Instructor Manual: Bennett; Truck Diesel Engines, Alternative Power, and Electronic Systems 7e, © 2027; 9798214131931; Chapter 01
Introduction
Instructor Manual
Bennett; Truck Diesel Engines, Alternative Power, and Electronic Systems 7e, © 2027;
9798214131931; Chapter 01 Introduction
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Purpose and Perspective of the Chapter......................................................................2
Chapter Objectives........................................................................................................2
Key Terms.....................................................................................................................2
Chapter Outline.............................................................................................................6
Suggested Use of Job Sheets.........................................................................................7
Additional Resources....................................................................................................7
Video Resources........................................................................................................................................ 7
© 2027 Cengage. All Rights Reserved. May not be scanned, copied or duplicated, or posted to a publicly 1
accessible website, in whole or in part.
,Instructor Manual: Bennett; Truck Diesel Engines, Alternative Power, and Electronic Systems 7e, © 2027; 9798214131931; Chapter 01
Introduction
PURPOSE AND PERSPECTIVE OF THE CHAPTER
This chapter is to introduce the reader to the modern commercial vehicle and diesel engine industry by
building foundational knowledge of terminology, technology, and industry structure, while the perspective
is that of a professional technician preparing for real-world work. It emphasizes understanding how diesel
and alternative powertrains operate within evolving systems shaped by emissions regulations, electronics,
connectivity, and data-driven diagnostics, rather than focusing on step-by-step repairs. The chapter frames
the industry as technologically advanced and rapidly changing, highlighting the growing importance of
computer literacy, diagnostics, and continuous learning, and positions the technician as a key contributor
within a broader economic and technological ecosystem.
CHAPTER OBJECTIVES
The following objectives are addressed in this chapter:
Interpret the basic language and acronyms used by commercial vehicle industries.
Describe some of the advances that have changed commercial vehicle technology today.
List the major diesel engine manufacturers and correlate which engines are likely to be used by chassis
OEMs.
Identify the major engine OEMs and the market share of each.
Categorize engines by their displacement.
Identify some of the alternatives to ICE powertrains and the sectors of the industry in which they are
embraced.
Discuss what is meant by the “connected” vehicle and define terms such as multiplexing and telematics.
Outline the roles and responsibilities of the contemporary commercial vehicle technician.
Identify the five SAE categories of autonomous vehicle operation.
Outline popular customer service trends in the truck OEM industry and explain a technician’s
responsibilities in keeping customers happy.
Discuss how HD-OBD and “Right-to-Repair” legislation is impacting the service and repair industry.
Outline the qualifications required to practice as a commercial vehicle engine technician.
List some of the professional associations to which commercial vehicle engine specialists may belong
and identify the benefits of each.
Describe how alternate powertrain technologies are impacting traditional diesel power and discuss the
impact on the future of commercial vehicles.
[return to top]
© 2027 Cengage. All Rights Reserved. May not be scanned, copied or duplicated, or posted to a publicly 2
accessible website, in whole or in part.
,Instructor Manual: Bennett; Truck Diesel Engines, Alternative Power, and Electronic Systems 7e, © 2027; 9798214131931; Chapter 01
Introduction
KEY TERMS
advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS): any of a number of electronic chassis management
interventions, each of which can be correlated to a specific level of SAE autonomous vehicle operation.
Altoona Certification: the term by which FTA certification for transit buses is commonly known as
because the main testing center is located in Altoona, PA.
American Trucking Association (ATA): organization with a broad spectrum of representation,
responsible for setting standards in the U.S. trucking industry.
analytics: term used to describe the systematic analysis of data. Widely used in truck technology to
scrutinize parts longevity, technician performance, driver behavior, maintenance, and just about everything
else in modern working life.
artificial intelligence (AI): machine learning software with transformative capabilities.
Association of Diesel Specialists (ADS): organization to which fuel injection specialty shops
belong and which monitors industry standards of practice and education.
augmented reality Automotive Service Excellence (ASE): a technology that superimposes a
computer-generated image over the user’s field of vision: can be used for guided instruction or training.
autonomous vehicle: a “driverless” vehicle. The SAE classify autonomous vehicle operation at five
different levels and only Level 5 is fully autonomous.
broker: term commonly used to describe a private owner-operator (O/O) of a truck; most brokers own
their tractor and haul fleet-owned trailers.
California Air Resources Board (CARB): The state of California agency responsible for driving
emissions legislation and enforcement. By establishing standards that exceed federal standards and
effecting them earlier, CARB has led the emissions control initiative throughout North America.
cybersecurity: the means used to prevent cybercrime. To date system hacks have cost the transportation
industry billions of dollars and this has led to an industry of cybersecurity providers that aim to protect
network communications.
electronic engine management: computerized engine control.
electronic logging device (ELD): the hardware and software used for the mandatory electronic
logging of drivers (including technicians) and truck activity. The system must capture RODS and HOS but
enhanced versions may capture additional data.
electronic service tool (EST): term that covers a range of instruments, including DMMs, diagnostic
lights, generic and proprietary handheld reader-programmers, and PCs.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): federal regulating body that sets and monitors noxious
emissions standards, among other functions.
