PORTLAND, OR — Freightliner Trucks announced that factory-installed Meritor front drive axles, which allow for an all-wheel-drive (AWD) option, are now available for immediate delivery on Business Class M2 106 and 106V truck models. The front drive axle option is a part-time system ideal for use in fire and rescue, utility, snow plow, and municipal service applications. The system can be activated by the operator when AWD is needed during traction-poor conditions. The AWD option can be engaged at or below 10 mph or while the vehicle is coasting on a level grade. The front drive axles are available in a 4x4 or a 6x6 configuration on Business Class M2 106 or 106V truck models running MBE900 or Caterpillar C7 engines. Business Class M2 models are offered in day cab, extended cab, and crew cab configurations with a variety of front and rear seating options including SCBA, air-suspension, and storage seats.
Freightliner Trucks Announces Front Drive Axle Availability for Business Class M2 106 and 106V Models
Freightliner Trucks announced that factory-installed Meritor front drive axles, which allow for an all-wheel-drive (AWD) option, are now available for immediate delivery on Business Class M2 106 and 106V truck models.
More Operations

BBL Fleet Acquires Velcor Leasing Corporation
BBL Fleet expanded its footprint in the fleet management industry with the acquisition of Velcor Leasing Corporation of Madison through a stock purchase agreement finalized Feb. 27, 2026.
Read More →
Lytx Introduces New AI Fleet Technologies at Protect 2026
The company introduced new AI-driven fleet safety and operations technologies during its annual user conference.
Read More →
Fleet Costs Are Rising: Here’s How Leaders Are Responding
Fleet leaders are under pressure to reduce costs, adapt to economic uncertainty, and make smarter decisions. See how peers across North America are responding with real data, proven strategies, and forward-looking insights. Download the 2026 Market Pulse Report to benchmark your strategy and uncover where you can gain an edge.
Read More →From Waffle House to AI: Fleet Trends You Need to Know
In this AF news recap, host Faith Howell covers how Waffle House stepped up during disaster response and new AI tech on the market.
Read More →Fleet Operations in the Age of AI: Navigating Ethical and Legal Challenges
AI is no longer a future concept for fleets—it’s already embedded in the tools, data, and decisions that operators rely on every day. In this episode of the Fleet Forward Podcast, recorded live at Fleet Forward, industry leaders take the conversation beyond hype to examine what responsible AI adoption really looks like in fleet operations.
Read More →Factory Installed vs. Aftermarket: Choosing the Right Telematics Path & Managing the Data
As fleets rethink how they capture, manage, and act on vehicle data, telematics is at a major inflection point. In this episode of the Fleet Forward Podcast, we dive deep into one of the most pressing questions facing fleet leaders today: Should you rely on OEM factory-installed connectivity, aftermarket devices, or a hybrid of both?
Read More →
What Real-Time Data Reveals About EV Cost, Performance, and Scalability
Experts from telematics analytics, fleet-as-a-service operations, and national EV benchmarking share how real-time data is reshaping fleet strategy—dispelling assumptions, validating best practices, and exposing costly missteps.
Read More →
Planning Through Policy Shifts: What Fleets Must Track in 2026
A powerhouse panel featuring experts from the American Automotive Leasing Association, CalSTART, and municipal fleet leadership dives into the realities of navigating shifting emissions rules, regulatory waivers, federal agency actions, the future of the EPA’s endangerment finding, and the push for unified standards. They also examine the impacts of tariffs, autonomous vehicle policy, battery innovation, and the accelerating global EV market.
Read More →
Managing Market Turbulence with Strategic Fleet Insights
This episode kicks off with a deep dive into the technologies and market forces reshaping today’s fleet landscape. Host Chris Brown is joined by Laolu Adeola (Leke Services), Tyson Jomini (J.D. Power), and Richard Hall (ZappiRide) to break down real-world data, shifting incentives, and practical strategies fleet leaders can use right now.
Read More →
Adapting Fleet Policy When Disasters Strike
In the middle of natural disasters fleet managers must shift priorities to protect people and assets. What policy items should be loosened, and when should the line be held?
Read More →