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The Environmental Protection Agency said it is concerned that emissions systems using a copper compound that engine maker Cummins Inc. will use in 2010 models could generate “likely human carcinogen” dioxins, in which case it would “likely not certify” the systems.

The Teamsters union said employees at YRC Worldwide Inc. have approved a landmark 10% wage cut to help reduce costs as the largest less-than-truckload carrier struggles with falling tonnage in a weak economy.

The U.S. retail diesel average declined 3.6 cents to $2.291 a gallon last week, the 14th consecutive drop, but analysts warned that fleets’ fuel costs are poised to start rising again.

Oil closed the week under $41 a barrel as U.S. unemployment figures released Friday caused concern on future demand, Bloomberg reported.

Freightliner Trucks will sharply reduce truck production and work forces at two North Carolina truck plants, the Charlotte Observer reported Friday.

The Washington state Department of Transportation plans to reopen a 20-mile stretch of Interstate 5 Friday afternoon near Chehalis, Wash., that was closed for two days due to heavy flooding, the Associated Press reported.

Rail and intermodal traffic fell for the week ended Jan. 3 from a year ago, the Association of American Railroads said.

The U.S. unemployment rate jumped to 7.2% in December, a 16-year high, from 6.5% in November, the Labor Department said Friday.

Having passed through one of the toughest, most volatile economic years that trucking has experienced could make one antsy about the future. We may look ahead with deep trepidation, or we can greet the journey as a thrilling adventure.