The American Truck Dealers announced it will recognize the best medium- and heavy-duty trucks by current model year sold in the United States.

The award, "ATD Commercial Truck of the Year," will be presented each year at the annual ATD Convention and Exposition in April.

"The commercial trucking industry continues to make strides in innovation, design and engine development that improves fuel economy," said Jim Westlake, ATD executive director. "An award recognizing the top commercial trucks as the best in the industry is long overdue."

The ATD Commercial Truck of the Year awards will be based on innovation, design, fuel economy, driver and owner satisfaction, ease of maintenance and safety.

To nominate current (2008) model year vehicles for the 2009 ATD Commercial Truck of the Year, vehicles must be greater than 33,000 lbs. (GVWR) and available to the judging panel for a test drive and evaluation. To qualify, vehicles must be reviewed by Dec. 31, 2008. The 2009 winner will be announced at next year's ATD convention, which will be held at Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center, located just outside of Washington, D.C., April 18-20. For more information, visit www.atd.org or e-mail atd@nada.org.