Don't Go Too Heavy on Truck Options: Evaluate your needs vs. wants when selecting vocational truck options

摘要

Spec'ing a medium- or heavy-duty truck for a vocational application is not a simple task. Once you choose the best powertrain for the application, there is still a laundry list of options and features that influence productivity. But be careful before you start checking off the boxes on the options list. It is easy to add incidental weight and cost to your trucks that negatively impact ROI. "Maximizing payload is an important part of the spec'ing process," says Mary Aufdemberg, director of product marketing, Freightliner Trucks. "It is important to consider all potential weight savings vs. the up-front cost and durability expectations." She cites several items to consider as lightweight options, depending upon the application: aluminum air tanks, aluminum wheels, lightweight brake drums, non-corrosive aluminum cab reinforced with e-coated steel, aluminum fuel tanks, lightweight bumpers where applicable, in-cab battery box and optimized fuel tank and DEF tank sizes. "A thorough evaluation of your spec will ensure you are building a lightweight and durable truck," she states.