Overdrive Magazine | Trucking Business News & Owner Operator Info
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/119523
EQUIPMENT SPOTLIGHT MID-AMERICA TRUCKING SHOW Volvo introduces heavy-haul tractor Volvo's VNX, which has a distinct metallic honeycomb-patterned grille and a bright-finish steel bumper with a center tow pin, uses the company's full-size daycab. Volvo Trucks unveiled its VNX, a high-performance model designed for extreme gross weight applications. The VNX features an integrated powertrain – the new D16 engine with 600 horsepower and 2,050 lb.-ft. of torque, and the I-Shift automated manual transmission. It was developed for applications up to 225,000 pounds. Available in 6x4 and 8x4 configurations, the Volvo VNX offers front-axle ratings range from 16,000 to 20,000 pounds with parabolic springs. Available tires include the 385 wide-base, 425 and 445 to match front-axle load capacity. Available rear axles range from 46,000 to 52,000 pounds in regular, dual-track and wide-track tandem configurations. Dual steering gears and a 20,000-pound steerable pusher axle also are available. Kenworth and Peterbilt unveil vocational models Paccar's Kenworth and Peterbilt divisions each showcased new vocational trucks. Kenworth's severe-duty T880 is like the company's T800 model, but with a more utilitarian cab and dash layout – mirroring the interior comforts of the T680 line. Peterbilt's Model 567 is based on last year's Peterbilt Model 579. Both trucks are available in two BBC configurations – 121 and 115 inches – in a daycab or with a selection of detachable sleeper configurations. Three sleeper sizes are available – 44-, 70- and 80-inch. Other features include a newly designed Kenworth's T880 takes the rugged severe-duty side of its T800 model and combines it with the interior comforts of its T680. aluminum cab, a Metton hood designed to absorb impact, improved windshield visibility and a lighter-but-stiffer Peterbilt's Model 567 has 'a rugged design and versatile configuration' along with 'enhanced visibility and a new spacious interior,' says Peterbilt General Manager Bill Kozek. chassis design. Routing improvements to the chassis system include new air and fuel hard lines. Mack suspension improves tire life 25% Mack's Twin-Y air suspension is up to 403 pounds lighter than other conventional suspensions, offering significant weight savings, said Jerry Warmkessel, Mack's on-highway products manager. Warmkessel said that its simple yet strong maintenancefree design was engineered to provide a Mack's Twin-Y suspension, in addition to its weight savings, helps ease maintenance costs comfortable and easier-handling ride. by coming lubed for life, the company says. The design includes two stamped high- strength steel Y-shaped blades per wheel end. According to Warmkessel, this design clamps the axle with both upper and lower axle seats to reduce suspension windup and improve tire traction and braking control, as well as increase tire life by up to 25 percent. The axle seats are clamped to the axle housing by Huck U-bolts on both sides and never need to be retorqued, he said. 44 | Overdrive | April 2013 MATS_0413.indd 44 4/1/13 9:30 PM