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eldamandate07 · 1 year ago

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13 Best Fully Electric Semi Trucks 2021

According to the American Trucking Association, there are approximately 15.5 million trucks in America. These are operated by 1.5 million trucking companies. In 2016, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reported that 28% of the total pollution was caused by vehicles. Light-duty vehicles caused 60% of the total pollution, while medium and heavy-duty trucks were responsible for 23% of the total pollution.

According to Volvo, electric trucks will ensure the reduction of 3,010 tons of greenhouse gases per year. Electric trucks are not only quieter but also do not have a tailpipe. This means that there is no harmful emission.

E-Force, a Swiss company had launched E-Force One AG in 2014, a practical everyday use electric truck. It contains 2 lithium-ion batteries with a capacity of 240 kWh. It can travel a range of 185 miles on a single charge. This e-truck uses solar energy as well to recharge itself. The solar panels attached on the roof of the truck along with recuperation, provides nearly 23% of the power required by the vehicle. The batteries take 6 hours to completely charge. The batteries can also be replaced in 10 minutes. Additionally, Elon Musk unveiled the Tesla Semis in 2017 and will start mass production in 2021 according to reports. This futuristic truck will be powered by four electric motors. We discussed all the details of the Tesla Semi in our best truck brand to buy for an owner operator article. Similar to E-force & Tesla, some companies that are experimenting with next-generation trucking include — Volvo, Mercedes-Benz, Daimler AG, Peterbilt, Nikola Motor, Volkswagen, Cummins, and many more. In this article we will discuss the 13 best electric semi truck models of 2020.

VOLVO — Fully Electric Trucks 2020: Volvo FE and FL

Volvo FE and FL trucks are set to be released in North America in 2020. Volvo is planning to release 23 electric heavy-duty trucks in Fontana, Ontario, Placentia, and Chino. This release is part of its $44.8 million grant from the California Air Resources Board. These trucks will also ensure a quieter and cleaner urban environment.

Features to look out for in Volvo FE and Volvo FL:

These e-trucks will have a range of about 185 miles.

Volvo FL will have a single powertrain with only one motor.

Volvo FL will be available with and without a refrigerator.

Volvo’s electric powertrain will give the truck a smooth gearing and fast response.

Its batteries can be charged in 1 or 2 hours via fast charging stations or in through the industrial main supply.

Total weight capacity of the truck is 27 tons.

Braking energy is also utilized in these trucks. The batteries employ one or two motors to deploy the energy to drive the wheels.

These trucks have been designed for various inter-city traffic like distribution and waste management.

The Volvo FL has 248 hp and 313 lb-feet torque.

These trucks will have a noise output of 69 decibel, while diesel trucks have 79 decibel. This will enable trucks to be used at night in urban residential areas without causing disturbance or traffic congestion.

DAIMLER eCASCADIA Electric Truck

IN 2018, Daimler unveiled the e-sibling of their flagship and most popular model of the Freightliner line of trucks. Called the eCascadia, it is a step towards providing their customers an emission-free solution. It is specifically designed for local and regional distribution of goods, especially for short-haul movements of inter-modal containers that go from pick-up docks to drop-in docks. Daimler wants to move toward the road of e-mobility. As per the company, these e-trucks are best-suited for customers whose business routes have a specific range radius. Additionally, its operating model should have time for battery recharges. These trucks have to be charged overnight. Daimler intends to go for mass production in 2021.

Features to look out for the eCASCADIA Electric Truck:

Its e-motors are located at the axle end and provides 730 peak horse power.

Usable battery capacity of 550kWh.

It has a range of 250 miles.

80% of the battery can be charged in 90 minutes.

With an 80% charge, the truck can go a range of 200 miles.

HMI or Human Machine Interface, is one of the most unique features of this truck. This provides data of the vehicle’s performance in the driver's field of view.

It has the capacity to complete 2-3 runs per day via a dedicated route.

The eCascadias are extremely quiet.

Daimler has committed to having an ideal charging infrastructure that will enable the electric truck ecosystem to flourish. Trucks will have the option of public charging and depot charging.

The etrucks require superior technical and mechanical assistance. Daimler plans to build the largest dealership network for etrucks in Northern America.

DIAMLER eM2 Electric Truck

Daimler foresaw a battery-electric operated vehicle in their medium-duty market and launched eM2. The e-sibling of M2, their high performance medium-duty truck was launched at the same time as the eCascadia. The eM2 has a predictable driving environment. This enables it be used for businesses that operate on dedicated routes. In 2018, Daimler deployed the Freightliner Electric innovation fleet. It consists of 30 units of eCascadias and eM2s. These have been sent to customers who haul cargo for authentic tests for performance and usability.

Features to look out for in the eM2 Electric Truck:

It has 480 peak horse power.

Its battery’s usable capacity is 320 kWh.

It has a range of 230 miles.

In about 60 minutes, the battery will be 80% charged.

With an 80% charged battery, the truck has a 180 miles range.

These trucks can recharge their batteries by taking advantage of stop and move city traffic. The recharge will be done via regenerative breaking technology.

MERCEDES BENZ URBAN e-TRUCK

This fully electric semi truck is by Mercedes-Benz. According to the company, the styling of the truck is innovative and practical. The company also claims that this is the first electric-only semi-truck. It is a heavy-duty truck designed specifically for city deliveries. 20 units were deployed for performance checking in 2017. Mass production is scheduled to start in 2020.

Features to look out for in the Mercedes Urban e-Truck:

It has a range of up to 120 miles.

The payload of this truck is 12.8 tons.

The batteries are placed in a crash-proof location within the frame of the truck.

It is powered with a 212 kWh battery pack which consists of 3 lithium-ion batteries.

Each motor delivers 100 kW power.

Its torque capacity is 8100 lb-feet.

These e-trucks are able to charge themselves using a 100 kW combined charging system which is tied to a convertor, in 2-3 hours.

These e-trucks will be available in three variants: Platform vehicle, Refrigerated body, and Dry-box body.

Mercedes-Benz eACTROS

The eActros were first manufactured in 2016. This made Mercedes-Benz the first electric heavy-duty truck manufacturer in the world. In 2018, ten models were deployed. These are currently being tested by potential customers. These trucks are best suited for distribution purposes in urban areas. The eActros are scheduled to be on the road by mid-2020. From 2021, it is scheduled to go for mass production.

Features to look out for in the Mercedes-Bezn eACTROS:

Two variants of this vehicle are available. One variant will have a GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) of 18 tons and the other will have a GVW of 25 tons.

Two electric motors with a total power output of 250 kW will power the truck. They will be located near the rear-axle wheel hubs.

The motors can be cooled by liquids and have the capacity to operate with voltage of as low as 400 volts.

The maximum torque limit is 970 Nm. However, the gearing ratio converts this into 22000 Nm. This results in a driving performance similar to a diesel truck.

Its two batteries will have a capacity of 240 kWh.

The range is up to 125 miles.

The batteries can be charged in 3-11 hours at a rate of 20-80 kW.

MITSUBISHI FUSO VISION ONE - ELECTRIC SEMI TRUCK

A Daimler subsidiary, this electric truck has been designed and built by Mitsubishi Fuso. It was first unveiled in October 2017 in Tokyo and is supposed to reach market by 2021. It is an all-electric heavy-duty truck. E-Fuso is aiming to place itself as one of the frontrunners of electric trucks with the backing of Daimler’s battery and charging technology. It’s potential lies as an intra-city distribution truck.

Features to look out for in the Mitsubhishi Fuso Vision One:

GVW is 23 tons.

It can carry a payload of nearly 11 tons, which is only 2 tons less than the diesel Fuso truck.

Battery pack of 300 kWh.

This truck can cover a range of 217 miles in a single charge.

MITSUBISHI FUSO eCANTER

The FUSO eCanter was launched globally in 2016. The first 50 trial units were delivered by the end of 2017. It is the first all-electric truck by the Daimler group of trucks. Among the companies who are using this e-truck are Rhenus and DHL in Germany, Wincanton and DPD logistics in the UK and Portugal. In USA, it is being used by the University of California, UPS, the New York Botanical Garden, and various non-profit organizations.

Features to look out for in the FUSO eCANTER:

It minimizes the noise and air pollution in cities.

Six water-cooled high voltage lithium-ion batteries are in its electric drivetrain.

Each of the batteries have 13.8 kWh power at 420 volts.

The e-truck is claimed to be able to accelerate like a car with its 390 Nm of constant output of power and 175 hp.

Its speed is approximately 50 miles/hr.

It has a payload capacity of 4.5 tons, depending on its body.

The GVW is 7.49 tons.

The combined weight of the 6 batteries is 600 kg.

The expected range of the vehicle is 60 miles.

80% of the battery can be charged in 1 hour via an EU-compatible CCS Type-2 charger in direct current. In a Level 2 charger it can be charged in 8 hours.

This e-truck is cost effective. Daimler expects that operating cost of this e-truck will be approximately $1,000 cheaper for every 6,000 miles driven as compared to its diesel sibling.

PETERBILT – Model 220EV Electric Semi Truck

Model 220EV was launched on 8th January, 2019 at CES in Las Vegas. It is an all-electric medium-duty truck. The previous electric truck launched by Peterbilt was Model 579EV. The previous electric truck launched by Peterbilt was Model 579EV. The Model 579EV, a Class 8 tractor, is ideal for regional hauls. Also launched was the Model 520EV, a garbage-truck.

The 220EV is an ideal choice for pickup and deliveries. Peterbilt General Manager, Jason Skoog, stated that the Model 220EV will be used and tested in real work environment by a major customer starting on the summer of 2019. According to Scott Newhouse, the chief engineer at Peterbilt, this electric truck was built in a joint venture with Meritor Inc., the component supplier and TransPower, a provider of electric-vehicle systems. He believes that Model 220EV will be able to perform at par or better than a diesel vehicle. The company is yet to announce any specific dates for its initiation of mass production.

