Efficiency:Efficiency: Distracted TrucksTrucks ThatThat SaveSave DollarsDollars andand DRIVING MakeMake SenseSense [ PAGE 28 ] [ PAGE 20 ]

How to Buy a 12 DAYS OF Pre-Owned Truck CHRISTMAS THE RIGHT WAY [ PAGE 12 ] [ PAGE 33 ] And Justin Hopkins serves as General Manager of Morton, Springfield and Decatur and is personally engaged with several of our new and key customers in our northern territory. He was not immune to those same fun lessons at a young age. His toughest customer is the newest addition to our family, my grandson, who is a real blessing. Now both Katie and Justin are beginning to teach ol’ Pops a few lessons every now and then WE HAVE YOU about the business. OUR #1 O I know that Mike is equally proud of his two HELL sons, Trevor and Tyler, and the jobs they are doing within TCI and their continued growth. PRIORITY He is also learning from them the whole NextGen approach to life and business IS YOU including being grandpa. It is really exciting to now see so many COVERED 2nd/Next Generations of TCI Employees making a BIG and POSITIVE difference for our company and soon more will be 3rd St. Louis, MO Generations. It is a huge honor when team 747 E. Taylor Ave. members recommend our company to their St. Louis, MO 63147 children. It is especially gratifying to watch (314) 381-3800 the current employees of TCI who are so (800) 325-8809 proud of what we have become together. This illustrates that Truck Centers is like a St. Peters, MO family and a few team members are already 8050 Veterans Parkway encouraging their grandchildren apply here! St. Peters, MO 63376 (636) 978-3870 The incredible advancements being made in (800) 985-0380 [ L-R: Tyler Yates, Trevor Yates, Mike Yates, John Hopkins, the lifespan and fuel economy of our Daimler Engines/Trucks and soon to be Decatur, IL Katie Hopkins, Justin Hopkins ] 5002 Cundiff Ct. Transmissions is just one example of how far Decatur, IL 62526 things have come. It is remarkable to think (217) 877-0152 that we now have customers achieving e are soon to be celebrating our 42nd year in the family business of serving our roughly 8 mpg and powertrains lasting a mil- Morton, IL customers through our people, facilities and products. lion miles PLUS and doing so in a very envi- 300 E. Ashland St. ronmentally friendly manner. Morton, IL 61550 W We all know the old adage that time flies by faster as we age but it sure seems (309) 263-4240 true! As Mike Yates and I near 60 years of age, I know that I can speak for both of us as As life moves so fast and we see more and (800) 397-4292 fathers, husbands and grandfathers that it may just be going by a bit too fast these days. more loved ones pass on or become ill, it It is reassuring to know that Truck Centers now has several next generation family certainly reinforces the need for strong successor Mt. Vernon, IL members in place that can help lead the company for the next 42 years. Neither Mike or leadership for every company but there is no 621 S. 45th St. rocking chair for me! I am just having a blast Mt. Vernon, IL 62864 I are going anywhere any time soon – we are way too young for that! We are both actually having more fun now in the business than perhaps ever before and enjoy sharing it with learning something new every single day from (618) 244-2545 all of my children, grandchildren (four of them our families, dedicated long-time employees and customers. (800) 786-2545 now), customers and team members. I enjoy being an integral part of TCI and serving our Springfield, IL Together, with all of you, we have built an amazing organization and even better relationships. customers. 2981 E. Singer Ave. However, some of those memories of 1975-76, 1980-82, 2001-02, 2008-09 are not the Springfield, IL 62703 most fun but they certainly helped us reinforce the need to remain extremely flexible and A lot has changed when I recollect over the (217) 525-1280 be able to adapt quickly to our industries to recover from severe cyclical ups and downs. past four decades but one thing has remained (800) 786-1280 constant – we have the It is also so neat to see so many of our long-standing customers shifting to the next generation DEDICATED TEAM OF PROFESSIONALS Troy, IL of leadership in their family businesses as well and we are proud to be associated with each 2280 Formosa Rd. “BEST employees, BEST OVER $8.1M IN STOCKED PARTS INVENTORY Troy, IL 62294 and every one of them. It seems only like yesterday that I was almost always the youngest (618) 667-3454 among my peers of customers and fellow dealers... Not quite so true any longer. service and facilities, INDUSTRY-BEST TRAINING CENTER (800) 669-3454 and the VERY BEST At our recent American Truck Dealers Convention (ATD) I was very proud to watch my NIGHT & WEEKEND HOURS (INCLUDING 24/7 SERVICE & PARTS AT TROY) daughter Katie Hopkins, in her role as the inaugural Chairperson of ATD’s NextGen innovative products” 2 HOUR EXPRESS ASSESSMENT SERVICE Committee, introduce Martin Daum, CEO of Daimler Trucks North America, as the keynote and concepts to continue helping our customers speaker. It only seems like yesterday that she was 12 and starting her first day of work at achieve and EXCEED their goals. << 2 ON-SITE BODY SHOPS TCI on a Saturday answering the phones and filing parts invoices. She quickly learned that the work in family business is never done just because the clock strikes quitting time and Sincerely, had to take the remaining invoices home with her or come back on Sunday. No such need to tell her any longer and especially with the rigorous schedules of Devin, 15, and Maddie, 13, there are no starting or ending times… just like in our business of serving our customers TCIChairman/CEOJohn TEAM Hopkins www.truckcentersinc.com 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. www.truckcentersinc.com >> DRIVEN SPRING 2012 1 >> SPRING 2012 VOL. 1, ISSUE 2 TCI TOC COVER & FEATURES

Service Awards Technological Tools 05 First Quarter 2012 Recognitions 29 Helping Truckers Abide by Mobile Ban News from TCI 06 Notes from Our General Managers Peoria… What a Show 32 Mid-West Truck & Trailer Show Industry News & Notes 08 Freightliner Celebrates 70th How to Buy a Pre- Anniversary 33 Owned Truck The Right Way 12 Days of Christmas Tips for Purchasing Used Trucks 12 20 Year Veteran Wins TCI’s Grand Prize Ameren Corporation 36 Freightliner Provides Reliability Kids for Christmas Ameren Needs 14 and One Can Charity Food Drive A Million Miles Elite Support Seal Of 39 Western Star Keeps On Truckin’ 18 Approval TCI Becomes Validated Dealer Ask The Technician 43 Cold Weather Charging Efficiency 20 Trucks That Save Dollars & Make Freightliner Launches Sense 44 New Website Site Focuses on User Express Assessment Experience 24 Working to Minimize Your Downtime

End Distracted Driving 28 New Laws Ban Mobile Devices The written and visual contents of this magazine are protected by copyright. You may << not reproduce any articles online or in print without first obtaining written permission from Truck Centers, Inc. Please contact Michelle Petroff at [email protected] for more information on the rights holder for the specific piece that you are interested in. MANAGING EDITOR: MICHELLE PETROFF | DESIGNER: FEE MCCASKILL

2 SPRING 2012 DRIVEN << www.truckcentersinc.com CATCHING UP 2012 TCI to be more reliable than even the mandated EPA ’07 options. The EPA ’10 SCR engines have lowered the amount of Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) being forced back through the engine, thus allowing the actual engine to operate cleaner and giving the engine a Service Awards New Hires better opportunity for fuel economy and longevity. The engines we offer today in our Truck Centers, Inc. and the Hopkins and Yates families take great pride in You may notice some new faces around DTNA products are more fuel-efficient and are experiencing fewer issues than we did in recognizing the outstanding contributions and service of our team members. the ’04 and ’07 mandated requirements. We are continually working on fuel maps and For the first quarter of 2012, we have two notable recognitions – Ryan Lawrence TCI. We are pleased to welcome a dozen electronic updates to give our customers the best modes of operation. The new engines and Len Thole. need to operate in the 1350-1400 RPM range in order to optimize the improvements. new faces to our corporate office and Since our engines are much more sensitive to operating in the fuel curve, running above four TCI locations since our last issue. or below this optimum level can negatively impact the fuel economy. So it is imperative Ryan Lawrence from the St. Louis that we utilize the most effective parameters for our customers to have a positive store received his five year service Welcome to the Truck Centers’ team! experience with the new engines - meaning the right speed and RPM settings in each award. Ryan has been a valuable gear in order to achieve peak performance. member of our team moving up [ through the ranks because of his “can Global/Corporate We have been able to introduce some exciting products over the last several months to do” attitude and strong work ethic. improve our ability in certain markets. We have introduced the Western Star 4700, the Ryan is the second generation Colton Sellars (Clerical) Happy New Year to everyone! I hope your Freightliner 114SD and 108SD models as well as our new and improved Freightliner Lawrence in St. Louis. His father, Coronado. These products will allow us to better serve our Vocational, Municipal and Paul, also works in St. Louis parts at holiday celebrations were pleasant and Specialty Markets. Needless to say, our Cascadia has been able to capture a large the counter. Ryan is an avid sports percentage of the Over-the-Road Market and Freightliner will continue to increase their Mt. Vernon enjoyable for you and your families. market share in this segment. Due to raw material/supplier shortages, increased orders, fan and regularly attends Blues, Rams Aaron Clark (Technician) and line slot capability, the deliveries have moved out further than anyone would like. DTNA and Cardinals games. Since the trade 2012 has started off on a fast pace. As I age, it seems that the days, weeks, months and has tried to combat this by adding additional factory shifts and increasing per day build of his favorite baseball player, Albert Danny Jones (Driver) years continue to run together. We have now completed our first two months of 2012 capacity. However, this will only be as effective as the raw material availability allows. Pujols, to the Angels, Ryan has been rumored to be sporting a #5 Angels and some very interesting topics have started to take shape. jersey. Even the diehard Cardinals fans who grumble about that, please Truck Centers has been in a development mode of becoming a certified Elite Support congratulate Ryan on his five years of service! As we all know, we have entered an election year and must listen to everyone’s bickering dealer for DTNA. In this program, many new processes and concentrated steps are Springfield/Decatur back and forth as they jockey for position in the upcoming races. I will not share any being implemented to allow us to be more efficient in servicing our customers. We Lenny Thole recently received his 40 political beliefs, but it is truly disappointing to hear nearly every candidate take shots at Roger Smith (Driver) are reinstituting the 2 hour Express Assessment at a much higher accountability year award presentation from John each other and make their debates an all out battle royale. One would hope level, reprocessing service and parts responsibilities that a person could present their views without attacking another contestant’s Hopkins and Mike Yates. After working to meet greater turnaround times for repairs, together for four decades, those of you personal life. However, it doesn’t really matter anymore; which party line, male We are here implementing more thorough and efficient follow up St. Louis/St. Peters or female, or even religious affiliation, the objective is to make the other methods to communicate with our customers, who know the three of them can appre-

