Knapheide's Complete Line-Up Of Truck Caps

Following a successful product introduction at the 2015 Work Truck Show the Knapheide Manufacturing Company announced the availability of new commercial truck caps.  The "KnapKap" line of products is the most comprehensive selection of commercial grade truck caps the industry has seen and features fiberglass, aluminum, and steel models. The wide selection of KnapKap models appeal to numerous vocations including telecommunications, utilities, pest control, construction, and more.

This latest new product launch solidifies Knapheide's commitment to be the leading provider of commercial vehicle solutions.

"As OEM's begin to focus more and more on the lighter duty commercial vehicles so are we by releasing products that maximize the efficiency space of those vehicles.  There are KnapKaps for every size of pickup available in the North American commercial market, from compact to one ton trucks," said Tony Marshall, Product Manager at Knapheide.

KnapKap Supreme Utility

The KnapKap Supreme Utility is the industry's best utiltiy commercial topper.  Features like the commercial grade reinforced fiberglass and oversized side access doors set this truck cap apart from the competition.

KnapKap Ultra Cab High Utility

The KnapKap Ultra Cab High Utility is a light, efficient and durable, everything you need in a commercial truck cap.  Double vertical rear doors and durable yet lightweight ASC fiberglass construction are just a few of the standard features that are packed within the KnapKap Ultra Cab High Utility.

KnapKap ACU

The KnapKap ACU has a myriad of options and configurations for full customization.  The lightweight yet rugged aluminum construction eliminate the risk of corrosion yet maximize the available payload.

KnapKap HDS

The tried and true design of the KnapKap HDS has provided years of reliable service and increased productivty for numerous vocations.  The fully welded steel construction can handle the toughest jobsite conditions.

KnapKap Pro CH

The sleek design of the KnapKap Pro CH provides users with a functional yet professional looking commercial truck cap.  Combining ASC fiberglass with reinforced construction makes it one of the toughest available today.

KnapKap Pro CH-S

The KnapKap Pro CH-S has a true automotive appearance, with a high quality finish paint and contours that match the cab lines.  Highly functional, the Pro CH-S has all the features you need in a fiberglass truck cap.

Pro Cover

The Pro Cover from Knapheide is a commercial grade fiberglass tonneau cover with special lift assist gas props for easy opening and closing operation.  The Pro Cover provides protection and security for the contents within the truck bed.


Find out more at http://www.knapheide.com/article/909/knapheide-launches-complete-line-up-of-truck-caps

How to set up a green fleet action plan with low-cost resources

Sustainability and putting green fleet policies into practice is an integral part of the global environmental solution; something that is now a legal requirement often regulated by new provisions. But there are also ancillary benefits:  companies project a better image if they are more eco-friendly as well as saving a great deal on fleet costs.

You might think it takes a huge amount of effort and a big budget to set up a green fleet action plan and get vehicles and staff more eco-friendly, but it is not really the case. There are some actions you can actually take without ruining yourself or spending large amounts of money, which can still bring great results.

Want to know more?

Let’s get started with our green fleet action plan!

#1 - Enjoy the benefits of GPS tracking

If you use a tracking system connected with software able to generate reports, you will gain insight into the driving style of your team, especially with regards to non-green practices that can influence the amount of emissions of your vehicles.

#2 - Reduce the use of your vehicles

You might think this literally means “downtime”, but it actually means optimising routes, making the most out of journeys and eliminating vehicle misuse—another simple way of making your fleet greener.

#3 - Avoid high environmental impact practices

Idling, dangerous driving practices and inefficiencies have to be removed—the less fuel you use, the less CO2 there will be in the atmosphere.

#4 - Do not overload your vehicles

It has to be clear for all drivers that they should only be transporting what is suitable according to their vehicle class, i.e., one vehicle to convey heavy goods and another for light commercial goods. This is not just for reasons of safety and fuel efficiency, but also to adopt the eco-driving ethic.

#5 - Let the fleet manager choose routes

With an adequate system at their disposal which can generate data from vehicles, the fleet manager will be able to choose routes that are greener and require less fuel than others. Feedback from drivers can also be essential, but the route has to be established with consideration to the data.

#6 - Ensure tyres have the correct pressure

Simple, but often forgotten… make sure vehicles have the correct tyre pressure.