Features to look out for in the Peterbilt 220EV :

The Model 220EV is powered by an electric motor mounted directly on the rear axle.

Meritor has provided the Blue Horizon electric drive axle, which offers a steady power of 250 kilowatts.

The batteries are mounted in the space cleared between the frame rails due to the e-axle configuration.

This e-truck is equipped with 2 TransPower battery packs with a total storage capacity of 148 kWh.

Its range is 100 miles.

The vehicle will be able to recharge in an hour via a Direct Current fast charging system.

Kenworth Toyota – Fuel Cell Electric Truck (FCET)

On 22nd April, 2019 the Kenworth Toyota Fuel Cell Electric Truck (FCET) was unveiled at the Port of Los Angeles. The FCET is built in collaboration with the California Air Resources Board. These trucks are based on the Kenworth T680. The FCET is powered by Toyota hydrogen fuel cell electric powertrains. Ten of these trucks were built initially. These are being used by the Ports of Los Angeles. These trucks are a step towards meeting customer needs while reducing the impact on the environment The truck started operations in the last quarter of 2019.

Features to look out for in the Kenworth Toyota FCET

These trucks will have hydrogen fueling infrastructure.

With a full fill, these trucks will be able to cover a distance of 300 miles.

The hydrogen fuel will reduce more than 500 tons of greenhouse gas emissions.

NIKOLA TWO

On 8th February, 2019, Nikola Motors announced that the Nikola Two will be made available in two versions. A hybrid version, and a BEV or Battery Electric Vehicle version. Nikola Motors has partnered with Ryder for all service related aspects.

Features to look out for in the Nikola Two:

The battery power of both will be available in 500 kWh, 750 kWh, and 1mWh.

Nikola Two will be able to accelerate 2-3 times faster than a diesel operated truck.

The Nikola Two will be able to stop 50-100 feet faster than the current standard.

The cabin of the truck will have a total of 4 seats. Out of this, 2 seats and a full-sized table at the back will allow drivers to work or relax as per their convenience.

The dash is a 21-inch 4K display and has voice control functionality. This dash can also have apps on it like truck navigation and even ELD apps.

CUMMINS – AEOS Electric Truck

AEOS, an electric powered semi-truck designed by Cummins is a Class 7 heavy-duty truck cab. It was launched in 2017. This e-truck was named after one of the four horses that pull the chariot of Helios, the Greek sun god. It is the first electric truck from Cummins. Cummins has designed the batteries and the driveline system, while it has partnered with Roush Industries for design of the aerodynamic body. The production for AEOS started in 2019.

Features to look out for in the Cummins AEOS:

Battery pack of 140 kWh.

The range of this e-truck will be nearly 100 miles.

If powered with more battery packs, the vehicle’s range can be up to 300 miles.

Its total weight is 18,000 lbs.

It will be capable of hauling a 22 ton trailer.

The lithium-ion battery can be charged in about 60 minutes.

Its regenerative braking and low rolling resistance tires allow it to to maximize the range of the vehicle.

If solar panels are fitted to the truck’s trailer, its range can be increased.

For further maximizing the range, these trucks will also have the option of adding a range extender engine, like the Cummins B4.5 or the B6.7 motors.

VOLKSWAGEN – e-DELIVERY Electric Truck

VW e-Delivery was developed by Volkswagen Caminhões e Omnibus, the Brazilian division of Volkswagen in 2017. Ambev, a popular Brazilian brewery has placed an order for 1600 electric trucks in an attempt to make their fleet all-electric. It is scheduled to go to mass production in 2020.

Features to look out for in the Volkswagen e-DELIVERY:

The truck’s range is more than 125 miles.

The battery bank is NMC or lithium-ion-nickel-manganese-cobalt cells. This ensures high performance.

The battery has a quick-charging mode. 30% charging can be done in 15 minutes. The battery can be completely charged in 3 hours.

The power output of the truck is up to 260 kWh with a torque limit of 2,150 Nm.

The innovative design of the truck makes it extremely futuristic. The three modules of the vehicle (front module with the cabin and other features, middle module with the batteries, and rear module with the powertrain) are independent of each other. This makes it possible for all the designs and components to be combined with other electric vehicles too.

The three regenerative stages of the brake ensures that 30% power will be recuperated when hitting brakes. This power can be used to charge the batteries.

The pneumatic suspension and smart payload reading system helps in synchronizing the load and the electricity consumption while in the eco-drive mode.

Special Mention: OTTO TRUCKS

The Otto trucks company was founded in January, 2016. Uber acquired Otto in August, 2016 for a sum of approximately $680 million. Otto achieved its first freight service in October, 2016. This was also the longest non-stop journey by an autonomous truck in with cargo containing 51,744 cans of Budweiser. The journey was of 132 miles, starting from Colorado Springs to Fort Collins in Colorado. There was no human assistance, lead vehicle, or tele-operation.

It was supposed to be technology that could be used by truck drivers while taking rest during long hauls. Trucks were not built by Otto, rather autonomous hardware kits were installed in them. A Few trucks used by Otto to make them Otto autonomous trucks are the Volvo 780 and Volvo VNL.

Trucks have come a long way since they were first produced. Electric and automatic trucks bear testimony to human intelligence and technological advancements. The Trucking industry virtually touches the life of every American. It is only natural that engineers and innovators will try to transform the industry as ‘humanely’ and ‘technically’ possible. To learn more on on innovation, check out this article on a list of 6 technologies that will impact the future of the trucking industry.

The above mentioned trucks prove that these electric trucks are surely set to change the future of trucking and the way trucking has been so far conceived.

#electronic logging device #hours of service

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kritikapatil · 1 year ago

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Air Brake System Market Growing Popularity and Emerging Trends in the Industry

Advance Market Analytics released a new market study on Global Air Brake System Market Research report which presents a complete assessment of the Market and contains a future trend, current growth factors, attentive opinions, facts, and industry validated market data. The research study provides estimates for Global Air Brake System Forecast till 2027*.

An air brake which is also known as a compressed air brake system is a type brake for all types of automobiles. In case of Air Brake Systems, the pressure applied to stop the vehicle is generated by compressed air pressing on a piston. These braking systems are primarily used in large and heavy goods or passenger carrying vehicles. It is particularly used in those vehicles where the multiple trailers are linked to the brake system, such as trucks, buses, trailers, and semi-trailers. These air brake systems are also used in Railroads as well as Rail brakes.

Key Players included in the Research Coverage of Air Brake System Market are

Knorr-Bremse (Germany)

WABCO Vehicle Control Systems (Belgium)

Meritor, Inc. (United States)

Haldex (Sweden)

ZF Friedrichshafen (Germany)

T Tenneco Inc. (United States)

Wabtec Corporation (United States)

Nabtesco (Japan)

TSE Brakes, Inc. (United States)

Emerson Electric (United States)

What's Trending in Market: Growing Infrastructural Spending in Adopting Automated Systems

Increasing Railway Networks and introduction to High Speed Trains

Challenges: Unsuited to Use in Low Temperature Conditions

Continues Technological Advancements will lead to Maximize Threat of Substitutes

Opportunities: Mandatory Air Brake Installation for Load Carrying Vehicles

Increased Safety with Air Brake over Conventional Breaks

Market Growth Drivers: Robust Increase in Population across the Globe

Rising Industrialization and Urbanization

The Global Air Brake System Market segments and Market Data Break Down by Type (Air Disc Brake, Air Drum Brake), Vehicle Type (Rigid Body, Heavy-Duty, Semi-Trailer, Bus), Component (Compressor, Governor, Tank, Air Dryer, Foot Valve, Brake Chamber, Slack Adjuster) To comprehend Global Air Brake System market dynamics in the world mainly, the worldwide Air Brake System market is analyzed across major global regions. AMA also provides customized specific regional and country-level reports for the following areas. • North America: United States, Canada, and Mexico. • South & Central America: Argentina, Chile, Colombia and Brazil. • Middle East & Africa: Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Israel, Turkey, Egypt and South Africa. • Europe: United Kingdom, France, Italy, Germany, Spain, Belgium, Netherlands and Russia. • Asia-Pacific: India, China, Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Australia. Presented By

AMA Research & Media LLP

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arrowtrucksblog · 2 years ago

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Dreaming of Driving a Freightliner?

Freightliner is a brand of semi-trucks that’s been a leading force in the trucking industry for over 75 years. Freightliner semi-trucks are known for their durability, reliability, and advanced technology, making them a popular choice for trucking companies and owner-operators. Here are some of the factors that make Freightliner semi-trucks special:

Durability

Freightliner uses high-quality materials and advanced manufacturing techniques to produce trucks that can withstand the toughest conditions. The company's engineering team works closely with suppliers to ensure every component of each truck is built to last.

Reliability

Freightliner semi-trucks are also known for their reliability. The company's trucks are designed to be easy to maintain and repair, which reduces downtime and keeps trucks on the road. Freightliner also has a strong dealer network that provides support for their trucks across North America; if there is a problem with a Freightliner, you can get help almost anywhere you are.

Advanced Technology

Freightliner is known for its advanced technology. The company has been at the forefront of trucking technology for decades; their engineers have developed innovative solutions to improve fuel efficiency, safety, and driver comfort. Freightliner trucks are equipped with advanced features such as collision avoidance systems, lane departure warnings, and adaptive cruise control, just to name a few.

Customization

Freightliner offers a wide range of customization options for their trucks; their trucks can be customized to fit the specific needs of any trucking company or owner-operator. From cab configurations to engine options, Freightliner trucks can be tailored to meet the unique requirements of any operation.

Environmental Sustainability

Freightliner is committed to environmental sustainability. The company has developed advanced engine technologies that reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency. Freightliner also offers electric and hybrid trucks that are designed to meet the needs of customers looking for more sustainable transportation solutions.

Safety

Freightliner is committed to safety. The company's trucks are equipped with advanced safety features to help drivers avoid accidents and stay safe on the road. Freightliner also offers driver training programs that teach safe driving practices and promote driver awareness.

