Trucking news and briefs for Thursday, Sept. 19, 2024:
Daimler recalls nearly 17K trucks over brake light issue
Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) is recalling nearly 17,000 Freightliner and Western Star trucks due to an issue that could cause the brake lights to not illuminate when the brakes are automatically applied during an Active Brake Assist (ABA) event.
According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration documents, the affected trucks may have or could be upfitted by with an optional body lighting interface controller and replacement brake lights. The recall population was determined based on a review of production records for trucks built with the applicable option codes. Vehicles without all of the applicable option codes are not affected by this issue.
In total, DTNA is recalling approximately 16,889 of the following models:
- 2024-‘25 Freightliner 108SD
- 2022-‘25 Freightliner 114SD
- 2022-‘25 Freightliner Business Class M2
- 2025 Freightliner eM2
- 2020-‘25 Western Star 49X
- 2021-‘25 Western Star 47X
- 2022-‘25 Western Star 57X
Dealers will update the ABA software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed Nov. 9. Owners can contact DTNA customer service at 800-745-8000 with recall number F1009. NHTSA’s recall number is 24V-668.
Saia opening three Western terminals
Saia Inc. (CCJ Top 250, No. 19) announced Wednesday that Saia LTL Freight is opening three new terminals this month, further expanding its Western U.S. footprint as the company celebrates its 100th anniversary.
The new terminals in Bismarck and Fargo, North Dakota, and Sidney, Montana, represent key milestones in Saia’s strategic growth, the company said, enhancing its service capabilities and supporting the company’s continued commitment to its "Customer First" approach.
The two North Dakota terminals will be the company’s first in the state. The Montana terminal will be Saia’s fourth there.
"As we continue to celebrate our 100th year in business, each new terminal opening demonstrates our ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional service to both new and existing customers," said Executive Vice President of Operations Patrick Sugar. "Every facility we open is an opportunity to create long-term value by strengthening our network and enhancing our ability to serve our customers better. Our expansion into North Dakota is particularly significant, as it allows us to provide a higher level of service in this market."
Saia said the new terminals will further enhance its direct shipping capabilities, improving service for customers in the Western U.S. while contributing to local economies through job creation. The company has already opened several new facilities this year and plans to add additional terminals as part of its broader national expansion strategy.
[Related: Saia expects to open six new terminals in the western U.S. this month]
Extended warranty provider NTP gets new leadership
Wade Bontrager, who has served as president of extended truck warranty company National Truck Protection since 2018, is stepping down from his role, NTP parent company JM&A Group announced this week. Bontrager will continue to support NTP as a key advisor while remaining on the board of directors.
Kevin HullNTP
“We look forward to seeing all Kevin and the team will accomplish together at NTP,” said Scott Gunnell, president of JM&A Group. “JM&A Group has been in the automotive industry for 46 years, so we are excited to leverage our experiences and help accelerate the growth of the trucking protection space. There is a true synergy between these businesses, and we see lots of opportunities to better support our dealer partners by leveraging our investments in both companies.”
In his role, Hull will be responsible for the direction and execution of NTP’s strategy and daily operations. Prior to his promotion, Hull joined JM&A Group in 2019 as the manager of Dealer Talent Services before he advanced to director of Sales and Training. His most recent role was as director of Strategic Planning. There, he guided the senior leadership team and supported the ongoing execution of the company’s long-term strategic plan.
