It took more than 120 years for Navistar to roll out a fully integrated powertrain, but took less than two years to finally get it into customer hands.
Deliveries of the all-new International S13 Integrated Powertrain, formally announced in August 2022, are underway, with first deliveries going to Gemini Motor Transport, Saddle Creek Logistics Services and Paschall Truck Lines.
[Related: Navistar kicks off production of its last ICE powertrain]
"Navistar is thrilled to have handed off the first S13 Integrated Powertrain units," said Chet Ciesielski, Navistar's vice president of On-Highway Heavy Duty Truck Business.
Navistar says the S13 Integrated Powertrain significantly simplifies service, boosts operating efficiency, reduces operating costs, and provides greater performance and profitability for fleets.
Gemini Motor Transport, a nationwide fuel motor carrier and part of the Love's Family of Companies, recently took delivery of its first LT Series powered by the S13 Integrated Powertrain, which was assembled at Navistar's Escobedo Assembly Plant in Mexico. Love's is also a Navistar-authorized warranty repair provider at over 430 Love's Truck Care and Speedco locations, noted Brent Bergevin, Love's executive vice president of transportation.
"As a member of the Love's Family of Companies, Gemini Motor Transport is proud to be family owned and operated with locations in 42 states. Providing quality products and services for drivers means partnering with companies like Navistar who continue to develop state-of-the-art engines, transmissions, and aftertreatment systems that help Gemini drivers in both driver safety and road efficiency," said
Saddle Creek Logistics Services, a supply chain solutions company, took delivery of its first LT Series equipped with the S13 Integrated Powertrain, one of several Saddle Creek is adding to its fleet.
"I love the ergonomics and the spacious interior of the cab, and the transmission is the smoothest that I have ever experienced," Saddle Creek driver Ed Hadley, a driver with Saddle Creek. "It finds the right gear smoothly and quickly and has great torque and power. It is just a really enjoyable driving experience."
Paschall Truck Lines tested a S13 Integrated Powertrain-equipped LT Series sleeper tractor last fall, and Vice President of Fleet Maintenance Vic Norris said during that time experienced "very strong fuel economy, a good driver experience, and 100% equipment uptime."