Today’s a Great Day to Drive a Freightliner

Freightliner semi-trucks are special for many reasons and they are a popular choice for trucking companies and owner-operators. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, Freightliner is poised to continue leading the trucking industry for many years to come. Are you ready to drive a Freightliner? Shop new and used Freightliner trucks for sale today.

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poojaj · 2 years ago

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Car Wash Machine Market Set To See Strong Growth by 2030

The car wash machine market refers to the global market for equipment used for cleaning and washing vehicles. This includes various types of car wash machines such as automatic, semi-automatic, and manual car wash machines.

For Sample Report Click Here:-https://www.marketinforeports.com/Market-Reports/Request-Sample/510516

Car wash machines are automated systems designed to clean vehicles, primarily cars, trucks, and vans. These machines typically use a combination of water, soap, brushes, and high-pressure air or water jets to clean and rinse the exterior of a vehicle.

The car wash machine market is driven by several factors, including the increasing demand for automated car wash systems, the growing popularity of vehicle detailing services, and the rising number of vehicles on the road.

The car wash machine market is driven by factors such as increasing demand for car washing services, growing awareness about water conservation, and the need for efficient and cost-effective car washing solutions. Additionally, the rise in the number of vehicles on the road, particularly in developing countries, has contributed to the growth of the car wash machine market.

The market is segmented based on type, application, and region. Based on type, the market can be classified into fully automatic, semi-automatic, and manual car wash machines. In terms of application, the market can be divided into commercial and personal car washing.

Geographically, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa. Asia Pacific is expected to dominate the car wash machine market due to the high demand for car washing services in countries such as China and India

#Car Wash Machine Market #Car Wash Machine

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parknationq · 2 years ago

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Parking Semi-Trucks at Hotels: How to Avoid Penalties

Semi-exchanges are ubiquitous on the road moment and are indeed a core part of utmost diligence. They deliver goods across countries, from groceries to electronics and other consumer goods. If you're a semi-truck motorist driving across the U.S. and Canada, you must have come head to head with tricky laws regulating this assiduity. these-truck Parking Headache While the semi-truck on the road is critical to the frugality of one megacity or the other, the treatment they get is unwarranted. Despite their significance in ultramodern society, these exchanges have always been slighted with strict and tough road regulations compared to ordinary cruisers or SUVs. One of these is of course the semi-truck parking canons which control parking in utmost regions, especially Alberta. It might sound like an on-issue until you're slighted with a$ 250 ticket for parking along an external road. The situation is compounded by the fact that, as a truck motorist, you need to rest for eight hours after every 10 hours spent on the wheel. Well, you might argue that there are multiple road rests along utmost routes, but are they well-spaced to suit the road law? Of course not and therein lays the riddle. As a motorist, you'll moreover have to risk driving against road regulations or just pay the$ 250 fine, which is a huge fiscal dent on your stipend. Semi-Truck Parking in hospices is a Godsend Luckily, the imagination of hospices similar to the unheroic Head Inn is working the situation. These installations offer free semi-truck parking, therefore, allowing you as a motorist time to recharge before hitting the road formerly again. Why is this accommodation option proving popular with the utmost truckers? Take a look at some of these benefits Exquisite catering Unlike the usual run-down motels, these ultramodernsemi-truck rest stops offer further than introductory food and refreshments. You'll be suitable to get a good mess to prepare you for the road ahead.

commodious and secure parking This is the stylish thing about this parking option, especially when you consider the precious weight you're carrying. The locales are also near the highway to make it easier for you to catch up on lost time.

Fantastic amenities Whilesemi-truck parking hospices don't charge top bone

, there's no concession in terms of services you get to enjoy. From free internet access, hot showers, Jacuzzis, and comfy apartments, you'll be refreshed and rested when it comes to hitting the road formerly again.

Safe driving When you rest in between your trip, you won't only be icing your safety on the road, but that of other druggies. A rested motorist is far more conservative and apprehensive than one who's doing 14 hours non-stop.

Semi-truck parking in hospices is necessary for motorists as they play their part in frugality. Coming time you're driving across countries, stop and mollycoddle yourself a little, and enjoy the trip some further.

For more info:-

Truck Parking Business North America

Parking Lot Management Software

Source Url :- https://sites.google.com/view/parknation/home

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researchvishal · 2 years ago

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Automatic Tire Inflation System Market Report: Overview With Geographical Segmentation By Revenue With Forecast By 2033

As the market share of automatic tire inflation systems grows from US$ 2.2 Bn in 2023 to over US$ 3.6 Bn in 2033, its net worth is forecast to reach over US$ 3.6 billion by 2033. The global market for automatic tire inflation systems is expected to register a CAGR of 5.2% between 2023 and 2033 due to increased fuel demand and the need to increase tire life expectancy.

A rise in the demand for all-terrain and military vehicles, an increase in safety features in vehicles, and a need for increased passenger comfort all contribute to the growth of the global automotive automatic tire inflation system market.

Due to its several advantages, including improved fuel efficiency and extended tire life, automatic tire inflation systems are becoming increasingly popular in emerging economies, particularly in developing countries. The majority of the market for automatic tire inflation systems is driven by the increase in vehicle automation, as well as the increase in vehicle automation.

In the global automotive automatic tire inflation system market, technological advancements and integration with telematics are expected to boost revenues.

For more information: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/automatic-tire-inflation-system-market

Key Takeaways from the Automatic Tire Inflation System Market Study

The automatic tire inflation system is expected to increase at a notable CAGR of 5.2%.

North America dominates the market for automatic tire inflation systems.

Asia Pacific region is expected to grow at the fastest rate with an increased revenue share.

Backed by the steadily expanding manufacturing hubs and growing demand from the automotive sector, China is the hotspot for stakeholders in the global automatic tire inflation system industry.

Germany is the dominating country in Europe’s automatic tire inflation system industry and is set to remain in that position through 2033.

Competitive Landscape for the Automatic Tire Inflation System Market

There are several manufacturers who have introduced multi-performance variants of their products in an attempt to expand their product portfolios and attract consumers from a variety of industry verticals. An imperative part of a company's marketing strategy is to increase its market position by executing strategies such as mergers and acquisitions. In order to improve its position in the market, the company has implemented these strategies in order to remain competitive and gain a competitive advantage. Automatic tire inflation system manufacturers have invested heavily in R&D, resulting in several novel products that can be used across the previously niche market.

Some major companies in the automatic tire inflation system market include Dana Incorporated, Meritor, Inc., EnPro Industries, Inc., Nexter Group, Servitech Industries, Inc., Hendrickson USA, L.L.C., Tire Pressure Control International Ltd., PTG Reifendruckregelsysteme GmbH, Aperia Technologies, Inc., Systems GmbH, Bigfoot Equipment Ltd., Tibus Offload Ltd. & Co. KG, AIR CTI, FTL Technology Limited, Col-Ven S.A.

Recent Developments in the Automatic Tire Inflation System Market

Michelin has introduced Zen@Terra, an all-around solution that allows tractor tire air pressure to be adjusted. In partnership with Masternaut (France), Michelin acquired one of the major European telematics companies. Masternaut Telematics provides TPMS which can be interfaced with onboard ATIS/CTIS systems for a user-friendly experience.

As an option on their 8R series tractor, John Deere (US) will offer a home-built ATIS system in 2021.

AIR CTI launched its new AIR Central Tire Inflation System, LMTV Tire Inflation System, and others a couple of years back.

In February 2022, Tesla patented the first ever on-the-go tire inflation system catering to both passenger cars and commercial vehicles. The upcoming semi-truck is also expected to be compatible with this system.

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rianmobili · 5 months ago

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Top Most Popular Semi Trucks in America

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#rianmobili #FREIGHTLINER #KENWORTH #PETERBILT #VOLVO #MACKTRUCKS #INTERNATIONAL #WESTERNSTAR #Youtube

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uboat53 · 2 years ago

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I want to tell the tale of two vehicles.

Now, I tend to drive small cars, but from time to time I have to move things and so I rent bigger vehicles for the purpose. This is the tale of the giant U-Haul truck and the Ford F-150.

If you've ever seen a U-Haul truck before, you know that it's huge. Even the smallest one is larger than any standard vehicle that people buy and use on a regular basis and the largest of them approaches the size of a semi. I've never driven the largest one, but I have driven the next size down when we've moved and they are substantial.

The Ford F-150, on the other hand, is considered fairly standard. In fact, it's the most popular personal vehicle in America.

Given this, you may be surprised to know which of these vehicles I felt safer driving in; it's the giant truck.

You see, the truck may be huge and unwieldy, but I had a ton of information available to me to see where I was going. There were mirrors that covered the blind spots on each side, mirrors that showed me what was behind me, and even a pair of mirrors to show me what was going on in front of the hood.

The F-150, on the other hand, just had the three mirrors that are standard on cars, the two side-view mirrors and the rear-view mirror. This leaves massive blind spots not only on the side of the truck but also in the front and rear where the bed and hood rise over 5 feet from the ground.

I should note that this isn't just my own personal perception, the evidence is pretty clear that high-sitting personal vehicles such as pickup trucks and SUVs are overwhelmingly more dangerous to pedestrians in general and to children in particular than other vehicles.

Source 1

Source 2

You'll also note from my own experience that this may not be as difficult of a problem to solve as it seems. Mirrors are fairly low cost and also very simple (and thus reliable) technology. How much of a difference would it make if we required pickup trucks and SUVs to install mirrors that more clearly covered their massive blind spots?

I'm not entirely sure but, based on the statistics and my own experience, I would say it's worth a shot.

Here's the article that got me thinking about this issue. It's a good read if you're interested.

#ford f150 #ford f 150 #uhaul truck #vehicle safety #car safety #pedestrian safety

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eldmandate122 · 1 year ago

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6 Technologies that will Impact the Future of Trucking - ELD Mandate

…cars and trucks in which human drivers are never required to take control to safely operate the vehicle. Also known as autonomous or ‘driverless’ cars, they combine sensors and software to control, navigate, and drive the vehicle."

