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EV Charging2_1569_Devin

When EVs Run Dry: Is Mobile Emergency Charging the Answer?

| Sean M. Lyden |
Earlier this year, ComEd unveiled what the company calls an emergency roadside charger to support its growing electric vehicle fleet across northern Illinois. The self-contained portable charging system built by Vanair (https://vanair.com/epeq-mobile-support-kit/), a Lincoln Electric Company, can be loaded into any ComEd service truck, providing approximately 30 miles of range during a one-hour…
more
ATSSA Expo

ATSSA to Debut New Show Format at Upcoming Annual Convention

| Kate Wade |
An estimated 4,000 roadway safety and transportation professionals are expected to attend the 55th annual ATSSA Convention & Traffic Expo, which will take place February 28 to March 4, 2025, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. Produced by the American Traffic Safety Services Association, the 2025 show will feature an updated format, including a full day devoted to ed…
more
Fleet Driver

Best Practices for Developing a Safe Driving Program

| Shelley Mika |
Utility fleets have many reasons to implement a safe driving program. Besides the obvious – to reduce the risk of accidents and protect the lives of fleet drivers – lowering crash rates can also save fleets costs related to vehicle repairs, rental costs, decreased productivity, vehicle downtime, insurance premium increases and high-dollar lawsuits. If you’re seeking to develop a safe driving pr…
more
EV Charging

The State of Fleet Electrification: Plug-In Hybrids vs. All-Electric

| Gary L. Wollenhaupt |
Is the dream of vehicle electrification dead or just delayed a bit? Earlier this year, legacy auto manufacturers announced they would slash electric vehicle production and pivot toward hybrid vehicles. These dramatic changes were in response to the drop-off in consumer demand for EVs and the Biden administration’s announcement of a new technology-neutral approach based on performance, giving au…
more
Terex 2024TU_HR46_HRX55_38_Lineman_Adding_Rubber_Sleeves_Blankets

Spec’ing Bucket Trucks to Improve Roadside Safety

| Shelley Mika |
Bucket trucks are a big investment, so when the time comes to purchase a new one, it’s important to get it right. Beyond spec’ing bucket trucks based on the application and operating conditions, it’s also important to spec them for safety. Representatives from two bucket truck manufacturers – Altec and Terex Utilities – recently spoke with UFP to weigh in on how to spec bucket trucks for roadsi…
more
20240612_110416

Dielectric Testing for Insulating Aerial Devices

| Jim Olson and Craig Ries |
Insulating aerial devices and digger derricks are used to provide a level of protection to their operators and ground personnel who work around energized power lines. Following established safe work procedures is critical, as is testing and maintaining the equipment so that it continues to provide the insulation users expect. You cannot simply look at a unit to determine if it will provide the …
more
Alabama Power 1

Crafting an Effective Shop Safety Policy

| Grace Suizo |
Creating and maintaining a comprehensive shop safety policy is essential for any utility fleet. Both James Kuha, transportation operations supervisor at Central Hudson Gas & Electric (CenHud), and Brian Johnson, fleet engineering and technical services manager at Alabama Power Co., emphasize the importance of a robust safety framework that prioritizes employee well-being and operational eff…
more

Unlock the Power of Effective Communication: 3 Must-Read Books for Fleet Managers

| Sean M. Lyden |
As a utility fleet professional, your career success isn’t just about keeping vehicles running smoothly or optimizing maintenance schedules. It’s also about straightforward, effective communication – whether you’re presenting a business case to senior leadership, motivating your team or negotiating with vendors. So, how can you improve your ability to convey your ideas persuasively and lead wit…
more
Ambitious Vehicle-to-Everything Technology Deployment Plan Likely to Hit Roadblocks

Ambitious Vehicle-to-Everything Technology Deployment Plan Likely to Hit Roadblocks

| Sean M. Lyden |
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 automated alerts, potentially trig…
more
LineWise IWP

LineWise Insulated Work Platform

| Kate Wade |
LineWise has updated its Insulated Work Platform (IWP), including the option to hydraulically articulate the jib up to 45 degrees for improved access to hard-to-reach areas. The IWP is designed for installation on hydraulically telescoping cranes to increase the utilization of existing equipment. This versatility not only reduces the need for expensive, dedicated insulated aerial equipment, but…
more
Terramac Dumpers

