 |
| Real cost of ownership is of paramount importance to have a successful business. |
When I began my business in 1996, I did my research in order to purchase a truck which would offer me a great return on investment (ROI). Prior to becoming involved as a Team Run Smart Pro for Freightliner, I had bought two Freightliner Trucks for my operation. Both trucks served me well and I was able to maintain consistent service levels for our customers which enabled us to profit each and every year we were in business. Today, Freightliner is still focused on maximizing your return on investment.
The Cascadia Evolution is all about offering the lowest RCO possible. When purchasing a truck, there is a lot more to consider than just the price itself. Other factors include: fuel efficiency, reliability/uptime, maintenance, ergonomics, insurance, driveline selection, tires and even mud flaps. The sleeper, refrigerator and microwave are also important considerations as well. Without a sleeper provided on the truck, you would be forced to pay hotel expenses. The refrigerator and microwave allow you to save time by preparing your meal while sitting at a dock. Also, since you’ll be taking food along to prepare, this enables you to make healthier choices. The ParkSmart HVAC or an APU allows you to sleep and rest without idling the engine. Properly designed seats with necessary adjustments will help to preserve the health of your body by offering the correct support and comfort. The driveline is vital to your RCO. Having an efficient and reliable engine such as the Detroit Diesel DD15 and DT12 transmission are major contributors to your bottom line. Detroit has added “Virtual Technician” which is like having your own technician on board 24 hours a day for 7 days a week. This unique feature can save you valuable time by letting you know in advance if there are any mechanical issues which need repair and if the service needs are immediate or can be postponed until later. Another factor to consider is knowing that you have large dealer service network and parts availability.
An area that doesn’t make as much of a splash until it’s needed is the attention to safety and driver health features. The Cascadia and Cascadia Evolution come with 36 available safety features, and boast an ergonomically designed, noise-minimizing cab that meets European and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requirements, contributing to overall driver comfort and safety. And our Freightliner In-Cab Training (FIT) System offers drivers full-body workouts in the comfort of their own cab.
In reality, the subject of RCO is all consuming of the above and much more. This whole subject took me back to when I first began my business. I had to decide which truck to purchase and when I looked at successful fleets, parts availability, service outlets and reliability the Freightliner brand kept showing up at the top of my list. It’s what makes a Freightliner a Freightliner!
| Click on the picture below to see how the tradition continues. |
 |