Farmers and truckers across America can finally breathe easier thanks to new guidance from the EPA that addresses a longstanding problem with diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) systems.
The Problem That’s Been Plaguing Operators
Since the early 2010s, diesel vehicles and equipment have been required to use Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology that runs on DEF to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions. While this technology has been tremendously successful—reducing 99% of nitrous oxide emissions—it came with a major operational headache.
When DEF sensors failed or fuel ran low, operators faced a harsh reality: they had just four hours before their equipment would shut down completely. Picture a farmer mid-harvest in an Iowa field, losing precious daylight and yield because their tractor suddenly stopped working. Or a trucker whose 18-wheeler slowed to a crawl on the highway with no warning.
The Solution: Practical Relief That Works
The Trump administration’s EPA, working with the Small Business Administration, has issued new guidance that dramatically extends the time operators have to address DEF issues:
For Heavy-Duty Trucks:
Initial warning period: 650 miles or 10 hours with no performance impact
Mild derating phase: Only 15% reduction for up to 4,200 miles or two work weeks
Speed isn’t limited during normal operations
Only after four work weeks does speed drop to 25 mph
For Farm Equipment:
No impact for the first 36 hours
Only slight torque reduction after that initial period
The Bottom Line Impact
This isn’t just about convenience—it’s about economic survival. The revised guidance will save family farmers an estimated $727 million annually by reducing:
Emergency towing costs
Repair expenses
Equipment rental fees
DEF delivery charges
Inventory carrying costs
For Iowa alone, with its 87,000 farms generating over $40 billion in crop and livestock value, this represents a significant boost to agricultural productivity.
Environmental Protection Remains Intact
Importantly, these changes don’t compromise environmental goals. The SCR technology continues to eliminate 99% of harmful emissions—the new guidance simply provides operators with reasonable time to address system faults without catastrophic shutdowns.
A Win for Real-World Operations
This policy change recognizes that farmers and truckers need solutions that work in the real world, not just on paper. By giving operators significantly more time to address DEF issues, the EPA has found the sweet spot between environmental protection and operational practicality.
The result? America’s food supply chain stays moving, rural economies stay strong, and the air stays clean. That’s what smart policy looks like.
Every day, thousands of diesel locomotives thunder across America, burning through their share of 4 billion gallons of fuel annually while hauling freight over nearly 140,000 miles of track. It’s a system that’s worked reliably for more than a century. But now, a two-year-old startup called Voltify has an audacious plan that could upend everything: replacing diesel fuel with rechargeable batteries.
The $94 Billion Question
The numbers behind America’s $80 billion railroad industry tell a compelling story. The six largest Class 1 railroad companies—including giants like Union Pacific and CSX—collectively spend more than $11 billion every year just on diesel fuel. That’s $11 billion that could theoretically be redirected if batteries could do the job.
According to a 2021 study published in Nature Energy, switching to battery power could save rail freight companies $94 billion over 20 years while drastically cutting emissions. Meanwhile, the International Energy Agency warns that railroads need to slash emissions by about 5% annually through 2030 to meet global net-zero targets.
With financial pressure mounting and climate goals looming, the question isn’t whether railroads will eventually move away from diesel—it’s how quickly they can do it without breaking what already works.
Three Players, Three Different Bets
The race to electrify freight rail is heating up, but each major player is taking a different approach:
Wabtec developed the FLXdrive battery locomotive in 2019, focusing on hybrid systems that can cut diesel consumption by 30%. They’re already seeing orders from Australia, proving there’s real commercial interest.
Siemens Mobility launched its Charger B+AC battery-electric train for New York’s Metro-North Railroad. These locomotives can run up to 100 miles on battery power alone and seamlessly switch between overhead electric lines and onboard storage.
Voltify is betting on the most radical approach: retrofitting existing locomotives rather than replacing them entirely.
Voltify’s Radical Retrofit Strategy
Founded in 2023, Voltify wants to decarbonize freight rail in less than a decade without forcing railroads to scrap their existing fleets. Their solution centers on the VoltCar—massive battery packs on wheels that attach to current locomotives like additional freight cars.
But here’s where it gets interesting: instead of requiring expensive overhead electrification across entire routes, Voltify plans to build 1,400 solar-powered microgrids at strategic points across the country. Think of it as a charging station network for trains, where locomotives can quickly top off their battery cars without scheduled stops.
