Truck Chat
Truck Chat
Work Truck
Lauren Fletcher, executive editor of Fleet, Trucking & Transportation and Work Truck, interviews the experts on the topics and trends that matter most to vocational fleet managers. She also meets with many “Faces of Fleet” to share more about the incredible people and their experiences in our unique industry. For new or veteran fleet managers, check out the “Fleet 101” videos that dig further into the complicated world of vocational truck fleets. And, don't forget to check out the latest fleet vehicles in the "Vehicles Moving Fleets" series!
Work Truck Week: More than Just a Trade Show
@WorkTruckWeekis an annual event for the commercial vehicle industry produced by NTEA. The event's history goes all the way back to 1965, when it started as a sales and marketing conference. After several iterations and growth, the Work Truck Show was launched in 2001. As the event expanded over the next 20 years, #NTEA started calling the entire week of activities “Work Truck Week.” North America’s largest work truck event takes over the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis from March 5-8, 2024. Work Truck sat down with Steve Carey, president and CEO of NTEA – The Work Truck Association, and Brian Tabel, assistant vice president of Marketing for @isuzucommercialtruckofamerica, to learn more about the event and how new and returning attendees can get the most out of the experience. Topics include: - Introduction to Work Truck Week and its history - Overview of the 2024 Work Truck Week event and its features - Fleet management challenges and how Work Truck Week addresses them - Importance of staying up-to-date with industry trends and technologies - Isuzu Commercial Truck of America's presence at Work Truck Week - New products and technologies showcased by Isuzu - Honors and awards presented at Work Truck Week 🤝 This episode of Truck Chat is sponsored by and produced in partnership with Isuzu Commercial Truck of America, Inc.   ➡ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.isuzucv.com/en/index ⁠⁠⁠⁠ 💡 Learn more about:  Work Truck ➡ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.worktruckonline.com   ⁠⁠⁠⁠ 🤝 Follow and connect with Work Truck on social media! Work Truck on LinkedIn ➡ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/work-truck-magazine/⁠⁠⁠⁠ Work Truck on Twitter ➡ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/WorkTruckMag⁠⁠⁠⁠ Work Truck on Facebook ➡ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/WorkTruck⁠⁠
Jan 31, 2024
9 min
Looking Back: Top Truck & Van Fleet News in November 2023
What’s new with the automakers? Who won Fleet Truck of the Year? What’s happening to the Hemi? Will other fleets finally get their hands on Rivian vans? When can you test drive the latest fleet vehicles? Cue that confetti -- get ready for the 100th episode of the Top News Recap from Truck Chat! Discover the latest work truck and van #fleet industry news and updates with our Top Monthly News Recap from Work Truck! Join Lauren Fletcher, Executive Editor of Fleet, Trucking, & Transportation at Bobit, as she shares the top work truck and van fleet news as of November 30, 2023. 🎙 This month's topics include: General Motors integrates BrightDrop to enhance fleet operations through GM Envolve. Originating from GM's Innovation Lab, BrightDrop, now a wholly-owned subsidiary, combines startup agility with GM's manufacturing expertise. Discover how this integration benefits major players like FedEx, Ryder, and DHL. Chevy Silverado: 2023 Fleet Truck of the Year! The Chevrolet Silverado clinches the 2023 Fleet Truck of the Year title from Automotive Fleet. Recognized for its power, efficiency, and work-ready features, explore why fleet managers voted this full-size pickup as their top choice. Vote Now: Work Truck's Medium-Duty Award. Calling all professional fleet managers! Vote for the top medium-duty truck in Work Truck’s Medium-Duty Truck of the Year award. 