Trucking news and briefs for Monday, Oct. 14, 2024:
Volvo recalls VN tractors for unintended acceleration
Volvo Trucks North America is recalling more than 2,000 model year 2022-‘24 Volvo VN trucks that may unintentionally accelerate.
The recall population was defined by specific trucks equipped with Cummins diesel engines and a specific version of the vehicle electronic control unit.
In the 2,098 affected trucks, when the Controller Area Network (CAN) communications are interrupted and the vehicle is in limp mode, an incorrect accelerator pedal signal can result in unintended acceleration. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 124, "Accelerator Control Systems."
Volvo said the backup accelerator pedal signal is inverted, which could allow 0% pedal demand to be interpreted as 100%. This can only occur if CAN communications are interrupted and you've gone to backup communications mode, and the vehicle has gone into limp home mode and torque output is limited to 50%.
Dealers will update the electronic control unit (ECU) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed Nov. 22. Owners can contact Volvo Customer Service at 800-528-6586 with recall number RVXX2408. NHTSA’s recall number is 24V-741.
[Releated: 9K Cummins X15 engines caught up in recall over fuel pump issues]
$3.2 million worth of meth found in floor of trailer
With the assistance of a CBP K-9 team and port imaging technology, CBP officers detected anomalies in the trailer's floor frame. Heavy equipment was used to further inspect the frame.U.S. Customs and Border Protection
The incident occurred on Thursday, Oct. 3, when CBP officers encountered a 40-year-old male driving an empty commercial tractor-trailer seeking entry into the United States from Mexico. Following a cursory inspection, CBP officers referred the driver, a valid border crossing card holder, and commercial tractor-trailer for further examination.
During secondary inspection, non-intrusive screening technology was utilized to scan the tractor-trailer where officers observed anomalies within the floor of the trailer. A CBP K-9 unit responded and alerted officers to the presence of narcotics.
CBP officers discover more than 2,600 pounds of concealed methamphetamine in the trailer's floor frame.U.S. Customs and Border Protection
“I am extremely proud of our dedicated workforce,” said Rosa E. Hernandez, Port Director for the Area Port of Otay Mesa. “Our officers are always vigilant and work hard to ensure our border security is not compromised and to protect our communities from dangerous drugs.”
CBP officers seized the narcotics and commercial tractor-trailer. The driver was turned over to the custody of Homeland Security Investigations for further inquiry.
[Related: $1.7M worth of cocaine busted in hidden flatbed compartment, load of avocados]
New distributor for Bulldog HD shocks
Bulldog HD shocks, cab shocks and steering dampers are now available via Hovis Auto & Truck Supply, a family-owned business with a history dating back to 1952. With 18 locations across western Pennsylvania, Hovis has grown from a single service station into a trusted name in auto and truck parts supply.
As a Vipar Heavy Duty buying group member, Hovis offers a variety of products for professional installers and fleet operators.
“We are thrilled to partner with Hovis Auto & Truck Supply, a company that shares Bulldog HD’s commitment to delivering reliable, high-quality solutions to its customers,” said TJ Fontana, Bulldog HD VP of heavy-duty commercial sales, “Their dedication to customer service and expertise in the automotive and heavy-duty truck markets makes them an ideal partner for our Bulldog HD products.”
The Bulldog HD line of heavy-duty shocks is designed to provide durability, smoother rides, and superior performance for trucks and heavy-duty vehicles. Whether long-haul driving or off-road on rugged terrains, Bulldog HD shocks are built for strength and reliability, the company said.