The system maintains diesel backup capability, so if a battery fails or a charging station goes down, trains can continue running on conventional fuel. According to their forecasting algorithm, this approach can predict power demands on every route, ensuring trains have energy when and where they need it.
If successful, Voltify projects this model could generate $10 billion in annual revenue while fundamentally changing how freight moves across America.
Why Railroad Executives Are Skeptical
“Reliability and uptime are everything in freight rail,” explains one industry veteran who asked not to be named. When a locomotive breaks down, it can cost thousands of dollars per hour in delays, missed connections, and crew overtime.
The concerns are practical and immediate:
Charging infrastructure: Building 1,400 microgrids across the country represents a massive upfront investment. What happens in remote areas where solar power is less reliable?
Winter performance: Battery capacity drops significantly in cold weather. How will that affect operations in places like North Dakota in January?
Maintenance complexity: Current diesel mechanics understand engines that haven’t fundamentally changed in decades. Battery systems, high-voltage electronics, and microgrid operations require entirely different skill sets.
Range anxiety: While Voltify’s diesel backup addresses some concerns, railroad operators want to know exactly how far these battery cars can go on a single charge, and how that compares to current diesel range.
Starting Small, Thinking Big
Voltify seems to understand these concerns. Rather than approaching major Class 1 railroads first, they’re planning demonstration projects with smaller regional operators this year, followed by a pilot with a major carrier in 2026.
“We’re not asking anyone to bet the farm on unproven technology,” a Voltify representative explained. “We’re asking them to test it on routes where the stakes are manageable.”
This approach makes strategic sense. Regional railroads often operate shorter routes with more predictable schedules—perfect conditions for proving battery technology works. Success there could provide the real-world data needed to convince larger operators.
What This Means for the Workforce
Even if batteries gain traction, this won’t spell the end of diesel careers overnight. Locomotives typically operate for 20-40 years, meaning any transition would unfold over decades.
For diesel technicians and mechanics, the shift could actually create opportunities rather than eliminate them. Future rail jobs will likely require hybrid skills: traditional mechanical knowledge combined with high-voltage battery diagnostics, energy storage maintenance, and microgrid operations.
“The fundamentals don’t change,” says Mike Rodriguez, a locomotive mechanic with 15 years of experience. “Trains still need wheels, brakes, and regular maintenance. We’ll just be adding electrical systems to our toolkit.”
The Reliability Test
So will America’s freight railroads actually abandon diesel for batteries? The economic incentives are massive, the climate pressure is real, and companies like Voltify are pushing innovative solutions.
But diesel engines have set the gold standard for reliability for more than 100 years. They work in blizzards, heat waves, and everything in between. They refuel quickly at any depot. When they break, mechanics know how to fix them.
The real test isn’t whether battery technology can work—it’s whether it can match diesel’s legendary reliability while delivering those promised savings.
The Verdict Is Still Out
The next few years will be crucial. Voltify’s demonstration projects in 2025 and their Class 1 pilot in 2026 will provide real-world data on everything from charging times to winter performance to maintenance costs.
If the pilots succeed, we could see accelerated adoption across the industry. If they reveal unexpected problems, it might push the timeline back by years or even decades.
Which factor do you think will ultimately decide this race: the $94 billion in potential savings, or the 100-year track record of diesel reliability? The answer may determine whether your grandchildren hear the rumble of diesel engines or the quiet hum of electric motors carrying freight across America.
Over 70% of America’s freight moves by diesel-powered trucks, yet the industry faces a critical shortage of more than 80,000 skilled technicians. This gap represents unprecedented opportunity for those entering the field. From trucks that transport goods across the country to heavy equipment that builds roads to ships that move international cargo, diesel technology keeps industries running—and skilled professionals are more in demand than ever.
The diesel industry isn’t just about traditional mechanical work anymore. Today’s professionals work with hybrid systems, advanced emissions technology, and sophisticated diagnostic software alongside traditional repair skills. With strong wages, steady career paths, and opportunities to specialize in emerging technologies, the diesel field offers diverse pathways for long-term career growth.
Here are five rewarding careers in the diesel industry worth exploring:
1. Diesel Technician/Mechanic
Diesel technicians are the backbone of the industry, diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining diesel engines in trucks, buses, and heavy equipment. Modern technicians spend as much time working with laptops and diagnostic software as they do with wrenches, troubleshooting complex electronic systems and emissions controls.