person look like a complete fool. I have already heard enough and it is only to serve our developing better processes throughout our team in ciate how spirited the conversation was! Jonathon Hilton (Parts Warehouse) beginning. Wait until the Presidential debates – we will be in for a long and “ order to improve on the efficiencies to our customers, Lenny has worked at TCI since the days

expensive ride until election day! customers in and most importantly, giving extreme attention to ensure in Highland and has moved to two differ- Larry King (Service Manager) the repair is right the first time. In today’s environment ent Troy locations and has been in the Our industry (and yours) is stabilizing a little more as 2012 starts making its own the best manner Jeffrey Lindsey (Shop Cleanup) “ of electronics and new products, we are committed to trainer role for 18 years. Many of you footprint. The continued talk amongst dealers is the effect of driver shortages, possible for you providing our customers unsurpassed service. We have enjoyed his candid and blunt Brandon Osia (Apprentice Technician) on-board truck logs, hours-in-service, CSA rules and preventive maintenance have set our bar higher and are instituting approach to teaching over these years have on our customers. These items are going to make a direct impact on our accountability levels for each step. We are looking customers operationally and expense-wise as they continue to unfold. As these and for Truck and he is a valuable asset to our Joshua Penn (Parts Driver) forward to these improvements becoming even better company. Lenny and his wife of nearly 37 years, Janet, have 5 children and effect our customers, they will also affect us as their partner. Our assistance and more effective in the weeks and months ahead. must be in a manner of advising our customers about the items that may not Centers. 11.35 grandchildren. You may not know it but he has been blessed with many Roman Pierce (Technician) pass an on-road inspection or those items we note that could prevent costly And last, but surely not least, we would like to thank females in his life – his lovely wife, 4 of his 5 children, and then 8 of the 11.35 Jerome Wilson (Technician) downtime. We want to make every effort to assist our customers in these areas. It is our each and every customer for their continued support of Truck Centers. Our team appreciates grandchildren! Lenny is a self-proclaimed “creature of habit” and has spent a goal during the repair process to recognize any issues that the customer should be aware your loyalty and looks forward to continually exceeding the expectations that you and your great deal of time remodeling his home at least three times and helping his of. In doing so, we must educate ourselves even more on what the requirements are for company have for us. If you ever have any suggestions, thoughts or comments on how daughter build her home. He has also been a volunteer firefighter for 30 years. our customers to remain demerit-free on the road. we can improve the customer experience at TCI, please don’t hesitate in contacting us! Please congratulate Lenny on his four decades of service! Troy Thank you reading our magazine and allowing us to be a part of your team! There has been extensive discussion and media on the outcome of the EPA ’10 << Anthony Loepker (Shop Cleanup) emissions. Due to the two different approaches from engine manufacturers, it has ‘Til next time, Thank you to both men for their time, dedication become a Hatfield/McCoy feud on which method is the right approach. From this dealers and professionalism! perspective, since our engine choices only include Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR- Mike Yates which is with Diesel Exhaust Fluid), we have found our federal mandated EPA ’10 engines President

4 SPRING 2012 DRIVEN << www.truckcentersinc.com www.truckcentersinc.com >> DRIVEN SPRING 2012 5 Each of our General Managers have prepared a small introduction and update on the activities at their location to familiarize our current and potential customers with their management team. At Truck Centers, we feel that it is important for you to know that we are not only dedicated to superior service, facilities and resources to ensure a positive experience; but also, to provide an opportunity to get to know some NEWS FROM TCI of the team members who are working diligently for you.

KATIE HOPKINS STEVE BARTELS BRYAN JUBELT KENT ZOBRIST JIM PENNINGTON LARRY KING RUSS JARMAN JUSTIN HOPKINS JAN KRIEGER KEITH KRIDER JULIE KLEBBA WEBB EASTHAM KENNY JONES JUSTIN HOPKINS RANDY MELVIN JEREMY WILLIAMS General Manager Parts Manager Service Manager Body Shop Manager General Manager Service Manager Parts Manager General Manager Business Manager Parts Manager General Manager Parts Manager Service Manager General Manager Service Manager Parts Manager [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] TROY ST. LOUIS MORTON MT. VERNON SPRINGFIELD I-55/I-70 & Hwy. 162 I-70 & Broadway – Downtown St. Louis I-74 & Exit 102B I-57/I-64 & Rt. 15 I-55 & Hwy 29 (800) 669-3454 (800) 325-8809 (800) 397-4292 (800) 786-2545 (800) 786-1280 24/7 PARTS & SERVICE M-F 6A-11P SA-SU 6A-6P M-F 7A-12A SA-SU 7A-3:30P M-F 6A-12A SA-SU 7A-7P M-F 7A-12A SA 7A-5P

I hope each of you enjoyed a happy and healthy holiday season with your families We were able to celebrate the New Year with the completion of an Like other TCI locations, we have been very TCI-Mt. Vernon, like other stores, has been busy with preparations for our In Springfield, everyone has been hard at work preparing for the and friends! A focus at all of our Truck Centers locations in the last three months extensive renovation to our facility. Our Service Office, Drivers Lounge busy in Morton working on the new Daimler Elite Support validation but I would like to take a moment to share more new Daimler Elite Support program. We firmly believe that this DARREN WEBB has been preparations to become a certified “Elite Support” dealer. There will be a and Parts Display have been completed remodeled and offer a more CATHIE JENKINS Elite Support program. We are very excited information about our mobile repair services. I am pleased to introduce our program will help us better serve our customers and improve Customer Service Rep lot more information about this program later in the magazine but this certification efficient work environment and enjoyable space for our customers. In Service Manager about the benefits that this program will bring mobile technician, Joe Przygoda. Joe was born and raised on a farm near their overall experience at any TCI location or certified dealer- places Truck Centers in an elite tier as a dealership committed to delivering [email protected] [email protected] order to keep offering a superior customer experience, we have an ongoing to our customers while visiting any Truck Radom, IL. He graduated from Lincoln Technical Institute in 2006 and ships across North America as it will provide a new level of con- superior customer service experiences in a consistent manner at a good value. plan for various upgrades and encourage you to stop in and visit us often. Centers’ location. It will give them uniformity in Continuous improvement programs, validated customer experiences and an auditing process make immediately went to work as a diesel mechanic. In July 2010, he joined the sistency. We have made numerous improvements including this program a cut above other efforts. The Troy team was led by John Pryor and passed with flying service and unparalleled consistency in the Truck Centers’ team. shop improvements such as new air line reels and preparing a Another integral component of offering premier service is having the right experience they receive at all certified dealers service bay that is exclusively for Express Assessment and colors. John is now working alongside Steve Spihlman, our corporate Continuous Improvement leader, for team of professionals working for you. Our customers can rest assured consistency within all TCI locations. Great job by our entire Troy team! in the U.S. and Canada. Over the past two Shortly after Joe was hired, Truck Centers bought a mobile repair service qualified repairs. New signage allows for easier identification of that we have dedicated team members in all departments – Sales, Parts months, we have completely renovated our truck. This truck has state-of-the-art equipment and tooling plus an inventory of key areas of the dealership for customer ease and convenience The month of December was filled with a lot of calories! I was fortunate enough to meet with many and Service – to assist you in all of your needs from purchasing or service lobby, added new seating for waiting commonly used parts. Joe carries his own laptop and can hook into a while a remodeled lounge area will provide additional comfort- customers and enjoy holiday meals and festivities. I enjoyed the time spent with some of our longstanding selling a truck, to stocking the parts that you need to minimize costly service customers and remodeled the night customer’s truck on-site for a quick and proper diagnosis. He is also able seating and a new workstation. customers as well as the opportunity to meet several new ones. The Troy team also had a fun Christmas downtime, or a highly-skilled group of service technicians to fix your and weekend parts counter. equipped to perform on-site alignments. With the ability to close his own lunch and an ugly sweater contest. There were a lot of laughs and even though the Marks family did not truck right the first time. I am also pleased to welcome a new member tickets, Joe operates as a true “shop on wheels” with 24-hour service. I am pleased to report that Springfield, like other TCI locations, win, they clearly have the holiday spirit. Jim Bradbury proudly boasted the ugliest sweater complete with flash- to our team – Larry King. Larry is a veteran of the heavy truck repair I am pleased to report that Morton, like other recently received flying colors in our Elite Support validation. ing lights! I was also able to attend the St. Louis gathering at Gregg’s and enjoy good times with that group. industry and is our new Service Manager here to assist customers with TCI locations, recently received Elite Support Joe is currently certified in the following: Eaton Hybrid Transmission, Eaton Our entire team has done a fantastic job and I would like to all of their repair needs. And don’t forget that we also have financing validation. Our entire team has done a fantastic Performance Transmission, Cummins Midrange and Cummins Heavy Duty. recognize our Customer Improvement Coordinator (Josh Jones) January has been a busy time in Troy’s service department. Jeff Yates left his position as Service Manager and warranty specialists to assist you before and after the sale. Our as well as Service Manager (Randy Melvin) and Parts Manager CHERYL WILLIAMS job and I would like to recognize Cassandra He is in training on the Detroit Diesel engine platform and Cascadia and is to pursue other endeavors. I would like to assure everyone who has had the pleasure to work with Jeff over entire team is ready and waiting to work for YOU! Caccia for helping push forward all of these (Jeremy Williams) for their enthusiasm and leadership through- the years that we have a competent and dedicated team here to help you. We have utilized this transition Body Shop Manager scheduled to attend Fuso training in the near future. [email protected] continuous improvements. Please stop in and out this process. to make some revisions in the department to allow for a more consistent, customer-oriented approach to We also encourage and welcome your feedback. Through customer visit us! Several of our customers are taking advantage of the cost savings and our service. Four service veterans (Bryan Jubelt, Darren Webb, John Pryor & Steve Spihlman) have formed comment cards available in our facility, electronic surveys or direct Thank you for allowing us to serve you, convenience of using Joe’s services from the mobile repair truck. A few of a collaborative service management committee. I believe that both employees and customers will see key communications with myself or department managers, we are able to Justin Hopkins Thank you for the opportunity to serve you, his frequent customers include Crossroads Corner, RG Berry Trucking, benefits to this team approach. Dan Green and Jim Pennington also hosted a group of engineers from continually assess how we are doing and ensure that we are not only Justin Hopkins Freedom Transport, Southern Illinois Motor Express and Industrial Transport Germany who watched how recalls are performed and the time that is takes to perform required tasks. This meeting your expectations but exceeding them. Please take a moment visit has prompted some revisions to recall policies and it was an honor for our team to help make a Services. Joe travels the Southern Illinois area daily and would like to bring to let us know if there is anything that would like to see improved upon or positive impact on the trucking industry. Internally, we are pleased with our health insurance renewal for his services to you. Just give him a call at (618) 316-2718 to set up an to recognize those who have assisted you during your visit. TCI employees and their families for 2012. In an uncertain political climate, we are pleased to maintain appointment. our current provider (BCBS) and be cost neutral to the team for this year. Many thanks for your continued support of Truck Centers and our St. Louis team! Safe travels! In conclusion, I would like to express my deep appreciation to the customers and employees Julie Klebba of Truck Centers! I am committed to continuous improvement in all aspects of our business and I will work so that these changes make a positive impact for each of you. I am certainly Sincerely, blessed to be a part of this team and involved in this industry. Jim Pennington