2025 Ram 1500 Ramcharger: Electric Revolution. Explore the features of the all-new 2025 Ram 1500 Ramcharger, boasting a targeted range of up to 690 miles. Farewell to Hemi: V-8 Engine Phase-Out by Stellantis. Stellantis phases out the iconic V-8 Hemi Engine from the 2025 light-duty Ram pickup truck lineup. Discover the replacements—six-cylinder engines, the battery electric Ram REV, and the all-new Ramcharger. Rivian's Global Electrification Invitation. Rivian opens the doors for companies worldwide to electrify their fleets with the Rivian Commercial Van. Learn about safety features, payload capacities, and the potential for reducing CO2 emissions in delivery fleets. Toyota invests an additional $8 billion in its North American EV battery manufacturing facility, creating over 5,000 jobs. Explore this pivotal project driving Toyota's global electrification initiatives. Enterprise unveils Enterprise Mobility, connecting diverse offerings under a new corporate brand. Explore the motivation behind this shift and its alignment with future mobility experiences. Michelin announces the end of tire production at its Ardmore, Oklahoma plant by 2025. Explore the reasons behind this decision and its impact on approximately 1,400 employees. Stellantis partners with Nauto to introduce AI-powered vehicle safety solutions for commercial fleets. Explore how this collaboration prioritizes driver and road safety. NMark your calendars for the NAFA Institute & Expo 2024 featuring a ride-and-drive and vehicle showcase. Don't miss this opportunity for professional development and collaboration. Nexus Communication and Bobit Business Media collaborate for the Global Fleet Summit. Stay informed about the upcoming summit dates and locations. Catch up on Work Truck's webinar focusing on Data-Driven Safety efforts. Explore the impact of technology, insights into managing driver behavior, and lessons from major fleets. 🚚 Visit Work Truck for all the latest industry news and information ➡ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.worktruckonline.com⁠⁠⁠ 🤝 Follow and connect with Work Truck on social media!   Work Truck on LinkedIn ➡⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/work-truck-magazine/⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Work Truck on Twitter ➡ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/WorkTruckMag  ⁠⁠⁠⁠ Work Truck on Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/WorkTruck⁠⁠
Nov 30, 2023
12 min
Unlocking Fleet Potential: Upfitting Everything with Isuzu Trucks
At the 2023 Work Truck Week Commercial Vehicle Upfitting Summit, industry leaders, including upfitting giants like Knapheide, Wabash, EBY Truck Bodies, and Morgan Corporation, shared insights on how the Isuzu truck lineup seamlessly integrates with diverse fleets. In this latest episode, sponsored by Isuzu Commercial Truck of America, take a peek into the conversation led by Lauren Fletcher, Executive Editor – Fleet, Trucking & Transportation at Bobit. Today's topics include: #1 – Ability to Upfit Everything: Our experts, Chris Weiss (Knapheide), Kevin Sumrak (Wabash), Nick Eby (EBY), and Seth Decker (Morgan), provide a comprehensive overview of what can be upfitted on the Isuzu Commercial Truck lineup today. #2 – Upfitting an EV: Discover the engineering perspectives on upfitting the NRR EV, exploring its benefits for fleets. Our experts share insights into this exciting frontier. #3 – Weight Reductions: Payload is paramount for commercial fleets. Learn about the innovative steps taken to reduce weight, alter materials, and enhance payload capacity on electric vehicles. #4 – Customizing Upfits for Fleets: In commercial work trucks, one size doesn't fit all. Explore how experts tailor upfit solutions to optimize the Isuzu EV chassis. #5 – Customizing EVs: As sustainability and electrification gain momentum, delve into customizing upfits for electric trucks. Our experts discuss the latest trends and considerations in this evolving landscape. 🤝 This episode of Truck Chat is sponsored by and produced in partnership with Isuzu Commercial Truck of America, Inc.   ➡ ⁠⁠⁠https://www.isuzucv.com/en/index ⁠⁠⁠ 💡 Learn more about:  Work Truck ➡ ⁠⁠⁠https://www.worktruckonline.com   ⁠⁠⁠ 🤝 Follow and connect with Work Truck on social media! Work Truck on LinkedIn ➡ ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/work-truck-magazine/⁠⁠⁠ Work Truck on Twitter ➡ ⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/WorkTruckMag⁠⁠⁠ Work Truck on Facebook ➡ ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/WorkTruck⁠⁠
Nov 15, 2023
11 min
Looking Back: Top Truck & Van Fleet News in October 2023
