. 

    Participants in the webinar will receive a certificate of attendance for the live session. Please allow one week for automatic email delivery of the certificate.

    After registering, a confirmation email will be sent containing information about joining the webinar. Those who are not sure if they can attend are encouraged to register as they will receive a follow-up email with details on how to attend a recorded session, if available. Access to recorded sessions is reserved for those who register for the live event.

    For more information or to register, click here.

  • Detroit announces arrival of Gen 6 heavy-duty engines

    Detroit announces arrival of Gen 6 heavy-duty engines

    Detroit, Daimler Truck North America’s powertrain brand and leading manufacturer of heavy-duty truck engines and commercial vehicle components, recently announced its new Gen 6 heavy-duty engine portfolio, comprised of the DD13, DD15 and DD16. The next evolution of its popular engines is fully compliant with the EPA’s 2027 standard and will be available for all heavy-duty Freightliner and Western Star trucks. 

    “Freightliner and Western Star customers depend on Detroit to operate reliably, efficiently and powerfully, and we’re honored by the trust placed in both the Detroit brand and the DD13, DD15 and DD16 engines to help navigate past transitions as well as this next one,” said David Carson, senior vice president of sales and marketing at Daimler Truck North America. “With our Gen 6 engines, we have a successor that builds on years of proven performance to be prepared for ’27 and beyond.”

    All Detroit engines are manufactured in the US at the Redford, Michigan campus. The Detroit Gen 6 DD13 and DD15 engines will be available beginning in January 2027, with Gen 6 DD16 production following in January 2028.

    At their core, the Detroit Gen 6 engines refine the previous generation’s design, providing confidence that the durability and reliability that Detroit is known for continue, said a statement from th company. As part of their updates, the engines deliver enhanced efficiency designed to help offset the impacts from emissions-related changes. A redesigned and simplified fuel system removes the need for amplified injection and supplies higher, stronger and more consistent fuel flow.

    Similarly, the addition of an asymmetric intake port increases swirl, and, combined with new fuel injectors, improves fuel and air mixing for a more complete combustion. The use of Miller timing on the camshaft reduces the work of compression, increases the compression ratio and contributes to overall engine efficiency.

    To meet compliance with stringent NOx requirements included in EPA’s 2027 standards, Detroit Gen 6 engines use a pre-Selective Catalytic Reduction (pre-SCR) system – containing the same robust, familiar elements of the main aftertreatment system (ATS) – positioned upstream of the primary ATS. This proven and known technology, combined with a thermal control valve, helps the ATS to reach operating temperature more quickly, reducing the need for parked regens.

    The ATS design preserves existing chassis space with no impact to back-of-cab packaging, a key advantage for vocational customers and truck equipment manufacturers. A new wastegate actuator also improves braking performance and gradeability with greater power for high altitude conditions. New engine ratings of up to 1,900 lb.-ft of torque enable greater downspeeding capabilities for the right combination of power and efficiency. 

  • Reliable Fleet Services adds 6 new locations

    Reliable Fleet Services adds 6 new locations

    CMC, the largest provider of integrated intermodal solutions in the US, announced recently that its Reliable Fleet Services (RFS), a provider of over-the-road intermodal repairs and onsite, depot-style maintenance, has expanded its operations to six new locations in response to growing customer demand in the South and Southeast.  

    The six new locations include:

    • Dallas, Texas
    • Mobile, Alabama
    • Jacksonville, Florida
    • Greer, South Carolina
    • Charlotte, North Carolina
    • Memphis, Tennessee

    This expansion builds on RFS’s established footprint in Charleston, South Carolina; Savannah, Georgia; Jesup, Georgia; and McIntyre, Georgia, strengthening the company’s ability to deliver fast, reliable maintenance and repair services wherever customers need them. 

    “Reliable Fleet Services continues to grow because it consistently delivers on what matters most, which is safety, quality, and dependable service, all while providing clear, competitive pricing,” said Vince Marino, chief executive officer of CMC. “That performance is a direct reflection of the leadership behind the business. Joe Patterson’s deep operational experience and customer-first mindset have been instrumental in building RFS into the trusted partner it is today.”

    Joe Patterson, director of Reliable Fleet Services, began his career in equipment maintenance at RFS and rose through the ranks, gaining hands-on experience across chassis repair, welding, and fleet supervision before assuming leadership of Reliable Fleet Services. His commitment to safety, customer service, and quality has shaped RFS’s operational standards and culture, while his vision for scalable, responsive service has been a driving force behind the company’s continued expansion.

