Medium-duty Class 4-6 (26,001-40,000 lb. GVWR)

Navistar enters market with TerraStar

Like many light- and heavy-duty OEMs, several medium-duty truck makers are launching new models and introducing big redesigns, updated engines and revamped platforms, along with a few other touchups worth noting, such as added technologies and safety features. Here are some highlights of what to expect:

FREIGHTLINER

Freightliner Trucks’ improvements to the Business Class M2 106V include a larger radiator, new hood and improved headlight system to further enhance the truck’s versatility and performance. The larger 1,200-square-inch radiator can accommodate up to 380 hp with an automatic transmission and up to 80,000 pounds GVW. The truck’s new Blend-Air intake system pulls air from under and outside the hood, which helps the stream of air when snow and debris may otherwise constrict airflow. The composite headlights feature complex reflectors with halogen bulbs that are easy to replace and available at auto and truck supply stores.

HINO

Hino’s ambulance-specific version of its 2011 model-year 258ALP Class 6 chassis has a cab and chassis designed for maximum maneuverability, reliable performance and ample power for the demands of the emergency rescue market. The vehicle features a new Hendrickson suspension that allows a 28-inch frame height as required by the ambulance industry. In addition, the diesel exhaust fluid tank on Hino trucks now accommodates 4.7 gallons, allowing the vehicle to travel as many as 2,500 miles before refilling.

ISUZU

Isuzu Commercial Truck of America launched three higher GVWR models: the NPR-HD (14,500 pounds GVWR), NQR (17,950 pounds GVWR) and NRR (19,500 pounds GVWR). The trucks are powered by an updated version of the company’s 4HK1-TC 5.2L engine.

KENWORTH

Available for the T270 are factory-installed front drive axles for utility service, construction vehicles, oilfield service and boom trucks, in addition to municipal applications such as fire and emergency vehicles. The front drive axle is available in ratings ranging from 10,000 to 14,000 pounds on T270s equipped with a Paccar PX-6 engine, and up to 16,000 pounds when equipped with a Paccar PX-8 engine. Kenworth’s medium-duty trucks also now feature enhanced multiplex instrumentation, the Kenworth Driver Information Center and modern dash styling. The company also has enhanced its componentry packaging for its T270 diesel-electric hybrid model and has added a new inverter design.

MITSUBISHI FUSO

Mitsubishi Fuso Truck of America is using engines equipped with BlueTec technology developed by Mitsubishi Fuso and Daimler AG. BlueTec uses selective catalytic reduction to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions by treating the downstream exhaust gas with diesel exhaust fluid; once in the SCR catalyst, the NOx in the exhaust gas reacts with the DEF to form water and nitrogen. A DEF gauge is integrated into the instrument panel to allow the driver to monitor the DEF tank level. In addition, onboard diagnostics will monitor the function of the emissions system to maintain U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 2010 compliance and communicate the system’s status to the driver.

NAVISTAR

The International TerraStar is a conventional truck design built on a strong, durable commercial-duty platform. International engineers designed the TerraStar with a large front windshield for premium visibility, a 107-inch BBC (bumper to back-of-cab) length and a 44-foot curb-to-curb turning radius, while a spacious cab allows plenty of room for three adults to fit comfortably in the front seat. The TerraStar – which will be offered with optional extended cab or crew cab configurations – initially will be available with a 4×2 drivetrain, with a 4×4 drivetrain planned for 2011. The TerraStar will feature International’s Diamond Logic electrical system, an advanced electrical multiplexing architecture.

UD TRUCKS

UD Trucks North America’s new trucks are powered by the company’s new GH7 six-cylinder diesel engine that is available with performance ratings of 245 and 280 hp and uses selective catalytic reduction while meeting the Certified Clean Idle standard. The trucks also are designed to be more aerodynamic, quieter and driver-friendly.

WORKHORSE

Workhorse Custom Chassis’ W62 chassis now is powered by a GM Vortec 6.0L gasoline engine that replaces the previous Vortec 8.1L gasoline engine and uses variable valve timing (VVT) that enables the powertrain to take advantage of late intake valve closing for greater efficiency. The W62 also is offered with an International MaxxForce 7 diesel.

DODGE

www.dodge.com

Dodge Chassis Cab 4500

RAM

Model: Chassis Cab 4500, 5500 2WD/4WD Regular/Quad

Payload (lb.): 7,790-11,980

Wheelbase (in.): 144.5-204.5

Length overall (in.): 235.3-295.3

CA (in.): 60-120

Gas Engine: 5.7L V8

HP @ rpm: 383 @ 5600

Diesel Engine: Turbo 6.7L V8

HP @ rpm: 305 @ 2900

Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm: 610 @ 1600

GVWR (lb.): 16,000-19,500

FORD