ATA Leader Accepts Keys to New America’s Road Team Truck
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American Trucking Associations President Chris Spear accepted keys to a new Volvo VNL truck Oct. 13, symbolizing the trucking industry’s commitment to innovation and safety.
ATA’s America’s Road Team, comprising about two dozen professional truck drivers who represent the industry’s diversity, received the vehicle during the 2024 Management Conference & Exhibition. Volvo Trucks North America has long supported the program by providing the team’s primary tractor.
“We are very happy to continue our exclusive sponsorship,” VTNA President Peter Voorhoeve said during the event. “I think we’re now going into our 23rd year, and with this new truck, we wanted to do it a little more formal today. Here is the key, America’s Road Team captains. I hope you like the truck.”
The new Volvo VNL, an updated version of its predecessor introduced Jan. 23, boasts enhanced aerodynamics designed to improve fuel efficiency by up to 10%. GE Trailer Fleet Services contributed a trailer that serves as a classroom-on-wheels to showcase the importance of trucking.
America's Road Team stands with Spear and Voorhoeve in front of the new Volvo VNL. (John Sommers II/Transport Topics)
“I want to thank team Volvo for not only the support they’ve given the ATA and this program, but their passion [and] their commitment to our industry’s image,” Spear said. “It’s imperative we project ourselves nationwide as a very safe, environmentally friendly industry. This program and this contribution to the program are intended to do just that.”
Spear emphasized that the program pairs industry innovation with top trucking talent. The vehicle plays a pivotal role in representing the industry at state capitols, high schools and community events.
The new Volvo VNL receives a cleaning on Oct. 11, ahead of its ceremonial gifting on Oct. 13. (John Sommers II/Transport Topics)
“This is the best of the best that we can put forward,” Spear said. “Matching that with this new VNL really excites me. It’s carrying this program forward and uplifting our image. This VNL has got some big shoes to fill because its predecessors really set a high bar. They’ve been to the White House South Lawn not once, twice, but three times under President Trump and President Biden.”
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