Truck & Off-highway Engineering - June 2020

Overview

The June 2020 issue of Truck & Off-Highway Engineering presents a comprehensive overview of the latest trends, innovations, and challenges in the commercial vehicle and heavy equipment sectors. This edition is particularly notable for its focus on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the industry, as companies have had to adapt to remote operations and ensure the safety of their workers while facing economic strains.

Key Highlights:

1. Editorial Insights: The editorial section, led by Bill Visnic, discusses the significant challenges faced by manufacturers during the pandemic. Many companies, including Deutz, had to halt production temporarily to prioritize worker safety. The editorial emphasizes the resilience of the industry and the importance of innovation in overcoming these challenges.

2. Technical Innovations:

   • Fuel-Cell-Electric Trucks: A partnership between Plug Power and Lightning Systems aims to produce fuel-cell-electric trucks, showcasing a shift towards sustainable energy solutions in the trucking industry.
   • Virus-Killing Ozone Technology: Magna is evaluating the use of ozone to sanitize vehicle interiors, highlighting the industry's response to health concerns amid the pandemic.
   • Dynamic Cylinder Deactivation: Cummins and Tula are testing a new technology called Dynamic Skip Fire, which has shown potential in reducing NOx emissions in heavy-duty diesel engines, building on its success in light-duty gasoline engines.

3. Propulsion Systems: The issue explores the diverse range of power systems being employed in commercial trucks. Deutz's CEO advocates for a combination of sustainable-fuel combustion engines and electric drive systems, indicating a trend towards hybrid solutions in the off-highway market.

4. Autonomous Driving: The magazine discusses advancements in embedded systems that are driving autonomy forward. Kontron is highlighted for its expertise in image processing and analysis, which is crucial for the development of autonomous vehicles.

5. Connectivity and IoT: Parker Hannifin's expert discusses the increasing connectivity in mobile equipment, moving beyond standard telematics to integrate systems controllers and smart components. This integration is essential for enhancing operational efficiency and data management in commercial vehicles.

6. Industry Challenges: The pandemic has created significant economic strain across industries, prompting companies to rethink their operational strategies. The editorial notes that the transition to remote work and virtual environments has been a necessary adaptation for many manufacturers.

7. Annual Product Guide: The issue includes an annual product guide that categorizes industry suppliers by technology area, providing readers with a valuable resource for identifying key players in various sectors of truck and off-highway engineering.

8. Q&A Feature: Dr. Paul Phipps, director of R&D for Comfort Motion Global, discusses the concept of "proactive" motion seating for commercial vehicles, emphasizing the importance of comfort and ergonomics in vehicle design.

9. Supplier Directory: A comprehensive supplier directory is included, offering a complete listing of industry suppliers categorized by technology area, which serves as a useful reference for professionals in the field.

10. Create the Future Contest: The magazine encourages readers to participate in the Create the Future Contest, which offers a chance to win ,000 for innovative ideas that address engineering challenges.

Conclusion:

The June 2020 issue of Truck & Off-Highway Engineering encapsulates a pivotal moment for the industry, marked by the dual challenges of adapting to a global pandemic and advancing towards more sustainable and innovative technologies. The insights shared in this edition reflect a commitment to resilience, collaboration, and forward-thinking solutions that will shape the future of commercial vehicles and heavy equipment. As the industry navigates these unprecedented times, the emphasis on innovation and adaptability remains crucial for success.