Fuel

With the transportation industry challenged by extraordinary economic conditions, executives are devoting much time and effort to dealing with factors beyond their direct control, such as escalating fuel, vehicle and equipment costs. I believe they are leaving money on the table by not streamlining back-office processes that can offset these often-unforeseen external costs.

With respect to the senators, when planning the needs for surface transportation, what practical experience do they or anyone reporting to them have in transportation?

NEW YORK — Trucking executives said the uncertainty about new engine technology required to meet federal emissions standards next year would likely keep them from buying many trucks during 2010.

The national diesel fuel average rose 1.5 cents a gallon last week, while gasoline posted a much larger 6.9-cent jump, widening the gap between the two fuels as gas stockpiles declined ahead of the traditional Memorial Day start of summer driving season.

The Obama administration last week announced stricter requirements for automobile fuel efficiency and a first-ever national greenhouse gas reduction standard for cars and light trucks. Though heavy trucks are not immediately affected, an industry official suggested similar changes could be coming within the next decade.

With fuel prices dramatically lower than just a year ago, carriers that engage in hedging are questioning whether the market is close enough to a bottom to begin locking in prices, according to several fuel-purchasing analysts.

The Senate late Thursday confirmed Randy Babbit, former president of the Air Line Pilots Association, as the administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration.