American Trucking Associations’ Technology & Maintenance Council says “Turning Experience Into Practice” will be the theme of its 2014 Annual Meeting and Transportation Technology Exhibition, set for March 10-13 at the Music City Center in Nashville, Tenn.
TMC’s Transportation Technology Exhibition is expected to include more than 300 exhibitors featuring the latest technology to help fleets improve safety and efficiency. Trucking’s complete technology trade show will include the latest models of medium- and heavy-duty vehicles, specialty and alternative-fueled vehicles, components, safety and information technology and services.
By attending the full technical session “Fuel Efficiency and Vehicle Emissions Regulations: Now and for the Foreseeable Future,” industry professionals will better understand the new joint U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Department of Transportation standards for carbon dioxide emissions and fuel consumption for combination tractors, heavy-duty pickup trucks/vans, and vocational vehicles.
Panelists for the technical session “The Low Down on Low-Viscosity Engine Oils” will discuss recent fuel efficiency standards and how engine manufacturers are exploring ways to achieve better fuel efficiency through low-viscosity engine oils.
Mini-technical sessions will include:
• New Challenges for Today’s Vehicle Charging Systems and Beyond;
• Benchmarking the Success of Your Tire Program;
• The Great Refrigerant Conversion—Round Two: Anticipated A/C Refrigerant Changes;
• Understanding the Reduced Stopping Distance Brake Technology & Resulting Maintenance Issues;
• Understanding How Trailing Equipment Can Improve Overall Fuel Efficiency;
• Right to Repair: Application Access to Service Material and Future of Advanced Diagnostics;
• Fleet Experience and the Future of Hybrid Vehicles; and
• Technician Retention Strategies for Fleets and Service Providers.
More than 100 task forces will meet on Monday, followed by TMC’s Town Meeting/Fleet Operators’ Forum and the Transportation Technology Exhibition grand opening. Technical sessions will be held Tuesday through Thursday. The lively and popular Shop Talk will be held on Thursday.
Phil Byrd, president and CEO of Bulldog Hiway Express, will be the featured speaker for Tuesday’s Kickoff Breakfast. Byrd is chairman of the board for American Trucking Associations and a two-time past chairman of the South Carolina Trucking Association.
TMC’s annual banquet and reception on Wednesday evening will feature the installation of the 2014-2015 general chairman and country music entertainment.
“Early Bird” registration on or before Feb. 10 is $550 for TMC or ATA members, and $650 for nonmembers. After Feb. 10, registration is $650 for TMC or ATA members, and $750 for nonmembers. Registration can be made online, by mail or fax. A $50 discount is given for online registration before Feb. 10. An administrative fee of $100 will be charged for onsite registration. A spouse’s program for a two-day off-site tour is available for $300.
