Imagine this scenario: A utility crew heads out to repair a downed power line. As they arrive at the site, the truck’s vehicle-to-everything (V2X) system automatically transmits specific details about the work zone perimeter, the presence of crew members, and even the location of extended bucket trucks and other equipment. Vehicles approaching the area receive […]
Artificial intelligence is reshaping fleet management – whether you notice it or not – to improve operations, enhance safety and reduce costs. But if you’re not consistently following all the latest developments in AI, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and left behind. So, what’s the current state of AI in fleet? What capabilities can we […]
New utility construction equipment hitting the market in 2024 aims to boost productivity, fuel efficiency and operator comfort for crews working on projects ranging from laying pipelines to installing cables. Major manufacturers including Vermeer, Caterpillar, Volvo CE, CASE and John Deere are rolling out upgraded models with enhanced technology, improved hydraulics and redesigned cabs. So, […]
The question about what’s permitted for operating aerial devices and digger derricks in high winds is one that comes up frequently with users. Utility crews often must deal with working in wind. Trouble trucks responding during storm recovery, transmission operations to place visibility balls on lines and working above rooflines in urban locations are just […]
The industry’s truck and van equipment manufacturers are developing new products that equip your crews to get more work done with less strain and greater safety. They’re incorporating more lightweight materials in their product designs so that you can reduce fuel costs, increase battery range or boost payload capacity. And they’re offering more electrified options […]
It’s a busy time in our industry. We have challenges associated with normal operations and maintenance of the grid. We’re also faced with new and increasing work involving distributed generation, vehicle charging infrastructure and major transmission projects. Both existing and emerging work require access to the respective work areas, and with this comes the associated […]
Lineworkers rely on a variety of tools when working from the bucket of an aerial device. Safe work practices require that these tools not create additional exposure to electrocution. Hand tools – such as bolt cutters, knives, pliers and wire strippers – are often made of metal. So, when employees are working in aerial devices, […]
When repairing power lines, inspecting high and hard-to-reach areas, or lifting transformers and other heavy equipment, the objective is clear: How can line crews do their jobs safer and faster? That goal has driven the development of several new products and upgrades released by top aerial platform and crane manufacturers in the past few months. […]
When digging trenches, lifting materials or drilling in tight spaces, how can utility crews get more work done in less time at a lower operational cost and with a smaller carbon footprint? Those are the primary factors heavy-equipment manufacturers consider as they design and develop new utility construction equipment. What new products have emerged this […]
As you navigate the opportunities and challenges brought about by fleet electrification, it’s crucial to stay informed about the latest product news. This roundup delves into the latest news in the heavier all-electric truck segment from industry leaders Mack Trucks, Isuzu, Hino, Nikola and Tesla. Consider the impact these electric vehicles might have on your […]
As you evaluate your truck and van specs, where do you see the best opportunities for improvement? Perhaps you could take weight out of the vehicle to reduce fuel costs or increase legal payload. Or upgrade your equipment to be more efficient and ergonomic, improving crew productivity and safety. Or electrify your onboard equipment to […]
Aggressive driver behaviors. Improper use of equipment. Distracted driving. These are just a few issues that increase a utility fleet’s risk of preventable accidents that can lead to multimillion-dollar payouts and ignite a public relations firestorm. So, what can you do as a fleet manager to help protect drivers, the public and your company’s reputation? […]
Electrification is the most significant fleet technology trend right now. Most major automakers and heavy-equipment manufacturers have made substantial investments to shift their entire product portfolios from internal combustion engines to electric within the next 10 to 15 years. But what are some emerging technology trends that aren’t making headlines but could significantly impact your […]
There’s a lot of media coverage around the rollout of new electric vehicle models. But there’s one EV category not grabbing headlines – yet it’s still critical to achieving a utility fleet’s sustainability goals: utility construction equipment. All-electric machines eliminate emissions and allow crews to operate in noise-sensitive areas and outside of standard work hours. […]
Here’s what owners and operators should know about upcoming updates to the standard. Updates are coming to the ANSI A92.2 standard, titled “American National Standard for Vehicle-Mounted Elevating and Rotating Aerial Devices.” Your most common piece of powered equipment soon will have new or revised requirements for design, manufacturing, testing, training and operation. These new […]
Despite a lingering pandemic and a supply chain crisis, truck and van upfitters continue to bring new products to market that will help utility fleets cut costs, improve crew safety and productivity, and reduce carbon emissions. So, what are some notable new products and design enhancements to keep your eye on in 2022? Here are […]
How much does a vehicle collision cost your company in property damage, health care expenses, lost worker days, legal fees, and other direct and indirect costs? According to the latest report by the Network of Employers for Traffic Safety, available at https://trafficsafety.org, U.S. employers across various industries paid: $26,081 per crash in property damage. $78,418 […]
Lifting height, capacity, stability and range – these are all critical factors utility fleet professionals consider when spec’ing aerial platforms, cranes and other heavy-lifting equipment. They’re also looking for enhancements to machine safety, longevity and efficiency. So, what new products in the lifting equipment space have emerged in the past year to help fleet managers […]
Whether the job is digging trenches, drilling holes or digging in confined areas, you’re looking for machines and tools that can help your customers – the business units your department serves at your company – increase crew productivity at lower operating costs. Those are also the goals that many heavy-equipment manufacturers have in mind as […]
In late March, Con Edison announced its partnership with electric truck OEM Lion Electric and Posi-Plus, an aerial device equipment manufacturer, to develop the first all-electric bucket truck in North America. “Medium- and heavy-duty trucks are more challenging to electrify than cars, but the purchase of our first all-electric bucket truck shows the market is […]
