With the age of the commercial fleet of Cass 3-8 vehicles rising and higher sticker prices ahead for new commercial vehicles in 2010 due to costly emission control systems, demand for engine replacement parts is projected to jump significantly, according to a new report from R. L. Polk & Co.
The findings from Polk’s Diesel Engine Parts Replacement analysis indicate market demand for 221,000 new in-frame kits by owners of Class 6-8 vehicles over the next 12 months, along with an estimated 258,000 aftermarket turbochargers for Class 3-8 vehicles in the coming year as well.
Conducted by Polk together with Commercial Motor Vehicle Consulting (CMVC), the diesel engine parts study identified rising demand for nine specific diesel engine components, including: fuel injectors, turbochargers, full engine replacements and overhaul kits. It also details the replacement demand for original equipment vs. aftermarket components, as well as salvage parts.
The basis of the study is the development of replacement factors by engine manufacturer, engine part and the vehicle’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). These factors are then applied to vehicle populations and can be compiled by vehicle and engine manufacturer, engine size, specific vehicle location (including ZIP code) and fleet operation, Polk said.
