Holiday Hours

During the period between December 27 and January 12, our office will be closing at 5pm. With the holidays fast approaching, please be aware of our modified office hours during this time.

• The office is closed December 25 and 26, January 1, and January 15 for MLK
• Our office will be open from 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM from December 27 through January 12
• Regular hours will resume Tuesday, January 16

If you need a vehicle during a holiday closure, you may pick up the vehicle on the last business day before your trip begins, after 4:00 PM. Please make a note of when the charges should begin in the “Notes” field when submitting the requisition.

Mobile ID Not yet Accepted

The Mobile ID App from the Iowa DOT is out and available for download on Android and iOS devices. Mobile ID is free and is optional for Iowa citizens to download. At this point it is more of a companion to having a physical license, not a replacement.  The DOT says everyone should still carry a physical ID.  There is a list of accepting locations on the DOT’s website and the list will continue to grow as more business’ are able to implement verification processes. At this time Mobile ID is not be accepted at Fleet Services as a replacement for a physical ID.  Check out more information about the Mobile ID program on the DOT website.

EVs and the Uncertain Future of AM Radio

AM radio, whether you’re listening to a baseball game or talk radio, it’s as American as apple pie! We have been enjoying and listening to AM radio in our cars since the 1950’s, but if some automakers have their way, AM may be missing from future electric vehicles. Having an AM radio in an EV is actually quite tricky, the problem is all about the electric interference generated by the EV’s drivetrain and the static and noise it creates. According to automotive manufacturers, the engineering required to offer AM radio in future EVs will cost an additional $3.8 billion over the next 7 years. AM radio is not just about entertainment, AM radio is a great free and accessible resource for getting information about emergencies, weather, or other natural disasters. For this reason, Legislators have introduced the AM for Every Vehicle Act to mandate AM radio in all future EVs. Check out the article from Automotive Dive.

Fleet and CAMBUS Technicians Host Kirkwood Students for Job Shadow Event

On Thursday, December 14, Fleet Services and CAMBUS hosted 4 job shadow students from Kirkwood.  The students were exploring career opportunities in diesel vehicle repair and maintenance.  The students were given an in-depth look at a Fleet Services swap loader and a CAMBUS Transit bus.  They learned about  the various systems on each vehicle, common repairs, and the education, and experience necessary to succeed in the field.  The students showed interest by asking some very good questions.  Thanks to  Brian, Pat, Steve, Rob, Jamie, Robert, and Jason for making the job shadow an excellent experience for the students.

Oldies But Goodies

Congratulation to Rob from CAMBUS who was recently recognized for 35 years of University service.  Joe from Fleet and Mia from CAMBUS were also recognized for 5 years of University service.  Our dedicated and committed staff are the reason that Fleet and CAMBUS are the success that they are.  

Automatic Vehicle Location Devices (AVL) Available

For those interested, Fleet Services can provide (for a small monthly fee) Automatic Vehicle Location devices.  These devices provide real-time vehicle location. Optional forward and rear facing cameras for additional security are also available. If you are interested, please call Mike at 319-384-0564.

Fleet Factoid

Earlier this year a Rimac Nevera, a Croatian electric hyper-car, set a record for top speed in a production vehicle topping out at 171.3 mph. If you’re thinking “hey, 171.3 mph doesn’t sound that fast”, well what if I told you that it did it in reverse? Check out the article from Jalopnik, there is a video where you can see it set the reverse speed record with Guinness officials on hand to certify it.