Navistar showed off its International LoadStar lightweight, low-cab-forward refuse truck this week at Waste Expo 2012 in Las Vegas. The truck, which was officially unveiled at this year’s Mid-America Trucking Show, was built for severe-duty applications such as waste and recycling.
“We talked to drivers to better understand their needs, what is missing from the trucks they drive, and re-imagined a better solution,” said Jack Allen, president of Navistar’s North American truck group.
“To fit driver needs, we optimized the space in the cab, increased seat and steering wheel movement, and adjusted joystick placement to deliver an outstanding ergonomic and customizable work environment. The exterior boasts the signature appearance and design of the International Truck brand.”
Among the features of the truck, according to Navistar, is the industry’s first stainless steel cab to minimize corrosion and increase durability; vocationally designed variable depth frame rails for maximum durability; ergonomically designed cab interior, including excellent control placement; Navistar’s Diamond Logic multiplexed electrical system with capabilities that provide seamless body integration for increased safety and ease of operation; and an integrated powertrain powered by a MaxxForce engine featuring CleanBurn emissions technology or optional natural gas version in early 2013.
The cab is made of stainless steel, creating a high-strength, long-lasting and corrosion-resistant cab. The truck also has variable depth frame rails designed for vocational usage offering maximum durability for users. It features a tilt/telescoping steering column and 10-in. fore/aft and 6.5-in. up/down seat travel.
An 18-in. first step height and wide 90-deg. door opening improves driver comfort and ease of operation, Navistar said.
Navistar also recently acquired certain assets and intellectual property from E-Z Pack Manufacturing, a maker of truck bodies for the waste and refuse industry. This acquisition will allow Navistar to offer the LoadStar as a fully integrated cab/chassis/body, the company said.
The truck will also be available with bodies from other companies as well.
The LoadStar will be available with diesel powered 10-, 11- or 13-liter MaxxForce engines, and a Cummins Westport ISL-G compressed natural gas engine available in spring 2013, for increased versatility.
