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LAS VEGAS — Leading heavy-duty truck components manufacturers said technology exists today to build a safer, environmentally friendly and low-cost heavy-duty “world truck,” but major obstacles are consumer acceptance and the lack of a single global standard for emissions and safety technology.

The maintenance managers of two vehicle leasing companies expect few problems in their shops as the truck-operating industry shifts to the next generation of lower-emission diesel engines.

WASHINGTON — Volvo AB and Mack Trucks Inc. last week unveiled a hybrid prototype of a heavy-duty Mack construction truck and company officials said their diesel-electric power supply will cut fuel costs 30% for stop-and-go trucks and buses while running much cleaner.

Trucks operating in California would be required to meet tighter emission standards under a plan proposed by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) to spend $3.1 billion in bond money to improve four key freight corridors.

A major challenge facing the trucking industry as it copes with tighter emission standards from the Environmental Protection Agency is choosing the right type of oil to ensure that engines continue to perform to their maximum capability.

Crude oil futures hit a 19-month low price, closing at $54.02 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange Wednesday following a Department of Energy report showing strong heating-oil inventories, Bloomberg reported.

Engine manufacturers and trucking officials said they recognize the need for onboard diagnostic systems to monitor the performance of emission-treatment systems because diesel engines are growing in complexity.