Interior

The future is bright for LEDs Beyond “fueling” auxiliary power systems, solar energy could be harnessed in the future for vehicle lighting. Imagine walking outside with a light strip, slapping it on the side of your vehicle, and that’s it—no holes, no wires, no maintenance—while meeting federal requirements. Rick Bozich of Grote Industries shared that scenario in discussing the possibilities of its new 1-mm (0.04-in) -thick LightForm LED technology. Read full story

Noise reduction goes green The sound-deadening headliner in the 2010 Buick LaCrosse uses padding made from discarded cardboard packaging containers. It is the first General Motors application of Federal-Mogul's QuietShield GRN. Applications for QuietShield GRN are also appropriate for other industries, including aerospace. Read full story

Cab, transmission revisions for EuroCargo Iveco has revised its EuroCargo medium-weight truck range. The most-visible changes have been applied to the cab. Externally, these include the grille and badging; inside is a new steering wheel, dashboard, and center module, while the gear lever has been moved to the dashboard to improve cross-cab access for multi-drop delivery drivers. Read full story

Cool truck technology is heating up Webasto’s BlueCool Truck bunk cooler is gaining momentum as the transportation industry increasingly seeks “green” technology solutions. The supplier recently received California’s Air Resources Board approval for its zero-emissions, engine-off bunk cooling system. New California standards for air quality took effect on January 1, 2008, limiting idling of truck engines to no more than five minutes (in non-traffic situations). Read full story