Regs & Standards

SAE recommended practice puts new shine on corrosion testing Offering a range of tests covering a large number of variables, a new SAE recommended practice, J2721, aims to improve the corrosion resistance of parts and assemblies used in medium- and heavy-duty trucks, trailers, and buses. Read full story

British government sets out new approach on biofuels The British Secretary of State for Transport Ruth Kelly and Secretary of State for the Environment Hilary Benn have set out the U.K. government’s approach regarding biofuels. The statement follows the publication of the “Gallagher Review,” commissioned by the U.K. government in February. The review was prompted by rising food prices and recent research into the effects of land-use change stimulated by the growing demand for biofuels. 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

Quo vadis, heavy-duty engine With environmental awareness at an all-time high and fuel prices just going in one direction, the real challenge for heavy-duty diesel engines is ahead: Bringing emissions further down while limiting the costs to clean the diesel. Read full story