According to ACT Research and Rhein Associates’ recently released N.A. Commercial Vehicle On-Highway Engine OUTLOOK, Class 8 production is expected to continue its growth trend into 2019, with diesel remaining the dominate power source. However, changes in demand for straight trucks and tractors will impact the type of diesel engines ordered.

Tom Rhein, president of Rhein Associates, commented, “Tractors continue to be more impacted by cyclical demand than vocational trucks. The truck share of Class 8 fell to just below 27% in 2018 and is forecast to reach a similar level in 2019. Average truck production from 2019-2023 is expected to increase nearly 8% over the average of the past five years, while average tractor production is forecast at almost 3% below the past five-year average.” Regarding Classes 5-7, Rhein said, “The market share of Class 5 trucks has stabilized around 36-38% of the medium duty market, where it is forecast to remain.”

“Diesel power is under attack long-term for use in on-highway commercial vehicles. Alternative power is being developed, tested, and refined, even as diesel engines are transitioning to become more fuel efficient and clean,” said Kenny Vieth, president and senior analyst at ACT Research. “Emission regulations are one of the main drivers of alternative fuel adoption, which is why the Engine OUTLOOK includes a section on the commercial vehicle regulatory environment.”

The latest OUTLOOK highlights power-source activity for CV GVWs 5-8, including five-year forecasts of engines volumes and product trends. The Engine Outlook ties to the detailed NA CV vehicle forecasts published monthly by ACT in the NA OUTLOOK.

Rhein Associates is a major supplier of powertrain information to worldwide clients enabling accurate and informed business decisions and marketing plans. Rhein produces three major publications: The Rhein Report, The Future of Diesel Engines and various engine databases.