—Union of Concern Scientists, USA (USCUSA)

Is this what the future of trucking looks like?

For a few years, electric trucks were mainly being worked on by startup companies, while the large tech companies were mostly silent on the issue. This all changed around 2017. Tesla unveiled its all-electric autonomous truck in 2017 and the early customers of this product are Walmart, UPS and PepsiCo. Then, Daimler unveiled the electric siblings of their most popular trucks, Cascadia and M2 as eCascadia and eM2 in 2018. At the ACT Expo in 2018, Roger Nielson, the CEO of Daimler Trucks, said that the time has come to contemplate the post-internal combustion engine. The production of Daimler electric trucks will begin in 2021. In April 2019, the Nikola Motor Company, a tech startup unveiled its semi-truck powered by hydrogen fuel cells. Anheuser Busch, a beer making company has planned to buy 800 units of Nikola’s hydrogen fuel powered semi-truck.

Uber has also acquired a startup company, Otto which is working on autonomous trucks. In October, 2018 Otto completed the first shipment in the world from a self-driven truck. The cargo hauled by it contained 51,744 cans of Budweiser.

Any technological advancement requires large investments. According to a report from CB Insights, $2 billion has been invested in startup trucking companies as of 21st May, 2019. The investments in tech startups jumped a huge leap from $114 million in 2014 to $3.6 billion in 2018. The growing interest in the future of trucking has increased the scale of investments. The costs of electric trucks are quite higher than that of a diesel truck. Nielson went on to say that the business scenario at present will not allow a sane fleet operator to buy an electric truck. The industry needs to find ways to carry on research and make batteries that are half the current size and price. Also, it must double the energy density. In the meantime, partnerships and grants can make production of electric trucks possible.

The 6 major technologies that may impact the future of trucking are:

Electric Trucks

Autonomous Vehicles

Platooning

Shipper Platforms

Blockchain Trucking

Artificial Intelligence

Electric Trucks - Future

The depletion of the conventional sources of energy have made researchers seek alternative sources to power vehicles. Additionally, vehicles need to be designed and structured in such a way that is compatible with alternative sources of energy. Thus, conservation of nature has been a driving concern behind a lof of the recent innovations.

Since trucks were first used in the late nineteenth century, they have come a long way. The future seems quite exciting as truck manufacturing companies are aiming to build electronic and autonomous trucks. Trucking had altered the way America did business and a lot is set to change in the coming years as well. With Tesla, Volvo, Daimler and other truck giants about to launch electric trucks in a few years, the future of trucking never seemed so promising and exciting.

A Brief History of Electric Trucks

The first crude yet viable electric motor which could power a tiny car was built by ÁnyosJedik, a Hungarian priest in 1827. 28% of vehicles running on American roads in 1900 was actually powered by electricity. Milburn electrics was the vehicle used by President Woodrow Wilson and his team of secret service agents to travel around Washington, DC. Once charged, the vehicle could travel a distance of approximately 60-70 miles. Though, initially electric vehicles did not have rechargeable batteries. The first electric carriage was invented somewhere around 1832-1839 in Scotland by Robert Anderson. It ran on primary cells which were non-rechargeable. The nickel-iron battery was one of the kinds of rechargeable batteries.

Of the many companies that produced and sold electrical vehicles, Baker Electric, Detroit Electric and Columbia Electric were quite notable.

Why did electric vehicles lose their prominence?

Cars powered by internal combustion became cheaper. Also large petroleum reserves were found in Oklahoma, California and Texas. Additionally, roads outside urban areas began to improve. Due to the availability of better roads, cars with internal combustion engines became a more popular choice.

In 1913, Henry Ford introduced a line of gasoline-powered vehicles. These vehicles were mass produced which lowered the price. Gasoline vehicles became more and more popular. The electrical vehicles began to lose ground, only to come back with a bang after nearly a century.

Why do Electric vehicles seem like a promising option in the present day?

There are a number of reasons behind the growing popularity of electric vehicles:

Can use electricity generated by non-conventional sources

Electrical vehicles need electricity to recharge batteries. Apart from fossil fuels, this electricity can also be generated from renewable sources like solar, wind and tidal energy.

Leaking oil from conventional engines

The conventional engine may leak oil. If not detected in time, this can lead to damages. Electric vehicles do not have this fear as they run on rechargeable batteries.

Regenerative braking

Regenerative braking is one of the key advantages of plug-in or hybrid electric vehicles. In a hybrid vehicle a conventional way of propulsion is often merged with an electric one. This braking system helps an electric vehicle gain back the kinetic energy which is usually lost as heat during friction braking. This recovered kinetic energy can be stored in the vehicle’s battery as electricity and give a small recharge in that way.

A step towards autonomous driving

It is an easier integration for full self-driving capabilities to happen with an electric vehicle rather than a traditional engine.

Less noise while operating

Vehicles that run on electricity cause less noise in comparison to a combustion engine. Emitting less noise means that a truck can run in suburban areas at night without causing any disturbance.

Fewer service and maintenance needs

Electric vehicles have fewer service and maintenance needs. This is because there are 30% fewer movable parts as compared to a conventional vehicle with a combustible engine.

No tailpipe emissions

As electric vehicles do not run on conventional sources of energy like fossil fuels, there is no smoke emission. Hence, it can be driven in environmental zones as well.

Energy efficient

As electric trucks use rechargeable batteries to function, the energy consumption of the truck is maximized.

Types of Electric Vehicles available

Electric vehicles can recharge batteries from a number of energy sources:

Fossil fuel

Nuclear energy

Solar energy

Wind energy

Tidal energy

Based on the type of energy used, electric trucks can be classified into four categories:

HEV or Hybrid Electric Vehicle

PHEV or Plug-in Electric Vehicle

BEV or Battery Electric Vehicle

FHEV or Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle

HEV or Hybrid Electric Vehicle

Instead of using only a traditional engine, a HEV or Hybrid Electric Vehicle, adds to the engine an electrical option. By using regenerative brakes, HEVs convert kinetic energy into electric energy as mentioned above. These vehicles use both electric energy and use gas or diesel to operate.

PHEV or Plug-in Electric Vehicle

A hybrid electric vehicle which has a battery that has the option of being recharged by plugging it into an external source of energy is called PHEV or Plug-in Electric Vehicle. These vehicles use electricity for short distances. When the battery is over, the driver can switch over to the conventional combustion engine. This type of vehicle allows the driver flexibility that ensures high fuel and energy utilization. The use of electric energy to run the vehicle saves fuel costs. The emissions from the tailpipe are also minimized.

BEV or Battery Electric Vehicle

This type of vehicle uses chemical energy stored in its rechargeable batteries. This is a pure electric vehicle. Being battery operated, BEV vehicles do not have a combustion engine. Instead, it uses electric motors along with motor controllers.

FHEV or Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle

This type of vehiclehas an electric motor, that is recharged by the chemical reaction of oxygen and hydrogen. It is true that some emissions are created while the hydrogen is produced for the fuel cells. However, water is the only waste product while an FHEV is driven.

Autonomous Vehicles

The advancement of electrical vehicles in recent years calls for another futuristic feature in trucking: autonomous driving. The concept of autonomous driving began with the notion of ‘driver assistance’ or ‘assisted driving’. It aims to have completely driverless vehicles or a vehicle where the people inside are passengers. Undoubtedly, the concept of autonomous driving demands an advanced technology with superior sensors. P C Mag has defined an autonomous car as, “A computer-controlled car that drives itself.” Autonomous trucks can save a lot of money too. Morgan Stanley estimates that if American trucks are made autonomous, $168 billion can be saved each year. Though, we are still many years away from full autonomous driving as of now. Autonomous driving has been set to five stages. The fifth stage is considered the most technically and mechanically advanced one:

Stage 0 – No Automation

Vehicles controlled by human drivers and without any sort of support from computerized driver assistance system is considered stage 0 or ‘No Automation’.

Stage 1 – Driver Assistance

Vehicles in ‘Driver assistance’ level or stage 1 are jointly controlled by the driver and a computerized automated system. There are a number of ways in which this system can work. A driver usually always controls the steering, while the automated system may have certain control over the brakes and speed of the vehicle when required. At times the engine power is controlled by the automated system which ensures that the vehicle can maintain a specific speed. At times parking assistance is also available with this automated system. Here, the speed of the vehicle is controlled manually while the steering is done automatically. However, the driver has to be alert and ready to take up the control if any problem arises. This type of driving is also called ‘hands on’ driving.

Stage 2 – Partly Automated Driving

In stage 2 or the ‘Partly Automated Driving’ level, the driver monitors the driving process while it is conducted by the automated system. If in any situation or condition, the automated system cannot do its job or fails to respond, the driver has to take up manual controls immediately. This stage is at times called ‘hands off’. In this stage it is mandatory for the driver to keep hands on the steering wheel at all times. This mandate is for safety purposes. Having the driver constantly holding the steering wheel means that immediate manual control of the vehicle can be taken up during any situation.

Stage 3 – Highly Automated Driving

The ‘Highly Automated Driving’ level is commonly called ‘eyes off’ level. This means that the driver is not required to constantly monitor the driving or look at the road ahead. The automated system will be able to perform on its own and without any human interference. If any problem occurs, automatically the emergency brakes are applied. Though the driver can usually do personal work while the vehicle is on the road, during adverse or critical conditions human intervention may be required. These situations will be specified by the manufacturer before-hand.

Stage 4- Fully Automated Driving

In the ‘Fully Automated Driving’ the human driver is allowed to take their ‘mind off’ in most of the situations. The driver may sleep or do other work in other part of the vehicle as the vehicle is capable to look after its own safety. This type of vehicle is capable of completing the journey and park itself. However, during traffic jams (which falls under ‘special circumstances’ category) or tight-spaced areas, the vehicle has to be operated by a human driver.