Til next time, Katie Hopkins

6 SPRING 2012 DRIVEN << www.truckcentersinc.com www.truckcentersinc.com >> DRIVEN SPRING 2012 7 ALLIANCE TRUCK PARTS ALLIANCE TRUCK PARTS’ OIL PAN HEATER LAUNCHES ONLINE PARTS 2012 NASCAR SCHEDULE SET AVAILABLE OPTION ON CROSS-REFERENCE TOOL Alliance Truck Parts Racing Team’s NASCAR racing NEW CANTERS Alliance Truck Parts has launched an online parts started Feb. 25 in Daytona, Fla., and includes 22 Mitsubishi Fuso Truck of America, Inc. has lookup tool to help customers find the right part.The weekends. Penske driver Sam Hornish, Jr. is the driver announced that it is offering an oil pan heater web-based tool consolidates data from the top for the Alliance Truck Parts No. 12 Dodge Challenger to aid in starting its commercial medium-duty OEM and independent manufacturers creating a in the races. trucks in cold weather. The oil pan heater single point of access to find the right all-makes replaces block heaters that were available on part, the company says. “We’re especially proud to continue our relationship earlier FUSO FE and FG models. with Penske Racing and the entire Alliance Truck With a web interface, users can search for the part Parts Racing Team,” said Daniel Haggerty, director of “Being installed on the oil pan, the new heater needed in two ways: by the Alliance Truck Parts parts and service marketing for Daimler Trucks can directly warm cold engine oil to reduce number or by a competing supplier’s part number. North America. “The alignment we’ve found with our viscosity and required starting torque more With the click of a mouse, the parts lookup and customers through Penske Racing and Sam Hornish, efficiently than can a block heater,” says cross-reference tool provides the suggested part Jr. has helped reinforce the values our brand stands Leighton Good, MFTA manager product and number and information from Alliance Truck Parts, for: quality, reliability and performance.” applications. “In addition, as the heat rises, and by entering a city and state, it offers links to the block and components above are warmed dealers and relevant parts specials in the area. Alliance Parts racing team had two Nationwide series as well, to help reduce cold-start engine wear.” top-5 finishes and four Nationwide series top-10 “We’re proud to be able to offer our customers this finishes last year, including a Phoenix International The heater used with all new 2012 FUSO new tool that greatly simplifies finding a suggested Raceway win, in just nine starts in the Challenger. all-makes part,” says Daniel Haggerty, director of Canter models generates 420W of heat, and comes with an integral AC power cord for use parts and service marketing for Daimler Trucks “Everything we accomplished has made Alliance North America. “Alliance Truck Parts continues to with standard 115-120 VAC outlets and Truck Parts a team to contend with,” Hornish said. “It extension cords. [ PHOTO BY FREIGHTLINERTRUCKS.COM ] build on our broad commitment to customer should be an exciting season.” service and our focus on providing comprehensive parts offerings for all makes of commercial trucks A special highlight will be the ‘Alliance Truck Parts FREIGHTLINER CELEBRATES and buses.” 250’ on June 16th at Michigan International Speedway. 70TH ANNIVERSARY The tool was created with dealer parts managers, Scheduled races for the Alliance Truck Parts Racing fleet managers and independent customers in Freightliner Trucks recently launched a new website, Team include: www.freightlinertrucks.com/70years, to kick off its 70-year mind. Previously, multiple parts catalogs had to be consulted and compared to find the desired part. anniversary celebration. The site provides a look at Freightliner’s Daytona, Feb. 25 Chicago, July 22 Alliance says the new online tool solves that issue, legacy of innovation with a detailed timeline that showcases the Phoenix, March 3 Indianapolis, July 28 saving valuable time, as well as being more company’s products and technological milestones. Las Vegas, March 10 Montreal, Aug. 18 accurate with up-to-date part number information Bristol, March 17 Atlanta, Sept. 1 from multiple suppliers. INDUSTRY Freightliner Trucks will continue its anniversary celebration at the Fontana, March 24 Richmond, Sept.7

truck show in Louisville in March with a comprehensive showcase “This tool represents a major improvement in Talladega, May 5 Kentucky, Sept. 22 of vehicles featuring the company’s most sophisticated technolo- functionality for everyone looking at truck parts,” Darlington, May 11 Dover, Sept. 29

gies. A concept truck, fully loaded with cutting-edge advance- Haggerty says. “It’s an example of how we’re Charlotte, May 26 Kansas, Oct. 20 ments and unique features, will also be on display. leveraging technology to support our customers Michigan, June 16 Texas, Nov. 3 Phoenix, Nov. 10 and maintain Alliance Truck Parts as the brand of Road America, June 23 << “Seventy years ago, Freightliner Trucks first set industry standards choice in the market.” Loudon, July 14 Homestead, Nov. 17 with our products and technologies, and we’ve continued to raise the bar by developing vehicles that enhance productivity, reliability The cross-reference tool is currently contains For more information visit News and driver comfort,” said David Hames, general manager, product information from more than 30 different product www.alliancepartsracing.com marketing and strategy for Daimler Trucks North America. lines, with more being added as new products [ become available from Alliance Truck Parts.You can access the new tool at www.alliancetruck- Information System. After the 2008 legislation, several states told the parts.com/products/partsreference.asp. FMCSA MEDICAL CERTIFICATE RULE BEGINS FMCSA their offices lacked the capacity to comply by the original deadline Earlier this year, requirements were changed so that truckers must keep so the agency extended the paper copy requirement for interstate CDL paper copies of their medical examiner’s certificate with them for another holders and carriers two years to provide sufficient overlap for state two years until Jan. 30, 2014, under a Federal Motor Carrier Safety agencies. Administration’s ruling. Carriers also must keep paper copies of their However, the FMCSA did not extend the deadline for state agencies. drivers’ certificates until that date. This ruling is a follow-up to the Beginning Jan. 30, 2012, drivers applying for or renewing CDLs under the agency’s Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that was issued last June and non-excepted interstate category will have to self-certify and provide the proposed amending a 2008 final rule. certificate or a copy to the state licensing agency.All drivers affected by the That 2008 final ruling required CDL holders subject to federal physical rule will have to comply by Jan. 30, 2014. qualification to provide an original or copy of their medical examiner’s More information on the final rule, FMCSA-1997–2210, is available at certificate to their state driver’s licensing agency. State agencies must post www.regulations.gov. the medical certification information in the Commercial Driver’s License