Source: http://www.transpoco.com/blog/how-to-set-up-a-green-fleet-action-plan-with-low-cost-resources

by Eleonora Malacarne on Dec 11, 2015

OnStar Spreads Holiday Cheer

Santa update, audiobook download and charity donation with blue button press

DETROIT – OnStar subscribers can get in the Christmas spirit during holiday travel across the U.S., Canada and Mexico by pushing their blue button to learn Santa Claus’ whereabouts between Christmas Eve and Christmas morning.

With support from the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and its 60 years of Santa-tracking experience, OnStar for the seventh consecutive year will reveal Santa’s location to the curious between 6 a.m. EST Dec. 24 and 5 a.m. EST on Dec. 25.

Additionally, OnStar and its AtYourService partner Audiobooks will offer subscribers complimentary copies of the Christmas classic “The Night before Christmas,” downloadable via an email link sent by an OnStar advisor. Everyone in the vehicle can listen to the book on the Audiobooks mobile app together using Apple CarPlay, Android Auto or a Bluetooth connection, or individually on any of the up to seven mobile devices that can be connected separately to the OnStar 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot.

OnStar will also donate a dollar to United Way for Southeast Michigan and the United Way Mexico for each Santa location call received. Last year, the calls led to a donation of more than $2,600 to the two organizations.

“The holiday season is all about spreading cheer, giving back to the community and connecting with others,” said Terry Inch, OnStar chief operating officer. “OnStar has become a key enabler for that. Our advisors really enjoy playing the role of Santa’s helper and sharing the joy of Christmas with our subscribers.”

OnStar is dedicated to the safety and security of subscribers throughout the year. To support incoming Santa Update requests, advisor staffing is adjusted to accommodate the extra traffic. On average, OnStar receives more than two calls per minute and more than 185,000 calls each day.

Individuals without an OnStar subscription can follow Santa’s journey via the NORAD Tracks Santa website, Facebook page, Twitter hashtag #NORADSanta or by calling the hotline at 1-877-HI-NORAD (1-877-446-6723).

OnStar, a wholly owned subsidiary of GM Holdings LLC (“GM”) that launched in 1996, offers in-vehicle safety, security, diagnostic, navigation, and connectivity services in Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Cadillac, Opel and Vauxhall  models, including Automatic Crash Response, Stolen Vehicle Assistance, Turn-by-Turn Navigation, RemoteLink mobile app and 4G LTE Wi-Fi. OnStar has more than 7 million subscribers in North America, Europe, China and Brazil. In 2015, OnStar recorded its 1 billionth customer interaction, topped more than 2 million 4G LTE Wi-Fi equipped-vehicles, and launched in Opel/Vauxhall.

GM Invests $356 Million in Flint, Saginaw and Grand Rapids Engine/Component Operations

GM investment announcements 

in U.S. facilities top $7 billion in 2015

FLINT, Mich. – General Motors will invest more than $356 million in a new engine line in Flint and driveline and powertrain components in Saginaw and Grand Rapids, creating more than 50 jobs and helping to retain nearly 500 positions.
 
The Michigan investment announcements come on the same day as an amended agreement between GM and the Michigan Strategic Fund under the Michigan Economic 
Growth Authority (MEGA) tax credit program. As part of the amended agreement, which was approved by the Michigan Strategic Fund today, GM will invest $1 billion in Michigan by 2030. Today’s announced investment of $356.35 million represents more than one-third of that amount. 
 
Since 2009, GM has made investment commitments in Michigan of more than $9 billion.  During this time period, GM has far exceeded its original investment commitment under the MEGA Agreement. GM’s substantial investment in Michigan and the corresponding job growth and retention has contributed Michigan’s economic success since 2009.
 
“The agreement with GM on MEGA credits helps Michigan’s budget forecast. And today’s announcement that it is investing in Saginaw, Flint and Grand Rapids proves the company wants to retain a strong presence in Michigan,” said Gov. Rick Snyder. 

“The fact that GM is committing to invest $1 billion by 2030 here is even better news. It’s a globally competitive environment, and GM’s announcement shows it appreciates that Michigan is a Comeback State with a skilled work force and exciting expansion opportunities.”
 
Today’s announcement includes:
•    Flint Engine Operations: $263 million for a future engine program. The investment retains approximately 410 hourly and salaried jobs at the plant.
•    Saginaw Metal Casting Operations: $50 million for driveline components. The investment retains 68 jobs.
•    Grand Rapids Component Holdings: $43.35 million for powertrain components. The investment creates 55 and retains 15 jobs.
 