What’s new with the UAW strike, and how is it impacting fleets? What safety initiative is the FMCSA working on? How can you reduce catalytic converter theft? How is one company working to increase inclusivity and diversity? And what are the latest in truck sales? Discover the latest work truck and van #fleet industry news and updates with our Top Monthly News Recap from Work Truck! Join Lauren Fletcher, Executive Editor of Fleet, Trucking, & Transportation at Bobit, as she shares the top work truck and van fleet news as of October 31, 2023. 🎙 This month's topics include: UAW Strike Updates: Understand the initial demands and impacts on major automakers and the need for contingency planning by fleet managers. FMCSA's $80 Million Truck Safety Initiative: Exploring the initiative's focus on enhancing truck safety through technological interventions and support for truck drivers. Combatting Catalytic Converter Thefts: Exposing a new solution that's working toward putting an end to rampant catalytic converter thefts in the industry. J3 Management Group's Minority Business Enterprise Certification: How diversity and excellence are reshaping the business landscape for J3 Management Group. Amerit Fleet Solutions' Collaboration with ChargePoint: The collaboration's role in providing maintenance and support services for ChargePoint stations across the nation. Latest Automaker Updates: The introduction of Ford's F-150 Lightning Flash and the comprehensive fleet management portal, Mack Connect, by Mack Trucks. OEM Truck Sales Highlights: Check out the sales figures and trends from Ford, General Motors, Toyota, and Nissan within the truck and SUV market. Truck Chat Video Series Overview: Stay updated with the latest industry insights and interviews through the diverse video series provided by Truck Chat. 🚚 Visit Work Truck for all the latest industry news and information ➡ ⁠⁠⁠https://www.worktruckonline.com⁠⁠ 🤝 Follow and connect with Work Truck on social media!   Work Truck on LinkedIn ➡⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/work-truck-magazine/⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Work Truck on Twitter ➡ ⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/WorkTruckMag  ⁠⁠⁠ Work Truck on Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/WorkTruck⁠
Nov 1, 2023
9 min
Vehicles Moving Fleets: Legend Fleet Solutions
At Work Truck Week 2023, Walt Coulter, sales at  @LegendFleetSolutions , provides a walkaround of solutions provided the "experts in protection." Keep your high-value cargo, tools, and equipment safe and secure in your cargo van with Legend Fleet Solutions. Take a tour of the  @ford Transit and  @RamTrucks ProMaster cargo vans and how Legend is keeping cargo and equipment safe while keeping the driver in mind. Topics include: - Door locks, auto lights, retractable steps, and ease of access. - Permanent locks that are anti-theft, keys are impossible to replicate. - Threshold plate and motion lights activated by opening the door. Battery saving by being motion activated, easy for drivers to operate. - Stabiligrip van floor with insulated wheel covers. - Safety grab handles that work well for any height driver. - Wall, ceiling, and door liner options that help maintain temperature and "reverse hail damage." - SlamLock, which locks automatically when you close the door. Drill-proof and even crowbar-proof. - Show your customers that your fleet is a "legend," too. - Securilock demonstration with dead or Slamlocking operation. For more vehicle walkarounds from Work Truck, visit: ⁠https://www.worktruckonline.com/content/video-series/truck-chat-vehicles-moving-fleets⁠ 🚚 Visit Work Truck for all the latest industry news and information ➡ ⁠https://www.worktruckonline.com ⁠ 🤝 Follow and connect with Work Truck on social media! Work Truck on LinkedIn ➡⁠https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/work-truck-magazine/ ⁠ Work Truck on Twitter ➡ ⁠https://twitter.com/WorkTruckMag ⁠ Work Truck on Facebook ➡⁠ https://www.facebook.com/WorkTruck
Oct 20, 2023
7 min
Looking Back: Top Truck & Van Fleet News in September 2023