8 SPRING 2012 DRIVEN << www.truckcentersinc.com DAIMLER ANNOUNCES JOINT VENTURE DAIMLER ADDING MORE JOBS FOR FOR TRUCKS IN CHINA FREIGHTLINER PRODUCTION On February 18, Daimler and Chinese partner Beiqi Foton Motor Co., Ltd. formally Daimler Trucks North America recently announced that it will hire 1,100 presented to the public their license confirming the birth of their joint venture Beijing people to build long-distance trucks at its North Carolina Freightliner Foton Daimler Automotive Co., Ltd. BFDA allows for Daimler’s commercial vehicle plant as it bulks up after the recession. division to participate in the Chinese market for medium- and heavy-duty commer- cial trucks. With the market doubling in the last five years, this is a segment The Freightliner plant in Cleveland employed about 3,500 workers any vehicle manufacturer cannot ignore. At present, the Chinese market accounts before the recession led to layoffs. Financial incentives offered by Rowan for more than 40 percent of worldwide sales for medium- and heavy-duty trucks. County and the town of Cleveland in 2009 kept the remaining jobs as Freightliner started production of military vehicles. Stated Andreas Renschler, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Daimler Trucks and Daimler Buses, “By founding BFDA, we have taken Since then, the plant has seen a steady recovery and now employs another step forward in the global growth strategy of Daimler Trucks, as well as the about 1,500 people. local expansion of our product portfolio in China: Company officials said they plan to add a second shift at the Our 50 percent stake in Cleveland plant, which will raise personnel to 2,700, making it the Beijing Foton Daimler largest Freightliner’s truck manufacturing plant in the United States, Automotive will enable us to with a goal of increasing production 85% by October. This will play a major role in the result in the creation of 1,200 new jobs including 100 positions at the Chinese truck market and DTNA Components and Logistics Plant in nearby Gastonia, N.C. give us access to the attractive volume segment. DTNA is ramping up production in response to the positive market devel- With this joint venture now opment in the NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement) region. fully operational, we’re send- The demand growth is particularly strong for heavy-duty, long-haul ing out a clear signal that we trucks. The increasing demand has created a six-month backorder for deliver on what we promise the popular Freightliner Cascadia model. The hiring of new employees in developing Daimler to bolster production will begin in early February 2012 with the new pro- Trucks’ worldwide strategy.” duction shift slated to be at full capacity by September 2012.

DAIMLER TRUCKS NORTH AMERICA LEADS The agencies developed these rules in collaboration under their respective authorities: EPA designed the GHG standard under the Clean Air Act, and NHTSA INDUSTRY BY CERTIFYING COMPLETE included the fuel efficiency standard as a part of the Energy Independence and VEHICLE LINEUP GHG14 COMPLAINT Security Act (EISA). Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) recently announced that the “Through early certification to this new standard, we continue to exemplify our Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has certified DTNA's complete portfolio position as undisputed market leader,” said Mark Lampert, senior vice president of model year 2013 on-highway, vocational and medium-duty vehicles as fully of sales and marketing, DTNA. “This achievement is unmatched in the compliant with the new greenhouse gas 2014 (GHG14) regulations. commercial vehicle industry, and we are proud to be pacing the industry in technologies that not only reduce greenhouse emissions, but also improve fuel DTNA’s GHG14 compliance has been achieved one full year ahead of the economy for our customers.” mandate for certification by the EPA and the Department of Transportation’s Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) first-ever program to reduce DTNA’s complete vehicle lineup is certified to the new GHG14 standard, led by heavy and medium-duty truck greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. the Freightliner Cascadia, which is DTNA’s flagship for fuel efficiency, aerodynamics and the industry leader in total cost of ownership. The DTNA continues to work closely with the EPA and NHTSA in the development of Freightliner Cascadia features clean drive technologies such as BlueTec® new regulations. Under the new GHG14 regulations, trucks and buses built in emissions technologies and its family of DD Engines that continue to pace 2014 through 2018 are projected to reduce oil consumption by 530 the industry in overall fuel efficiency. million barrels and greenhouse gas emissions by 270 million metric tons. Another example of overall vehicle optimization that leads to best-in-class fuel “DTNA is committed to working with EPA and NHTSA to address critical issues efficiency and greenhouse gas reduction is the new Detroit™ brand. The brand facing the United States such as greenhouse gas reduction, as well as was developed to encompass all powertrain-related components and expedite dependence on foreign oil,” said Martin Daum, president and CEO, DTNA. fruition of Daimler Trucks’ Global Excellence Strategy that includes an overall “Early compliance with GHG14 regulations is clear evidence of DTNA’s optimization of global powertrains. strategic plan to demonstrate leadership in fuel efficiency and reduced emissions well in advance of any regulatory deadlines.” An example of Daimler Truck’s powertrain optimization strategy is the Detroit DD engine line-up that utilizes Daimler Trucks’ best-in-class global processes for NHTSA and EPA designed the GHG14 standards to address global climate powertrain engineering and development. The portfolio includes the Detroit change, as well as to improve fuel efficiency thereby reducing oil consumption. DD13®, DD15® and DD16® engines all equipped with BlueTec® emissions The effect of these actions will be to improve energy security, increase fuel sav- technology, Daimler’s global SCR technology. Detroit DD engines have proven ings, reduce GHG emissions, and provide regulatory certainty for manufacturers. to be among the most fuel efficient, highest quality, lowest total cost of ownership and cleanest emissions engines in the industry.

10 SPRING 2012 DRIVEN << www.truckcentersinc.com www.truckcentersinc.com >> DRIVEN SPRING 2012 7 << [ The holiday season is a festive time of year at Truck Centers. From our "12 Days of Christmas" promotion and charity programs to twinkling lights, DAYS OF decor and employee events, our team goes all out in the spirit of the season. ] Christmas << << [ Ron Phares – Grand Prize Winner. ] [ Public spaces are not the only ones that were decorated for the holidays. Terry Marks of TCI-Troy definitely had the most festive office! ] WENTY YEAR TRUCKING VETERAN converter for his truck and TCI Truck Bucks for a complimentary oil change service.Winners represented 14 states and Canada but it was a local winner that OWNER OPERATOR WINS TRUCK was the lucky grand prize recipient. CENTERS, INC. GRAND PRIZE T Ron Phares of Springfield, IL, was drawn as our grand prize winner after entering In December, Illinois-based Truck Centers, Inc. (TCI) gave away seventy-eight at TCI-Springfield. He proudly accepted his prize pack from Springfield General prizes geared towards the professional trucking industry. The family-owned Manager, Justin Hopkins. Mr. Phares has over two decades of professional dealer group representing various Daimler Trucks of North America brands experience behind the wheel and is an owner operator that relies on his including Freightliner and Western Star launched the popular “12 Days of Freightliner Cascadia to deliver his freight timely and safely. Christmas” promotion in 2010 and brought it back this season by popular demand. Nearly 500 customers at seven TCI locations across Illinois and “On behalf of the entire Truck Centers’ team, I would like to congratulate all of our Missouri entered to win an array of prizes including gift certificates, safety winners and thank everyone who participated. We were pleased at the response equipment, winter truck packs, GPS units and sporting event tickets. from our customers during this limited-time promotion and will continue to offer similar contests in the future to show our sincere appreciation for their business,” Winners were drawn daily; however, the grand prize is what everyone was noted Executive Vice President, Katie Hopkins. “And congratulations to our grand hoping to capture. The final winner would receive a prize pack valued at $900 prize winner, Ron Phares! We wish all of our customers a safe & successful that include most of the previous gifts plus a flat screen TV,DVD player and power 2012 as they help deliver the goods that keep our country going.” << [ Each store decorates for the holidays. Many of our "12 Days of Christmas" winners have photos with a tree back- [ John Hopkins always treats the women of TCI-Troy to a special holiday lunch or dinner. << drop harkening back to our youth. ] This year, they had a delicious meal at The Melting Pot! ] 12 SPRING 2012 DRIVEN << www.truckcentersinc.com ach month, Operation Food added a little friendly competition between Search distributes more than departments for the highest average of TRUCK CENTERS, 2 million pounds of food and cans per department member with the necessities to 265 food winning team receiving a $10 gift card for pantries, soup kitchens and each team member or the opportunity to E homeless shelters in 31 also donate the winnings to OFS. While Missouri and Illinois counties. Their the entire TCI Troy team deserves hearty INC. SHOWS efforts help feed approximately 150,000 congratulations for their generosity, the 26 people every month and nearly half of men & women of the Troy Body Shop those recipients are children. In fact, should be applauded for their outstanding 135,000 children in the St. Louis area are benevolence and teamwork for donating at risk for hunger – that is enough to fill an average of 14.77 cans per person. Busch Stadium three times. Body Shop Manager Kent Zobrist also went above and beyond to reward his team by In one short month, the Troy team was able covering the donation for their proceeds to to prove that “One CAN Make a Difference” benefit Operation Food Search while the ONE by donating 2,112 pounds of food with a team members are also able to receive value of $3,294.72! The executive team their gift cards. provided 397 large gallon and family-sized cans that were displayed in a Christmas The spirit of teamwork that runs throughout tree in the Service lobby and team Truck Centers has once again illustrated members donated 1,162 cans that will that together we can make a difference. each receive a $1 match from TCI for an To learn more about Operation Food CAN additional $1,162 for Operation Food Search, please visit www.operation Search’s ongoing service to the area’s foodsearch.com. MAKE A needy. The family-owned company also DIFFERENCE Christmas for Kids Truck Centers, Inc. was proud to sponsor the “Christmas for Kids” event that was held to benefit two St. Louis children’s hospitals – Cardinal Glennon Children’s Medical Center and St. Louis Children’s Hospital. Over 200 attendees raised money through ticket sales, sponsorship donations and a silent auction to benefit these amazing medical centers. TOGETHER, WE RAISED $16,257.00!

