Overdrive Magazine | Trucking Business News & Owner Operator Info
Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/85437
severe service | equipment & news Tough transmission, tough trucks The Eaton UltraShift Plus Vocational series automated trans- mission is now available for the Freightliner 114SD equipped with the Detroit DD13 engine and the Coronado SD (pictured) with up to 600 hp/2,050 lb.-ft. of torque. For low-speed maneuverability on challenging worksites, the UltraShift Plus is the ideal transmission choice, Freightliner says. Through extended low and reverse gear ratio coverage, it provides the lowest ground speed for curbing, creeping, spreading and paving. It's also suited to highway construction and dump operations. The patented shift logic and controls within every UltraShift Plus constantly adapt based on changes in weight of load, grade and power, making adjustments to maximize efficiency. Features include Hill Start Aid; auto neutral, which automati- The Coronado SD is one of two Freightliner models that can be spec'ed with the Eaton UltraShift Plus Vocational series automated transmission. cally switches the transmission into neutral once the park- ing brake is engaged; automatic, manual and low modes to enhance driver control; and optional creep mode to maintain constant ground speed. Freightliner Trucks, freightlinertrucks.com Eaton, roadranger.com Low-cab-forward severe-duty truck BY JACK ROBERTS The new International LoadStar low-cab-forward severe service truck, unveiled in March at the Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville, Ky., is all new from the ground up, said Jim Hebe, Navistar vice president of North American Sales. Though it shares many components with existing International vehicles, most notably the WorkStar, the new model is designed for applications such as waste hauling, concrete-pumping and aircraft refueling. Drawing on feedback from drivers and fleet personnel, the new truck's designers "optimized the space in the cab, increased seat and steering wheel movement and adjusted joystick placement to deliver an outstanding ergonomic and customizable work envi- ronment," Hebe said. He pointed to optimized and body-builder-integrated control placements that put comfort on a par with dependable power — MaxxForce Cleanburn diesel emissions technology will underpin engine options, and a natural gas-powered version will be available early next year. Key exterior features include a stainless steel cab to minimize corrosion and increase durability in the field, vocationally designed variable-depth frame rails for reduced weight and frame rail heights and improved ride characteristics. The truck will be available for order this year, with production beginning in 2013. International Trucks, internationaltrucks.com 48 OVERDRIVE JUNE 2012 The design ot the new LoadStar's interior takes into account driver feedback.