The Daily Dash: Drug test refusals; solar-powered reefer; and carriers rule when it comes to rates

Brian Straight

4 years ago

The Daily Dash is a quick look at what is happening in the freight ecosystem. In today’s edition, the high number of drug test refusals among truck drivers may result in a push for new testing methods, plus Wabash and eNow produce a solar-powered refrigerated trailer, and carriers have quickly gained the upper hand over shippers in rate negotiations.

Cheaters will be caught — but how?

A high number of drug test refusals among truck drivers could be the impetus to usher in new ways of testing for drugs and alcohol, including hair testing, say experts. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration data shows 13% of drug-testing violations are actually test refusals.

John Gallagher digs into why this is the case and whether hair testing might be the answer: Drug-test cheating by drivers could renew calls for hair testing

Growth mode

FreightWaves has announced a $37 million funding round, bringing total investment in the business of $75 million. The new funding will support the company’s growth, including product development and potential strategic acquisitions.

For more on how the funding will help: FreightWaves raises $37M in new growth financing

Sun power

Trailer manufacturer Wabash National (NYSE: WNC) has joined forces with eNow, a provider of solar panels for commercial vehicles, to offer solar power to help produce a zero-emission refrigerated trailer.

Alan Adler has the details on what makes this trailer unique: Wabash National and eNow release solar-powered reefer

Carriers in control

As the overall economy continues to stumble, carriers are not suffering. The latest data shows that carriers are quickly regaining the upper hand over shippers when it comes to negotiating rates.

Andrew Cox breaks down the numbers and explains why: Carriers in cruise control while wider economy sputters

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Did you miss this?

Autonomous vehicles are taking truck drivers’ jobs. Unless they aren’t. A new report predicts driverless vehicles will take at least 10 years to deploy over large areas and will do so at various rates across the country. Further, the report says the adoption of autonomous vehicles will lead to some new job opportunities, including remote vehicle operators.

Linda Baker has more on the predicted impact: Report: Wide use of self-driving vehicles ‘at least’ a decade away

Hammer down, everyone.