14 SPRING 2012 DRIVEN << www.truckcentersinc.com 16 SPRING 2012 DRIVEN << www.truckcentersinc.com www.truckcentersinc.com >> DRIVEN WINTER 2011 19 or the past three months, all full- service Truck Centers’ locations have been focused on the final preparations SUBMIT YOUR of becoming a certified Elite Support F dealer. Becoming an Elite Support dealer places Truck Centers in a preeminent group of dealerships that are committed to OWN AD consistently delivering superior customer Truck Centers Receives service experiences and good values in a manner that can be validated by our patrons. CONTACT

<< >> This program only enhances and reinforces Michelle Petroff our ongoing commitment to fast, MOUNT VERNON friendly service at a competitive ELITE price. >> CALL (618) 667-3454 Continuous improvement is the cornerstone of the program. With no Support beginning or end, there is always >> EMAIL room for improvement and for ongo- ing evolution building a premier [email protected] customer experience. The validation process consists of an on-site audit of 129 core criteria in operational [ Seal of areas, amenities, facilities, service/ <<

parts processes and customer SPRINGFIELD

communication channels. On January 23rd, our Troy location became the first store to go << Approval through the extensive validation process and passed with flying colors becoming one of the first 52 Elite Support dealerships across the United States and Canada. Over the next few days, our four other full-service locations at Morton, Mt. Vernon, Springfield and St. Louis were also validated.

Our validation successes were the result of a MORTON valiant team effort and extensive commitment by our management team and a Continuous Improvement Coordinator at each location. << SAINT LOUIS Steve Spihlman oversaw all efforts as the corporate Continuous Improvement Leader. Steve along with Troy’s CIC, John Pryor, took the helm in leading Troy’s validation and assisting other locations with their subsequent efforts. Congratulations to all TCI General Managers, Departmental Managers, CICs and

TROY team members on continually striving to offer << our customers the best possible experiences!

18 SPRING 2012 DRIVEN << www.truckcentersinc.com TRUCKS THAT SAVE DOLLARS

& MAKE [ PHOTO BY FREIGHTLINERTRUCKS.COM ]

ALTERNATIVE FUELS fuel economy in stop-and-go route operations. SENSE Daimler has been at the forefront of embracing Stored energy from the hybrid batteries can also [ BY MICHELLE PETROFF ] alternative fuel sources and actually putting these power electric-only operation for electronic Power Efficiency: technologies into production. When you combine Take-Off (ePTO) use for vocational applications, such DTNA efficient, clean drive systems with alternative as running a utility lift, and significantly reducing idle fuels – the road ahead is an emission-free time and boosting fuel savings up to 60%. commercial vehicle. ith diesel prices steadily climbing and projected CULTURE OF INNOVATION AND EMERGING TECHNOLOGY Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation (FCCC) and From the integration of Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) to Enova, a leading developer of proprietary hybrid- Innovation and ongoing product development are cornerstones to Daimler’s success prices consistently hovering above the $4 per Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) and BlueTec® electric and all-electric drive system components for in the heavy-truck market. The debut of the cutting-edge Freightliner Cascadia was gallon mark through 2013, fuel efficiency has been an Emissions Technology, our heavy-duty trucks exceed the green commercial vehicle market, recently only the beginning of that model’s evolution. Uncompromising standards and the increasingly popular topic in the trucking industry. EPA standards while remaining practical and proven launched a program to make electric vehicles unwillingness to settle for slight advances, DTNA engineers continued to find ways to Manufacturers continue to work on innovations and for years to come. BlueTec® is proven to increase accessible to fleets. The Green for Free joint W significantly bolster the fuel economy by approximately 3% over previous models. performance with every drop of diesel used, reduce initiative allows fleets to purchase all-electric modifications to increase fuel-sipping options in the Class 6-8 The revision of new chassis side fairings and side extenders were added to the pollutants from exhaust gases and improve prof- vehicles for the cost of a diesel-powered commercial markets. Owner operators and fleets are also adopting new solutions Cascadia in 2011 to improve its fuel economy by an additional 1.8%. Freightliner itability per mile while converting exhaust gasses to vehicle. The savings that fleets incur from reduced

to help boost their fuel economy via driver performance behavior, also offers lightweight options of the Cascadia model to lower the total cost of ] [ PHOTO BY FREIGHTLINERTRUCKS.COM nitrogen and water emissions – safe elements maintenance costs and fuel savings is then used ownership for fleets. Strides have also been made in Detroit engine and transmission customized fairings, trailer skirts and vehicle maintenance. One already in the air that we breathe. over a period of time to cover the incremental thing is certain, American ingenuity continues shine. technologies including lightweight options, predictive cruise control and various expense for the emerging technology. FCCC and specification options. Freightliner has also made significant advances in Enova plan to deploy 3,000 alternative-fuel vehicles alternative fuels including natural gas options in the within a two-year time frame beginning no later than Because fuel is one of the key operating costs to truckers, the “The Cascadia is the right solution for any business that wants to improve fuel Business Class M2 112 and vocational 114SD models. the third quarter of 2012. search for maximum fuel economy is a primary concern for economy without compromising style, comfort and performance,” said Kary Schaefer, Natural gas is one of the most abundant, efficient current and new customers as crude oil prices climb and govern- chief engineer, cab systems, for Freightliner Trucks. “With our new aerodynamic and clean-burning fuels on earth. Compressed “FCCC and Enova recognize that the Green For Free mental regulations for emissions continue to tighten. Daimler enhancements, we are making it even easier for our customers to optimize their fuel Natural Gas (CNG) or Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) program is necessary in order to make all-electric efficiency and reduce operating costs.” Trucks North America (DTNA) brands including Freightliner, have greenhouse gas levels up to 20% below those vehicles more affordable, and therefore more Western Star and Detroit Diesel are at the forefront of cutting- of diesel fuel. With the rising cost of diesel, natural accessible to fleets,” said Bob Harbin, FCCC DTNA has also embraced technology by way of support and communication services edge technology to improve efficiency, operating costs and gas is comparatively inexpensive and significantly president. “We want to help those fleets interested including Virtual Technician™ diagnostics and programs such as Freightliner’s “The longevity for the trucks that our customers rely on. DTNA reduces operating cost. When combined with hearty in reducing their energy consumption and environ-

Edge” – a free online club designed for owner operators to effectively manage their TIMES ] [ PHOTO BY FLEETS & FUELS SHOW federal and state tax incentives, natural gas can truly mental impact by enabling them to purchase more engineers and experts continue to search for creative innovations operations. Edge visitors have access to useful online tools that include everything

and technological adaptations to enhance fuel economy. Key become a wise business investment. alternative-fuel vehicles at one time because of the from traffic and weather reports to Freightliner news and member-only discounts reduced upfront costs.” areas of ongoing scrutiny and assessment include: supporting inno- within a virtual trucking community. I believe Freightliner is building Hybrid technologies that combine a diesel and vation and new/emerging technology, utilization of alternative “ smart solutions that are driving electric motor are an important component of Continuing with Freightliner’s pioneering spirit, FCCC “We created The Edge to arm owner-operators with the tools they need to get ahead fuel sources, aerodynamic design, proper specifications for new Freightliner Trucks’ strategy for sustainable mobility. is proud to be the first chassis manufacturer to bring orders, essential maintenance and driver performance and be successful,” said TJ Reed, director of product marketing for Freightliner “profits to our bottom line...we’re The Freightliner Business Class M2 106 Hybrid utilizes the hybrid-electric vehicle and all-electric vehicle to

Trucks. “The Edge is also another way for Freightliner to market. You can learn more at www.freightliner- behavior. connect directly with our customers, so we can continue to seeing approximately a 20% the Eaton parallel-electric hybrid system to provide << help them run smart at every turn.” increase in fuel mileage. additional power to launch the vehicle and improves chassis.com — BRENT NUSSBAUM, CEO, NUSSBAUM TRANSPORTATION 20 SPRING 2012 DRIVEN << www.truckcentersinc.com www.truckcentersinc.com >> DRIVEN SPRING 2012 21 << AERODYNAMICS resistance that reduces the lifespan of tires because of exces- Aerodynamic design can significantly impact fuel consumption sive wear. This maintenance issue alone costs customers as the majority of energy used on the open roads is to displacing roughly $1,260 per truck every year. Proactive repairs of vital air around the truck. DTNA’s team of engineers has continually recall notices and routine scheduled maintenance at Elite pushed the envelope in regards to innovation and setting the Support certified dealerships, such as Truck Centers, will also benchmark for trucking technology. Each truck model under- help minimize your downtime and maximize dollars in your goes rigorous testing to make sure it exceeds our customers’ pocket. expectations. While all DTNA models have been thoughtfully designed to reduce drag and maximize air displacement, Technologies such as Detroit™ Virtual Technician™ allow particular attention has been given to the Freightliner Cascadia. customers to monitor every aspect of how your Detroit engine is running and to preempt significant and costly repairs. This The Cascadia was introduced as the “Innovation Truck” – a groundbreaking technology allows for real-time maintenance unique truck built for efficiency with a bold aerodynamic exterior. notifications, automatic diagnosis of engine fault codes and even The Cascadia was the first Class 8 truck designed in the wind remote scheduling for service appointments. If a problem is tunnel for optimized performance. Built from a completely new found and the engine light illuminates, the Virtual Technician™ platform, the Cascadia continues to deliver significant fuel program jumps into action minimizing delay and potential savings and is based upon the Run Smart philosophy to be the damage to the engine. The truck’s high-definition GPS/JBUS ] [ PHOTO BY FREIGHTLINERTRUCKS.COM most productive and efficient truck on the road. on-board system notes the truck’s status before/after the event and e-mails you with the fault code/description, severity of service “Our customers are faced with the consequences of ever- (immediate, soon, scheduled), contact information for the tightening emissions standards, higher fuel prices, rapidly Customer Support Center and the service locator feature. More escalating wages and benefits, and a dire shortage of maintenance Uptime. Less Downtime. That’s what we’re all about. technicians,” noted a top Freightliner executive when the Cascadia debuted. “Freightliner was built on solving our customers’ most pressing concerns and only DRIVER BEHAVIOR Freightliner has the resources and the know-how to Studies have proven that driver behavior can significantly impact bring a completely new model to market at this difficult fuel economy. Excessive speed is the single largest factor in time for the trucking and truck-building industries.” reduced fuel mileage. Freightliner “Slice of Trucker Life” blogger (and Cascadia driver) Henry Albert is currently tracking data on the fuel mileage differences between traveling at 55 mph and SMART SPECIFICATIONS 60 mph. He has significant tips and findings on bolstering your truck’s fuel economy on his blog at www.sliceoftruckerlife.com. Freightliner and Western Star trucks offer limitless customization [ PHOTO BY FREIGHTLINERTRUCKS.COM ] options to ensure that your truck does the jobs that you need it to in the most efficient and cost-effective manner possible. The Also, using restraint and short-shifting at 1,100 to 1,200 rpm in [ PHOTO BY SLICEOFTRUCKERLIFE.COM ] goal of DTNA and all of us at Truck Centers is not to sell you a low-range gears when accelerating from a stop can keep fuel truck padded with things that you don’t want or need… but to consumption low and still move the truck. When stepping to President Barack Obama recently visited Freightliner’s Mount Holly, help you create YOUR truck. From cab and interior options to high range, still try to limit your maximum shift point around President Obama Visits N.C., plant to outline a new incentive plan to promote the development suspension and axle configurations, careful consideration is 1,500 rpm because engineers have determined that the upper of more fuel-efficient vehicles. The March 7th visit was Obama’s first given to each and every component in our trucks. Our certified end of the power curve has the harshest fuel burn rate. Utilizing Freightliner Plant to onboard electronic computer technology and trip software can help visit to a foreign automaker as president but the backdrop was fitting for sales brand experts can help you create the best specifications his topic regarding the government’s fuel efficiency standards for cars, to operate efficiently and in comfort and style! you track fuel consumption while cruise control usage can help Discuss FUEL EFFICIENCY maintain consistent speeds and add up to significant fuel savings. medium- and heavy-duty trucks since Freightliner’s parent company, Ongoing advances with our powertrains and Detroit Diesel Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA), recently became the industry’s technologies continue to help our customers increase their Excessive idling can be charted in the fuel economy onboard first heavy-truck manufacturer to have their complete 2013 model year bottomline. Lightweight options of the Detroit Diesel DD13 or display and negatively impacts fuel economy. The installation of portfolio approved by the Environmental Protection Agency for full the uber-efficient powerhouse DD15 all deliver performance and no-idle systems not only helps the environment but also provides compliance with the new greenhouse gas 2014 (GHG14) regulations. savings while sipping fuel. Direct drive transmissions, variable valuable savings at the fuel island. speed fans, Freightliner’s proprietary Run Smart predictive Obama announced a $1 billion incentive proposal to challenge cities to cruise control systems, BlueTec technologies, and the list goes Innovation and efficiency will continue to be two buzzwords in come up with ways to help people use fuel-efficient technologies, such on… all of these technological advances and options add to the our industry as we all face rising operational costs. Just like our as electric vehicle charging stations. While at the Mount Holly facility, efficiency of our vehicles. Like the title declares - trucks that counterparts at DTNA,Truck Centers strives to be at the forefront which is one of three Freightliner plants in the Charlotte area, the save dollars and make sense. of our industry to better serve our customers. Our extensive hours of operation including 24/7 parts and service at Troy, $9 President proposed a new purchase credit for fuel-efficient large trucks million in stocked parts inventory and mobile repair fleet help us like those rolling off of the factory’s assembly line. Growing demand has PROPER MAINTENANCE minimize your downtime. We proudly offer Express Assessment prompted Freightliner to hire more workers to meet the build demand Thorough and proper maintenance is critical to preserving your as a value-added efficiency service to our customers. Express for their popular trucks. Last year, DTNA said it would bring back 447 truck’s lifespan and peak performance. Multiple components Assessment allows us to promptly inspect your truck, diagnose manufacturing jobs and 27 administrative positions to the plant in a and factors including filters, coolant products, fuel quality, tire its problem and determine parts availability for repairs as well as an small community of 14,000 residents. In February, they announced the construction and wear, axle alignment, body damage and much estimated cost within two hours of your arrival. All five full-service hiring of an additional 1,100 workers at its nearby Rowan County more can affect your fuel economy. Fuel and tire maintenance TCI locations are now also part of an esteemed group of dealers factory and an additional 100 at a third parts plant in Gastonia. represent the two largest financial expenses for fleets. Improper that are validated Elite Support centers for premier customer tire inflation can negatively impact fuel efficiency by 0.5-1.0% care. At TCI, efficiency isn’t just a word, but a state of mind! because of a larger-than-normal footprint and increase in rolling Special thanks to Freightliner Trucks, LLC, for informational support. [ PHOTOS BY JOHN W. ADKISSON–GETTY IMAGES & AP PHOTO ]

22 SPRING 2012 DRIVEN << www.truckcentersinc.com www.truckcentersinc.com >> DRIVEN SPRING 2012 23 EXPRESS Assessment VEHICLE ROUTING

INCOMING VEHICLE

SERVICE ADVISOR Get In. Get Diagnosed. approved Freightliner/Western Star WRITE-UP Get Back on the Road. dealership that offers Express When you have a problem with Assessment (like all full-service your truck, we understand that you Truck Centers, Inc. locations), a need help right away. You shouldn’t certified technician will assess your TRUCK CENTERS, INC. have to wait for days just to learn truck within two hours of the initial that you could have avoided costly service write-up. Two hours – no downtime and been back on the matter how many people are ahead IS PROUD TO OFFER road in minutes. All of us at Truck of you! DIAGNOSIS Centers, Inc. and Freightliner are committed to ensuring this doesn’t We Keep You Informed. Once the problem is identified, OUR CUSTOMERS happen to you. Our answer is Any vehicle that Freightliner Trucks’ Express parts availability is checked right away so you will know – immedi- requires more than Assessment. one hour of diagnosis DIAGNOSIS SIMPLE ately – how long the complete or has multiple repair YES EXPRESS We Find It. We Fix It. repair will take and approximate needs will be moved COMPLETE? REPAIR? All too often, you take your rig to a cost or warranty coverage. Right to the main shop. mechanic and have to wait for all then, you can make an informed decision if you need to repower Express Assessment is Assessment repairs ahead of yours to be com- only offered during first NO NO YES pleted before they even look at your load, notify the shipper or be shift weekdays unless your truck. That’s hours of your able to just wait. Luckily TCI has otherwise posted. time spent waiting to diagnose, nearly $9m in stocked parts inven- much less fix, any problem. And tory to boost your chances on get- we understand that when you’re ting back to truckin’ in the quickest not turnin’, you’re not earnin’. turnaround anywhere outside of [When you bring your truck into an NASCAR. MAIN SHOP EXPRESS REPAIR 24 SPRING 2012 DRIVEN << www.truckcentersinc.com 26 SPRING 2012 DRIVEN << www.truckcentersinc.com Expand to End TECHNOLOGICAL TOOLS Distracted Driving to Help Truckers Abide by the Mobile Ban Hands-Free Devices & Headsets Commercial drivers are allowed to use hands-free LAWS devices and headsets with some limitations. Drivers Voice-Activated Technology Distracted cannot reach for their phones, dial them or even Drivers may also utilize hold them at any time while they are on the roadway voice-activated technology driving so the phone must be equipped with one touch and cell phones to limit calling and/or voice-activated dialing. their distractions has proven behind the wheel. Numerous new products are available and your to be as cellular provider can inform you of their dangerous products but the Siri feature on Apple’s new as driving iPhone 4S is one of the most common options. under the influence of alcohol.

[ PHOTO BY BRUCE W. SMITH/RANDALL-REILLY ] [

n 2009, nearly 5,474 people died and approximately 500,000 were commercial vehicle or even using devices at a red light or in stopped injured on America’s roadways as a result of distracted driving. In traffic. The ban has been labeled as a severe traffic violation and carries fact, research from the National Highway Traffic Safety federal civil fines up to $2,750. A habitual offense (two or three in a Smartphone Administration’s (NHTSA) 2009 reports concluded that distraction- three year time frame) will also carry a 60- to 120- day suspension of the related fatalities represented 16 percent of overall traffic fatalities. driver’s CDL. Additionally, the driver and carrier’s CSA scores will be Apps I Various apps are Tracking Features negatively impacted by any convictions. Carriers face an $11,000 These numbers prove a point and give validation to the final ruling to fine for knowingly allowing drivers to use handheld devices while available for the Carriers can now track a driver’s cellular prohibit interstate truck and bus drivers from using hand-held cell operating their equipment. Smartphone set usage before an accident. Inthinc phones while operating their vehicles that was put into effect on January including Iconosys, Technology Solutions Inc. is a fleet solutions 3, 2012. The joint rule from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety This is not the first precaution to decrease distracted driving and Inc.’s DriveReply. DriveReply is a simple driver attendant and telematics company that now offers a Administration (FMCSA) and the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials increase safety on the roadways. In 2010, FMCSA delivered a regulation Safety Administration (PHMSA) is the latest action by the U.S. banning text messaging while driving a commercial truck or bus and app that helps prevent distracted driving by responding to cell and text detection antenna that can be Department of Transportation to end distracted driving and its deadly PHMSA followed with a companion regulation in February 2011 for incoming texts and calls immediately by letting them added to their existing product installations. consequences. intrastate drivers transporting hazardous materials. know that the user is driving in a responsible manner. The antenna detects cell phone wave Additional features include an accident recording service frequencies emitted from the driver’s seat, The final ruling will impact over 4,000 commercial truck drivers and To learn more on the efforts to stop distracted driving, please visit and “where am I?” locator service. verbally warns the user to terminate the call prohibits them from using a hand-held mobile device while operating a http://www.distraction.gov. or text and sends a real-time alert to the carrier.

