After the 2021 show went virtual due to the pandemic, this year’s show was back on track. The show floor was packed, with more than 500 exhibitors and some new trends in the work truck world.
March 22, 2022 | Emma Tyborski
Electric Vehicles
The show floor had about 20 manufacturers exhibiting electric vehicles or electric chassis. Some of the new independent commercial electric vehicle makers were Xos, Bollinger, ELMS, SEA Electric, REE Automotive, Zeus, Motiv, and Battle Motors. But many of the established truck makers were there as well with their new electric products, as well as updated delivery and release information.
Deliveries of the F-150 Lightning officially begin later this spring. The Lordstown Mortors Endurance is slated for the third quarter of 2022, while GM will start delivering the Silverado EV in spring 2023. More information on the Ram electric 1500 is scheduled for release in 2024.
New Importance of Lightweight, Aerodynamics
As many work trucks move to electric vehicles, making a lighter weight, more aerodynamic body is important due to the battery weight sucking up payload and killing range. Manufacturers are starting to engineer new boxes with foam core paneled sidewalls and replacing steel and wood with aluminum wherever possible. The changes reduced the weight of the box by approximately 1,500 lbs., a 30% reduction over previous designs.
Cameras
Truck makers are increasing the focus on safety for drivers by including more cameras, sensors and artificial intelligence to improve situational awareness. Digital rearview mirrors, 360-degree bird’s eye views and monitors mounted in the truck body are becoming increasingly available from the factory and not aftermarket additions.