Tag: Military Vehicles

Army Starts Testing Self-Driving Trucks in Michigan

Military Interest in Self-Driving Cars
Military Interest in Self-Driving Cars

Practically all automobile manufacturers, technology companies, ride-share companies, and insurance companies feel that autonomous vehicles will be safer and more efficient. The general public is not yet convinced.

A lot of people say they’re not ready to trust riding in a self-driving car. Despite the negative perceptions of many, the US military is interested in embracing this still-developing technology and has begun testing it on a 21-mile stretch of Interstate 69 in Michigan.

Improving vehicle communications in military convoys

According to Digital Trends, The system currently being tested by the military doesn’t actually drive the trucks. It uses sensors developed by the Tank Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Center (TARDEC) in Warren, Michigan. The road testing is being done in nearby St. Clair and Lapeer Counties. The TARDEC sensors notify all vehicles in the convoy of road conditions, bridges, vehicle slowdowns, and other possible obstacles.

Michigan moves forward with connected cars

The state of Michigan is ahead of most other states when it comes to connected car technology. It passed a bill in May of 2016 authorizing the sale and use of self-driving cars. By passing legislation that allows autonomous car tests and convoys of driverless trucks on public roads, the lawmakers show they want Michigan to stay the US auto capital.

At DJ Products, we understand how technology can improve safety. Our military truck pushers and remote-controlled BombCaddies can maneuver heavy loads and vehicles while keeping the operator safe.

To see our full line of military truck pushers and other equipment for military and DOD applications, visit djproducts.com or call one of our friendly sales associates at 1-800-686-2651.

Oshkosh Shakes Up Military Contracting by Winning Humvee Replacement Contract

Holzkisten-Lager
New Military Trucks

As the U.S. Army looks to replace a well-traveled fleet of Humvees, the DOD has awarded a $6.75 billion contract to Oshkosh Corp. The agreement calls for the Wisconsin-based manufacturer to produce 16,901 light trucks.

Losing out on the bid were Lockheed Martin and AM General, the latter of which makes Humvees. Lockheed Martin has filed an official protest of the bid, requiring the government to review the selection process. Oshkosh will most likely prevail as the winner, but production will wait until after the protest has been resolved.

The Future of Army Light Trucks

The Joint Light Tactical Vehicles to be produced by Oshkosh will generally fit the mold of the familiar Humvee — light enough for aircraft transport, strong enough to resist explosions.

Oshkosh stock had fallen 20% since the start of the year, but has rebounded aggressively following news of the massive contract, which could ultimately grow to $30 billion. The DOD retains the right to switch suppliers for future production runs.

The new JLTVs are designed to keep costs down by using common parts including GM engines and Allison transmissions. The Army, which will acquire the vast majority of the JLTVs, had set a price-slashing goal to help offset recent overspending.

We keep an eye on major government spending to observe trends in equipment purchases. At DJ Products, our approved GSA industrial tuggers can be purchased by all military and DOD outfits to haul equipment and transport vehicles around bases and hangars.

For more information on GSA industrial tuggers including motorized carts, dollies, and vehicle pushers, visit DJProducts.com or contact us today.