What fleet-specific features can you expect on the Ford F-150? Which Nissan pickup is getting an 80s throwback? When will the last Peterbilt Model 389 be built? What company did Isuzu choose to partner with on charging? Do you have Work Truck eXchange 2024 on your calendar yet? And who did I interview last for Faces of Fleet? Discover the latest work truck and van #fleet industry news and updates with our Top Monthly News Recap from Work Truck! This episode was sponsored in partnership with U.S. Bank. Join Lauren Fletcher, Executive Editor of Fleet, Trucking, & Transportation at Bobit, as she shares the top work truck and van fleet news as of September 30, 2023. 🎙 This month's topics include: 2024 Ford F-150: Explore the upcoming features of the 2024 Ford F-150, including its impressive payload and towing capabilities, and how it enhances fleet productivity. Fleet Start Inhibit: Learn about the connectivity to Fleet Start Inhibit, a feature available for Super Duty and the new F-150, allowing fleet managers to control vehicle starts.- Ford F-150 Hybrid Success: Discover how the Ford F-150 has become the best-selling full-hybrid pickup truck in 2023 and the production increase for 2024. 2024 Nissan Frontier: Get details on the 2024 Nissan Frontier, its pricing, new features like the SL grade, and the nostalgic Hardbody Edition. Peterbilt's Milestone: Learn about Peterbilt's celebration of the 100,000th Model 389 production and the introduction of the new Model 589. Isuzu's EV Charging: Explore Isuzu's partnership with ChargePoint for EV charging infrastructure and the upcoming 2025 NRR EV. Fastenal's EV Retrofit: Find out about Fastenal's operational trial with ZEVX to convert pickup trucks to electric vehicles. Mullen's Electric Trucks: Learn about Mullen's Class 3 electric truck and its ambitious plans for additional vehicles, including the Mullen ONE compact electric van. Motiv Power Systems: Discover the Argo Series electric truck designed to meet medium-duty fleet demands and support California's clean fleet rule. Propane-Powered Engines: Explore the partnership between Stanadyne, Katech, and the Propane Education & Research Council for a propane autogas engine solution. Truck Chat Video Series: Get an update on Truck Chat's video series, including Faces of Fleet and interviews with industry leaders. Work Truck eXchange 2023: Learn about the recent Work Truck eXchange event and the announcement of the 2024 event, offering networking opportunities for fleet decision-makers. 🚚 Visit Work Truck for all the latest industry news and information ➡ ⁠⁠⁠https://www.worktruckonline.com⁠⁠ 🤝 Follow and connect with Work Truck on social media!   Work Truck on LinkedIn ➡⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/work-truck-magazine/⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Work Truck on Twitter ➡ ⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/WorkTruckMag  ⁠⁠⁠ Work Truck on Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/WorkTruck⁠
Sep 29, 2023
11 min
Faces of Fleet: Za Farley - Diversifying Fleet with Black Fleet Network
This episode of Truck Chat: Faces of Fleet features Exavious "Za" Farley, CEO and founder of the Black Fleet Network. There is still a major diversity gap in our industry. Enter, the Black Fleet Network, or BFN, a growing collective of professionals. The BFN is "a mosaic of professionals who drive the industry forward ... Our expertise is immeasurable, and our vibe is the substance that defines culture.” Exavious has been a familiar face in the fleet industry since 2015, including several years with Bobit, where Work Truck saw his passion for fleet and people first-hand. Stay up to date on all the latest industry news or watch more episodes of #FacesOfFleet ➡ https://www.worktruckonline.com/videos 🏫 Learn more about the Black Fleet Network ➡ https://www.blackfleetnetwork.org/ 🤝 Follow and connect with Work Truck on social media! ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Twitter ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Facebook
Sep 14, 2023
23 min
Isuzu's Record-Breaking Year: A Deep Dive into Truck Production & Order Fulfillment