“These investments will better position GM and its work force to produce high quality engines and components for customers who demand greater fuel efficiency and performance from our vehicles,’ said Bill Shaw, GM North America Manufacturing Manager.
 
Details pertaining to the engine programs and associated vehicles will be released at a later date.
 
 “The membership and leadership of Region 1-D are excited about this investment in our area and our work force,” said UAW Region 1-D Director Gerald Kariem. “These investments were earned with the quality and skill our membership brings to their jobs every day, and we appreciate GM giving us the opportunity to continue to prove the UAW work force is world class. Congratulations, GM and UAW Locals 659, 668 and 167.”
 
Today’s announcement raises GM’s announced U.S.-facility investment in 2015 to $7.1 billion, including $353.4 million announced recently in four other states:
•    Bedford, Ind.: $127.4 million for engine components
•    Bowling Green, Ky.: $44 million for increase engine capacity
•    D-Max/Moraine, Ohio: $82 million for productivity improvements
•    Defiance, Ohio: $100 million for engine components
 
General Motors Co. (NYSE:GM, TSX: GMM) and its partners produce vehicles in 30 countries, and the company has leadership positions in the world's largest and fastest-growing automotive markets. GM, its subsidiaries and joint venture entities sell vehicles under the Chevrolet, Cadillac, Baojun, Buick, GMC, Holden, Jiefang, Opel, Vauxhall and Wuling brands. More information on the company and its subsidiaries, including OnStar, a global leader in vehicle safety, security and information services, can be found at http://www.gm.com 

Wind Energy to Power GM’s Texas Assembly Plant

 Renewable power will be used to build up to 125,000 trucks a year

Arlington Assembly produces more than 1,200 vehicles daily, including the Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe; GMC Yukon and Yukon XL; and Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV. The 115 million kilowatt hours of renewable energy will be enough to manufacture more than half of the plant’s annual vehicle output.

GM signed a power purchase agreement with EDP Renewables North America, a fully owned subsidiary of EDP Renovaveis, for its first U.S. wind power – 30 MW of energy from the planned 250 MW Hidalgo Wind Farm in Edinburg, Texas. Fifteen of the wind farm’s 261-foot-tall turbines will generate the energy GM will use. 

Arlington Assembly expects to start using the clean power during the fourth quarter of 2016, avoiding about $2.8 million in energy costs annually. Over the course of the 14-year deal, GM will avoid more than 1 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions – equivalent to the emissions of 112 million gallons of gasoline consumed.

“Our investment is helping accelerate the proliferation of clean energy in Texas and the use of wind as a reliable, renewable source of energy,” said Jim DeLuca, GM executive vice president of Global Manufacturing. “Our sustainable manufacturing mindset benefits the communities in which we operate across the globe.” 

“We are pleased to enter into this agreement with General Motors and look forward to providing clean and more economical energy for GM’s Arlington Assembly plant in the coming years,” said EDP Renewables North America CEO Gabriel Alonso.

Renewable energy complements a robust energy efficiency program at the plant. Arlington Assembly recently met the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s ENERGY STAR® Challenge for Industry by reducing the energy intensity of its operations by 10 percent in five years – the second time it met the challenge. Arlington Assembly also is investing in a new paint shop that will use half the energy of the system it will replace. 

Beginning in the first quarter of 2016, wind energy will help power three GM Mexico facilities. Once on line, the company will exceed its commitment to use 125 MW of renewable energy by 2020. GM’s investments in renewable energy to date have yielded nearly $80 million in savings.

For more information on GM’s environmental commitment, visit its sustainability report and environmental blog.

General Motors Co. (NYSE:GM, TSX: GMM) and its partners produce vehicles in 30 countries, and the company has leadership positions in the world's largest and fastest-growing automotive markets. GM, its subsidiaries and joint venture entities sell vehicles under the Chevrolet, Cadillac, Baojun, Buick, GMC, Holden, Jiefang, Opel, Vauxhall and Wuling brands. More information on the company and its subsidiaries, including OnStar, a global leader in vehicle safety, security and information services, can be found at http://www.gm.com.

