Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/131367
Industry News Monthly crude oil production could surpass net crude oil imports later this year. Monthly crude oil production is forecast to top 8 million bbl/d in the fourth quarter of 2014, which would be the highest level since 1988. Net crude oil imports are expected to fall below 7 million bbl/d in the fourth quarter of 2014 for the first time since 1995. This projected change is primarily because of rising domestic crude oil production, particularly from shale and other tight rock formations in North Dakota and Texas. CHANGING LANES Given the uncertainties in this forecast, the timing of the crossover between U.S. crude oil production and net crude oil imports could change, based largely on supply conditions. For example, supply would decrease if a strong 2013 hurricane season disrupts U.S. offshore oil production (and thus delays or prevents a crossover), or increase if there are higher-than-expected increases in tight oil production (meaning production might exceed imports sooner than forecast). Bridgestone Commercial Solutions Kicks off New Firestone Truck Tire Campaign At the Mid America Trucking Show in Louisville, KY, Bridgestone Commercial Solutions launched its new Firestone campaign, "Those With Drive, Drive a Firestone." The new campaign 16 industry news 0613 cl.indd 2 coincided with a major launch of new tires featuring technological advancements that specifically address the needs of drivers and small fleet owners who seek fuel savings, long wear, and casing durability. The modern yet timeless "F-shield" serves as the cornerstone for the campaign, promoting iconic reflection on the past while looking forward to new Firestone innovation available today. Since its inception, Firestone has been built through innovation and by supporting and encouraging commerce. In 1918, Firestone introduced the campaign "Ship by Truck," and the freight industry took off. For more than 100 years, Firestone and trucking have been united in the business of moving products and services. "Those With Drive, Drive a Firestone" speaks to the values of small business owners and captures the essence of tires that help move business forward with customerfocused attributes that promote a lower cost per mile. These include: • Longer-wearing compounds, • Fuel-saving sidewall designs, and • Fuel efficient tread patterns. The new tires - FS591 steer, FD691 drive, and FT491 all-position radials meet EPA SmartWay and California Air Resources Board (CARB) requirements for fuel efficiency without sacrificing removal miles. The Firestone FS820, an all-position tire designed for the rigors of on/off-highway service, features strong traction, long wear life and responsive handling. All four Firestone tires offer excellent retreadability. JUNE 2013 // WWW.CHANGINGLANESDIGITAL.COM 5/7/13 10:40 AM