Despite the fact that signs are pointing to increased demand for truck freight, demand for Class 8 trucks is not trending upward along with it

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In its February North American Commercial Truck and Trailer Outlook Report, FTR Associates forecasts marginal gains for Class 8 truck demand for 2010.

FTR indicates that while freight is turning positive and GDP should continue to grow in 2010, excess capacity and the Environmental Protection Agency's emissions mandate will keep heavy truck equipment demand relatively flat compared to 2009. Meanwhile, demand for trailers is expected to improve this year, as production levels are stabilizing.

"While many would like to see a good upsurge in Class 8 demand this year because of the improving economy, our analysis continues to see a disconnect between the 2010 freight and equipment production outlooks," said Eric Starks, president of FTR. "We continue to caution against optimism especially in the first half of the year because of the huge overhang in excess, idle equipment. The current lack of Class 8 orders supports our view."