Increase Your Pickup's Fuel capacity and Driving Range with a LEGAL Fuel Tank System

Long distances, high fuel prices, and harsh elements are just some of the challenges you and your truck face on the open highway. Be prepared to face these challenges with a range-maximizing aluminized steel fuel tank. Tap every last ounce of your truck's inherent towing and hauling capabilities with one of these options:

    In-bed auxiliary fuel tanks
    Toolbox and fuel tank combos
    Larger replacement fuel tanks
    DOT legal refueling tanks

Purchase a Transfer Flow fuel tank and get the same quality components trusted by Ford, General Motors, U-Haul, Izusu and Navistar. When your pickup can tow a 22,000 lb. fifth-wheel across the country without breaking a sweat, don't compromise the quality or performance of your fuel system with a lightweight plastic container.

Let Transfer Flow fuel your adventures with a safe, legal, and reliable aftermarket fuel tank system installed on your truck!

Transfer Flow - your legal fuel tank source for more than 30 years.

Transfer Flow — Your Legal Fuel Tank Source.™


Find out more at: http://www.transferflow.com/

Knapheide - We Build The Best

Since its humble beginnings in 1848, The Knapheide Manufacturing Company has continually worked to improve its processes and manufacturing capabilities.  Due to this commitment of continual improvement, Knapheide stands today with the most highly automated and technologically advanced equipment and processes in the industry. Knapheide's Westphalia facility houses the majority of our manufacturing processes.  The Westphalia plant was completed in 1997 and covers a staggering 480,000 square feet.

A recent highlight in the continuing history of The Knapheide Manufacturing Company is the company receiving ISO 9001:2008 certification.  ISO is a quality management system that is recognized globally.  While the core of this certification is focused on product quality, Knapheide took the process a step further and utilized the processes to improve virtually every area of the company from how orders are received and processed to the shipping of the product to the end customer.

People

Our dedicated manufacturing employees are a huge asset to our company, and receive on-going training for continuous improvement.  Knapheide delights in the fact that many of its employees are multi-generational and have a long tenure with the company.   Knapheide’s training program for its welding operations is second to none. Six AWS certified CWI and CWE’s conduct a forty hour program that all welders must complete prior to joining the assembly team.  Of its team of welders, over 100 are AWS certified.

Raw Materials

Over its history, Knapheide has strategically aligned itself with leading raw material suppliers and has developed long term relationships with them that mutually benefit both sides of the partnerships.   As a result of these partnerships, cutting edge supply chain processes have been developed that cuts down lead times, enhances the quality of the products, and helps to control costs.  This enables Knapheide to continue to provide to its customers the highest quality and superior end products available in the industry.  Some of our most common raw materials include:

    A40 Galvanized Automotive Quality Steel
    Hot Rolled Steel
    Cold Rolled Steel
    Tread Plate
    Wood
    Automotive Quality Finishing Products

Fabrication Equipment and Machinery

As Knapheide has evolved over the last 164 years, so has the technology in equipment and machinery.  Knapheide continues to cultivate a long term strategic alignment with The Amada Company to continually update and modernize its fabrication capabilities.  This allows Knapheide to remain the most efficient and technologically advanced company in the industry.  Knapheide utilizes the following machinery and equipment within our manufacturing facilities:

    CNC Shears
    Plasma Cutters
    Laser Cutters
    CNC Turret Punches
    CNC Press Brake
    Roll Formers
    Automated Steel Processing Cells

Assembly Process

After all of the engineering and fabrication of the prime unit parts is complete, the assembly process begins.  Knapheide’s assembly procedures and multiple progressive lines allow them to be very flexible, highly efficient, and produce the highest quality product in the industry.  Knapheide has a large offering of catalog products that is quickly available and meets a large portion of our customers needs. However, while most of the industry shy’s away from custom built products, the Knapheide Company prides itself in its ability to build product that is designed to meet specific customer requirements and needs.  Rather than limit the product available to their customers to standard product, Knapheide’s motto is “Dream it, and we will build it”.  Some of the assembly processes include:

    MIG & Resistance Welding
    Automated Robotic MIG & Resistance Welding
    Flexible Product Assembly Lines & Processes

Finishing

The flagship of our manufacturing process is our automated “K-Coat” finishing system.  K-coat is a highly efficient electro-deposition coating process that is widely used in the automotive industry.  Through this process, Knapheide is proud to offer its customers the highest quality corrosion resistant coating available.

    Automotive Quality E-Coat System
    Automotive Quality Undercoating
    Automotive Quality Finish Paint

For over 166 years, Knapheide has always been a leader through our manufacturing superiority in the industries we serve.  With the ISO 9001:2008 certification, this is a new starting point for us as we meet our customer’s expectations into the 21st century.


Find out more at http://www.knapheide.com/