A typical day might include: Running diagnostic tests on a truck’s engine management system in the morning, replacing a turbocharger on a delivery van after lunch, and updating software on a fleet of buses before closing.
Career progression: Entry-level tech → Lead technician → Shop supervisor → Service manager (typically 8-12 years)
Requirements:
Diesel technology certificate or associate degree (12-24 months)
ASE certification preferred
Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills
Why it’s a good career:
High demand nationwide with job security
Opportunities to specialize in engines, fuel systems, emissions, or fleet maintenance
Median salary around $55,000–$65,000 per year, with experienced techs earning $70,000+
Salaries range from $45,000 in rural areas to $75,000+ in major metropolitan markets
2. Heavy Equipment Mechanic
While similar to diesel techs, heavy equipment mechanics focus on machines used in construction, agriculture, and mining—bulldozers, excavators, cranes, and tractors. This role often involves field service work, traveling to job sites to keep critical projects moving when equipment breaks down.
A typical day might include: Performing preventive maintenance on excavators at a construction site in the morning, then driving to a farm to repair a combine harvester’s hydraulic system.
Requirements:
Technical training in heavy equipment or diesel technology
Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel
Physical stamina for outdoor work in various weather conditions
Why it’s a good career:
Critical to construction, agriculture, and infrastructure projects
Field service work often includes travel premiums and overtime opportunities
Strong job security as infrastructure investment continues
Median salary $60,000–$70,000 per year, with union jobs often reaching $80,000+
Considerations: Work involves exposure to weather, noise, and physically demanding conditions.
3. Marine Diesel Technician
Ships, ferries, and tugboats rely on massive diesel engines that require specialized knowledge. Marine diesel technicians maintain and repair these large-scale systems, working in shipyards, marinas, or traveling with vessels for at-sea repairs.
Requirements:
Marine technology training or diesel program with marine focus
Coast Guard certifications for certain positions
Ability to work in confined spaces and comfort around water
Why it’s a good career:
Niche specialty with limited competition
Opportunities for international work and travel
Growing offshore wind industry creating new opportunities
Pay ranges from $65,000–$100,000+, especially with specialized certifications
Highest salaries typically found near major ports (Seattle, Long Beach, Houston, Norfolk)
4. Power Generation Mechanic
Diesel engines don’t just move vehicles—they generate electricity that keeps hospitals, data centers, and emergency services running when the grid fails. Power generation mechanics service and repair diesel-powered generators, from portable units on construction sites to massive backup systems for critical facilities.
A typical day might include: Conducting monthly maintenance on hospital backup generators in the morning, then responding to an emergency call when a data center’s power system fails.
Requirements:
Electrical knowledge in addition to diesel expertise
Emergency response mindset and availability for on-call work
Certification in electrical systems preferred
Why it’s a good career:
Essential services that can’t be outsourced or delayed
Growing demand as data centers and renewable energy storage expand
Opportunities to specialize in portable generators, stationary systems, or renewable energy backup
Salaries typically range from $60,000–$80,000+, with strong overtime and emergency call-out premiums
5. Fleet Maintenance Manager
Fleet managers oversee maintenance operations for trucking companies, transit agencies, or construction fleets rather than turning wrenches daily. They schedule service, manage parts inventories, track maintenance costs, ensure regulatory compliance, and lead teams of technicians while using fleet management software to optimize operations.
Career progression: This role typically requires 8-15 years of hands-on experience before moving into management.
Requirements:
Extensive technical background in diesel systems
Leadership and communication skills
Knowledge of fleet management software and regulatory requirements
Business and cost management understanding
Why it’s a good career:
Combines technical expertise with leadership and business skills
Growing demand as supply chains expand and fleet technology becomes more complex
Opportunity to impact company operations and profitability
Salaries often range from $70,000–$90,000+, with larger fleets offering $100,000+
The Evolving Industry
Today’s diesel professionals work with increasingly sophisticated technology. Modern engines integrate hybrid systems, advanced emissions controls, and telematics that monitor performance in real-time. This evolution means ongoing learning is essential, but it also creates opportunities for specialization and higher wages for those who stay current with emerging technologies.
The push toward cleaner emissions has created entirely new specializations in diesel exhaust fluid systems, particulate filters, and selective catalytic reduction—areas where skilled technicians command premium wages.