28 SPRING 2012 DRIVEN << www.truckcentersinc.com SPECIALS HERITAGE SILVER STANDARD FEATURES OPTIONAL FEATURES • 2-Way adjustable lumbar • Glide-A-LatorTM - Isolator • 15-Degree reclining back • Mid-Back or High-Back • 20-Inch, 4-Position seat cushion • Available in MicrofibreTM Cloth, vinyl, • 7-Inch tracks and Tuff-TexTM covering materials • Standard air parallelogram suspension • Armrests • Rubber Bellow (Only available on Heritage Gold or Silver)

Heritage Silver with Armrest and Microfibre Cloth Material PART NUMBER COLOR SET 189800KA11 BLACK SET 189800KA12 BLUE SET 189800KA14 BURGUNDY $429.95 SET 189800KA15 GRAY

$569.95 LEGACY SILVER STANDARD FEATURES OPTIONAL FEATURES • Enhanced Back Support & Cushion Comfort • Highback or Mid Highback Developed using sophisticated pressure • UltraLeatherTM or Two Tone UltraLeather; mapping equipment Tuff-TexTM, or Microfibre Cloth Materials • Standard air parallelogram suspension • 2-Way or 4-Way Lumbar • Air lumbar • Bellow (rubber suspension cover) • 22-Inch, 4-Position seat cushion • EZ-adjust longer armrests • 19-Inch Width Shoulder Region • Driver or passenger swivel • Fully reclining backrest • D2 foam technology Combining foam longevity with comfort • EVC cushion comfort system Legacy Silver with Armrest and Reduces vibration and fatigue while Microfibre Cloth Material enhancing comfort • Glide-A-LatorTM Isolator PART NUMBER COLOR • 7-Inch tracks SET 188900KW11 BLACK • Mesh map pocket located on back of seat SET 188900KW12 BLUE • 7-Year Structural Warranty SET 188900KW14 BURGUNDY • 1-Year Warranty cushion and cover SET 188900KW15 GRAY Prices good through 5/31/2012 www.truckcentersinc.com

30 SPRING 2012 DRIVEN << www.truckcentersinc.com How to Buy a Pre-Owned Truck While there are many inherent benefits to purchasing new trucks, customers are also frequently in the market for quality, pre-owned units. A primary THE RIGHT WAY! motivating factor for purchasing these vehicles is economic with substantial savings that used units provide. And, if managed correctly, pre- owned trucks can perform as reliably as new ones. With Class 8 tractors being built to run for 1,000,000+ miles and fleets often trading units with 200,000-300,000 miles logged, they have years of reliable service left in them.

That being said, knowing your equipment, the truck’s background and proper preventative maintenance are essential in having a positive buying experience. TCI’s Used Truck Sales Manager, Steve Lanier, has compiled some notes to help customers identify the best vehicle options available to them.

Customers must consider a few key points Peoria...WHAT A SHOW! including their budget and the tasks/applications that the truck must perform. When assessing budget, one must also factor in a thorough inspection of the truck if it is not sold from a reputable dealer or authorized reseller, additional expenses such as tires, brakes or servicing of accessory equipment. Once the purchaser has a clear picture on costs, the next step is finding the truck that is best suited for your needs.

It is important to identify what options and fea- tures are essential and which are negotiable. Certain specs including business with and only work with reputable companies. The reseller horsepower ratings, transmission types or gear ratios are critical for must be committed to a thorough inspection and reconditioning certain applications and often come with a heftier price tag. Knowing process and the associated costs that go alongside thorough pre- what you expect out of your truck will allow you to hone in on the features purchase maintenance and preparation programs. The team from TCI-Morton once again recently needed for your truck to be able to do its job for the best possible price. participated in the Mid-West Truckers Association One of the most important things to consider when purchasing a pre- Once you identify a potential unit, start with a visual inspection of the owned truck is knowing the seller or dealer. It is important to purchase Truck & Trailer Show in Peoria, IL. We were truck. Doing a preliminary surface review of the interior, exterior, body from a seller that reaffirms their commitment to quality, customer service pleased with a phenomenal turn out with over and paint, tires and engine can yield some red flags of neglect, insuffi- and has a stellar reputation. A few essential factors to consider are: 6,000 visitors. Our display included a 2012 cient maintenance or even collision damage. However, a quick walk around and test drive doesn’t always give a proper evaluation. The Do they have a thorough program covering Freightliner Cascadia 60" MRXT, Fuso FE160, option of demoing the truck to ensure it works the way that you need it inspections, reconditioning and service? Western Star 4900 SA, Pit Boss Trailer as well to is an added bonus that some sellers offer. as vendor product displays. However, the crown Do they have a reliable reputation that proves Proper maintenance records and a thorough vehicle history are golden jewel was the Freightliner FLD 120 (915) retro- tickets in learning about the life of your truck. A one-owner truck with they stand behind the trucks they sell? fitted for the 724th Transportation Company of a detailed maintenance record provides the most reassurance about Are any warranty options available? the U.S. Army Reserve from Bartonville, IL. The the care given to the vehicle. In this competitive market, low-mileage and late-model tractors are increasingly difficult to find because all Army truck served as a backdrop for ongoing TCI purchasers value them. Do they offer competitive financing options? fundraising efforts for the Wounded Warrior At Truck Centers, we have committed to serving our customers and With the challenge of a limited supply of low-mileage used trucks, Project to help injured service members. Each friends for nearly 42 years and we continue to strive to offer the best mileage is one of the primary factors affecting truck values. Purchasers service available before and after the sale. All of our retail trucks go year it is a privilege to network with our long are forced to consider units with higher mileage because of budget or through an on-site, comprehensive 148-point inspection and available inventory. This does not have to be a negative experience; it time customers and present our newest trucks reconditioning process. Our promise to you is to do whatever we just requires customers to be prudent with the dealer they are doing and trailers to all that come to the show. can to deliver a quality truck that will help you get the job done.

32 SPRING 2012 DRIVEN << www.truckcentersinc.com www.truckcentersinc.com >> DRIVEN SPRING 2012 33 SHOWMIDWEST SPECIALS TRUCKER 2012 Quality of Sleep, FOR LESS THAN A DOLLAR A NIGHT.

Cab Comfort and Engine Pre-Heating Espar Heater Systems manufactures diesel-fired heating systems to provide cab and sleeper heat in trucks, eliminating the need to idle the engine for heat. Espar also supplies independent coolant Features: systems for quick engine pre-heating. These systems require no • Automatic temperature control • Installs easily under bunk in electrical plug-ins and are ideal for cold weather starting. for optimum comfort 8-10 hours • Digital control provides onboard • Virtually Maintenance free Benefits Include: service diagnostics, automatic • New evaporator filter for extended temperature control and more coil life • CAB PREHEAT - a warm cab and • CARB Approved (#08-643-004) • Shore power and hotel load options sleeper without idling the engine • Electrified AC unit, runs on auxil- • Fuel fired heater options iary AGM / deep cycle batteries • Hybrid system available for • ENGINE PREHEAT - safe, • Unit run time 8-10 hours* extended run time reliable cold weather starting Warranty: 1 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY ON PARTS & LABOR • NO ELECTRICAL PLUG-INS 2 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY ON PARTS ONLY

NITE® Now Offers Mini Controller • LCD Display Bettery Monitoring System AIRTRONIC D2 Air Heater • • Automatic Temperature Control • Increase Efficiency •Increased BTUs

Fuel Pick-up Pipe HYDRONIC D2 Coolant Heater

Espar’s AIRTRONIC Espar’s HYDRONIC Air Heaters COOLANT Heaters PART NUMBER: ESP PART NUMBER: ESP 2028206902850Z 2528221905410Z $1,095.99 $1,195.55 With Mini Controller *parts only Boxed Kit With 7 Day Timer *parts only $8,795.00**BASED ON NORMAL INSTALLATION

Prices good through 5/31/2012 www.truckcentersinc.com AMERENCORPORATION

[ PHOTO BY AMEREN MISSOURI ]

t. Louis-based Ameren Corporation is [ Ameren crews working to restore power following storms in the St. Louis area. ] [ PHOTO BY UPI/BILL GREENBLATT ] S among the nation's largest investor- owned electric and gas Ameren Missouri was originally founded as Union Electric in 1902. It they deliver electricity to 1.2 million electric and 800,000 natural gas utilities. The largest electric is the state’s largest transmission electric utility. Ameren Missouri has customers in central and southern Illinois. They deliver to more than utility in Missouri and the 4,000 team members who serve 1.2 million customers in Missouri, 1,000 communities, while their complex delivery system includes about including 126,000 gas customers. Their service transmission area is 4,500 miles of electric transmission lines, 45,400 miles of distribution second largest in Illinois, primarily central and eastern Missouri, including the greater St. Louis lines, 18,000 miles of natural gas transmission and distribution mains, Ameren companies provide ener- area. They service 63 Missouri counties and more than 500 along with 12 underground natural gas storage fields. gy services to 2.4 million electric and communities. More than 53 percent of their electric customers are located in the St. Louis Metropolitan area. Ameren Missouri also Ameren employees frequently volunteer and give back to the more than 930,000 natural gas customers services the transmission of gas to 90 communities, including towns in communities and organizations in which they live and work throughout its 64,000-square-mile territory. southeast, central, and eastern Missouri. They own 3,100 miles of throughout the company’s 64,000-square-mile territory. Created by the merger of Union Electric Company (Mo.) and Central Illinois Public natural gas transmission and distribution mains. Like the Freightliner products that they rely on, dependability is one of Service Company (Ill.) in 1997, the company grew in 2003 with the acquisition Ameren Illinois is a regulated electric and gas delivery company based in the cornerstones to Ameren’s success. With that being said, we believe of Central Illinois Light Company (Ill.) and again in 2004 with the acquisition of Peoria, Ill. As a delivery company, Ameren Illinois is in the business of that a great vocational customer like Ameren, Truck Centers and Illinois Power Company (Ill). Ameren Corporation’s workforce is made up of more energy distribution. Ameren Illinois’ service territory spans 43,700 Freightliner make a good team. than 9,000 team members under one of company subsidiaries or one of their square miles, or about three-quarters of the state of Illinois. Every day, www.ameren.com main line service operations.