    “Our focus has always been on doing the work the right way and earning our customers’ trust every day,” said Patterson. “As we expand into new markets, that commitment doesn’t change. We’re building a service network that delivers fast response, consistent quality, and safe operations wherever our customers need us.”

  • Crash Champions creates new Technician Training Program

    Crash Champions creates new Technician Training Program

    Crash Champions, one of the nation’s fastest-growing founder-led collision repair providers, recently announced the launch of its new Technician Training Program. Chris Sandoval, a body technician from its Eagle Ranch, New Mexico location, is the first program participant to become Level 1-certified.

    The new Technician Training Program was designed and developed by Crash Champions’ Collision Technology department to offer its team of I-CAR Gold Class technicians real-time access to a growing digital training catalog covering the automotive industry’s latest tools, products, and vehicle advancements – available directly at their stall. Crash Champions also partnered with industry leaders such as 3M, Pro Spot, Car-O-Liner, and KECO to develop many of the training modules available to technicians.

    “As the automotive industry continues to evolve and become increasingly complex, it’s essential that we stay ahead of the curve with the latest innovations and training programs for every member of our team,” said Matt Ebert, Crash Champions founder and CEO. “The Technician Training Program empowers our technicians with material that’s always current, comprehensive, and easy to access.”

    Through the program, Crash Champions body technicians can immediately access over 100 exclusive technical videos, achieve three certification levels (Level 1-Skilled, Level 2-Advanced, Level 3-Elite), and gain direct support from Crash Champions’ Collision Technology team — all available through the company’s internal software platforms and conveniently accessible via mobile devices at the stall level to support technician growth. 

    The program supplements Crash Champions’ lineup of training programs, including its body technician apprenticeship, STEP (aimed at aspiring technicians entering the trade), and its Associate Service Advisor Program.

    Sandoval, Crash Champions’ first Level 1-certified technician in the program, was recognized last month by Ebert and senior leadership at the company’s Chicago headquarters. 

    “During my time at Crash Champions, I’ve learned that the company’s belief in ‘Championing People’ is practiced every day in ways big and small,” said Sandoval. “This program perfectly encompasses that vision, as it has allowed technicians like me the ability to stay on the cutting edge of collision repair technology. Better said, the program’s easily accessible resources and training have set us up for successful, long-term careers while ensuring we’re in the best position possible to help our customers with the knowledge and confidence to fulfill the trust they put in us during their time of need.”  

  • Free engine management webinar Feb. 7

    Free engine management webinar Feb. 7

    An hour-long webinar titled Understanding Engine Management will be offered at 6 p.m.Eastern Feb. 7 by Motor Age Training.

    The webinar will be pesented live in the shop by TST’s “G” Jerry Truglia and Pierre Respaut. It offers a quick overview of PCM functions, covering inputs, outputs, and how sensors and actuators regulate engine performance. This class will discuss sensors, actuators, fuel trim, ignition systems, and O₂/Air Fuel sensors essential for efficient engine operation.

    Attendees will learn how to:

    • Explain the primary functions of the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), including how inputs, outputs, sensors, and actuators interact to control engine performance
    • Identify key engine management components—such as fuel trim systems, ignition systems, and O₂/air-fuel ratio sensors—and describe their role in efficient engine operation
    • Apply a foundational understanding of PCM logic to interpret sensor and actuator behavior during real-world diagnostic and performance scenarios

    The free webinar is sponsored by Duralast. You can register here.

    Founder/President of Technicians Service Training (TST), G. Jerry Truglia has extensive experience in the automotive field as a technician, service manager, shop owner and technical writer. He is a senior curriculum developer who provides training programs for automotive and truck inspection and repair programs. He has provided on-board diagnostic system, OBDII and automotive training all over the country. He is the owner, curriculum developer and instructor for Automotive Technician Training Services (ATTS) in Mahopac, New York.

    Pierre Respaut has been in the automotive industry for over 55 years as a Master ASE Certified Technician & L1, diagnostician, shop owner and as part of the BIMRs.org, STS and TST among others.

