Daimler Truck North America has started factory production of a new Exterior Camera System that delivers full 360-degree visibility on vocational and medium-duty trucks. The system is now available on select Freightliner and Western Star models and is designed to reduce blind spots while simplifying truck builds.

Instead of relying on a mix of aftermarket cameras and separate screens, the new setup integrates multiple camera views directly into the truck’s existing in-cab touchscreen.

Full Perimeter Awareness Built into the Cab

The Exterior Camera System expands beyond the standard backup camera already included on these trucks. It adds left-side, right-side, and forward-facing cameras to create a full perimeter view around the vehicle.

All live feeds appear on the same in-cab touchscreen, regardless of body type or application. That consistency matters for trucks that cycle through different drivers, routes, and jobsite conditions.

“Clear visibility around the vehicle is important for the work our customers do every day,” said Aaron Scates, vice president of vocational and medium-duty market development at Daimler Truck North America. “Offering an exterior camera system that covers all sides of the vehicle improves operator confidence. The breadth of camera options and system integration with our interactive touchscreen display make this one of the most complete visibility solutions available for vocational products today.”

Cameras That Respond Automatically While You Work

The system is designed to function without extra steps or added driver workload.

Side cameras activate automatically when turn signals are engaged. The rear camera comes on when the truck is placed in reverse. A forward-facing camera, mounted in the grille, can be manually turned on whenever additional visibility is needed ahead of the vehicle.

Because all video feeds run through the factory touchscreen, operators can monitor surroundings without switching screens or dealing with separate controls.

Built for Custom Bodies and Real-World Jobsites

The camera system can be configured during the build process using DTNA’s Custom Hardware and Electronics Configurator. This allows camera behavior to align with specific vehicle inputs such as turn signals, reverse gear, or body equipment operation.

That flexibility is especially useful for trucks working in refuse, utility, dump, and construction roles where vehicle movement and body functions are tightly linked.

DTNA noted that this level of integration is difficult to achieve with typical aftermarket camera setups.

“The advantage of this comprehensive system is that everything works together seamlessly from day one,” Scates said. “Customers benefit from the performance and quality of a factory-installed system that’s designed specifically for how their trucks are used out in the field.”

Factory Install or Prewire Option Available

For those who want a fully integrated solution, the Exterior Camera System is factory-installed and designed to work with existing vehicle electronics and displays.

For operations that prefer to supply their own camera hardware, DTNA is also offering a prewire option. This includes the necessary wiring provisions while still allowing the truck to support integrated functionality.

Backup cameras remain standard equipment. Side and forward-facing cameras are available based on how the truck is specified.

Focused on Visibility, Safety, and Upfit Efficiency

DTNA said the system is intended to improve awareness around the vehicle, reduce upfit complexity, and support safer performance in demanding work environments.

Those interested in adding the Exterior Camera System to new truck orders can review configuration options through Freightliner or Western Star dealers.

Source: Heavy Duty Trucking

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As of May 2025, Walmart operates around 4,605 stores across the United States, including Supercenters, Neighborhood Markets, and discount stores, and more than 10,500 locations worldwide in 19 countries. At the heart of this massive network are drivers like Haidara, whose story is rooted in resilience, service, and an unwavering commitment to others.

Taking the First Step Into Trucking

Haidara’s trucking career began unexpectedly. While frequently passing a truck driving school on her daily routes, curiosity eventually got the better of her.

“I didn’t even know what I thought I could get out of it, but I just went in and started asking questions,” she recalls. “They told me that my GI bill would cover my training, so I came back on Monday and got started.”

From there, she committed fully, leaving her possessions in storage and moving forward with her new path.

“I put everything in storage and felt that I could retrieve it anytime,” she says. “Well, 12 years later, I am still trucking.”

A Veteran Thriving in a Male-Dominated Field

Before trucking, Haidara served as a Navy Seabee Combat Veteran with multiple deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. The physically demanding work prepared her for the challenges of trucking—another field often dominated by men.

“The military set me up to work in a man’s world,” she explains. “There were so few of us women who could do the job well. It was very heavy lifting. So, when I went to truck driving school, I was like, Oh, here we go again, back into a male-dominated arena.”

Championing Women in Trucking

Haidara has made it her mission to encourage more women to pursue careers in trucking. Her simple but powerful message:

“If I can do it, you can do it.”

She has inspired many to take the leap.

She urges those considering the industry to stop hesitating:

“Just do it! What are you waiting for?”

For Haidara, trucking brought not just financial stability, but peace of mind.

“My life became so peaceful. I became a better teammate. I realized that I needed to take care of myself at some point, and this job provided the opportunity to do so. I have accomplished many amazing things in my life. These opportunities are endless and available to anyone who wants to be a part of this wonderful trucking industry.”

Balancing Work, Advocacy, and Giving Back

When she’s not on the road, Haidara dedicates her time to non-profits, especially those focused on mental health, a cause that holds deep personal meaning for her.

“This is where my heart is, and Walmart not only supports my mission but also gives me the time I need to do the things that I like. Trucking helps me get to where I need to go to help others, gives me the freedom to help them, and gives me the time to do so.”

Training the Next Generation

Walmart’s Associate-to-Driver Program, a 12-week training initiative, allows employees from any department to earn their CDL and train directly with Walmart drivers. Haidara plays a key role, preparing new drivers not only for the road but for success in the company.