36 SPRING 2012 DRIVEN << www.truckcentersinc.com www.truckcentersinc.com >> DRIVEN SPRING 2012 37 << AMEREN CORPORATION [CONT.] 1

2 [ PHOTOAMEREN ILLINOIS ] BY 3 OWNER- OPERATORS’ WESTERN STAR 4900EX [ EDITED FROM A STORY PROVIDED BY WESTERN STAR ] [ PHOTOAMEREN ILLINOIS ] BY [ PHOTOAMEREN ILLINOIS ] BY SURPASSES [ An Ameren Illinois Freightliner in action. ] 1 2 [ Work tools. ] [ Ameren has an emergency response 3 4 [ Ameren crews in New England following Hurricane Irene. ] command center to manage field operations. ] A MILLION MILES 4 estern Star “The moment I watched our truck roll Taylors haul double trailers throughout the United announced that off Western Star’s factory floor, every- States. longtime owner- thing about it has been perfect,” said Bill Taylor. “The craftsmanship and Taylor also notes that Western Star’s dealer network W operators Bill attention to detail is impeccable and and customer service have played an integral role in and Robyn Taylor have the longevity of his 4900EX. “Not only do Western has done nothing but increase the Star dealers practice what they preach, they’ve logged more than one value of our business.” included us in the research and development of million miles with their Western Star trucks and it shows,” said Taylor. 2007 Western Star Purchased in 2006 with the help of Western Star 4900EX truck. Leased to District Manager Steve Kincade, the Taylors’ truck “We’ve always had an open and honest relationship features almost all of its original equipment including with Steve, and he’s responded in every way.” FedEx Ground and hauling the brakes. Performing regular maintenance and across the United States, service intervals as required, the Taylors have Taylor also notes that the roomy and quiet interior the Enfield, Connecticut- replaced only the front springs and shocks through- has made traveling more than a million miles based Taylors credit the out the last five years on the road. Averaging more enjoyable. Featuring an 82-inch Stratosphere than 5,000 miles per week, the Taylor’s 4900EX is sleeper, the 4900EX includes a single bunk, quality and durability of equipped with a 470 hp 14-liter Detroit Diesel refrigerator and adequate storage for life on the Western Star for the Series 60 engine. The truck’s 12,000-pound front road – despite sharing their cab with two German [ PHOTO BY AMEREN ILLINOIS ] truck’s longevity. suspension and 40,000-pound rears, coupled with Shepherd travel companions. a 13-speed Eaton UltraShift transmission, help the

38 SPRING 2012 DRIVEN << www.truckcentersinc.com www.truckcentersinc.com >> DRIVEN SPRING 2012 39 Matched USED Group! NEW TRUCKS TRUCK (7) 2007 FREIGHTLINER CL120-COLUMBIA DONE RIGHT! MBE4000, 450 HP, Eng. Brake, 10 Spd, Air Slide 5th Wheel, 3.58 Ratio, 70” Mid Roof XT Sleeper, 560 - 650K Miles ...... $32,500 SPECIALS! (3) 2012 FREIGHTLINER 114SD 2009 FREIGHTLINER CA125 - CASCADIA Det D13, 450 HP, 8LL Trans, 4.11 Ratio, 20 # FA, 40 # RA, 46K Tuftrac Det. 14.0L, Engine Brake, Low Miles! susp., full lockers, trailer pkg, dbl frame, 385 steer tires, p/windows, 10 Spd, 3.58 Ratio, 234” tilt/tele, 16’ Bibeau BFL Body, electric tarp, Stk #: 138934 WB, Polished Alum OVER 100 TRUCKS TO CHOOSE FROM! Wheels, 72” Condo, QUALITY INSPECTED AND SERVICED BY ASE CERTIFIED TECHNICIANS! Only 349,000 Miles, APU, SEE ALL OF OUR INVENTORY @ www.truckcentersinc.com Wide Base Drive Tires!, Multiple Stk #: 140958 ...... $56,500 Units Available! (8) 2012 FREIGHTLINER CORONADO SD Det 13, 450 HP, 2006 FREIGHTLINER 10 Spd, Air Ride, 3:42 CC132- CORONADO Ratio, 199” WB, 22.5 Coronado! Det. 14.0L, 470 HP, 10 Tires, Alum Wheels, Spd, 3.58 Ratio, 260” WB, 13,300 # FA, 40# RA, 6 Alum. Wheels, 70” 15,400 # Wt, p/wndws, Condo Sleeper, Dual htd mirrors, 3yr towing 150 Gal. Fuel Tanks, warranty., Stk #: 139632 644,351 Miles, Stk #: 101952 ...... $19,900

2012 WESTERN STAR 4900FA warranty! Ultra Shift! Mid Roof! Det. DD13, 450 HP, Eng. Brake, 8LL, Chalmers Susp. 4.11 Ratio, 252” WB, 22.5 (5) 2006 INTERNATIONAL 9400 MULTIPLE LOCATIONS IN Tires, Alum. Wheels, Cum. ISX, 450HP, Eng. Brake, 10 Spd, 72” Hi Rise Quad Axle, 20 # FA, Pro Slpr, Dbl. Bunk, Air Slide 5th Whl, 595K Miles, ILLINOIS & MISSOURI 40 # RA, 2-13,200# Stk #: 142200 ...... $32,500 TO SERVE YOU Steerable pushers, full lockers, 162” CT., St. Louis, MO (800) 325-8809 Stk #: 143677 Warranty Available! St. Peters, MO (800) 985-0380 Morton, IL (800) 397-4292 2006 FREIGHTLINER CST120-CENTURY (2) 2007 FREIGHTLINER CL120-COLUMBIA Det. 14.0L, 455 HP, Jake Brake, 10 Spd. Ultrashift, Cat. C13, 430 HP, Jake, 10 Spd. Ultrashift, 3.42 Ratio, Mt. Vernon, IL (800) 786-2545 3.73 Ratio, 70” Condo, Air Slide 5th Whl, 511K Miles, Alum Whls, 70” MR XT, Southern Fleet! Sharp! Warranty Springfield, IL (800) 786-1280 Inspected, Serviced, Detailed, Stk #:134899 ...... $39,500 Available, Stk #: 142833-34 ...... $37,000 Troy, IL (800) 669-3454 Family Owned for 40 Years! www.truckcentersinc.com ASK THE TECHNICIAN: COLD WEATHER...

CHARGING[ PHOTO BY CHRIS LUNNON ] atteries do not charge the same throughout the year. When the tem- There are a few things to consider when the temperatures drop: perature is above 40 degrees, batteries are easier to recharge. Deeply • Discharged batteries can actually freeze in cold weather discharged batteries can be fully recharged in just a few hours. But • Never attempt to jumpstart a truck that has frozen batteries! B the colder it is outside, the battery pack resists taking more charge. • Cold batteries will not accept a normal charge load until the batteries reach an optimal temperature or extended charging time is available Cold weather makes the electrolyte in a flooded cell battery become gelled and • Cold batteries can take as long as 30 hours to warm back up to suitable that slows down the molecular action in the battery. Proper battery maintenance temperature is vital in cold weather because drivers are often fooled into thinking their batteries • While jumpstarts can get the truck started, many hours of charging are are at optimal condition when they are not. Just because the voltmeter is in the still necessary to recharge the batteries. It is important to replace aged or normal parameters and the lights are operating does not mean that all is well. improperly operating batteries before cold weather to avoid being stranded Actually, the alternator is powering the truck’s loads but because the batteries are • If you are in need of batteries, please visit your nearest Truck Centers, Inc. store cold, the charge acceptance is sluggish. for a variety of products from major product lines including Alliance Truck Parts Some information has been provided courtesy of Purkey’s Fleet Electric.

www.truckcentersinc.com >> DRIVEN SPRING 2012 43 FREIGHTLINER<< LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE reightliner Trucks recently launched a completely Additional new features on FreightlinerTrucks.com include: overhauled version of its website - www.FreightlinerTrucks.com. The site features Dealer Locator: With one of the largest networks in North America, a wide range of new product support tools, finding a dealer is easier than ever with the interactive, map-based locator Finformation and navigation features designed to Multimedia Library: Videos, downloadable images, electronic product enhance the overall user experience. The website literature, podcasts and more are easily accessible and will be updated showcases Freightliner Trucks’ full range of on-highway, frequently medium duty, severe duty and alternative power solutions; features an extensive library of truck Community: Find details on Freightliner Trucks’ motorsports sponsorships, components; and highlights Freightliner Trucks’ industry partnerships, dealer events and community-based programs innovation and engineering leadership. Social Media Integration: Connect to Freightliner Trucks on Facebook, “The new Freightliner Trucks website was created with YouTube and Twitter the end-user in mind. At the beginning of our process, we surveyed our customers to determine what features Mobile: The website is optimized to be accessible using smartphones or would be most beneficial, and their input played a tablets and includes mobile-specific content significant role in the site’s overall development,” said Users also need to be sure to visit the "70 Years of Innovation" section to David Hames, general manager, marketing and strategy view a highlight reel and video of the brand's evolution and proud history for Freightliner Trucks. “The result is an extensive online that is still a part of Freightliner today. resource designed for our customers.”