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WASHINGTON — In a controversial report calling for huge new spending on the national transportation system, a congressional commission last week made several recommendations that would affect trucking, including new flexibility in the federal driver hours-of-service rule in congestion-prone areas.

Xata Corp.’s acquisition of fellow fleet technology provider GeoLogic Solutions gives the company its first real foothold for marketing information technology systems to for-hire trucking fleets, an executive with the Eden Prairie, Minn., firm said.

The commission charged with examining the future of the national transportation system is set to recommend a significant increase in federal fuel taxes to Congress, according to wire service reports and other sources.

Trucking executive Patrick Quinn proposed building a system of dedicated truck-only lanes to streamline freight movement and the idea has been “well received” by members of a U.S. commission.

Mack Trucks introduced a new in-cabin power system as an option, joining several other truck manufacturers — including International, Kenworth and Peterbilt — in offering built-in units to limit idling.

Trucking software firm TMW Systems said Thursday it acquired TMT Software, which makes fleet maintenance applications, for an undisclosed sum.

The collapse in heavy-duty U.S. truck sales accelerated in March, dropping nearly 38% from the same month in 2006.

At least five major tire manufacturers said they are raising prices on their medium- and heavy-duty truck tires by 3% to 5%, with most citing the rising cost of raw materials as the reason.

Many manufacturers provide trucking companies with products that use Global Positioning System satellites to help manage their logistics more seamlessly, but have now found an additional use for the technology.