Today, the American Trucking Associations’ Technology & Maintenance Council honored five professionals with its highest honor — the Silver Spark Plug —at the opening of TMC’s 2025 Annual Meeting & Transportation Technology Exhibition.
This year’s honorees are:
- Jack Vander Giessen, Cummins-Meritor
- Andrew Krum, Virginia Tech Transportation Institute
- Joey Young, Publix Supermarkets
- Mark Kennedy, Knight Swift Transportation
- Bryan Lewis, ASE.
“The Silver Spark Plug is given to individuals who demonstrate professional excellence in commercial vehicle maintenance as our industry’s highest honor,” said TMC Executive Director Robert Braswell. “Our winners this year represent the highest level of expertise and ability in our industry. We are pleased to recognize them with this award.”
“TMC’s members keep our industry moving, and these four individuals represent the highest level of the professional excellence the council strives for,” said ATA President and CEO Chris Spear. “More than half of the 8.5 million people employed by the trucking industry do something other than drive a truck, and without them, our nation’s goods would not be delivered to our stores, hospitals, and factories. These individuals are examples to all of us in this industry, and we are proud to honor them with this award.”
Bendix FusionTM Stop & Auto-Go Advanced available on Peterbilt 579
Peterbilt is pleased to announce the availability of Bendix FusionTM Stop & Auto-Go Advanced on the Model 579.
The new system uses a new forward-facing camera and upgraded software to enhance collision mitigation for both moving and stationary vehicles. It includes two new features: Pedestrian Automatic Emergency Braking (PAEB) and High Beam Assist.
This Fusion system includes previously available technologies such as Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Active Cruise with Braking (ACB), and Lane Departure Warning (LDW). The system also prioritizes alerts to help minimize driver distraction.
The Bendix FusionTM Stop & Auto-Go Advanced is available with the PACCAR MX-11 and MX-13 engines paired with the TX-12 transmission or with the Cummins X15 engine paired with the Eaton Endurant 12-speed transmission.
“The Model 579 is the most advanced Peterbilt on-highway tractor we’ve ever produced. Drivers prefer the 579 because of its driver comfort and safety features,” said Erik Johnson, assistant general manager, Sales and Marketing for Peterbilt. “With the addition of the FusionTM Stop & Auto-Go Advanced system, the 579 becomes an even more compelling value proposition for our customers, delivering exceptional levels of safety, efficiency and performance."
The Model 579 with Bendix FusionTM Stop & Auto-Go Advanced is available for order now.
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