Stage 5- Full Automation

In a vehicle having ‘Full Automation’, the steering wheel is optional. Hence, it does not require any human intervention for any aspect related to driving. Through this type of vehicle, full automation is achieved.

What is our present stage in Truck automation?

Volvo’s VNL and Pleton’s Platooning System are examples of trucks that are available in the trucking market today that have Stage 1 automation. Under the Stage 2 automated truck category, the new 2020 Cascadia will be the first truck in Northern America according to Freightliner. It will begin production from July, 2019. Embark and Starsky Robotics are the two other Stage 2 automated trucks that will be available in the future but at present are in pre-commercial stage. Freightliner Inspiration and Uber Otto are trucks that fulfill the criteria of the Stage 3 automation. However, at present they are only available in prototype retrofits. The Freightliner Inspiration was the first automated truck to be licensed to operate on the highways of the country back in 2015.

At the CES electronics show in Las Vegas on 7th January, 2019, Daimler trucks announced that it will invest more than half a billion dollars and create 200 new jobs in its global endeavor to launch Stage 4 or highly automated trucks in about 10 years. The switch from Stage 2 to Stage 4 is natural and hence the step of conditional automation is being skipped as according to Daimler, conditional automation will not provide any extra advantage to the truck drivers. In the 3rd stage of automated driving, drivers can go about doing other work but have to take immediate control if the system cannot tackle the situation. The mental and physical switch from leisure to prompt action may not be as quick as required thus, it is judicious to skip the Stage 3 altogether. Additionally, Stage 4 will ensure optimal utilization of the trucks. They will be able to travel at night and avoid traffic congestion by smart route management. Future of trucking is looking very promising with autonomous vehicles.

Platooning in Trucks

Another trucking innovation in the near future is platooning. Platooning is the coupling of two or more trucks to form a convoy through the use of automated driving support system and connectivity technology. The ways in which platooning works is:

The trucks maintain a set automatically.

The space between the trucks is reduced when the trucks are connected to each other during certain parts of the haul. This reduction of gap between the vehicles improves the aerodynamics which in turn improves fuel efficiency.

Peloton Technology plans to commercially introduce a platooning system that is partially automated. This system at present allows two trucks to work in a close chain. Peloton technology’s PlatoonPro is already being used in fleet operation by six of its clients.

The features of Platooning system by Peloton Technology:

In the PlatoonPro system, the driver of the rear truck steers the vehicle.

The powertrain and brakes are controlled by the PlatoonPro system. This allows the vehicles to follow one another at a small gap.

According to Peloton Technology, the PlatoonPro system ensures average fuel savings of 7%.

The Automated Following system is a combination of radar-based active braking and software with vehicle-to-vehicle communication. This allows the human driver to guide the steering, acceleration and braking of the following trucks. The human driver will also be able to connect the trucks’ safety systems with little or no latency.

According to Peloton Technology, the L4 Automated Following truck will double the freight a truck driver is able to haul in one trip.

Usefulness of platooning

Platooning is said to have a number of benefits for the future of trucking:

Improved safety

Truck platooning is said to improve the safety of the convoy as the brakes of all the trucks can be applied automatically and immediately. It has been seen that during truck platooning, automated brakes take one-fifth of the human time to analyze the road condition and apply the brakes.

Efficient performance

There can be optimal utilization of roads in the platooning system, increasing the range of the roads and avoiding traffic jams. As a consequence, goods can be delivered quickly and efficiently.

Cleaner environment

During truck platooning, the Carbon Dioxide emissions can be reduced along with fuel consumption. The air-drag friction is also considerately reduced as the trucks drive close to one another.

However, Platooning is not really as fuel-effective as it is being claimed by some. Daimler has said that during testing of the platooning system its fuel savings are less than estimated even in perfect conditions. These savings are further reduced if the platoon is disconnected and have to be accelerated again to get reconnected.

Shipper Platform: Uber Freight and Amazon Freight

Freight brokerage connects shippers with the appropriate carriers. Recently, technology is playing a role in this aspect as well with Shipper Platforms.

The Trucking business was taken by storm with the introduction of shipper platforms like Uber Freight. Shipper platforms connect shippers with small fleets hauling freight via a load-matching feature. Uber Freight launched its load-booking app in May, 2017. The main intention behind the launch of Uber Freight was automating the manual processes of shipper selection and increasing market visibility. It was also intended to relieve shippers from time consuming legal proceedings and the anxiety of getting the best possible deal. This is one of the many ways on how owner operators can find loads.

The features of Shipper Platforms and how they may impact the future of trucking:

Carriers can book a load with just the click of a button.

Shippers can instantly connect to a network of drivers and fleets of the Uber network and manage shipments from their office or home.

Uber freight enables shippers to tender a load with the click of a few buttons saving time and energy.

Transparency of quotes helps shippers know the marketplace pricing instantly. The Uber Freight’s rates are current on-going marketplace rates which are generated in real-time.

The vast network of drivers and small fleets with Uber Freight ensures that reliable and appropriate fleets are chosen.

Shipments can be tracked. For every major milestone, automatic notifications are sent to the shippers.

Uber Freight’s Uber Freight Plus has a loyalty program. It gives the drivers fuel discounts, servicing discounts, and helps in the purchase of old and new trucks among other features.

With the completion of the delivery, all the necessary documents are arranged automatically for shippers.

Uber also reported that the freight division has a network of more than 50,000 carriers and mentioned that some of the largest carriers in the country are users of the app. However, it has not been all great for Uber Freight since its launch. Uber Freight posted a loss of $64 million in the first quarter of 2020. According to CNBC, Uber Freight gives 99% of the revenue generated to the trucking companies, which leaves little room for profitability.

There may also be a few other reasons why Uber Freight has not been fully able to live up to its vision:

Rudimentary features

With the growth of GPS tracking and ELD devices, merely providing shippers the details of the truck’s location is not unique. Shippers also need to know the route the truck is taking and the HOS data.

Not so reliable in fleet and driver selection

In Uber Freight there is not a lot of barrier to sign up. All carriers do not have to provide basic requirements like an active DOT/ MC number, proper safety ratings or proof of insurance. A shipper may not feel comfortable about doing business with such carriers.

Shortage of drivers

Uber Freight provides drivers a number of perks. In spite of this, driver shortage is quite a problem. Drivers will want a steady job that ensures a good livelihood. Hence, many drivers will prefer to work with a trucking company with regular pay, rather than rely completely on Uber Freight.

Focus on shippers rather than carriers

While launching the load-booking app, the shippers’ perspective was given a lot of importance as the price transparency feature shows. However, the carriers are an integral part of the trucking business too. Apart from the loyalty program there has not been a push to ensure that carriers get steady and constant work through Uber Freight.

Uber Freight is not deterred from their path though, and mentioned recently in 2020 that their focus is still there to grow the Uber Freight business.

Amazon has also launched its own freight app, ‘Amazon Freight’. Amazon Freight was released quite quietly some time in 2016 or 2017. This app allows truck drivers to take up jobs of hauling Amazon packages in Prime-branded trailers across the country.

Fleets can sign up through the website and hauling assignments get allotted accordingly. There are a few requirements which drivers have to fulfill:

A fleet should have at least 3 trucks.

The trucking company should have its own DOT/MC number.

Amazon tried to use the truck drivers base and enhance its business via the Amazon Freight service. However, truckers do not see a good livelihood coming from only hauling Amazon trailers. Anecdotal evidence says that the payment is fairly low. It can be kept as an option, or can be opted as back-hauling. Doing business exclusively with Amazon Freight is said to not be fully profitable. In spite of the initial setbacks, Uber Freight and Amazon Freight are changing the future of the trucking business.

Amazon launched its freight app ‘Relay’ in 2018. It operates in 5 states—Connecticut, New Jersey, Maryland, New York and Pennsylvania. Its aim is to give truckers additional freight information. It has features like route tracking and expedited checking procedures at the warehouses. It has been designed to help truckers get faster entry and exit at the Amazon warehouses. It is Amazon’s first attempt at automating the truck delivery process.

How does the Relay work?

In these 3 steps:

Amazon also intends to build an app like Uber Freight that will match cargo shippers with truck drivers.

Blockchain Trucking

The trucking industry in general has certain inefficiencies. Deals can take time to get finalized. The related paperwork is again, time-consuming and hectic. The trucking industry needs an open platform where shippers and carriers can view each others profile, get the selection process done in less time and get the load rolling. However, how will this be possible? The Blockchain is kindling hopes of achieving a seamless and frictionless trucking system. First, let's understand the basics of blockchain and how it can make the trucking space a community where work can get done more efficiently.

What is Blockchain?

Blockchain is an open digital ledger. It is a business network where transactions can be recorded along with tracking of assets. Blockchain technology is inherently based on cryptography, a complicated branch of mathematics. Blockchain is also decentralized. It depends on the consensus of a peer network spread across the world to function. This digital ledger is made up of a series of ‘blocks’. The blocks are the bundles of transactions which are connected together in an open ‘chain’. The data entered in the blockchain is considered to be true and valid. As being a decentralized forum, there is no single authority to verify the facts. Everyone is always on the same page. It is impossible to change or modify the data in a block as that will modify the entire chain and will need consensus from the entire network.

The whole community associated with the blockchain will be able to validate the data entered by an organization as blockchain technology is an open-to-all ledger. It leaves no room for speculation, assumption and data falsity. Hence, a holistic trucking ecosystem can be developed through a blockchain network. After all, organizations can be rest assured that the data they have been provided is authentic and validated.

How will blockchain be used in the future of trucking?

The trucking industry can definitely benefit from blockchain technology. One of the obstacles of the trucking industry is that it is largely fragmented. There’s no open knowledge about which shippers are currently looking for carriers or which carriers are open to haul shipments. Blockchains open ledger will open up the trucking industry. One of the problems it will most definitely solve is matching appropriate truckers with shippers. In the longer run blockchain technology can function as an open network for truckers.

