Topics include how fuel prices may be impacted by a potential increase in the federal and state fuel taxes and an increase in CAFE fuel efficiency standards; how rising commodity prices may impact the price of fleet products; and how the ongoing global shortage of microchips is slowing vehicle production and increasing lead times.
Reduced tire demand and a decrease in overall miles driven have caused tire manufacturing volume to decline in 2020, creating a downstream ripple effect softening commodity prices for natural rubber, but this may change in 2021.
The U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association has identified the top original-equipment manufacturer and aftermarket tire sizes in its latest fact book that covers the 2018 calendar year.
A sudden tire blowout can happen anywhere, anytime. It can be a frustrating situation for a busy commercial driver on a schedule. More importantly, a tire blowout can pose a serious safety hazard.
What should a fleet professional know when utilizing assets with run-flat tire versus a non-run-flat tire? According to mounting and balancing equipment manufacturers and tire manufacturers the consensus is a run-flat’s unique construction makes them more difficult to mount and demount.
On wet roads, worn tires with a tread depth of 4/32 inch have an average increased stopping distance of 87 feet for a passenger car and 86 feet for a light truck when compared with new tires, according to a recent study from AAA.
AAA research finds that nearly one-third of 2017 model-year vehicles don’t include a spare tire as standard equipment.
The recall covers 1,257 Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner Sprinter 2500 and 3500 vans in the 2016 model year.
The stability of fuel pricing over the past 36 months, along with ongoing improvements in vehicle fuel economy, have been the key factors keeping fleet operating costs relatively flat.
In recognition of National Tire Safety Week, here are some tire maintenance tips from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.