Uncertainty in trucking as election comes to a close

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is set to implement significant trucking regulations that could be influenced by the outcome of today's election. These include a proposed rule on AVs, a final rule on automatic emergency braking in January, and a speed limiter regulation next spring. The regulatory approach may differ depending on the next administration.

Today's Lineup
🔷 Election Day is here. What's next for trucking?
🔷 A clean truck so shiny it sparkles
🔷 Aurora delays putting its driverless trucks on the road
🔷 Landstar's owner-operator count fell for the 10th quarter in a row
🔷 The dangers of predatory truck lease-purchase programs

⬇️3.536

AVG. COST OF DIESEL PER GALLON IN U.S. AS OF 11/04, DOWN 0.037¢

Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration

AV systems, speed limiters on FMCSA's upcoming agenda

As the White House prepares for its next president, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is plowing ahead with high-stakes regulations. A proposed rule on autonomous driving systems is due to come out next month, and a final rule on automated braking is coming up in January.

Why this matters: The National Association of Small Trucking Companies has expressed concerns that tech mandates would raise costs for small fleets. With automated emergency braking for example, trucking firms would need to shell out to add systems or procure new trucks, resulting in higher prices for shippers and consumers.

Get more details at FreightWaves.

Election Day is here. What's next for trucking?

The day is finally here, and it won't be long before we know the outcome of the presidential election. The next commander-in-chief and their picks for agency administrators could influence the direction of various regulations, such as EVs, independent contractor rules, infrastructure funding and much more.

Why this matters: Emission standards and California's clean trucks rule are top-of-mind regulations. Trucking is eagerly awaiting election results to see how the next administration could shape those rules over the next four years. (Trucking Info)

What we're laughing at: This all-too-relatable meme about arriving at loading docks. 

What we're tracking: The U.S. Capitol Christmas tree's journey on this live map. Lynden Transport is hauling the tree from Alaska to D.C. in a Kenworth tractor. Next stop: Renton, Wash.

What we're taking notes on: This insightful Reddit thread advising female drivers on the best ways to keep their trucks and themselves safe.

What we're watching: A video of a truck so clean and shiny, it practically blinds you 🤩

• STANDSTILL: Truck transportation job figures are stagnant
• DRUG BUST: Customs seizes $4 million of cocaine from truck
• CLOSING DOORS: Wisconsin fleet shutters, lays off 41 drivers
• DELAYED LAUNCH: Aurora pushes back driverless trucks to 2025

Landstar's owner-operator counts keep falling

In Landstar's most recent quarter, its count of owner-operator trucks dropped 12% YoY. That was the 10th quarter in a row in which owner-operator counts decreased. 

Why this matters: Independent trucking firms continue to face high operating costs and low rates, making business untenable for many. (Trucking Dive)

Truck OEMs predict a flurry of buying activity in 2025

Executives at truck manufacturers like Paccar and Volvo expect an uptick in Class 8 truck sales after lackluster numbers this year. One key reason: The truckload sector is about to see a turnaround.

Why this matters: There's another reason for a possible equipment surge. Carriers may want to add tractors before emissions regulations take effect for 2027 trucks.  (Transport Topics)

Drivers fall victim to predatory truck lease contracts

About 6% of CDL holders are affected by predatory lease contracts when they participate in truck lease-purchase programs with carriers. While that may seem like a small number, it places stress on drivers, threatening safety and security. 

Why this matters: Drivers in these programs can go weeks with little to no pay, leading to financial instability and even their exit from the industry. (Yahoo Finance)

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