Weekly recap: Freightliner’s updated vocational trucks, Mack test drive, and more

This week, Editorial Director Arturo Santiago highlighted the difference Mack Command Steer makes, and Freightliner updated its M2 medium-duty trucks and SD severe-duty trucks with new features. Plus, the last of the finalists for Cat's Global Operator Challenge were set, Cleary Stone got an electric equipment boost from Volvo CE, and Takeuchi shared some tips on how to maintain the hydraulic system on your CTL. Here are five articles from this week you won't want to miss.

Updated Freightliner vocational trucks packed with new features

Freightliner's Plus Series vocational trucks are enhanced versions of its M2 medium-duty trucks and SD severe-duty trucks. The enhancements target safety, comfort, and connectivity features. Significant upgrades were made to the electrical system to enable new technologies present in the Plus Series. On a simulated highway loop and an off-road course, Arturo Santiago had the chance to get behind the wheel and drive the Plus Series trucks.

Find out more about Freightliner's new Plus Series vocational trucks in the full article.

The finalists are set as Cat prepares for 2023 Global Operator Challenge

The last two regional finalists have been determined in the Caterpillar 2023 Global Operator Challenge with representatives from the North America Eastern and Western Regions selected to fill out the nine-person final at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023. John Schiedeck of Schiedeck Construction and Matt Ferris of Kinkaid Civil Construction are the two North American competitors. They will face off against operators from Sweden, Australia, Germany, Brazil, Japan, and Poland at CONEXPO-CON/AGG in March 2023.

Find out more about Cat's 2023 Global Operator Challenge in the full article.

How to maintain your compact track loader's hydraulic system

Compact track loaders (CTLs) are versatile pieces of compact equipment that have carved out a reputation for being able to handle a wide variety of jobs. With a proper hydraulic system, CTLs can utilize different attachments to complete all kinds of jobs. Because of this, it's essential to ensure that you keep the hydraulic system on your CTL in proper condition.

Learn how to maintain your compact track loader's hydraulic system in the full article.

Test drive: Mack Command Steer

Mack Command Steer is an active steering system designed to reduce driver fatigue. Editorial Director Arturo Santiago tested the technology at H&K Easton Quarry in Easton, Pennsylvania, which featured different terrains, grades, gravel mounds, and obstacles. He drove two different Mack Granites, one equipped with Command Steer and another without so that he could experience the difference Mack Command Steer makes.

Learn more about Mack Command Steer in the full article.

Volvo CE electric compact wheel loader powers Vermont-based stone supplier for the future

Cleary Stone has had its eye on sustainability for a long time. The Vermont-based business provides rock products from gravel to large slabs to various different landscapers. When Volvo Construction Equipment's electric compact machines became available to order, the Cleary team was immediately interested in the L20 Electric compact wheel loader. The machine was delivered in November and is helping Cleary Stone keep its operation going.

Find out more about Cleary Stone's L20 Electric in the full article.