Detroit Diesel intends to remain independent, according to a statement issued April 28 by Roger Penske, the company’s chairman.

The national average retail price of diesel fuel retreated for the second straight week, to $1.078 a gallon, amid predictions that the price of oil will stabilize well below historic highs — and stay at moderate levels for as long as 15 years.

SAN ANTONIO — Trailer makers can expect the vital economy to keep their businesses strong, but they will have to find creative ways to increase profits, an economist told participants at the annual meeting of the Truck Trailer Manufacturers Association.

Trailer makers can expect the vital economy to keep their businesses strong, but they will have to find creative ways to increase profits.

The national average retail price of diesel fuel retreated for the second straight week, to $1.078 a gallon, amid predictions that the price of oil will stabilize well below historic highs.

Snapping a streak of seven weeks of increases, the retail price of diesel fuel edged downward by 0.4 cent to a national average of $1.08 a gallon on April 19.

Truck trailers have evolved at a slower pace than the rest of the industry, but they are catching up fast — going from little more than boxes on wheels to high-tech cargo carriers — according to manufacturers.

Is the trailer leasing business recession-proof? Not quite, “but this is almost the case,” said Michael J. Phelan, VP of Associated Rental Systems.

TT File PhotoTruck trailers have evolved at a slower pace than the rest of the industry, but they are catching up — going from little more than boxes on wheels to high-tech cargo carriers.

Is the trailer leasing business recession-proof? Not quite, “but this is almost the case,” said Michael J. Phelan, VP of Associated Rental Systems.