The trucking industry largely depends on paperwork. Due to this, administration and processing costs have gone up to 20%. However, blockchain technology allows the sharing and easy distribution of documents on the open ledger. This sharing facility makes paperwork between shippers and carriers quite unimportant. Easing out the hassles of documentation will make payments possible in less time.

Some trucks, especially refrigerated ones, carry medical shipments. These are at times detained at customs for large periods of time. This mostly happens when trucks exceed the allowed range of temperature. A blockchain enabled refrigerated truck-trailer made by the Swiss Tech company, SkyCell, lowered the temperature-deviated rate to less than 0.1%. With the use of smart approvals, clearance at the customs checkpoints can be made smoother and more efficient. Moreover, a refrigerated trailer has to be closely recorded at every step. It has to pass through more than 30 organizations which require more than 200 different pieces of information. Any miscommunication can either delay the shipment or the shipper may lose track of it. A blockchain network will ensure that communication at every step is clearly noted. This ensures the shipment reaches the respective facility on time.

The e-commerce industry has developed in such a pace that same-day and 2-hour delivery options are provided to customers. For a parcel to be delivered in the same day or in 2 hours, the technology should not have any glitch. The traditional trucking technology largely relies on paperwork at every stop can not be suitable for such a fast-paced delivery. The blockchain technology with its immediate access to order tracking and authentication ensures that the delivery takes place in the required time.

At times, trucking companies order spare truck parts and also old trucks. The tracking of these spare parts or old trucks can be pretty exhausting as no proper forum is provided for constant tracking. However, the blockchain network will enable the efficient tracking of the supply chain as well.

These are the different ways that blockchain can impact the future of the trucking industry:

Efficient Freight Tracking

As mentioned above consumer expectations are ever-increasing along with demands for same-day delivery and two-hour delivery. Blockchain will not only take care of the tracking of the shipments but also help in authentication.

In order to ensure consistent improvement in trucking operations, authentic data has to be provided to transportation companies. EDI or electronic data interchange and API or application program interface leaves room for data manipulation or misinterpretation. Blockchain has the backup of the entire network to contribute information and authenticate the data. Hence, there is no scope of data tampering. Blockchain also improves the efficiency of temperature controlled and refrigerated trucking which is reliant on on-time delivery by giving data backup at every step.

IoT (The Internet of Things) and AI (Artificial Intelligence) enhance monitoring efficiency

Carriers and shippers can detect the total space taken up by a shipment in a trailer with the help of IoT. This helps to determine the expense of the shipment and all the information can be transmitted to the blockchain. This aids in maintaining the transparency of the freight cost. SkyCell had created containers for air freight. These containers monitor humidity, temperature and location for transporting biopharmaceuticals that require refrigeration. Its cloud platform is also utilized by SkyCell for recording every document of the shipping process, from start to finish. As these cargos travel through various check-points, all the required documents available at hand make the transportation process easy and efficient. Thus, the blockchain technology ensures that valuable cargo is transported intact and has the backup of all supporting documents that might be needed along the journey by using IoT and AI.

Maintaining vehicle performance history

While it is very important to have fleet tracking records for future use, the tracking records of a vehicles performance is also beneficial for the future. A vehicles performance records include its maintenance history and past performance. When considering used trucks, buyers are usually interested in the past history of the truck. However, that leaves a grey area of speculation. With blockchain technology, a prospective buyer and seller will have all the information validated by the entire network easing any intermediary speculations.

Ease of new carrier onboarding

While taking on new carriers, it is quite difficult for freight brokers to find all the adequate information on that carrier. It is quite time consuming to get all the required details together and that also leaves room for speculation. However, with the blockchain system all the necessary details of the new carrier will be provided by the decentralized network. This network stores all the data of the carriers operating in the transportation and freight industry. No new carrier will be able to give false information in an open network.

Vehicle to vehicle communication via the Internet of Things (IoT)

Platooning technology uses vehicle to vehicle communication to enable vehicles to work together as a convoy. This communication via IoT can improve the vehicles efficiency and safety as the platooning system claims to do. All communication information can be stored in the blockchain and this information will be helpful for all the transportation companies using the blockchain network to operate their fleets better.

Improving reliability of load boards

In a blockchain network, all the loads can be verified by others and get time-stamped in the process. This will ensure that loads are not duplicated and the carriers get authentic information. The blockchain network will also be able to authenticate all the loads put up. Thus, the reliability of the load board is improved due to a blockchain network.

Smart Contracts

Smart Contract allows companies to program self-executing tasks in the blockchain network. The task gets automatically performed when certain criteria are fulfilled. For example, a carrier’s payment can be released when the cargo reaches the facility if the task has been set accordingly.

Those are a list of some potential benefits. The largest blockchain network at present is by the Blockchain in Trucking Alliance (BiTA). Its current members have exceeded 1000 in number. The members include mcCleod Software, UPS, DAT, Salesforce, Don Hummer trucking, Transfix. BiTA members are taking part in nearly 85% truck-related global transactions. Its blockchain standards have brought a uniformity and efficiency in the trucking community. Sweetbridge is another blockchain based technology that seeks to take care of the significant inefficiencies of the supply chain across the world. Some major problems it addresses are — supply chain operations, supply chain flexibility and supply chain liquidity.

The blockchain revolution has just begun. It must also be taken into account that to use a blockchain system, the trucking or shipper company must have the adequate resources like the required hardware and software, along with the technological know-how. In spite of all the speculated downsides, blockchain seems like a wonderful solution for many trucking problems. It must be nurtured with time and technical advancement. In the coming years, the trucking industry’s profitability and efficiency will reach new heights if blockchain trucking’s functionality continues along the same graph.

Artificial Intelligence and Trucking

According to the American Trucking Association, the US freight transport will increase to 20.73 billion tons by 2028. This huge growth by 36.6% from the freight weight of 15.18 billion tons in 2017 will need an advanced infrastructure. This will be able to ensure smooth operation of such a ‘healthy’ industry. Along with the existing challenges, fuel prices, increasing cost of operation, driver shortage and shortage of shipping capacity will be the crucial areas in coming years. Every American is virtually affected by trucking. Hence, smooth operation must be ensured so that the economy and the lives of the people maintain a steady pace. AI can be of real help to continue to roll the wheels of the trucking industry.

Some of the key ways in which AI can affect the trucking space are:

Cost reduction

AI will be able to foster predictive maintenance systems. This will help vehicles perform better. With constant monitoring, any mishap can be predicted beforehand. It can monitor by keeping in check the maintenance logs, IoT sensors, and other external sources. This will have a dual impact of reducing the maintenance costs and increasing the fleet performance. In other words, it can predict when a maintenance will be needed in advance of an issue occuring. So rather than being reactive with maintenance issues, carriers can be proactive.

Lower the numbers of highway fatality

AI along with IoT enhances vehicle to vehicle communication (V2V). V2V along with ADAS, or advanced driver assistance systems, can prevent nearly 40% of road crashes according to a publication by the NHTSA or National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The prevention of highway fatality will save a lot of money and more importantly lives. Cisco IBSG estimates that the savings can be $280 per crash.

Natural image processing

Trucking involves a lot of paperwork. The documentation has to be stored in proper folders as any information may be required for any purpose in the future. This process can be exhausting and time consuming. AI with its feature of natural image processing can recognize and retrieve any scanned document. This easy retrieving of documents will aid the manual task of computer data entry.

Predictive analytics

AI processes past performance records. This will not only predict the health of a vehicle but will also predict about the drivers. AI will also be able to analyze what conditions are preferred by drivers and what are the chances of driver retention.

Match carrier with shippers

While human freight brokers find it extremely taxing to connect the appropriate carriers with the shippers, AI can easily do so by matching facts and data.

With all the new technological advancements and more to follow, the future of trucking indeed looks promising and exciting. We are also a technology provider in this space and are always looking for ways to improve the life of truck drivers through technology. You can learn more about us - ELD Mandate.

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eldamandate07 · 1 year ago

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13 Best Fully Electric Semi Trucks 2021

VOLVO — Fully Electric Trucks 2020: Volvo FE and FL

Features to look out for in Volvo FE and Volvo FL:

These e-trucks will have a range of about 185 miles.

Volvo FL will have a single powertrain with only one motor.

Volvo FL will be available with and without a refrigerator.

Volvo’s electric powertrain will give the truck a smooth gearing and fast response.

Its batteries can be charged in 1 or 2 hours via fast charging stations or in through the industrial main supply.

Total weight capacity of the truck is 27 tons.

Braking energy is also utilized in these trucks. The batteries employ one or two motors to deploy the energy to drive the wheels.

These trucks have been designed for various inter-city traffic like distribution and waste management.

The Volvo FL has 248 hp and 313 lb-feet torque.

DAIMLER eCASCADIA Electric Truck

Features to look out for the eCASCADIA Electric Truck:

Its e-motors are located at the axle end and provides 730 peak horse power.

Usable battery capacity of 550kWh.

It has a range of 250 miles.

80% of the battery can be charged in 90 minutes.

With an 80% charge, the truck can go a range of 200 miles.

HMI or Human Machine Interface, is one of the most unique features of this truck. This provides data of the vehicle’s performance in the driver's field of view.

It has the capacity to complete 2-3 runs per day via a dedicated route.

The eCascadias are extremely quiet.

Daimler has committed to having an ideal charging infrastructure that will enable the electric truck ecosystem to flourish. Trucks will have the option of public charging and depot charging.

The etrucks require superior technical and mechanical assistance. Daimler plans to build the largest dealership network for etrucks in Northern America.

DIAMLER eM2 Electric Truck

Features to look out for in the eM2 Electric Truck:

It has 480 peak horse power.

Its battery’s usable capacity is 320 kWh.

It has a range of 230 miles.

In about 60 minutes, the battery will be 80% charged.

With an 80% charged battery, the truck has a 180 miles range.

These trucks can recharge their batteries by taking advantage of stop and move city traffic. The recharge will be done via regenerative breaking technology.

MERCEDES BENZ URBAN e-TRUCK

Features to look out for in the Mercedes Urban e-Truck:

It has a range of up to 120 miles.

