'A bit chaotic'

What does strong leadership in trucking look like? Maybe it’s families passing down a legacy, or newcomers bringing fresh ideas for change.

This month, we’re highlighting the impact women have on the industry.

Plus, how one trucking company is thinking about its equipment purchases, and the ATA discusses how it's staying focused on trucking during a "chaotic" political time.

18,300

The number of Class 8 orders in February, down 34% from the year before. 

Source: ACT Research

Female leaders are transforming the trucking industry

"Effective leadership in trucking isn't confined by tradition."

 While many trucking businesses are family legacies, there are plenty of newcomers making changes for the better, including women, writes Kameel Gaines of Rig on Wheels.

 Women are reshaping the trucking industry with their forward-thinking approaches to operations, strategic planning and fleet management. But female leaders' journeys aren't without roadblocks. There's still plenty of industry bias, a lack of representation in the C-suite and workplace harassment. 

Why this matters: To move forward, the trucking industry needs new perspectives that improve conditions for workers and drivers while increasing efficiency, Gaines says. Increasing the number of women in trucking will help the entire industry.

 Get more details at Rig on Wheels.

What we're following: The #TMCAnnual25 hashtag on social media, for all the latest news and fun trucks being showcased at the conference.

What to buy? This reel explains how one trucking company thinks about its equipment purchases. Capital is a big consideration for small businesses, but so are reliability and customer service. The happy medium: newer used equipment.

The perfect pairing. Pilot is offering a deal for those who stop by to fuel up: two slices of pizza and a free 20-ounce Coca-Cola. 

To EV or not. This opinion piece says lawmakers should incentivize electric trucks in Washington state, despite some recent back-and-forth over the state's ACT and emissions rules.

There's still hope for the future. At a gas station, a 10-year-old kid told a trucker that he wants to be a driver when he "is as old as you are," and the trucker let him sit in the driver seat. 

LESSONS LEARNED: What trucking can learn from other industries

EMISSION SCHEME: Mechanic sentenced for tampering with engine control modules

FAST + FURIOUS: Truck driver found going 91 mph on Calif. interstate

TWO TERMINALS: ABF Freight acquires 2 Yellow terminals for $11.5M

ATA focuses on trucking amid 'chaotic' political atmosphere

“It’s just a bit chaotic." That was the line from American Trucking Associations President Chris Spear. The organization believes tax cuts during this administration will benefit trucking, allowing leaders to invest in equipment, tech and the workforce. But he noted the tariff battle has created confusion and uncertainty.

Why this matters: The initial days of the Trump administration have been tumultuous, but trucking representatives and executives are staying focused on their business and how they can handle any changes coming their way. (Transport Topics)

CARB'S authority under fire from Trump administration

The California Air Resources Board's ability to enforce its own emissions regulations (with a waiver from the EPA) has been called into question. Several states have followed CARB's lead with Advanced Clean Fleets regulations, which mandate sales of zero-emission trucks. But now all of that is uncertain.

Why this matters: With CARB unlikely to be granted from waivers under the current administration, policies surrounding EVs are in flux, making it difficult for fleets to plan their truck purchases. As Nick Chiappe of the California Trucking Association put it: "What this means now and what's going to happen is up in the air." (CCJ Digital)

Volvo debuts its newest VNR truck for short hauls

Volvo's new VNR is specifically optimized for short-range operations. It has a tighter turning radius for urban areas, along with safety and visibility features that help drivers navigate areas with pedestrians. But it's also versatile enough to carry out long hauls when needed. 

Why this matters: As one of the largest truck OEMs, Volvo plays a role in setting the standards for new equipment. The manufacturer is focusing on safety tech, fuel efficiency and driver comfort—all priorities for many fleet executives when they're ready to purchase new trucks. (Heavy Duty Trucking)

Autonomous trucks prove safety in the virtual world

Waabi, a Canadian robotruck startup, is using virtual simulations and digital twins to show that driverless trucks are safe. The digital twin is loaded with sensor data to show performance compared with trucks in real life. 

Why this matters: While human drivers are still in the cab of Waabi's trucks, the startup plans to go fully driverless later this year. Using technology and sensors to prove AVs' safety will be critical as it moves on to the next stage of autonomy. (MIT Technology Review)

Thanks for reading today's edition! You can reach the newsletter team at editor@theinsidelane.co. We enjoy hearing from you.

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The Inside Lane is curated and written by Shefali Kapadia and edited by Bianca Prieto.