© 2027 Cengage. All Rights Reserved. May not be scanned, copied or duplicated, or posted to a publicly 3
accessible website, in whole or in part.
, Instructor Manual: Bennett; Truck Diesel Engines, Alternative Power, and Electronic Systems 7e, © 2027; 9798214131931; Chapter 01
Introduction
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA): body responsible for setting on-
highway safety regulations.
Federal Transit Administration (FTA): Federal Transit Administration (FTA) agency
responsible for certifying transit bus safety, maintenance, fuel economy, and emissions: FTA certification
is commonly known as Altoona Certification because the main testing center is located in Altoona, PA.
freight efficiency: term that is replacing “fuel efficiency” by fleet operations managers; best defined as
fuel consumed per ton of freight hauled.
heavy-duty onboard diagnostics (HD-OBD): FMCSA mandate that requires OEMs to provide
open access to any emissions-related commercial vehicle systems weighing more than 14,000 lb (6,350
kg). Phased implementation of HB-OBD began in 2010 (OEMs were required to produce one engine family
meeting the standard) and was originally scheduled for full adoption in MY 2013, but at the time of writing,
implementation was still not finalized.
high-intensity kaizen event (HIKE): corporate organizational and customer service efficiency
improvement system used by Cummins, Kenworth, and a number of truck fleets to provide increased
service efficiency.
hydromechanical: a system that is managed entirely without the use of computers.
information technology (IT): the science of networking and the software and hardware that enables
it.
internal combustion engine (ICE): a heat engine in which the combustion of fuel is contained
within a cylinder; differentiated from a steam engine in which the fuel is combusted outside of the engine.
kaizen: Japanese word meaning “continuous improvement.” It has become a catchword in industry and is
often linked with the practice of TQM.
large bore: in the trucking industry, describes diesel engines with displacements between 12 and 16
liters.
medium bore: in the trucking industry, describes diesel engines with displacements between 8 and 12
liters.
model year (MY): usually refers to the EPA emissions designation of a truck engine and its emissions
rating, but OEMs commonly use the term simply to mean year of manufacture.
multiplexing: name for the connecting of two or more electronic system controllers on a data backbone
to synergize system operation and reduce the number of common components and hard wiring.
new technology diesel exhaust (NTDE): term used by HEI to describe EPA 2010 and later diesel
engines that use both a DPF and SCR system.
original equipment manufacturer (OEM): term used to describe the manufacturer of an original
product, distinct from an aftermarket manufacturer (replacement product).
© 2027 Cengage. All Rights Reserved. May not be scanned, copied or duplicated, or posted to a publicly 4
accessible website, in whole or in part.
Introduction
Instructor Manual
Bennett; Truck Diesel Engines, Alternative Power, and Electronic Systems 7e, © 2027;
9798214131931; Chapter 01 Introduction
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Purpose and Perspective of the Chapter......................................................................2
Chapter Objectives........................................................................................................2
Key Terms.....................................................................................................................2
Chapter Outline.............................................................................................................6
Suggested Use of Job Sheets.........................................................................................7
Additional Resources....................................................................................................7
Video Resources........................................................................................................................................ 7
© 2027 Cengage. All Rights Reserved. May not be scanned, copied or duplicated, or posted to a publicly 1
accessible website, in whole or in part.
,Instructor Manual: Bennett; Truck Diesel Engines, Alternative Power, and Electronic Systems 7e, © 2027; 9798214131931; Chapter 01
Introduction
PURPOSE AND PERSPECTIVE OF THE CHAPTER
This chapter is to introduce the reader to the modern commercial vehicle and diesel engine industry by
building foundational knowledge of terminology, technology, and industry structure, while the perspective
is that of a professional technician preparing for real-world work. It emphasizes understanding how diesel
and alternative powertrains operate within evolving systems shaped by emissions regulations, electronics,
connectivity, and data-driven diagnostics, rather than focusing on step-by-step repairs. The chapter frames
the industry as technologically advanced and rapidly changing, highlighting the growing importance of
computer literacy, diagnostics, and continuous learning, and positions the technician as a key contributor
within a broader economic and technological ecosystem.
CHAPTER OBJECTIVES
The following objectives are addressed in this chapter:
Interpret the basic language and acronyms used by commercial vehicle industries.
Describe some of the advances that have changed commercial vehicle technology today.
List the major diesel engine manufacturers and correlate which engines are likely to be used by chassis
OEMs.
Identify the major engine OEMs and the market share of each.
Categorize engines by their displacement.
Identify some of the alternatives to ICE powertrains and the sectors of the industry in which they are
embraced.
Discuss what is meant by the “connected” vehicle and define terms such as multiplexing and telematics.
Outline the roles and responsibilities of the contemporary commercial vehicle technician.
Identify the five SAE categories of autonomous vehicle operation.
Outline popular customer service trends in the truck OEM industry and explain a technician’s
responsibilities in keeping customers happy.
Discuss how HD-OBD and “Right-to-Repair” legislation is impacting the service and repair industry.
Outline the qualifications required to practice as a commercial vehicle engine technician.
