With the rapid pace of technological change, it can feel overwhelming to keep up. While electric vehicles have already improved workspaces and sustainability, the innovations don’t stop there. At North Central, we continually track the latest trends in upfitting to help you and your team stay efficient, safe, and prepared for the road ahead. Here are a few emerging trends we’re watching closely:
Upping Safety
Today’s upfits go beyond organization and efficiency; they ensure the safety of you and your team. For some, that means 360° lighting; for others, it means security cameras and lock-out systems. Keeping tools, employees, and your business better protected. While other drivers may cause unforeseen hazards, safety features such as reflective lighting and auditory warning systems are essential precautions. High-efficiency LED lighting systems are also being developed to reduce the overall power used by trucks. Combined, these enhancements create a safer work environment, reduce liability, and provide peace of mind no matter where the job takes you.
Work Smarter
With growing technology comes smarter vehicles. Upfits can now be equipped with more than just GPS for tracking vehicles. You can include systems to give you the best insight into your vehicle and enhance the management of your rigs, ensuring that regular maintenance is scheduled on time and quickly. Optimizing for various schedules to reduces downtime and keeps your team moving efficiently.
Power to Move
Many job sites, especially in remote or under-construction areas, lack convenient access to electricity. That’s where power-forward upfitting solutions come in. To save cargo space, you don’t want to add more equipment, like a generator, to your vehicle that takes up needed space for tools or other necessary equipment. Vehicles are now being fitted with inverters for tools and batteries, weather-resistant outlets, and Shore Power Plug-ins for when the job site does have power. These integrations eliminate the need for bulky generators or extra equipment, freeing up space and saving time.
Ergonomic, Injury-Reducing Designs
Smart upfits don’t just move tools; they protect the people using them. Why add just a liftgate when you can customize one that works for you? Liftgates now have options to come with operational remotes and load sensors to help with safety concerns, reduce on-site injuries, and make heavy equipment easy to move. Other features can include drop-down ladder racks, rear step ladders, and grab handles. These upgrades enable crews to work more comfortably, safely, and efficiently, especially during long shifts or heavy-lifting tasks.
Looking Ahead
Artificial intelligence is changing the future. While some applications are still in development, AI is here to stay and will be adding more to our vehicles and world. While many of these products are still in development, AI will help lead to better driver management and safety, improving the vehicle while on the road or at a job site.
Technology isn’t slowing down, and neither should you. With so many upgrades available, it can be challenging to know where to start. At North Central, we stay up to date on the latest trends and tailor solutions to your team’s needs. We’ll help you upfit a vehicle that’s ready for your workload. Contact us today to start planning.