Fuel

Economic indicators suggest the trucking industry could be poised for growth in 2021, after the coronavirus pandemic caused a topsy-turvy year in 2020 marked by unpredictable demand and continued uncertainty in the driver pool.

Strehl purchased the assets of the semi-trailer tail-end drag reduction systems maker Rocketail, the company announced Nov. 23.

Costs associated with trucking operations have decreased, according to the American Transportation Research Institute.

With major truck manufacturers pushing into factory-built electric vehicles, 2021 is poised to be the year for the technology to transition from pilot testing to commercialization.

Oil reclaimed heights not seen since the pandemic shocked markets in the spring, with the start of the U.S. presidential transition and improved vaccine prospects infusing optimism across markets.

National Tank Truck Carriers and American Trucking Associations have petitioned federal hazardous materials regulators to “without delay” develop a rulemaking that would allow motor carriers to use and accept electronic shipping papers and certifications for hazmat shipments.

The nationwide average price of diesel fuel increased 2.1 cents per gallon, according to U.S. Energy Information Administration.

In addition to essential supplies, truck drivers during the pandemic provided a service that is less tangible but no less important: boosting revenue for state transportation departments.

Many state transportation agencies continue to develop revenue forecasts to determine how much money they can expect to lose in fuel tax revenue, tolls and transit fares in the wake of the pandemic.

Oil is poised for a third weekly gain with positive COVID-19 vaccine developments paving the way for a more sustained recovery in oil demand.