Peterbilt’s 386 aero

Peterbilt’s 386 aero
Peterbilt launched the Model 386, an aerodynamic highway tractor that can be configured as a day cab or with a Unibilt detachable sleeper. The Model 386 replaces the 120-inch BBC version of the Model 385 and features aerodynamic styling similar to the Model 387, which has an integrated sleeper. Peterbilt continues to sell the 112-inch BBC Model 385.

“The Model 386 was developed to impact a customer’s bottom line through improved fuel economy, increased driver productivity, greater resale value and as a tool for attracting and retaining drivers,” says Dan Sobic, Peterbilt general manager and Paccar vice president.

Peterbilt Chief Engineer Craig Brewster says numerous elements of the 386 were designed to maximize aerodynamics, including a contoured sunvisor, side chassis fairings, dramatically sloped hood, integrated headlamps, swept-back fender design and form-fitted bumper. For example, the company designed and evaluated 80 different sunvisor shapes before selecting the final design. The Model 386 represents a 10 percent improvement in aerodynamic efficiency over the 385-120, resulting in a fuel economy improvement of about 0.3 mpg, the company says.

The Model 386 chassis design also lowered radiator mounting, allowing for a lower hood crown that increases forward visibility ground-strike by about two feet, Brewster says. A repositioned front axle facilitates improved weight loading capabilities and allowed for a shorter wheelbase to help reduce turning radius.

An advanced forward lighting system offers better aerodynamics as well as better lighting and longer life, Peterbilt says. The design creates a higher intensity beam that increases forward lighting by 43 percent, helping to reduce driver fatigue and improve safety, the company says.

Flexibility in application and resale options is another feature of the Model 386. The Unibilt sleeper system allows for the sleeper to be detached from the cab, providing the vehicle with a second and even third service life as a day cab in regional or vocational applications. The Unibilt sleeper is available in 48-inch, 63-inch and 70-inch roof configurations. Production of the Model 386 begins in July.