Increase Safety and Efficiency With OEM's Latest Technology
Original equipment manufacturers are constantly developing new technology, safety enhancements and comfort features, and running late-model equipment can give fleets a competitive advantage. Benefits of new OEM technology include:
Improved Safety: Class 8 tractors are increasingly equipped with advanced safety features, including collision avoidance systems, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking and blind-spot detection. Fleets are embracing the technology to protect drivers and reduce risk. The American Transportation Research Institute’s report, The Impact of Rising Insurance Costs on the Trucking Industry, found more than half of carriers have implemented three or more new safety technologies. Road-facing cameras were reported with the highest frequency (83%), followed by speed governors (46%), forward collision warnings (43%), adaptive cruise control (42%) and lane departure warnings (42%).
Increased Fuel Efficiency: Late-model Class 8 tractors are equipped with technology and aerodynamic designs that can maximize fuel efficiency — reducing operational costs and improving utilization while increasing sustainability. The National Private Truck Council’s (NPTC’s) 2023 Benchmarking Survey found that, driven by the trade cycle strategies, leased fleets enjoy a fuel economy of 7.2 mpg versus the 6.9 mpg average that owned fleets reported.
Guaranteed Regulatory Compliance: Newer equipment guarantees fleets comply with regulatory requirements, such as those established by the California Air Resources Board for equipment operating in the state.
Enhanced Driver Comfort: A Class 8 tractor serves as a driver’s workplace and home away from home, and increasing comfort in the cab can improve driver satisfaction, performance and safety. Ergonomically designed dashes, switches and steering wheel controls can enable drivers to work without leaning and stretching. Newer materials in seats can help reduce vibrations and, therefore, fatigue. OEMs are also offering greater adjustability of seats, mirrors and temperatures as well as enhanced cab lighting, which add to comfort.
Extended Maintenance Intervals: Late-model Class 8 tractors often feature extended maintenance intervals, reducing downtime. The equipment also features increased connectivity and telematics technology, which enable technicians to diagnose issues remotely and get ahead of issues before they become more significant, which minimizes breakdowns and increases uptime.
Tap Into Technology Without Upfront Costs
New equipment is expensive, but leasing allows businesses to update their fleets without significant upfront capital. Leasing can be especially attractive for fleets wanting to test new technology or trial new specifications on fewer vehicles.
According to the NPTC 2023 Benchmarking Survey, fleets that lease heavy-duty power equipment trade their equipment more quickly, at an average of 5.3 years versus 7.2 years for companies that own the majority of their equipment.
New equipment has significant advantages, but it can also come with unknowns, especially as OEMs roll out new technology to comply with stricter emissions regulations. By utilizing a full-service lease, fleets can outsource maintenance, reducing the financial risk associated with unknown maintenance needs and expenses. Penske Truck Leasing provides ongoing training for technicians, ensuring they can maintain the sophisticated, integrated technology on today’s trucks.