Class 8 sales jump in August

Sept. 13, 2002
Sales of Class 8 trucks rose 23% in August compared to the same month last year, according to numbers compiled by Ward's Communications. The figures indicate that fleets are pre-buying to avoid the October 1 EPA deadline for diesel engines with reduced emissions. Ward's reports that 14,254 Class 8 trucks were sold last month. Class 8 sales in August 2001 totaled 11,581. Peterbilt Motor Co. has offered
Sales of Class 8 trucks rose 23% in August compared to the same month last year, according to numbers compiled by Ward's Communications. The figures indicate that fleets are pre-buying to avoid the October 1 EPA deadline for diesel engines with reduced emissions.

Ward's reports that 14,254 Class 8 trucks were sold last month. Class 8 sales in August 2001 totaled 11,581.

Peterbilt Motor Co. has offered several incentives for fleets buying trucks equipped with the post-October 1 engines, but still registered strong pre-buy sales. Peterbilt sold 2,165 trucks in August, 80.1% more than it did the same month last year.

Sister company Kenworth Truck Co. had a 61.8% growth in sales, with 1,731 Class 8 trucks sold. Freightliner LLC sales were up 13.7%, while Mack Trucks Inc. said sales rose 4.2%.

But Freightliner's Sterling division reported that its sales dropped 39.2% to 825 Class 8 trucks.

OEMs and analysts believe sales will drop after October 1 because fleets will attempt to delay purchasing trucks with the new engines as long as possible, which could mean the slump in demand will continue through mid-2003.

About the Author

Tim Parry

Sponsored Recommendations

Tackling the Tech Shortage: Lessons in Recruiting Talent and Reducing Turnover

Discover innovative strategies for recruiting and retaining tech talent in the trucking industry at our April 16th webinar, where experts will share insights on competitive pay...

Stop Sweating Temperature Excursions

Advanced chemical indicators give you the peace of mind that comes from reliable insights into your supply chains. Compromised shipments can be identified the moment they arrive...

Stop Sweating Temperature Excursions

Advanced chemical indicators give you the peace of mind that comes from reliable insights into your supply chains. Compromised shipments can be identified the moment they arrive...

How Electric Vehicles Help You Prolong the Life of Your Fleet

Before adopting electric vehicles for commercial/government fleets, prioritize cost inquiries. Maintenance is essential; understand the upkeep of EV fleets. Here’s what you need...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of FleetOwner, create an account today!