Today I Learned – January 2026

NACFE does most of its work in the field at industry events and staff members hear a lot of interesting things each month. Here are some things we learned recently. Contact us if you want to ask questions about where and how we learned what we share here.

Aurora and Detmar Logistics announced a deal to deploy 30 autonomous trucks for frac sand hauling in the Permian Basin, moving beyond private lease roads to include public highways.

— Dean Bushey, Director of Programs

To achieve HOS data integrity, improved integration with FMS systems, and improved safety compliance, FMCSA introduced new rules for ELDs, beginning in June 2026, that include new certification requirements replacing self-certification and implementing stricter performance standards, real-time data transmission, and mandatory integration with fleet management systems.

— Rick Mihelic, Director of Emerging Technologies

DHL’s recent deployment of a 500-mile range Tesla Semi on a 100-mile route means they only need to charge once per week. This ‘weekly charging’ strategy of over-spec’ing vehicle range to route could significantly reduce infrastructure and operational costs.

— Emilia Sibley, Emerging Technologies Consultant

While we think of the large fleets carrying most of the goods, 91.5% of motor carriers have 10 or fewer trucks.

— Jeff Seger, Clean Energy Consultant

2026 could bring a rare, headline-worthy reprieve at the pump — EIA forecasts roughly $3.00/gal gasoline and $3.50/gal diesel, putting fuel costs near their lowest levels since the pandemic period. Venezuela is best viewed as a potential downside-risk wildcard rather than a core assumption in the projection.

— Dean Bushey, Director of Programs