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The biodiesel industry was at a virtual standstill last week, despite an assurance by two Senate leaders they will introduce legislation “as soon as possible” to reinstate the tax credit that expired on Dec. 31.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration announced it would host a series of public “listening sessions” over its intentions to modify again its often-challenged hours-of-service rule for commercial drivers.

Cummins Inc. said Friday it has received U.S. Environmental Protection Agency certification for its heavy-duty and midrange 2010 engines — the heavy-duty big-bore ISX15 and midrange ISB6.7, ISC8.3 and ISL9 units.

We all have to hope that officials of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration really have their ears open when they hold their three public “listening sessions” later this month over their embattled hours-of-service rule for the nation’s truck drivers.

Truck driver Michael Hunt received the 2009 Highway Angel of the Year trophy from the Truckload Carriers Association on Dec. 30 before about 30,000 people at a college football bowl game in Boise, Idaho.

U.S. truck tonnage declined 3.5% in November from the corresponding month of 2008, but it still was the best year-over-year showing in 12 months, according to American Trucking Associations. Total tonnage grew 2.7% from October’s levels.

As part of its Comprehensive Safety Analysis 2010 program, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is introducing its new record-keeping system known as SMS, or safety management system.

Patriot Transportation Holding said its transportation group has been unsuccessful in renewing contracts with major customers who accounted for $10 million in revenue last year, or 11% of its total.

The U.S. economy’s service sector improved, showing modest expansion last month, the Institute for Supply Management said Wednesday.

American Trucking Associations has filed to seek summary judgment in its challenge to the Port of Los Angeles’ concession plan for port truckers.