“It is so cool to see them at a less stressful time, and they are like, ‘OMG, you were there.’ It is so great to see people go from 0 to 100, and I have seen it so many times.”

Standing With Veterans

Haidara’s dedication to fellow veterans is unwavering. She actively participates in multiple veteran-focused non-profits and projects—using her platform to support those who served.

“I am a big advocate for Veterans, and whatever I can do for them, I will!”

Her story reflects more than a successful trucking career; it’s about service, perseverance, and inspiring others to see what’s possible when you refuse to let barriers stand in your way.

Image & Source: Women In Trucking

The post The Inspiring Journey of Yuma Haidara: “If I Can Do It, You Can Do It!” appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Connor Hudziak didn’t grow up around big rigs. There were no truckers in the family, and his first exposure to the lifestyle came through a screen, not a highway. But while others were battling dragons or playing first-person shooters, Connor was clocking hours in American Truck Simulator—a game designed to mirror real trucking down to the finest detail. From handling deliveries and navigating logistics to managing a digital fleet, it gave him a taste of the industry without ever leaving home.

And Connor didn’t just play casually. He recreated the truck driving experience with a custom setup that included a steering wheel, shifter, control box, and pedals—choosing to haul loads in a candy-apple red Western Star 57X.

At the time, he couldn’t have imagined how closely that virtual truck would mirror his future.

A Sim Turns Into Something Real

Western Star Trucks, in partnership with SCS Software—the creators of American Truck Simulator—recognized the simulator’s impact. With the game’s popularity among both enthusiasts and aspiring drivers, Western Star saw an opportunity to connect with the next generation of truckers in a fresh, meaningful way.

They launched the “Star Nation Customer Experience” at their Madras, Oregon test center and invited two lucky sweepstakes winners from the simulator community. One of them was Connor.

The event brought Connor face-to-face with professionals in the field and digital influencers like trucking YouTuber Casey LaDelle. Though new to the real-life trucking scene, Connor quickly found common ground—and even stole the spotlight during a backing challenge on the test track, beating seasoned drivers despite never having driven a real semi before.

A CDL Gift That Changed Everything

Impressed by his talent and passion, the Western Star team, along with LaDelle, took things a step further. At the closing dinner, they surprised Connor with news that would change his life: they had come together to fund his Commercial Driver’s License training.

The moment was emotional and unforgettable.

“It’s honestly been life-changing,” he said. “This was more than just a trip—it was a doorway into a future I’ve always dreamed about.”

Steering Toward a New Career

Today, Connor is actively working on obtaining his CDL and has plans to start driving part-time for his current employer, with hopes of going full-time in the near future.

His story highlights what’s possible when a digital passion is met with real-world support. More importantly, it shows how companies like Western Star are thinking outside the box—using gaming, mentorship, and opportunity to help passionate individuals like Connor turn a virtual dream into a tangible career.

From simulator pedals to real truck brakes, Connor’s journey is proof that the road to trucking doesn’t always start at a truck stop—sometimes, it begins with a keyboard.

Source: Trucking Info
Image Source: Western Star

The post From Simulator to Semi Truck: How a Virtual Drive Changed Connor Hudziak’s Life appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

From Early Haulers to Modern Workhorses

The first motorized trucks were simple, functional vehicles designed to replace horse-drawn freight transport. By the 1930s and 1940s, manufacturers began refining truck designs, introducing cab-over-engine (COE) models to maximize cargo space while adhering to strict length regulations. These trucks, pioneered by companies like Freightliner, were a game-changer for urban and regional hauling.

However, as the industry grew, so did the need for long-haul efficiency and driver comfort. The conventional cab design, which places the engine in front of the driver, gained traction by the 1970s, offering easier maintenance and a smoother ride. This shift set the stage for the trucks we see dominating highways today.

The Rise of Customization and Heavy-Duty Specialization

As the freight industry expanded, so did the need for specialized heavy-duty trucks that could handle extreme loads, rough terrains, and demanding job sites. This is where Western Star found its niche. Known for its heavy-duty construction and customizable features, Western Star trucks have been a top choice for industries like logging, mining, and specialized freight hauling.

Unlike mass-produced fleet trucks, Western Star allows operators to spec their trucks down to the finest details, from frame strength to cab interiors. This level of customization ensures that every truck is built to endure the unique challenges of its intended use, whether it’s navigating remote oil fields or hauling oversized loads.

Technology and Sustainability: The Next Chapter

The push for fuel efficiency and sustainability has driven manufacturers to explore new technologies. Today’s semi-trucks feature aerodynamic designs, advanced telematics, and alternative fuel options that reduce emissions and operating costs. Electric and hydrogen-powered trucks, once a futuristic concept, are now entering the market, led by brands like Volvo, Daimler, and Tesla.

Even Western Star, traditionally known for its rugged diesel-powered workhorses, has adapted by integrating more fuel-efficient engines and lightweight materials to improve performance without sacrificing durability. As emission regulations tighten and fleets look for cost-effective solutions, truck manufacturers will continue to innovate, balancing power with environmental responsibility.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Semi-Trucks?

The trucking industry is on the cusp of major transformations, from autonomous driving technology to next-gen powertrains. While self-driving trucks won’t replace drivers anytime soon, advancements in collision avoidance, lane-keeping assistance, and real-time monitoring are making trucks safer and more efficient.

The post The Evolution of Semi-Truck Design and the Role of Heavy-Duty Haulers appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.