Getting Started
Immediate next steps:
Research local programs: Visit ASE.com to find accredited diesel technology programs in your area
Explore apprenticeships: Many dealerships and fleets offer paid apprenticeships that combine work and training
Visit facilities: Contact local truck dealerships, construction companies, or ports to arrange informational interviews
Consider specializations: Research which areas (marine, power generation, emissions) have the highest demand in your region
Timeline expectations: Most diesel technology programs can be completed in 12-24 months, leading to entry-level positions with strong advancement potential.
Final Thoughts
The diesel industry offers a unique combination of job security, competitive wages, and diverse career paths that can’t be outsourced. Whether you prefer hands-on problem-solving, specialized technical work, or eventually moving into leadership roles, diesel technology provides a foundation for long-term career growth.
With the current shortage of skilled professionals and the ongoing evolution of diesel technology, now is an ideal time to enter this vital industry that literally keeps America moving.
If you are looking to get into the trucking game here are 10 trucks you should consider purchasing to get started!
Long haul trucking demands more than just a reliable vehicle; it requires a truck that can handle the rigorous demands of long distances, provide comfort over extended periods, and offer the technology and fuel efficiency to keep drivers and fleets running smoothly. Below are ten of the best trucks designed for the long haul, known for their performance, durability, and driver-friendly features.
1. Freightliner Cascadia
The Freightliner Cascadia is a staple in the long-haul industry. Known for its fuel efficiency and advanced aerodynamics, the Cascadia is designed to reduce drag and save fuel. It comes with Detroit Assurance, a suite of safety systems that includes collision mitigation, lane departure warnings, and adaptive cruise control. The Cascadia’s spacious cab and sleeper options provide comfort during long trips, making it a top choice for drivers.
2. Volvo VNL 760
Volvo’s VNL 760 combines efficiency with comfort, offering one of the most spacious cabs in the industry. The truck is powered by Volvo’s D13 engine, known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. The VNL 760 also features advanced driver support systems like Volvo Active Driver Assist, which includes forward collision warnings and emergency braking. Its ergonomic design ensures that drivers remain comfortable, even during the longest hauls.
3. Kenworth T680
The Kenworth T680 is a truck that prioritizes both performance and driver comfort. Its PACCAR MX-13 engine delivers impressive fuel efficiency, while its aerodynamic design reduces wind resistance. Inside, the T680 offers a driver-centric design with a fully adjustable steering column, ergonomic seats, and a quiet cab. Kenworth’s Predictive Cruise Control uses GPS to anticipate terrain changes, optimizing fuel use on the road.
4. Peterbilt 579
Peterbilt’s 579 model is designed with the driver in mind, offering a combination of fuel efficiency, safety, and comfort. The 579 features the PACCAR MX-13 engine and an advanced aerodynamic design that reduces fuel consumption. Inside, the spacious cab provides plenty of storage, and the SmartNav system integrates navigation, communications, and entertainment. Safety features like the Bendix Wingman Fusion system offer collision mitigation and lane departure warnings.
5. International LT Series
The International LT Series is built for long-haul efficiency, with a focus on fuel economy and driver comfort. Powered by the A26 engine, it’s lighter and more efficient, providing up to a 9% improvement in fuel economy over previous models. The LT Series also offers an ergonomic cab design with features like a telescoping steering column and a well-insulated sleeper. The truck’s advanced safety systems include lane departure warnings and automatic emergency braking.
6. Mack Anthem
The Mack Anthem stands out with its bold design and reputation for durability. It’s powered by the MP8 engine, known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. The Anthem is also designed with aerodynamics in mind, which helps improve fuel economy. The interior features a modern, driver-focused design with a flat-bottom steering wheel, digital dash, and a spacious sleeper. Mack’s Co-Pilot display provides real-time monitoring of vehicle performance.
7. Western Star 5700XE
The Western Star 5700XE combines classic styling with modern technology. Its Detroit DD15 engine offers a blend of power and efficiency, while the truck’s aerodynamic design helps save on fuel costs. The 5700XE’s cab is designed for comfort, with noise reduction features and a spacious sleeper. Safety is also a priority, with available options like lane departure warnings, adaptive cruise control, and collision mitigation systems.