Did you know that 2023 was Isuzu’s highest build plan for all its models? With ongoing supply chain shortages and concerns surrounding new truck orders, find out more about what Isuzu is doing to continue to meet fleet ordering needs. Plus, we touch on Isuzu’s transition to EVs. Take a peek into the conversation between Lauren Fletcher, Executive Editor – Fleet, Trucking & Transportation at Bobit, and Shaun Skinner – President of Isuzu Commercial Truck of America; President of Isuzu Commercial Truck of Canada, and Executive Officer of Isuzu Motors Limited. 🤝 This episode of Truck Chat is sponsored by and produced in partnership with Isuzu Commercial Truck of America, Inc.   ➡ ⁠⁠https://www.isuzucv.com/en/index ⁠⁠ 💡 Learn more about:  Work Truck ➡ ⁠⁠https://www.worktruckonline.com   ⁠⁠ 🤝 Follow and connect with Work Truck on social media! Work Truck on LinkedIn ➡ ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/work-truck-magazine/⁠⁠ Work Truck on Twitter ➡ ⁠⁠https://twitter.com/WorkTruckMag⁠⁠ Work Truck on Facebook ➡ ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/WorkTruck⁠⁠
Sep 6, 2023
16 min
Looking Back: Top Truck & Van Fleet News in August 2023
What are the major updates from the top automakers, including Ford, Toyota, and Mack Trucks? How are parts concerns being addressed? What are the most stolen pickup trucks? What about the safest options? How many commercial drivers aren’t wearing their seat belts? And who is the keynote at DeliveryCon? This month in top Work Truck news, Lauren Fletcher, Executive Editor, Fleet & Trucking at Bobit, shares the top work truck and van fleet news as of August 31, 2023: 🎙 Topics covered this month include: Ford is decreasing prices on Ford F-150 lightning due to increased plant capacity, continued work on scaling production and cost, and improving raw material battery costs. Former Apple executive joins Ford as head of newly formed Ford Integrated Services division. Toyota returns Land Cruiser to the North American market after a three-year hiatus. Nissan announces 2024 model-year will be the last for the Nissan Titan pickup truck. Mack Trucks Roanoke Valley Operations in Virginia is now certified and participating in Appalachian Power Company's 100% Renewable Wind-Water-Sunlight (WWS) Service. Fisker showcased its new electric pickup truck, the Fisker Alaska, during an event at its California headquarters. Stellantis introduces bproauto aftermarket parts brand, tailored to meet the specific needs of fleet managers and maintenance professionals. DTNA celebrated the grand opening of its new Redistribution Center (RDC) in Whitestown, Indiana. The National Insurance Crime Bureau notes full-size pickup trucks are the most targeted for theft. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety released the annual Top Safety Pick+ Awards to three "large" pickups - Rivian R1T, Toyota Tundra Crew Cab, and Toyota Tundra Extended Cab. Verizon Connect released a study showing one in 10 commercial drivers still do not utilize a seat belt. Are you registered for DeliveryCon October 16-18 in Las Vegas? Register today at https://www.deliverycon.com! 🚚 Visit Work Truck for all the latest industry news and information ➡ ⁠⁠https://www.worktruckonline.com⁠ 🤝 Follow and connect with Work Truck on social media!   Work Truck on LinkedIn ➡⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/work-truck-magazine/⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Work Truck on Twitter ➡ ⁠⁠https://twitter.com/WorkTruckMag  ⁠⁠ Work Truck on Facebook: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/WorkTruck⁠
Aug 31, 2023
10 min
Faces of Fleet: Dain Giesie - The Ride from Rodeo to Fleet
This episode of Truck Chat: Faces of Fleet features Dain Giesie, assistant vice president of business development at Enterprise Fleet Management. Dain is far from a stranger to the fleet industry. He is responsible for strategy development, government business lines, industry partnerships, and overall marketing efforts. But did you know about his rodeo background? Born and raised in a small town in Texas, Dain grew up around horses and ranches as far back as he can remember. He doesn’t remember a time when he didn’t have a rope in his hand. After graduating, he continued the pursuit of his gold buckle dreams on the professional circuit before joining Enterprise Rent A-Car over 20 years ago as a Management Trainee. Stay up to date on all the latest industry news or watch more episodes of #FacesOfFleet ➡ https://www.worktruckonline.com/videos 🏫 Learn more about Enterprise Fleet Management ➡ https://www.efleets.com/ 🤝 Follow and connect with Work Truck on social media! ⁠LinkedIn⁠ ⁠Twitter ⁠ ⁠Facebook
Aug 17, 2023
11 min
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