Class 8 Production to Grow in 2019, Diesel Power Still Dominating, and Truck Demand More Stable Than Tractors

Diesel power is under attack long-term for use in on-highway commercial vehicles

According to the recently released N.A. Commercial Vehicle On-Highway Engine OUTLOOK, published by ACT Research and Rhein Associates, Class 8 production is expected to continue growing in 2019, before an anticipated drop late in the year and into 2020. Diesel is still the dominate power source and vocational truck demand is more stable than tractors demand.

Tom Rhein, President of Rhein Associates commented, “Trucks are the primary application of engines under 10L, with the proportion closely following truck production. Although there is an industry trend to smaller displacement engines, movement from premium over 10L engines to lower durability engines under 10L engines is limited.” Regarding Classes 5-7, Rhein said, “In marked contrast to heavy duty Class 8 trucks, medium duty demand is forecast to remain at a high level, with minimal annual fluctuations. For this segment of the commercial vehicle industry, trucks remain the dominant category, approximately 74% of the Classes 5-7 total.”

Further, Kenny Vieth, President and Senior Analyst at ACT Research, noted, “Diesel power is under attack long-term for use in on-highway commercial vehicles. Alternative power is being developed, tested, and refined, even as diesel engines are transitioning to become more fuel efficient and clean. Emission regulations are one of the main drivers of alternative fuel adoption, which is why the Engine OUTLOOK includes a section on the commercial vehicle regulatory environment.”

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