Truck Chat from Work Truck

Work Truck

Work Truck interviews the experts on the topics and trends that matter most to vocational fleet managers. She also meets with many “Faces of Fleet” to share more about the incredible people and their experiences in our unique industry. For new or veteran fleet managers, check out the “Fleet 101” videos that dig further into the complicated world of vocational truck fleets. Looking for legendary advice? Check out the Fleet Legends Series. Want some fleet tips? Check out Trucks, Tours & Tips. And, don't forget to check out the latest fleet vehicles in the "Vehicles Moving Fleets" series!

  1. Get Up Close with New Isuzu Work Trucks and Vocational Builds

    MAY 11

    Get Up Close with New Isuzu Work Trucks and Vocational Builds

    Isuzu Commercial Truck of America is giving the medium-duty market a major refresh, and Work Truck got an exclusive look from the show floor at Work Truck Week. In this episode of TruckChat, Brian Tabel, assistant vice president of Isuzu Commercial Truck of America, walks through the company’s latest truck lineup, updated cab styling, advanced safety technology, and a range of vocational upfits designed for real-world fleet applications. The upcoming 2028 Isuzu N-Series gas truck introduces a redesigned cab with cross-flow styling, LED headlights, dual airbags, and ADAS safety systems, offering a preview of what’s ahead for medium-duty commercial trucks. The conversation also highlights several vocational applications and upfits, including:• The Isuzu NRR Diesel with updated cab styling• An Advantic upfit body built for commercial applications• A Thunder Creek mobile fuel truck on an Isuzu NPR-HD gas chassis• A Stellar Industries FTR hooklift truck for waste and refuse operations• A SavATree spray truck configured for landscaping and tree care fleets From fuel-and-lube service trucks to hooklifts and landscaping applications, this episode explores how Isuzu commercial trucks are designed for maneuverability, versatility, and fleet productivity across multiple industries. This episode of TruckChat is sponsored by and produced in partnership with Isuzu Commercial Truck of America. Learn more at https://www.isuzucv.com/en/index Follow Work Truck:Work Truck ➡ https://www.worktruckonline.com/LinkedIn ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/work-truck/Facebook ➡ https://www.facebook.com/WorkTruck

    3 min
  2. Cummins X10 Engine is a Smarter, Right Sized Workhorse

    MAY 9

    Cummins X10 Engine is a Smarter, Right Sized Workhorse

    What if you could get heavy-duty power without the size and weight penalty? In this video, we break down the new Cummins X10 engine, a 10.0L mid-bore workhorse designed to replace the L9 and X12, including horsepower, torque, PTO capability, and how it delivers serious performance in a more efficient, compact package. If you’re a fleet manager, operator, or vocational truck professional evaluating powertrain options for 2027 and beyond, the X10 is built for you, delivering future-ready performance today while maintaining the durability and dependability Cummins is known for. Hear directly from Cummins X10 Product Manager, Tara Johnson, on how the X10 blends heavy-duty strength with medium-duty efficiency, and what that means for payload, uptime, and total cost of ownership. Key specs and takeaways:• Up to 450 hp and 1,650 lb.-ft. torque (heavy-duty rating)• Up to 380 hp and 1,250 lb.-ft. torque (medium-duty rating)• PTO capability: 590 lb.-ft. continuous/664 lb.-ft. intermittent• Replaces both L9 and X12 platforms• Built on proven X15 architecture• Integrated digital features with Acumen® for predictive maintenance and OTA updates• Designed for improved power-to-weight ratio and increased payload potential This video was sponsored by Cummins . Learn more about the Cummins X10: https://www.cummins.com/en-na/engines/products/x10Links and Resources: Work Truck ➡ https://www.worktruckonline.com/Work Truck on LinkedIn ➡ https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/work-truck/Work Truck on Facebook ➡ https://www.facebook.com/WorkTruck

    3 min
  3. APR 29

    Sliding Sideways Into Fleet Success: Carl Nelson's Journey | Legends of Fleet

    Carl Nelson may be retired from the day-to-day, but his impact on fleet is still easy to spot. With more than four decades of experience across fleets such as AT&T and AmeriGas, Carl built a reputation for doing the work, leading through change, and helping to move the industry forward without ever making it about himself. In this episode of Fleet Legends, sponsored by Legend Fleet, Lauren Fletcher sits down with Nelson for a conversation about how he “slid into fleet sideways,” what changed most over the course of his career, and the lessons that still hold up for fleet leaders today. Nelson reflects on everything from the early days of computerization and building practical vehicle solutions, to the importance of listening to drivers, respecting the people closest to the work, and never pretending to have all the answers. He also shares the simple philosophy that guided his career: research, observe, listen, educate, and respect. What comes through most in this conversation is Nelson's view of fleet as a community. Not a competition. A profession where people share what they know, help each other solve problems, and make the industry better together. WATCH NOW to learn: How Nelson got his start in fleet after “sliding in sideways”.Why was computerization one of the biggest turning points in fleet management?The advice he wishes he had known earlier, especially around navigating workplace politics.His core philosophy for new fleet leaders: research, observe, listen, educate, and respect.Why listening to drivers can lead to better vehicle decisions and stronger fleet performance.How to avoid rookie mistakes by staying curious and using the resources around you.Why fleet has always stood out to Nelson as an industry built on collaboration, not competition.His advice for the next generation entering fleet management.Drop your biggest takeaway from Nelson in the comments and tell us who you want to see on Fleet Legends next. 👍 If this helped, hit like and subscribe for more episodes of Truck Chat, including Shades of Fleet, featuring real conversations from across the fleet industry.

    17 min
  4. APR 29

    From Motorcycles to Deputy Commissioner: Robert Martinez’s Fleet Journey | Fleet Legends

    What does it take to go from turning wrenches to leading one of the largest municipal fleets in the country? In this episode of Fleet Legends, sponsored by LEGEND, we sit down with Robert Martinez, a true industry veteran whose career spans nearly four decades of hands-on experience, leadership, and transformation. Hosted by Lauren Fletcher, Robert shares how an early start in a motorcycle shop led to a career with the NYPD, eventually rising to Deputy Commissioner. Along the way, he navigated massive industry shifts, from paper records to telematics, while building teams grounded in trust, respect, and continuous learning. He was also named the 2026 Tom Johnson Award winner at the NAFA Conference in Cleveland, one of the industry’s highest honors. Watch now to learn more about:  Robert’s unconventional start in fleet, and how a motorcycle shop set the foundation.The evolution from index cards to advanced fleet technology and telematics.Leadership lessons from managing teams through change, conflict, and growth.Why trust, honesty, and giving employees a voice are critical to success.Real-world advice for new fleet managers entering a tech-driven industry.Robert’s story is a reminder that fleet isn’t just about vehicles, it’s about people, perspective, and the willingness to keep learning. Drop your thoughts below and let us know who should be featured next on Fleet Legends.

    34 min

About

Work Truck interviews the experts on the topics and trends that matter most to vocational fleet managers. She also meets with many “Faces of Fleet” to share more about the incredible people and their experiences in our unique industry. For new or veteran fleet managers, check out the “Fleet 101” videos that dig further into the complicated world of vocational truck fleets. Looking for legendary advice? Check out the Fleet Legends Series. Want some fleet tips? Check out Trucks, Tours & Tips. And, don't forget to check out the latest fleet vehicles in the "Vehicles Moving Fleets" series!