VIPAR Heavy Duty Appoints Jeff Paul as Executive Vice President
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By Counterman
link hidden, please login to view has recognized Truck-Lite and ECCO as its latest suppliers to earn the VIPAR Heavy Duty Strategic Partner (VSP) designation. The two companies, both part of Clarience Technologies, join a group of suppliers that demonstrate a strong commitment to supporting the organization’s distributors, fleets and strategic initiatives across the heavy-duty aftermarket. “Truck-Lite and ECCO bring exceptional value to our distributor network through their commitment to innovation, safety, and service,” said Larry Griffin, vice president of program management for VIPAR Heavy Duty. “Their strong support of fleets, investment in data quality, and product offerings that extend across key international markets align closely with our strategic priorities. We are pleased to welcome them as Strategic Partners.”
Designation Criteria and Program Support
Truck-Lite and ECCO earned the designation by meeting key criteria established by
link hidden, please login to view, including active support of fleets through the organization’s National Accounts Program. The companies also contributed product content to PARTSPHERE PIM®, VIPAR Heavy Duty’s product information management system, and delivered comprehensive product programs that serve both VIPAR Heavy Duty and Power Heavy Duty distributors. “We are honored that Truck-Lite and ECCO have been recognized as VIPAR Heavy Duty Strategic Partners,” said Brian Olsen, executive vice president and president, Visibility Solutions, at Clarience Technologies. “This designation reflects our shared commitment to supporting distributors and fleets with innovative, high-quality solutions. We value our partnership and look forward to continued collaboration to deliver value across the heavy-duty aftermarket.”
Benefits of VSP Designation
Suppliers that earn the VSP designation benefit from enhanced visibility and engagement opportunities, including special recognition and priority positioning at the IMPACT Conference. They also receive expanded branding across distributor touchpoints and increased networking and collaboration with the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies team and distributor members.
Truck-Lite and ECCO join the VSP group alongside Baldwin Filters, Donaldson Company, East Penn, Grote, Prestone, Tectran and Tramec.
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By Counterman
TalkRev launched PartsNow.ai, an AI-assisted platform designed to help fleets, owner-operators and repair shops find and purchase heavy-duty truck parts more efficiently. The company said the system uses AI-driven chat, voice interaction and visual recognition to identify parts and connect users with a network of distributors.
AI Tools Streamline Parts Identification
According to TalkRev, the platform allows users to search for parts in multiple ways:
Describing the issue or component Uploading a photo of the part or vehicle VIN Speaking directly with an AI agent The system then identifies the part and provides availability and pricing from its distributor network.
“Too many mechanics spend their day on the phone calling suppliers just to buy a brake disc or a turbocharger,” said Manna Justin, CEO of TalkRev. “You tell us what you need—type it, say it, or upload a photo of the broken part or the truck’s VIN—and our AI identifies the exact component and sources it from our network of distributors.”
Integrated Purchasing and Distributor Network
link hidden, please login to view said it aggregates inventory from a network of distributors, with a catalog of more than 50,000 parts. Users can complete purchases through a single checkout process, with PartsNow handling the transaction. The company said this approach allows distributors to reach customers without building their own e-commerce systems. Voice and Mobile Interaction
The platform also supports phone-based interaction, where users can describe an issue and receive follow-up questions from the AI agent. TalkRev said the system then sends a text message with product details, pricing and a link to complete the purchase.
Steve Fultz, president of PartsNow.ai, said the platform is designed to reduce time spent searching for parts and improve access to inventory.
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By elizabeth
Heavy-duty trucks require strong components, and a Used Ford F 250 Super Duty Transmission is a great option for maintaining performance without overspending. These transmissions are designed to handle tough workloads and are inspected to ensure durability and efficiency. Choosing a used unit helps reduce costs while keeping your truck reliable for daily or commercial use. It’s important to check compatibility with your specific model for proper fit and function. With correct installation and maintenance, a used transmission can deliver consistent performance, making it a practical solution for drivers who rely on their trucks for demanding tasks.
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By Counterman
link hidden, please login to view announced that American Truck Parts LLC, a full-service heavy-duty truck and trailer service and parts provider based in Porterville, California, has joined the Power Heavy Duty network. American Truck Parts offers in-house service capabilities, including a full-service truck and trailer service department, flywheel resurfacing, driveline services, hydraulic hose fabrication, mobile truck repair and machine shop services. Located near major freeways in California’s Central Valley, the company supports a diverse customer base across on-highway, off-highway, industrial and agricultural applications, serving fleets and owner-operators in one of the nation’s most active agricultural regions.
Leadership and staff
Owner and president Brandon Tharp leads a staff of 12 including four technicians, two counter staff and one outside sales representative.
“Our vision is to continue building a strong, reliable parts and service operation that our customers can depend on day in and day out,” said Tharp. “We’re focused on expanding our parts inventory, growing our service capabilities, and strengthening our presence throughout the Central Valley. At the same time, we want to stay true to our roots providing honest service, building long-term relationships, and continuing the legacy our family has built in this industry.”
Roots in Central Valley trucking
Tharp purchased the business in 2025, but is no stranger to the trucking and heavy-duty parts industry.
The roots of American Truck Parts are closely tied to a long-standing Central Valley trucking and heavy-duty tradition. The Tharp family’s involvement in trucking dates back to 1935, when E.M. “Gene” Tharp began his career in commercial hauling. Over the decades, the family’s operations expanded into truck sales, service and parts, ultimately leading to the formation of American Truck Parts in 1979. From there, after a series of acquisitions, American Truck Parts became available as an independent business opportunity.
Today, American Truck Parts continues that legacy as an independent operation focused exclusively on parts and service, while remaining connected to generations of industry experience.
Network perspective
“American Truck Parts and their broad service capabilities, strong regional presence, and commitment to supporting mixed-vocation customers make them an excellent fit for our growing network,” said Joe Meyer, vice president of business development for the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies. “The Tharp family legacy provides a strong foundation, and Brandon’s leadership brings fresh perspective and momentum that position the business well for long-term success.”
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By Counterman
NEXUS Automotive International announced the appointment of Palle Willumsen as senior vice president of business development, effective March 16, 2026. Willumsen will lead business development efforts to support NEXUS’ market position and strengthen partnerships with major industry stakeholders. He will be responsible for executing NEXUS’ strategic objectives and ensuring continued growth.
Industry experience
Willumsen has more than 25 years of experience in the automotive aftermarket, holding senior positions across sales, marketing and general management. He began his career as a sales manager and later advanced to senior leadership roles including vice president of sales and marketing and general manager.
His extensive experience reflects his knowledge of the automotive sector and leadership capabilities. His commercial and strategic track record supports his new role at NEXUS Automotive International.
Executive comments
“We’re thrilled to welcome Palle to lead our business development. His deep understanding of
link hidden, please login to view and his extensive experience will reinforce our status as a global leader and will further align NEXUS with the expectations of our suppliers,” said Gaël Escribe, CEO of NEXUS. “Palle’s remarkable career within the industry will play a key role in shaping the future of the NEXUS group.” “I am very excited to join
link hidden, please login to view and to work with such a dynamic and forward-thinking community,” said Willumsen. “Having spent many years in the automotive aftermarket, I truly value the power of strong partnerships and collaboration. I look forward to working closely with the NEXUS team, members and suppliers to drive growth and create new opportunities.” The post
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