Con-way Truckload announced its purchase of 550 new tractors, 540 of which will be equipped with automatic transmissions and 6×4 axles.
Con-way Truckload, today, employs over 3,000 drivers with a fleet of more than 2,700 tractors and 8,000 trailers operating throughout the United States as well as internationally in Mexico and Canada.
Con-way’s decision to significantly increase their production of automatic tractors was steered in part by drivers’ requests for automatic transmissions, especially from young drivers intimidated by the task of learning how to shift a 10 or 13 speed transmission.
“But with the auto shifts in the trucks today, new drivers can feel more comfortable, focus attention on their surroundings and maneuver their truck safety through traffic and congestion. While driving a truck still involves a lot of skill, the automatics make life on the road a little easier,” said Stephanie Kind, professional driver for Con-way.
Driver input also spurred the company to purchase 100% tandem axle twin-screw tractors, as they handle more comfortably and contribute to driver safety and comfort.
In addition to catering to new drivers, automatic tractors consistently operate in the most efficient gear by maximizing fuel efficiency and selecting the perfect ship points based on load ants terrain.
Source: