Manufacturer Reports Solid Orders, Backlog of Custom Chassis and Emergency Vehicles
Spartan Motors, Inc. and its subsidiaries will introduce a new rescue vehicle and fire truck cab, and display some of their latest emergency vehicle innovations during the Fire-Rescue International (FRI) Conference and Exhibition, which begins tomorrow in Kansas City, Mo.
Spartan Motors, Inc. and its subsidiaries will introduce a new rescue vehicle and fire truck cab, and display some of their latest emergency vehicle innovations during the Fire-Rescue International (FRI) Conference and Exhibition, which begins tomorrow in Kansas City, Mo. The Charlotte, MI-based manufacturer of custom rescue vehicles and heavy-duty chassis plans to unveil its new Homeland series of heavy rescue vehicles, as well as a new "classic" look for its custom fire truck cabs, to more than 15,000 fire service professionals from across the country during the three-day show. Spartan Motors, which has reported strong orders and backlog of its custom fire trucks, ambulances and chassis throughout 2002, will also display their best-selling new technology and vehicles during FRI, which is sponsored by the International Association of Fire Chiefs.
More Operations

90% Use Telematics. Are Fleets Getting Safer? | AF News Recap
This week, we're breaking down which industries have the highest rates, how Jamie McKay manages 2,400 vehicles, what's happening with the 2027 fleet awards, and why software-defined vehicles could introduce new costs.
Read More →
What's Best Handled by an FMC, and What's Better Done Directly?
Fleet managers continue to rely on FMCs for essential services but are taking a closer look at where working directly with suppliers can improve efficiency and responsiveness.
Read More →
Fleet Meets: Erin Gilchrist
Meet Erin Gilchrist, the inaugural Mike Antich Spirit of Fleet Award winner, as she shares insights on leadership, mentorship, the power of industry connections, and why people remain at the heart of fleet's future.
Read More →
How 2026 Fleet Visionary Jamie McKay Manages 2,400 Vehicles Across 37 States
How do you keep 2,400 vehicles running across 37 states? Fleet Visionary Award winner Jamie McKay shares how collaboration, flexibility, and a few simple strategies help her tackle fleet management challenges at Aptive Pest Control.
Read More →
Managing Fleet Costs in an Era of Permanent Volatility
Fleet operating costs have risen more than 20% since 2020, raising a key question: When does extending a vehicle's service life stop making financial sense?
Read More →
The Next Evolution of Fleet Management: Autonomous Operations
This opening keynote session at the Fleet Forward Conference highlights the future of autonomous driving for fleets.
Read More →
How to Reduce the Total Cost of Risk From Catalytic Converter Theft
A stolen catalytic converter can cost fleets far more in downtime and lost productivity than in repairs. A total-cost-of-risk approach can help fleet managers quantify their exposure and prioritize theft prevention.
Read More →
Personal-Use Charges Rise as Vehicle Values Fall | AF News Recap
Personal-use charges are climbing, wholesale used-vehicle values are declining, and commercial fleet sales growth is slowing. This week, we're breaking down the latest fleet data, plus how Element Fleet Management is helping Waymo prepare for its first Canadian robotaxi market.
Read More →
Here's When You Should Make an Exception to Fleet Policy
Fleet policies are designed to create consistency, but not every driver or situation fits neatly within standard rules.
Read More →
AI-Native or AI-Acquired: What Should Fleet Managers Look for in an AI Platform?
Six questions can help fleet managers look beyond AI marketing claims to evaluate integration, data access, and real-world operational performance.
Read More →