  • New CAT AI Assistant can be a technician’s ‘partner’ while making repairs

    New CAT AI Assistant can be a technician’s ‘partner’ while making repairs

    Caterpillar Inc. recently unveiled Cat AI Assistant, an AI-based solution that allows Cat customers to engage with Caterpillar’s equipment and portfolio of digital applications in new, powerful ways.

    With Cat AI Assistant, Caterpillar said it is making it easier for customers to buy, maintain, manage and operate their equipmen no matter where they are. The launch marks a major step forward for Industrial AI, redefining how work gets done by combining data, AI and heavy equipment to help customers improve productivity, efficiency and safety, according to a statement from CAT.

    Caterpillar said it plans to bring the off-board Cat AI Assistant live in the first quarter of this year and is in the final stages of validation for in-cab applications, which will help machine operators work more safely and efficiently. Caterpillar demonstrated these capabilities on the mainbstage of CES 2026 in Las Vegas recently.

    Built on more than a century of Caterpillar innovation, Cat AI Assistant unifies Caterpillar’s portfolio of digital applications and vast amounts of high-quality data into one simple, conversational experience. It operates against the entire Caterpillar knowledge base and serves as a proactive partner for customers, providing personalized data and insights and enabling faster, smarter decisions, according to the company.

    “Caterpillar’s strong digital foundation, including our Helios data platform that manages over 16 petabytes of data, is helping us move fast and deploy new AI capabilities to help our customers succeed,” said Ogi Redzic, Caterpillar Chief Digital Officer. “Cat AI Assistant is a major leap forward in how Caterpillar supports customer success through best-in-class digital solutions, whether they’re working from corporate headquarters or at a remote jobsite.”

    With industries facing talent and skills gaps, and customers managing increasing jobsite complexity, Cat AI Assistant can help a less experienced operator improve productivity, or help a Cat dealer provide better, more tailored insights to customers.

    For technicians
    For a technician, Cat AI Assistant is a dependable partner that can, with a simple voice command, and without interrupting the task at hand, quickly access the right section from a library of thousands of instruction manuals. It provides step-by-step guidance on repairs, highlights common issues and suggests additional parts needed to complete the job, saving valuable time and resources.

    For fleet managers & owners
    For business owners, Cat AI Assistant is an extra set of eyes on their equipment — evolving alongside their operations, continually refining insights and recommendations to help turn unplanned incidents into planned maintenance and to match the pace of their growing businesses.

    For machine operators
    For an operator, Cat AI Assistant connects every step of the workday — from machine startup to shift handoff. It’s a coach in the cab, providing operators with information to work smarter and safer without switching screens, returning to the yard or losing focus. Cat AI Assistant leverages the NVIDIA Jetson Thor platform to run speech recognition and advanced AI models and can even assist with directing the machine — at the edge, where work is done.

  • 150th class graduates from Peterbilt Technician Institute

    150th class graduates from Peterbilt Technician Institute

    The Peterbilt Technician Institute (PTI) recently announced the graduation of its 150th class since the program’s launch.

    The milestone achieved at the Irving, Texas campus underscores PTI’s ongoing commitment to developing highly skilled service technicians prepared to support today’s advanced vehicle technologies, the company said in a statement.

    “Reaching our 150th graduating class is more than a milestone, it highlights our steady support in preparing the next generation of qualified service technicians,” said Danny Landholm, Peterbilt director of Dealer Network Development. “Our graduates are trained not only to service and maintain today’s most sophisticated trucks but also to adapt as technology evolves.”

    PTI was established to meet the growing demand for skilled technicians across Peterbilt’s dealer network, becoming a leading diesel technology training program for aspiring technicians throughout North America. The program features an immersive curriculum combining classroom learning, real-world
    experience, factory-level certification and advanced instruction on the latest Peterbilt technologies, including alternative fuels, electric powertrains, diagnostics and telematics.

    Upon completing the program, students earn factory-trained technician credentials that can help fast-track their careers at more than 430 Peterbilt dealerships across the United States and Canada.

    Interested students can learn more about the PTI program by visiting https://peterbilt.tech/institute.html.

  • Revv launches Organization dedicated to ADAS professionals

    Revv launches Organization dedicated to ADAS professionals

    Revv, a leading vehicle calibration operating system, recently announced the launch of the United ADAS Collective (UAC), the first professional organization exclusively for the ADAS calibration community. Designed as an industry-wide hub, the UAC provides a center for shared standards, education, events, and peer-to-peer collaboration, according to a statement from Revv.

