A survey conducted by International Truck & Engine stresses the fleet community’s concern with security requirements in the aftermath of 9-11.

According to International, some 70 percent of those responding to a monthly survey on the company’s web site said they are “very” or “somewhat” concerned about cargo and vehicle security. About 56 percent said hazardous materials haulers face higher than normal security risks; over 50 percent cited agriculture and food distribution, 44 percent regional and long-haul operations. Approximately 48 percent said vehicle tracking could have a potential positive impact on vehicle and cargo security.
“The majority think individual truck drivers hold primary responsibility for the safety of the roads, highways and bridges,” said Phil Christman, International’s vice president of product development.
In a recent white paper, “Homeland Security: Implications for the truck and School Bus Industry,” International says that measures in place or being considered by the federal government will have the greatest affect on hazardous cargo, intermodal, trans-border, food and agriculture and school bus operations. In all, the segments comprise about 56 percent of class 6-8 trucks and buses in North America and about 60 percent of International’s class 6-8 truck and bus market. International says leasing and private-package delivery (e.g. UPS, FedEx) see an increased need for vehicle security though they are not directly affected by new regulations.
International and other truck manufacturers will have to deliver the technological infrastructure to support many of the security systems in use or on the drawing boards, says Jeff Bannister, director, truck electronics. Wireless technologies are key to a number of security solutions, says Bannister.
Next year International will launch a telematics solution with a back-end portal system allowing wireless transmission of information from the vehicle to fleet maintenance or operations. The system, which will be applicable for Class 6-8 trucks and buses, will be optional at first but Bannister says telematics will become a standard feature on new trucks over the next ten years.