Hendrickson and AxleTech International announced they were awarded two contracts from Navistar Defense to equip 250 International MaxxPro Dash ambulances and 471 mine resistant ambush protected (MRAP) vehicles with independent suspension systems. Hendrickson and AxleTech have teamed to develop the suspension systems that will be delivered for vehicle integration under two recent U.S. Marine Corps contracts.
Hendrickson says that as the Tier 1 supplier, it leveraged its extensive experience with heavy-duty suspension design and systems and in vehicle integration to manage the program and lead the engineering, testing and validation of the system out of its headquarters and advanced test laboratory in Woodridge, Ill. The system utilizes AxleTech’s planetary axle independent suspension technology for the MaxxPro Dash. The axles for the MaxxPro Dash program join AxleTech’s independent suspension system to Hendrickson’s engineered subframe.
“Hendrickson is pleased to have been awarded this business from Navistar Defense,” says Doug Sanford, vice president and general manager of Hendrickson’s Truck Suspension Systems. “As the Tier I supplier, we have partnered with AxleTech to supply important axle components for this integrated system. Our combined suspension/axle solution provides advanced independent technology for the MaxxPro Dash ambulance and MRAP vehicle. Furthermore, we are proud to use our expertise in vehicle dynamics, suspension design and vehicle integration to help develop high-performing emergency vehicles that help protect our soldiers.”
Production work began in June at Hendrickson’s facility in Kendallville, Ind., which has a work force of about 215 employees, and AxleTech’s facility in Oshkosh, Wis., which has a work force of about 200 employees. Deliveries will be completed in September.
“AxleTech’s state-of-the-art 5000 Series Independent Suspension Axle System will be incorporated with Hendrickson technology to equip MaxxPro Dash ambulances and MRAP vehicles with extreme mobility and maneuverability through rugged terrain, contributing to lifesaving critical care for injured warfighters and offering confidence to the commander for a successful mission,” says Gerry Giudici, vice president and general manager of AxleTech International. “We look forward to continuing our partnership with Hendrickson to supply Navistar Defense with a world-class product to enhance the vehicle’s ride control, handling and safety.”