The payload of this truck is 12.8 tons.

The batteries are placed in a crash-proof location within the frame of the truck.

It is powered with a 212 kWh battery pack which consists of 3 lithium-ion batteries.

Each motor delivers 100 kW power.

Its torque capacity is 8100 lb-feet.

These e-trucks are able to charge themselves using a 100 kW combined charging system which is tied to a convertor, in 2-3 hours.

These e-trucks will be available in three variants: Platform vehicle, Refrigerated body, and Dry-box body.

Mercedes-Benz eACTROS

Features to look out for in the Mercedes-Bezn eACTROS:

Two variants of this vehicle are available. One variant will have a GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) of 18 tons and the other will have a GVW of 25 tons.

Two electric motors with a total power output of 250 kW will power the truck. They will be located near the rear-axle wheel hubs.

The motors can be cooled by liquids and have the capacity to operate with voltage of as low as 400 volts.

The maximum torque limit is 970 Nm. However, the gearing ratio converts this into 22000 Nm. This results in a driving performance similar to a diesel truck.

Its two batteries will have a capacity of 240 kWh.

The range is up to 125 miles.

The batteries can be charged in 3-11 hours at a rate of 20-80 kW.

MITSUBISHI FUSO VISION ONE - ELECTRIC SEMI TRUCK

Features to look out for in the Mitsubhishi Fuso Vision One:

GVW is 23 tons.

It can carry a payload of nearly 11 tons, which is only 2 tons less than the diesel Fuso truck.

Battery pack of 300 kWh.

This truck can cover a range of 217 miles in a single charge.

MITSUBISHI FUSO eCANTER

Features to look out for in the FUSO eCANTER:

It minimizes the noise and air pollution in cities.

Six water-cooled high voltage lithium-ion batteries are in its electric drivetrain.

Each of the batteries have 13.8 kWh power at 420 volts.

The e-truck is claimed to be able to accelerate like a car with its 390 Nm of constant output of power and 175 hp.

Its speed is approximately 50 miles/hr.

It has a payload capacity of 4.5 tons, depending on its body.

The GVW is 7.49 tons.

The combined weight of the 6 batteries is 600 kg.

The expected range of the vehicle is 60 miles.

80% of the battery can be charged in 1 hour via an EU-compatible CCS Type-2 charger in direct current. In a Level 2 charger it can be charged in 8 hours.

This e-truck is cost effective. Daimler expects that operating cost of this e-truck will be approximately $1,000 cheaper for every 6,000 miles driven as compared to its diesel sibling.

PETERBILT – Model 220EV Electric Semi Truck

Features to look out for in the Peterbilt 220EV :

The Model 220EV is powered by an electric motor mounted directly on the rear axle.

Meritor has provided the Blue Horizon electric drive axle, which offers a steady power of 250 kilowatts.

The batteries are mounted in the space cleared between the frame rails due to the e-axle configuration.

This e-truck is equipped with 2 TransPower battery packs with a total storage capacity of 148 kWh.

Its range is 100 miles.

The vehicle will be able to recharge in an hour via a Direct Current fast charging system.

Kenworth Toyota – Fuel Cell Electric Truck (FCET)

Features to look out for in the Kenworth Toyota FCET

These trucks will have hydrogen fueling infrastructure.

With a full fill, these trucks will be able to cover a distance of 300 miles.

The hydrogen fuel will reduce more than 500 tons of greenhouse gas emissions.

NIKOLA TWO

Features to look out for in the Nikola Two:

The battery power of both will be available in 500 kWh, 750 kWh, and 1mWh.

Nikola Two will be able to accelerate 2-3 times faster than a diesel operated truck.

The Nikola Two will be able to stop 50-100 feet faster than the current standard.

The cabin of the truck will have a total of 4 seats. Out of this, 2 seats and a full-sized table at the back will allow drivers to work or relax as per their convenience.

The dash is a 21-inch 4K display and has voice control functionality. This dash can also have apps on it like truck navigation and even ELD apps.

CUMMINS – AEOS Electric Truck

Features to look out for in the Cummins AEOS:

Battery pack of 140 kWh.

The range of this e-truck will be nearly 100 miles.

If powered with more battery packs, the vehicle’s range can be up to 300 miles.

Its total weight is 18,000 lbs.

It will be capable of hauling a 22 ton trailer.

The lithium-ion battery can be charged in about 60 minutes.

Its regenerative braking and low rolling resistance tires allow it to to maximize the range of the vehicle.

If solar panels are fitted to the truck’s trailer, its range can be increased.

For further maximizing the range, these trucks will also have the option of adding a range extender engine, like the Cummins B4.5 or the B6.7 motors.

VOLKSWAGEN – e-DELIVERY Electric Truck

Features to look out for in the Volkswagen e-DELIVERY:

The truck’s range is more than 125 miles.

The battery bank is NMC or lithium-ion-nickel-manganese-cobalt cells. This ensures high performance.

The battery has a quick-charging mode. 30% charging can be done in 15 minutes. The battery can be completely charged in 3 hours.

The power output of the truck is up to 260 kWh with a torque limit of 2,150 Nm.

The three regenerative stages of the brake ensures that 30% power will be recuperated when hitting brakes. This power can be used to charge the batteries.

The pneumatic suspension and smart payload reading system helps in synchronizing the load and the electricity consumption while in the eco-drive mode.

Special Mention: OTTO TRUCKS

The above mentioned trucks prove that these electric trucks are surely set to change the future of trucking and the way trucking has been so far conceived.

#hours of service

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sanstropfremir · 3 years ago

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orville peck released new stuff?? btw i was wondering why we didn't really get a fully colorful glitter cowboy in kpop as far as i remember... with all of the western adjecent styling it would make sense but maybe that would become to costumy them

hell fuckin yea we sure did anon!!!!

youtube

he also dropped a trailer for the full album which is gonna be released in april!!!!

youtube

as for why there hasn't really been a lot of spectacle country styling in kpop........well. it's pretty long answer that has to do with several factors like:

golden era country as a genre just isn't popular in the way that it would need to be to catch international attention

country music pretty dramatically changed post 9/11 and the pop country that gets media attention + play nowadays portrays a particular nationalistic message that is viewed uh......distastefully outside of the us. it's also pretty wrapped up in right wing rhetoric and while this is absolutely not true of the majority of the genre and definitely not true of golden era country, it all gets painted with the same brush; country's 'tacky' and 'only about trucks and beer and girls and conservatism' because that's what the image of country music has been to the general public for the last twenty years.

despite a lot of country music's themes being very universal, it's a folk genre, an intrinsically american one at that (i'm not going to get into too many semantics here but it's not totally specific to the us there is canadian country) and folk genres are visually rooted in personal and cultural experience. so a lot of the aesthetics that come with folk genres often will not hit with people who haven't lived that experience because they just don't understand what the markers mean.

the 2000s were super homophobic. like so homophobic. i don't know how to explain this to anyone who didn't experience it firsthand or is not from north america but men do not know how to dress here specifically because the 2000s were so homophobic. like we really made up a whole new word to politely (derogatorily) call men who knew how to do their hair and wear clothes that fit them well. yes it was that bad. and now combine that with my second point. so men wearing bright colours and rhinestones? definitely a no go. it's only now in the last few years that nudie suits have made a (semi) comeback in popular styling in the west which is i think, mostly thanks to lil nas x and post malone/his stylist cathy hahn (who, fun fact, has also done styling for orville peck. i love when things come full circle). but the reality is that the domestic environment just has not recovered enough for them to be popular internationally.

all that being said: there are still a couple of comebacks that have, in my opinion, done a pretty good job of integrating + synthesizing that golden era aesthetic. mx's fantasia, which i think everyone just forgot about? these two stages (it's the same outfits but one set in black and one in white) especially have a lot of the right shapes and ideas, and they also imo do a good job to capture the more casual/workwear aesthetic too. they then managed to do it again with rush hour, but with much more of a talladega nights bend, which is a pretty specific niche to pinpoint, but i thought it was great because it made my top styling list. and nobody is gonna like me for this but sticker maybe actually got it the best? the mv is really great and a lot of the stage styling is not exactly referential to country music in specific but is absolutely based in gaudied up old western (the genre, not the geographical area) aesthetics, which you can see here, here, here, and especially in these purple outfits.

tldr: i don't think people outside the us really understand what and where the 'country' aesthetic comes from and the prevailing us domestic disdain for the kitsch of the aesthetic and the genre as a whole means that it's not likely to get picked up directly by kpop stylists.

#like.....how do you explain a rodeo to someone who's never been?#also korea has a very specific way of picking up and integrating things that's a form of of cultural hybridization #that people (my friend) have literally written theses about #so nothing ever gets truly copied directly it usually get's synthesized into a new form. anyways ill stop this is way too long #kpop questions #kpop analysis #kpop styling #i'm really glossing over a lot here but there's also a lot of classicism involved with how country is perceived domestically. like a lot #im also glossing over the much larger topic of how kpop styling is directly reflective of korea's us neocolony status #which means that it's directly emulating the popular trends of the us #i could legit write a thesis on all of this what a fascinating question thank you anon #there is a LOT of universality and the human condition at the core of folk genres #so there's actually a lot of parallels between korean ballads/balladic storytelling and country music #but that's ALSO too long to get into here #text #answers #im a HUGE orville peck fan. one of my big breakdowns in 2019 was set exclusively to pony #i listen to a lot of country/americana/canadiana which i think surprises people who know me irl #but my parents are from the prairies so

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maddie-grove · 4 years ago

Text

The Top Twenty Books I Read in 2020

My main takeaways:

I’m glad that I set certain reading goals this year (i.e., reading an even mix of different genres and writing about each book I read on this tumblr). I feel like it really expanded my horizons.

There are a lot of proper names on my Top 20 list this year, which possibly means something about identity? That, or I just tried to read more Victorian novels.

Be horny, and be kind.

Now...