Terramac Wheeled Dumpers

| Kate Wade |
Terramac, a leading provider of heavy equipment solutions, is proud to launch its new Wheeled Dumper product line, marking a significant expansion for the company after 12 years of exclusively offering the Rubber Tracked Crawler Series. The new Wheeled Dumper Series offers a versatile, high-speed alternative that complements the tried-and-true rubber track crawler carrier, catering to a broader…
more
Andax Spill Tray

Award-Winning Andax Spill Tray

| Kate Wade |
The Andax Spill Tray recently received the 2024 OH&S New Product of the Year Award for Spill Control & Containment. The Andax Spill Tray Reusable Absorbent Drip Pad System is the ultimate solution for oil-selective spill containment, perfect for managing any drip or leak. What sets the Andax Spill Tray apart is its innovative design featuring four sidewalls that act as a mini containmen…
more
Pettibone Extendo

Pettibone Extendo 1044X Telehandler

| Kate Wade |
Pettibone has introduced the Extendo 1044X telehandler, a value-driven machine that provides up to 10,000 pounds of load capacity. The new telehandler was designed to offer ample lifting power and stability without the need for outriggers, significantly reducing maintenance requirements and enhancing operational speed for users working in construction, masonry and rental applications. The Exten…
more
Aurora_Horizon_Autonomous_Trucking_-_Terminal_3

The State of Self-Driving Trucks

| Sean M. Lyden |
A few years ago, most media headlines said that robots would rule the roads. It was not a matter of if but when. And that time was imminent. But the media hype has since cooled, and OEMs have pushed out production timelines. Yet a handful of companies in the autonomous truck sector are quietly moving the industry toward a self-driving reality in the next three years. Understanding these advance…
more
AI-feature-Oct2014

How Will AI Impact Your Fleet Operations?

| Sean M. Lyden |
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 expect to see in the future? How will it impact you and your …
more
Wollenhaupt-Oct2024

Keeping Your Best: Effective Strategies for Retaining Top Fleet Technicians

| Gary L. Wollenhaupt |
With the industry’s ongoing shortage of qualified vehicle technicians, fleet managers need effective strategies to keep their top performers. Compensation is meaningful, but communication is the real key to retaining technicians, said Paul Jefferson, senior fleet manager for Oklahoma Gas & Electric (OG&E), an investor-owned utility based in Oklahoma City. The results of an OG&E empl…
more

SEMA Predicts Biggest Show in Five Years

| Kate Wade | ,
With 2,400 brands scheduled to exhibit, producers of the 2024 SEMA Show – which takes place November 5-8 at the Las Vegas Convention Center – are projecting that this year’s event will be their biggest show in five years. Strong OEM participation is expected, according to a SEMA representative. Kia, Toyota, Lexus, HRC (Honda/Acura), MOPAR/Stellantis, Nissan and Ford Performance will be at the s…
more

8 ChatGPT Prompts to Boost Productivity, Improve Your Effectiveness

| Sean M. Lyden |
Consider this: What if you could generate comprehensive reports, craft persuasive proposal drafts and analyze complex data sets in seconds instead of hours? That’s just scratching the surface of what these tools bring to your fingertips. Fleet professionals who learn to use them will significantly boost productivity, freeing up valuable time for strategic thinking and hands-on leadership. But w…
more

The Future of Telematics: Top Trends to Watch

| Shelley Mika |
Telematics data is among the most powerful fleet management tools. Fleet managers can use it to solve challenges, optimize operations, improve driver safety, reduce emissions and drive meaningful change across their business – all for the benefit of drivers, the public and the bottom line. The telematics industry and the ways fleets use the data continually evolve. Keeping up on industry trends…
more

Maximizing ATUV Uptime: Essential Maintenance Practices for Utility Fleets

| Gerry Carriere |
All-terrain utility vehicles (ATUVs) are critical assets for utility operations, often working in challenging environments where standard vehicles just can’t go. Maintaining these specialized machines is crucial for ensuring their reliability, longevity and optimal performance. With nearly three decades of experience in the ATUV industry, I’ve seen firsthand the importance of proper maintenance…
more
EV Charging2_1569_Devin
| Sean M. Lyden |

When EVs Run Dry: Is Mobile Emergency Charging the Answer?