    The UAC includes over 1,000 active members, spanning collision repair shop owners and managers, ADAS and calibration technicians, diagnostic professionals, and auto glass and windshield specialists. Its launch comes as ADAS has become standard across nearly all new vehicles. With 90% of U.S. car sales now featuring these systems and the average vehicle containing more than 100 sensors, routine repairs like a cracked windshield, damaged bumper, or broken side mirror often require precise calibration before a vehicle can be safely returned to the road.

    The UAC’s programming is centered around education, events, and community, with tiered training and certification launching soon. Users will be offered a mix of free and paid membership options based on the level of involvement and resources they’re seeking. Members gain access to industry news, a job board, original equipment (OE)-specific technical discussions, peer-to-peer collaboration, and hands-on learning opportunities. The UAC will also host its first ADAS Industry Event in May 2026, with additional details to be announced.

    The UAC is guided by Executive Director Joel Adcock, Revv’s Director of Strategic Partnerships, and an advisory board of industry leaders.

    “ADAS calibration has quickly become a critical part of modern vehicle repair,” said Adi Bathla, CEO and Co-founder of Revv. “The United ADAS Collective is an important step forward for the industry, bringing calibration professionals together around shared standards, practical support, and a stronger sense of community as the category continues to grow. This is a natural extension of Revv’s role in helping shape the emerging ADAS category.”

    Interested shops, technicians, or industry professionals can join for free at www.unitedadascollective.org.

  • Registration open for work truck week March 10-13

    Registration open for work truck week March 10-13

    Work Truck Week 2026 combines a packed exhibit hall with three days of commercial vehicle industry training and education.

    Work Truck Week 2026 runs March 10–13, 2026, at Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis. It encompasses The Work Truck Show, Green Truck Summit, NTEA Annual Meeting with keynote speakers, Work Truck Week Ride & Drive, educational program and more. Green Truck Summit is March 10, educational sessions run March 10–12, and Work Truck Show exhibits are open March 11–13.

    You can register at worktruckweek.com.

    The 2026 Work Truck Week educational program equips companies with strategies to strengthen operations and prepare for what’s ahead. A mix of in-depth special sessions and shorter breakouts are divided into eight tracks:

    • Advanced Fuels & Vehicle Technology
    • Chassis Update
    • Dealership Training
    • Fleet Management
    • Government Regulations & Advocacy
    • Market Data & Industry Trends
    • Vehicle Design & Certification
    • Workforce Development.

    “Whether you’re a fleet operator, transportation manager, truck dealer, upfitter or distributor, Work Truck Week can help you grow professionally, stay on top of industry trends and improve your operation,” said Jennifer Mitchell, NTEA senior director of content development. “In an industry that is constantly evolving, the Work Truck Week educational program offers an unmatched opportunity to learn from the best and brightest about the topics that matter to your success.”

    Work Truck Week educational sessions are eligible for continuing education units through NTEA’s accreditation by International Accreditors for Continuing Education and Training. Learn more at ntea.com/iacet.

    For the full Work Truck Week 2026 educational program schedule, session descriptions, speaker bios and more, visit worktruckweek.com/education.

    Contact NTEA (info@ntea.com or 248-489-7090) with questions.

  • Atlanta Tech breaks ground on new transportation & logistics facility

    Atlanta Tech breaks ground on new transportation & logistics facility

    Atlanta Technical College (ATC) recently broke ground on its Center for Transportation and Logistics (CTL), which the college calledc a transformative facility designed to meet the growing workforce demands of Georgia’s transportation and logistics industry.

    The ceremony took place on Dec. 12 and featured Dr. Victoria Seals, President of Atlanta Technical College; Greg Dozier, Commissioner of the Technical College System of Georgia; and Robb Pitts, chairman of the Fulton County Board of Commissioners.

    The CTL is located on 25 acres that was donated by the Fulton County Board of Commissioners. The development includes a one-acre CDL testing course, the first of its kind in Metro Atlanta that is accessible to the public and serving as the only CDL testing site within the city.

    The new center will increase enrollment capacity fivefold, introduce Class B box truck driver training, and offer expanded day and evening class options. Programs will include these:

    • Commercial Truck Driving
    • Diesel Mechanics
    • Supply Chain Management
    • Warehousing
    • Logistics Operations
    • Procurement