List some of the professional associations to which commercial vehicle engine specialists may belong
and identify the benefits of each.
Describe how alternate powertrain technologies are impacting traditional diesel power and discuss the
impact on the future of commercial vehicles.
[return to top]
© 2027 Cengage. All Rights Reserved. May not be scanned, copied or duplicated, or posted to a publicly 2
accessible website, in whole or in part.
,Instructor Manual: Bennett; Truck Diesel Engines, Alternative Power, and Electronic Systems 7e, © 2027; 9798214131931; Chapter 01
Introduction
KEY TERMS
advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS): any of a number of electronic chassis management
interventions, each of which can be correlated to a specific level of SAE autonomous vehicle operation.
Altoona Certification: the term by which FTA certification for transit buses is commonly known as
because the main testing center is located in Altoona, PA.
American Trucking Association (ATA): organization with a broad spectrum of representation,
responsible for setting standards in the U.S. trucking industry.
analytics: term used to describe the systematic analysis of data. Widely used in truck technology to
scrutinize parts longevity, technician performance, driver behavior, maintenance, and just about everything
else in modern working life.
artificial intelligence (AI): machine learning software with transformative capabilities.
Association of Diesel Specialists (ADS): organization to which fuel injection specialty shops
belong and which monitors industry standards of practice and education.
augmented reality Automotive Service Excellence (ASE): a technology that superimposes a
computer-generated image over the user’s field of vision: can be used for guided instruction or training.
autonomous vehicle: a “driverless” vehicle. The SAE classify autonomous vehicle operation at five
different levels and only Level 5 is fully autonomous.
broker: term commonly used to describe a private owner-operator (O/O) of a truck; most brokers own
their tractor and haul fleet-owned trailers.
California Air Resources Board (CARB): The state of California agency responsible for driving
emissions legislation and enforcement. By establishing standards that exceed federal standards and
effecting them earlier, CARB has led the emissions control initiative throughout North America.
cybersecurity: the means used to prevent cybercrime. To date system hacks have cost the transportation
industry billions of dollars and this has led to an industry of cybersecurity providers that aim to protect
network communications.
electronic engine management: computerized engine control.
electronic logging device (ELD): the hardware and software used for the mandatory electronic
logging of drivers (including technicians) and truck activity. The system must capture RODS and HOS but
enhanced versions may capture additional data.
electronic service tool (EST): term that covers a range of instruments, including DMMs, diagnostic
lights, generic and proprietary handheld reader-programmers, and PCs.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): federal regulating body that sets and monitors noxious
emissions standards, among other functions.
© 2027 Cengage. All Rights Reserved. May not be scanned, copied or duplicated, or posted to a publicly 3
accessible website, in whole or in part.
, Instructor Manual: Bennett; Truck Diesel Engines, Alternative Power, and Electronic Systems 7e, © 2027; 9798214131931; Chapter 01
Introduction
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA): body responsible for setting on-
highway safety regulations.
Federal Transit Administration (FTA): Federal Transit Administration (FTA) agency
responsible for certifying transit bus safety, maintenance, fuel economy, and emissions: FTA certification
is commonly known as Altoona Certification because the main testing center is located in Altoona, PA.
freight efficiency: term that is replacing “fuel efficiency” by fleet operations managers; best defined as
fuel consumed per ton of freight hauled.
heavy-duty onboard diagnostics (HD-OBD): FMCSA mandate that requires OEMs to provide
open access to any emissions-related commercial vehicle systems weighing more than 14,000 lb (6,350
kg). Phased implementation of HB-OBD began in 2010 (OEMs were required to produce one engine family
meeting the standard) and was originally scheduled for full adoption in MY 2013, but at the time of writing,
implementation was still not finalized.
high-intensity kaizen event (HIKE): corporate organizational and customer service efficiency
improvement system used by Cummins, Kenworth, and a number of truck fleets to provide increased
service efficiency.
hydromechanical: a system that is managed entirely without the use of computers.
information technology (IT): the science of networking and the software and hardware that enables
it.
internal combustion engine (ICE): a heat engine in which the combustion of fuel is contained
within a cylinder; differentiated from a steam engine in which the fuel is combusted outside of the engine.
kaizen: Japanese word meaning “continuous improvement.” It has become a catchword in industry and is
often linked with the practice of TQM.
large bore: in the trucking industry, describes diesel engines with displacements between 12 and 16
liters.
medium bore: in the trucking industry, describes diesel engines with displacements between 8 and 12
liters.
model year (MY): usually refers to the EPA emissions designation of a truck engine and its emissions
rating, but OEMs commonly use the term simply to mean year of manufacture.
multiplexing: name for the connecting of two or more electronic system controllers on a data backbone
to synergize system operation and reduce the number of common components and hard wiring.
new technology diesel exhaust (NTDE): term used by HEI to describe EPA 2010 and later diesel
engines that use both a DPF and SCR system.
original equipment manufacturer (OEM): term used to describe the manufacturer of an original
product, distinct from an aftermarket manufacturer (replacement product).
© 2027 Cengage. All Rights Reserved. May not be scanned, copied or duplicated, or posted to a publicly 4
accessible website, in whole or in part.