8. Freightliner New Cascadia
Building on the success of the original Cascadia, the New Cascadia offers even more advanced features for long-haul trucking. It includes the Detroit DD15 engine, which is known for its fuel efficiency and durability. The New Cascadia also features improved aerodynamics and a quieter cab. The driver’s seat is designed for comfort with multiple adjustment options, and the digital dash provides all the information a driver needs at a glance.
9. Volvo VNR 640
Though often associated with regional hauls, the Volvo VNR 640 is a strong contender for long-haul routes due to its versatility and comfort. It features the D11 engine, which provides a good balance between power and fuel efficiency. The VNR 640’s cab is ergonomically designed with a focus on driver comfort, featuring a reclining bunk, ample storage, and a quiet interior. Advanced safety features include Volvo Active Driver Assist and electronic stability control.
10. Peterbilt 389
For those who value classic styling combined with modern performance, the Peterbilt 389 is a perfect choice. It features the PACCAR MX-13 engine and is known for its durability and fuel efficiency. The 389’s traditional design is matched with a modern, driver-friendly interior, featuring a spacious sleeper and a customizable dash. Its robust build makes it a favorite among owner-operators who appreciate a truck that can handle the toughest long-haul jobs.
Conclusion
Choosing the right truck for long-haul trucking is crucial for both performance and comfort. Whether you prioritize fuel efficiency, advanced safety features, or driver comfort, there’s a truck on this list that meets your needs. Investing in a high-quality truck not only ensures a smoother ride but also contributes to better fuel economy and reduced downtime, making these models the best in the business for long-distance hauls.
MAN Engines is revolutionizing the world of yachting with the introduction of the MAN V12X engine series. This state-of-the-art V12 engine, specifically designed for yacht applications, represents a significant leap forward in marine power, delivering an exceptional 2200 hp (1618 kW) from a 30-litre displacement engine. For the first time, MAN Engines is offering this level of output, providing yacht builders with unprecedented opportunities to power larger yachts and superyachts.
“We are opening up new opportunities for shipyards with this next generation of engines. The MAN V12X can not only top existing applications but also power new larger yachts and superyachts,” says Reiner Roessner, Head of Sales at MAN Engines.
Unparalleled Performance and Engineering
The MAN V12X-2200 achieves its impressive output at 2300 rpm, with a bore of 138 mm and a stroke of 165 mm. This engine surpasses the capabilities of its predecessor, the MAN V12-2000, by increasing displacement and torque, setting a new benchmark in marine engineering.
This new engine is based on an entirely new platform, drawing on the successes of the existing V12 series, which continues to deliver reliable performance for yachts requiring up to 2000 hp. To ensure the V12X meets the highest standards of durability and reliability, MAN’s engineers have implemented several key enhancements, including increased wall thicknesses in the crankcase, optimized bolt connections, and a new crankshaft with larger bearing diameters. These advancements are the result of extensive testing and real-world maritime trials.
Innovative Features for Enhanced Durability
The MAN V12X engine series introduces several innovations designed to enhance both performance and durability. The engine is built to handle a full-load share of up to 20%, thanks to improvements such as a new coolant pump, optimized thermostat housing, and an upgraded oil supply system.
In a first for MAN marine engines, the V12X includes hydraulic valve lash adjustment (HVA) as standard, which eliminates the need for regular valve lash checks and adjustments. The engine also features a new Common Rail injection system with an impressive 2200 bar injection pressure, which ensures low fuel consumption and meets stringent emissions standards.
Commitment to Sustainability
The MAN V12X engine series is not just about power—it also reflects MAN’s commitment to sustainability. The engine is designed to integrate with MAN’s hybrid system, the “MAN Smart HYBRID Experience,” offering a pathway to more environmentally friendly marine propulsion. Additionally, the engine’s modular exhaust gas aftertreatment system allows for flexible installation while minimizing maintenance, all while meeting the latest emissions regulations.
Compact and Powerful
Despite its high performance, the MAN V12X remains compact and lightweight, making it suitable for both new yacht builds and engine replacements. With its optimized design, this engine offers a superior power-to-weight ratio while requiring minimal space.
The MAN V12X engine is available in the V12X-2200 model, providing a powerful solution for yachts requiring between 730 and 2200 hp. This launch marks a new era in yachting, where cutting-edge technology meets unparalleled performance, offering yacht owners and builders the perfect balance of power, innovation, and sustainability.
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