Earlier this year, ComEd unveiled what the company calls an emergency roadside charger to support its growing electric vehicle fleet across northern Illinois. The self-contained portable charging system built by Vanair (https://vanair.com/epeq-mobile-support-kit/), a Lincoln Electric Company, can be loaded into any ComEd service truck, providing approximately 30 miles of range during a one-hour charge for EVs running low on power during field operations. The initiative aligns with ComEd’s commitment to electrify 50% of its fleet by 2030 and support up to 1.8 million EVs in northern Il…
ATSSA Expo
| Kate Wade |

ATSSA to Debut New Show Format at Upcoming Annual Convention

An estimated 4,000 roadway safety and transportation professionals are expected to attend the 55th annual ATSSA Convention & Traffic Expo, which will take place February 28 to March 4, 2025, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. Produced by the American Traffic Safety Services Association, the 2025 show will feature an updated format, including a full day devoted to education and a singular 90-minute general session that gives exhibitors the opportunity to attend. The general session will cover key points from ATSSA leaders, national awards, a legislative update…
Fleet Driver
| Shelley Mika |

Best Practices for Developing a Safe Driving Program

Utility fleets have many reasons to implement a safe driving program. Besides the obvious – to reduce the risk of accidents and protect the lives of fleet drivers – lowering crash rates can also save fleets costs related to vehicle repairs, rental costs, decreased productivity, vehicle downtime, insurance premium increases and high-dollar lawsuits. If you’re seeking to develop a safe driving program, or if you’re planning to update your current one, following these best practices can help. Understand Your Current Level of Risk Before implementing a safe driving program, it’s importan…
EV Charging
| Gary L. Wollenhaupt |

The State of Fleet Electrification: Plug-In Hybrids vs. All-Electric

Is the dream of vehicle electrification dead or just delayed a bit? Earlier this year, legacy auto manufacturers announced they would slash electric vehicle production and pivot toward hybrid vehicles. These dramatic changes were in response to the drop-off in consumer demand for EVs and the Biden administration’s announcement of a new technology-neutral approach based on performance, giving automakers room to innovate to meet emissions standards. The administration revised regulations that originally mandated battery electric vehicles, or BEVs, comprise 50% of new-vehicle sales by 2030 …
Terex 2024TU_HR46_HRX55_38_Lineman_Adding_Rubber_Sleeves_Blankets
| Shelley Mika |

Spec’ing Bucket Trucks to Improve Roadside Safety

Bucket trucks are a big investment, so when the time comes to purchase a new one, it’s important to get it right. Beyond spec’ing bucket trucks based on the application and operating conditions, it’s also important to spec them for safety. Representatives from two bucket truck manufacturers – Altec and Terex Utilities – recently spoke with UFP to weigh in on how to spec bucket trucks for roadside safety. Fall Protection Because bucket trucks raise technicians high into the air, fall protection is an obvious safety feature to look for. It is a requirement in the case of a malfunction, ov…
20240612_110416
| Jim Olson and Craig Ries |

Dielectric Testing for Insulating Aerial Devices

Insulating aerial devices and digger derricks are used to provide a level of protection to their operators and ground personnel who work around energized power lines. Following established safe work procedures is critical, as is testing and maintaining the equipment so that it continues to provide the insulation users expect. You cannot simply look at a unit to determine if it will provide the insulation expected; it must be tested. There are two types of dielectric tests that must be performed on insulating aerial devices and digger derricks: qualification tests and periodic tests. A qu…
Alabama Power 1
| Grace Suizo |

Crafting an Effective Shop Safety Policy

Creating and maintaining a comprehensive shop safety policy is essential for any utility fleet. Both James Kuha, transportation operations supervisor at Central Hudson Gas & Electric (CenHud), and Brian Johnson, fleet engineering and technical services manager at Alabama Power Co., emphasize the importance of a robust safety framework that prioritizes employee well-being and operational efficiency. Policy Components According to Kuha, there are four critical elements that every safety policy should include. 1. Personal protective equipment protocol: Ensuring that employees hav…
| Sean M. Lyden |

Unlock the Power of Effective Communication: 3 Must-Read Books for Fleet Managers

