THE CAR AND TRUCK FLEET AND LEASING MANAGEMENT MAGAZINE
General Motors is considering carbon fiber for the beds of its next-generation Chevrolet and GMC pickup trucks to better compete with Ford's F-Series pickups and meet future fuel-economy standards.
Lighter-weight truck and van equipment, more standardization, and ergonomic planning should improve the process and delivery timing of the upfitting of commercial vehicles in 2017, according to fleet management experts.
The change to high-volume F-150 cabins cuts costs and weight, and adds interior room for SuperCab and SuperCrew buyers.
Ford Motor’s 2017 F-Series Super Duty pickups with aluminum bodies have higher engine output ratings and more towing and hauling capability than ever, while “smart” technologies make backing and monitoring trailers easier.
Novelis has expanded its Oswego, N.Y., operations to add a $120-million finishing line to supply high-strength aluminum alloy for the 2017 F-Series Super Duty lineup, the supplier announced.
The process of lightweighting a fleet of vehicles involves more than simply moving down a vehicle class or removing weight from an overloaded vehicle.
Ford has beefed up the axles, brakes, hitch, and suspension of its 2017 Super Duty pickups, after removing 350 pounds in weight-saving aluminum body panels, the automaker has announced.
The windshield is a critical safety component of a vehicle, protecting passengers in the event of a rollover and aiding in proper airbag deployment. However, the windshield is no longer just an independent part comprised of a vinyl interlayer sandwiched between two pieces of glass. What is changing is that windshields are becoming more technologically integrated with the rest of the vehicle.
After several years of few new developments, engines and transmissions are experiencing a period of renewed and transformative changes.
The Mercedes-Benz 2017 E-Class will enter its next generation with increased size, a new turbocharged four-cylinder, and an array of new driver assistance systems.