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WASHINGTON — Several prototype Class 8 hybrid trucks are currently under development, but the technical and economic obstacles in the way of placing reliable and fuel-efficient heavy hybrid over-the-road trucks in service remain daunting, experts told a House subcommittee.

Truckload carrier U.S. Xpress Enterprises said its Xpress Global Systems subsidiary finalized its purchase of Pinner Transportation. Terms were not released.

Iteris Inc., which makes lane-departure warning systems for the trucking industry, reported its fiscal fourth-quarter profit improved from a year ago.

Ryder System said Wednesday it appointed John Williford to serve in the newly created position of president of Ryder's global supply chain solutions unit.

Ford Motor Co. plans to lay off up to 12% of its salaried employees by August as part of a restructuring in the face of slumping sales and high fuel prices, the Associated Press reported Wednesday.

Auto parts supplier American Axle and Manufacturing Holdings said Friday it expects production to resume next week after union workers overwhelmingly approved a new contract that contains steep pay cuts and other concessions, the Associated Press reported.

Several General Motors Corp. plants idled by an 11-week strike at supplier American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings are set to begin operations soon, following a tentative settlement to the work stoppage, the Wall Street Journal reported Monday.

Auto and truck component maker ArvinMeritor Inc. said late Tuesday it will institute a monthly surcharge for components due to rising materials prices.

Ryder System said late Monday it has completed its acquisition of Gator Leasing, privately held company based in Miami.