When Cummins Inc. invited industry journalists to the introduction of its X15, the new generation of its 15-liter truck engine, the event showcased not only the latest in heavy-duty truck engines, but also the evolution of transmission technology in trucking.

Troubleshooting problems with a truck’s electrical system takes knowledge and experience.“Always take a systems approach when you are spec’ing and maintaining your vehicles’ electrical systems,” said Bruce Purkey, CEO of Purkey’s Electrical Consulting, which helps fleets solve their electrical system problems.

Engineering advancements are producing more efficient alternators for heavy trucks that are helping to reduce fleets’ fuel bills, industry experts said.

Diesel-fired engine pre-heaters can help ensure reliable engine starts in cold-weather conditions while reducing engine wear, preventing service calls and boosting driver satisfaction, fleets said.

The American Petroleum Institute has licensed about 400 oil marketers to sell the new CK-4 diesel engine oil since Dec. 1 and more than 60 to sell its slightly lower-viscosity relative, FA-4. These new oils, collectively labeled PC-11 during development and testing, promise fuel savings and, in most applications, longer oil-change intervals.

The diesel engines built this year are more efficient as the second step of greenhouse-gas Phase 1 standards takes effect. These power plants also offer improved reliability, advanced engineering, reduced maintenance and performance improvements that fleet managers and truck drivers will notice, industry experts said.

Trucks used in oil and gas fields are a breed apart from highway trucks, and the drivers who operate them need additional skills beyond those required of over-the-road truckers, executives in this sector said.

Old habits are hard to break, but engine parts that are tightened beyond specifications can be easy to break.