As a utility fleet professional, your career success isn’t just about keeping vehicles running smoothly or optimizing maintenance schedules. It’s also about straightforward, effective communication – whether you’re presenting a business case to senior leadership, motivating your team or negotiating with vendors. So, how can you improve your ability to convey your ideas persuasively and lead with confidence? These three books can help. 1. ‘Pitch Anything: An Innovative Method for Presenting, Persuading, and Winning the Deal’ by Oren Klaff Pitch Anything” introduces the concept of fram…
Ambitious Vehicle-to-Everything Technology Deployment Plan Likely to Hit Roadblocks
| Sean M. Lyden |

Ambitious Vehicle-to-Everything Technology Deployment Plan Likely to Hit Roadblocks

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 automated alerts, potentially triggering automatic speed reductions or lane-change suggestions well before visual contact is made. The V2X technology also interfaces with existing traffic management systems, as nearby traffic signa…
LineWise IWP
| Kate Wade |

LineWise Insulated Work Platform

LineWise has updated its Insulated Work Platform (IWP), including the option to hydraulically articulate the jib up to 45 degrees for improved access to hard-to-reach areas. The IWP is designed for installation on hydraulically telescoping cranes to increase the utilization of existing equipment. This versatility not only reduces the need for expensive, dedicated insulated aerial equipment, but it also offers a solution for utilities struggling to procure bucket trucks in the current market. Equipped with a corona ring, the IWP is rated for barehand work up to 765 kV. The insulated fiber…
Terramac Dumpers
| Kate Wade |

Terramac Wheeled Dumpers

Terramac, a leading provider of heavy equipment solutions, is proud to launch its new Wheeled Dumper product line, marking a significant expansion for the company after 12 years of exclusively offering the Rubber Tracked Crawler Series. The new Wheeled Dumper Series offers a versatile, high-speed alternative that complements the tried-and-true rubber track crawler carrier, catering to a broader range of ground conditions and operational needs. For over a decade, the Rubber Tracked Series has been the go-to solution for challenging terrains, providing unmatched performance in mud, swamp a…
Andax Spill Tray
| Kate Wade |

Award-Winning Andax Spill Tray

The Andax Spill Tray recently received the 2024 OH&S New Product of the Year Award for Spill Control & Containment. The Andax Spill Tray Reusable Absorbent Drip Pad System is the ultimate solution for oil-selective spill containment, perfect for managing any drip or leak. What sets the Andax Spill Tray apart is its innovative design featuring four sidewalls that act as a mini containment system, effectively preventing leaks from overflowing or leaking over the edge. The tray is reusable and made of a flexible PVC liner, offering a higher containment capacity than standard drip…
Pettibone Extendo
| Kate Wade |

Pettibone Extendo 1044X Telehandler

Pettibone has introduced the Extendo 1044X telehandler, a value-driven machine that provides up to 10,000 pounds of load capacity. The new telehandler was designed to offer ample lifting power and stability without the need for outriggers, significantly reducing maintenance requirements and enhancing operational speed for users working in construction, masonry and rental applications. The Extendo 1044X is powered by a 74-horsepower Deutz Tier 4 Final diesel engine that features a DOC muffler and requires no diesel exhaust fluid. Mounted on a side pod, the engine offers easy service acces…
| Podbean Account |

Under The UFP Hood – The Future of Fleet Management – AI’s Role in Accident Prevention – Stefan Heck, founder and CEO of Nauto

Join Kurt Moreland, associate publisher of Utility Fleet Professional, as he sits down with Stefan Heck, founder and CEO of Nauto, to explore how AI technology is transforming safety in the commercial fleet industry. Stefan shares insights into how AI can predict and prevent accidents by detecting risks like driver distraction and drowsiness. Learn how fleets can reduce collisions by up to 60% through real-time driver feedback, improving safety and operational efficiency. Discover the benefits of integrating AI with fleet management, including a collaboration with Stellantis’ Ram trucks. N…
Aurora_Horizon_Autonomous_Trucking_-_Terminal_3
| Sean M. Lyden |

The State of Self-Driving Trucks

A few years ago, most media headlines said that robots would rule the roads. It was not a matter of if but when. And that time was imminent. But the media hype has since cooled, and OEMs have pushed out production timelines. Yet a handful of companies in the autonomous truck sector are quietly moving the industry toward a self-driving reality in the next three years. Understanding these advancements is crucial for utility fleets – not just for staying ahead of potential regulatory shifts but also for anticipating how these technologies might eventually trickle down to vocational vehic…

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