Arc Flash and Face Masks

Recently I have received numerous emails and phone calls regarding respiratory air-filtering masks rated for arc flash. I’m sure everyone reading this, no matter what country you’re in, is aware why that’s the case: the COVID-19 pandemic. If you are a regular reader, you know it is my methodology to address topics by first citing […]

Web-JCB-1.jpg

What’s New in Digging Machines for Utility Fleets?

When the job is to dig trenches, drill holes or dig in tight spaces, how can utility crews get more work done in less time at lower cost? That’s the question many heavy-equipment manufacturers ask themselves as they design and develop new digging machines and accessories. So, what new products have emerged within the past […]

Web-Tesla.jpg

6 All-Electric Pickups in the Pipeline

For utility fleets committed to electrification, the holy grail is to electrify pickup trucks. That’s because pickups represent the largest vehicle segment for most fleets in the industry. So, if you can electrify a wide range of pickup applications, you’ll make a huge dent in your company’s sustainability efforts. The challenge is that high battery […]

Web-Ford-F600.jpg

Gas vs. Diesel: Which is Better for Your Medium-Duty Truck Applications?

Diesel has been the traditional engine for medium-duty utility trucks. But with Ford, GM, Isuzu and other OEMs recently launching new gas-powered models, utility fleet professionals have more options than ever to consider. Recent volatility in fuel prices has changed the equation as well. So, which is better – gas or diesel? The answer is, […]

Web-Dejana.jpg

Mistakes to Avoid When Spec’ing Cable Reel Trailers

With his crew focused on downtown Austin, Texas, and several substations, size was an important consideration for Bobby Dahl, network construction supervisor for community-owned Austin Energy, when selecting a new cable reel trailer. The new trailer upgraded outdated equipment, making work safer and more efficient. “We used to pull cable out with a one-ton truck […]

Web-Smart-Fleets.jpg

Selecting the Right Fuel Card Program for Your Fleet

With fuel being one of the greatest expenses for any fleet organization, a fuel card program can be a helpful and efficient way to keep track of spending, usually at little or no cost to fleets. Recently, Utility Fleet Professional spoke with two fuel card experts who shared tips for what to look for in […]

Web-Fleet-Management.jpg

How is the Coronavirus Pandemic Affecting Fleet Rightsizing?

Among the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic is the impact it is having on utility fleet rightsizing efforts across the U.S. Traditionally, rightsizing is about understanding the values and measurements of the appropriate level of fleet utilization, according to Charles Guthro, vice president of global strategic services for ARI (www.arifleet.com). The fleet management services company […]

Web-MVIMG_20181001_090413.jpg

Shop Talk: Verizon Communications

In February, as the novel coronavirus spread overseas and cases began to trickle into the U.S., Verizon Communications, as a company, started grappling with how the pandemic might impact its operations. “Before the media and most people were talking about what you should do, we’re thinking, ‘How would we operate? How do we keep our […]

You Ask, We Answer: Your Research Team for Navigating These Uncharted Waters

One of the challenges of providing you with content that offers timely and interesting insights is that so much is changing so quickly in the world and in our industry. The coronavirus pandemic has pushed utility fleets to re-evaluate how they operate, spec vehicles and manage their shops. For example, in cases where vehicles are […]