20. The White Mountains by John Christopher (1967)

In a world ruled by unseen creatures who roam the countryside in tall metal tripods, all humans are “capped” (surgically fitted with metal plates on their heads) at age fourteen. Thirteen-year-old Will Parker looks forward to becoming a man, but a conversation with a mysterious visitor to his village raises a few doubts. This early YA dystopia has gorgeous world-building (notably a trip to the ruins of Paris) and expert pacing. The choices Will has to make are also more surprising and complicated than I ever anticipated.

19. What Happened at Midnight by Courtney Milan (2013)

John Mason wants revenge on his fiancée Mary after she skips town following her father’s death...apparently with the funds that her father, John’s business partner, embezzled from their company. When he tracks her down, though, she’s working as a lady’s companion to the wife of a controlling gentleman who refuses to pay her wages, and John’s fury turns to sympathy and curiosity. This is a smart, well-plotted Victorian-set novella about a couple who builds a better relationship after a rocky start.

18. Johnny Tremain by Esther Forbes (1943)

It’s 1773, and fourteen-year-old Bostonian Johnny Tremain has it all: a promising apprenticeship to a silversmith, the run of his arguably senile master’s household, and...unresolved grief over his widowed mother’s death? When a workplace “accident” ruins his hand and career, though, he must “forge” a new identity. Despite its jingoism and surfeit of historical exposition, I fell in love with this weird early YA novel. It’s a fascinating, heartbreaking portrayal of disability and ableism, and, to be fair, Forbes was just jazzed about fighting the Nazis.

17. Something Happened to Ali Greenleaf by Hayley Krischer (2020)

After universally beloved jock Sean Nessel rapes starry-eyed junior Ali Greenleaf at a party, his queen-bee friend Blythe Jensen agrees to smooth things over by befriending his victim. Ali knows Blythe’s motives are weird and sketchy, but being friends with a popular, exciting girl is preferable to dealing with the fallout of the rape. This YA novel is a complex, astute exploration of trauma and moral responsibility.

16. The Color of Law by Richard Rothstein (2017)

Rothstein details how the federal U.S. government allowed, encouraged, and sometimes even forcibly brought about segregation of black and white Americans during the early and mid-twentieth century, with no regard for the unconstitutionality of its actions. He brings home the staggering harm to black Americans who were kept from living in decent housing, shut out of home ownership for generations, and denied the opportunity to accumulate wealth for generations. It’s an impactful read, and I was honestly shocked to learn Rothstein isn’t a lawyer, because the whole thing reads like an expansion of an excellent closing statement.

15. My Friend Dahmer by Derf Backderf (2012)

In this graphic memoir, Backderf looks back on his casual, fleeting friendship with future serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer, a high school classmate who amused Backderf and his geeky friends with bizarre, chaotic antics. Backderf brings their huge, impersonal high school to life, illustrating how the callousness and cruelty of such an environment allowed an isolated, troubled teen to morph into something much more disturbing without anyone really noticing. It’s a work of baffled, tentative empathy and regret that stayed with me long after I finished it.

14. Daniel Deronda by George Eliot (1876)

Gwendolyn Harleth, beautiful and ambitious but with no real outlet, finds herself compelled to marry a heartless gentleman with a shady past. Daniel Deronda, adopted son of her husband’s uncle, finds himself drawn into her orbit due to his helpful nature, but he’s also dealing with a lot of other stuff, like helping a Jewish opera singer and figuring out his parentage. I love George Eliot and, although this bifurcated novel isn’t her most accessible work, it’s highly rewarding. The psychological twists and turns of Gwendolyn’s story are a wonder to experience, and Daniel’s discovery of his past and a new community is moving.

13. The Plot Against America by Philip Roth (2004)

The Roths, an ordinary working-class Jewish family in 1940 Newark, find their quiet lives descending into fear, uncertainty, and strife after Charles Lindbergh, celebrity pilot and Nazi sympathizer, becomes president of the United States. This alternate history/faux-memoir perfectly captures the slow creep of fascism and the high-handed cruelty of state-sanctioned discrimination, as well as the weirdness of living a semi-normal life while all of that is going on. Also: fuck Herman and Alvin for messing up Bess’s coffee table! She is a queen, and she deserves to read Pearl S. Buck in a pleasant setting!

12. David Copperfield by Charles Dickens (1850)

Young David Copperfield has an idyllic life with his sweet widowed mom and devoted nursemaid Peggotty, until his cruel stepfather ruins everything. David eventually manages to find safe harbor with his eccentric aunt, but his troubles have only begun. Although the quality of the novel falls off a little once David becomes an adult, I don’t even care; the first half is one of the most beautiful, funny, brilliantly observed portrayals of the joys and sorrows of childhood that I’ve ever read.

11. The Rise and Fall of Adam and Eve by Stephen Greenblatt (2017)

Greenblatt examines the evolution and cultural significance of the story of Adam and Eve from the Bible to the modern day (but mostly it’s about Milton). I can’t speak to the scholarship of this book--I’m not an expert on the Bible or Milton or bonobos--but I do know that it’s a gorgeously written meditation on love, mortality, and free will. Greenblatt brought me a lot of joy as an unhappy teenager, and he came through for me again during the summer of 2020.

10. The Music of What Happens by Bill Konigsberg (2019)

Self-conscious seventeen-year-old Jordan is mortified when his widowed mother hires Max, an outgoing jock from his school, to help out with their struggling food truck. As they get to know each other, though, they realize that they have more in common than they thought, and they end up helping each other through a particularly challenging summer. This is an endearing, exceedingly well-balanced YA romance that tackles serious issues with a light touch and a naturalness that’s rare in the genre.

9. Red as Blood by Tanith Lee (1983)

In nine wonderfully lurid stories, Tanith Lee retells fairy tales with a dark, historically grounded, and lady-centered twist. Highlights include a medieval vampiric Snow White, a vengeful early modern Venetian Cinderella, and a Scandinavian werewolf Little Red Riding Hood. Fairy tale retellings are right up my alley, and Lee’s collection is impressively varied and creative.

8. A Room with a View by E.M. Forster (1908)

Unnerved by an impulsive make-out session with egalitarian George Emerson on a trip to Florence, young Edwardian woman Lucy Honeychurch goes way too far the other way and gets engaged to snobbish Cecil Vyse. How can she get out of this emotional and social pickle? This is an absolutely delightful romance that gave a timeless template for romantic comedies and dramas for 100-plus years.

7. My Ántonia by Willa Cather (1918)

Jim Burden, a New York City lawyer, tells the story of his friendship with slightly older Bohemian immigrant girl Ántonia when they were kids together on the late-nineteenth-century Nebraska prairie. It was a pretty pleasant time, give or take a few murders, suicides, and attempted rapes. This is one of the sweetest stories about unrequited love I’ve ever read, and it has some really enjoyable queer subtext.

6. Mister Death’s Blue-Eyed Girls by Mary Downing Hahn (2012)

In 1956 Maryland, gawky teen Nora’s peaceful existence is shattered by the unsolved murder of her friends Cheryl and Bobbi Jo right before summer vacation. Essentially left to deal with her trauma alone, she begins to question everything, from her faith in God to the killer’s real identity. Hahn delivers a beautiful coming-of-age story along with a thoughtful portrait of how a small community responds to tragedy.

5. The Lais of Marie de France by Marie de France, with translation and introduction/notes by Robert Herring and Joan Ferrante (original late 12th century, edition 1995)

In twelve narrative poems, anonymous French-English noblewoman Marie de France spins fantastically weird tales of love, lust, and treachery. Highlights include self-driving ships, gay (?) werewolves, and more plot-significant birds than you can shake a stick at. Marie de France brings so much tenderness, delicacy, and startling humor to her stories, offering a wonderful window to the distant past.

4. Maus by Art Spiegelman (1980-1991)

In this hugely influential graphic novel/memoir, Art Spiegelman tells the story of how his Polish Jewish parents survived the Holocaust. He portrays all the characters as anthropomorphic animals; notably, the Jewish characters are mice and the Nazi Germans are cats. I read the first volume of Maus back in 2014 and, while I appreciated and enjoyed it, I didn’t get the full impact until I read both volumes together early in 2020. Spiegelman takes an intensely personal approach to his staggering subject matter, telling the story through the lens of his fraught relationship with his charismatic and affectionate, yet truly difficult father.

3. At the Dark End of the Street by Danielle L. McGuire (2010)

McGuire looks at a seldom-explored aspect of racism in the Jim Crow South (the widespread rape and sexual harassment of black women by white men) and the essential role of anti-rape activism led by black women during the Civil Rights movement. This is a harrowing yet tastefully executed history, and it’s also a truly inspirational story of collective activism.

2. In for a Penny by Rose Lerner (2010)

Callow Lord Nevinstoke has to mature fast when his father dies, leaving him an estate hampered by debts and extremely legitimate grievances from angry tenant farmers. To obtain the necessary funds, he marries (usually!) sensible brewing heiress Penelope Brown, but they face problems that not even a sizable cash infusion can fix. This is a refreshingly political romance with a deliciously tense atmosphere and fascinating themes, as well as an almost painfully engaging central relationship.

1. Mansfield Park by Jane Austen (1814)

Fanny Price, the shy and sickly poor relation of the wealthy Bertram family, is subtly mistreated by most of her insecure and/or self-absorbed relatives, with the exception of her kind cousin Edmund. When the scandalous Crawford siblings visit the neighborhood, though, it shakes up her life for good and ill. I put off reading Mansfield Park for years--it’s practically the last bit of Austen writing that I consumed, including most of her juvenilia--and yet I think it’s my favorite. Fanny is an eminently lovable and interesting heroine, self-doubting and flawed yet possessed of a strong moral core, and the rest of the characters are equally realistic and compelling. Austen really made me think about the point of being a good person, both on a personal and a global scale.

#books #reading #rape #racism #genocide #murder #(it was a more cheerful reading year than these tags indicate)#(or was it? i don't know)

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