Overdrive

October 2017

Overdrive Magazine | Trucking Business News & Owner Operator Info

Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/893962

Contents of this Issue

Navigation

Page 47 of 83

46 | Overdrive | October 2017 I nternational Trucks announced enhancements to its LoneStar, a truck that Dave Majors, Navistar's vice president of product development, calls "an advanced classic." For the next model year, the company plans interior updates to its flagship trac- tor designed to maximize driver produc- tivity while improving ergonomics and visibility. Majors pointed out that the truck's unique grille, D-Series-inspired fender flares and chrome-rich customiz- able exterior platform will remain. "We couldn't touch that grille," said Majors, who was a member of the team that designed the original D40-inspired LoneStar a decade ago. "It's such a statement coming down the road." The new LoneStar will feature the Cummins X15 engine that, when com- bined with the contoured hood, fenders and aerodynamic pedestal mirrors, makes the truck up to 3 percent more fuel-efficient than its previous generation. Navistar's A26 engine is not available. LoneStar also gets Cummins' new single-canister aftertreatment system that is 60 percent smaller, up to 100 pounds lighter and simplified for quicker servicing. While LoneStar's original design targeted owner-operators, Majors said many fleets have embraced the truck as a reward for top drivers, making driv- ability and comfort top priorities. An all-new more robust HVAC system has been tested at 0 degrees Fahrenheit. Air vents are fully closable. The doors, side glass and cab mirrors all have been redesigned to enhance visibility and help reduce neck strain. A door that is twice as stiff as previous models and improved seal compression both make the cab quieter. Updated cab wiring includes all-new harnessing and an in-cab power distri- bution module that is inside the truck and away from the elements. All key ser- vice points are designed for easier access and servicing. LoneStar comes standard with Bendix's Wingman Advanced Collision Mitigation system and is available with the optional Bendix Wingman Fusion and RollTek seats, which are designed for extra rollover protection. Every LoneStar can be equipped with OnCommand Connection and over- the-air programming as an option. OTA enables a mobile interface to initiate authorized engine programming over a secure Wi-Fi connection. The LoneStar is available in day cab, 56-inch low- and high-rise sleeper and 73-inch high-rise and sky-rise sleeper. The new LoneStar will have many changes, but its distinctive grille will remain. The truck can be ordered now and is expected to be available by December. LoneStar to shine brighter with updates The instrument cluster offers customizable selective gauges in the driver information display. Bluetooth has been integrated into the pillar with controls on the steering wheel. Steering wheel buttons and rocker switches have been laser-etched and backlit for better nighttime visibility. Rocker switches were designed large enough to use with gloves on. BY JASON CANNON

Articles in this issue

Archives of this issue

view archives of Overdrive - October 2017