Sources: Navistar Inc., Lisle, Ill.; CP staff
Stepping into a market segment Mack and Peterbilt drive, Navistar unveiled a low cab forward model, suited to concrete pumping and refuse hauling vehicles, at the Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville. The LoadStar is equipped with a stainless steel cab to minimize corrosion and increase durability; vocationally designed, variable depth frame rails for durability, light weight, and ride characteristics; ergonomically designed cab interior; and, integrated powertrain with MaxxForce engine (10, 11 or 13L), featuring CleanBurn Emissions Technology or optional natural gas version (Cummins ISL-G, early 2013).
“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,” said Jim Hebe, Navistar senior vice president, North American sales operations. LoadStar features the industry’s first stainless steel cab-over design, netting a high-strength, long-lasting and corrosion-resistant enclosure, he adds.
A standard tilt/telescoping steering column and 10-in. fore/aft and 6.5-in. up/down seat travel afford abundant belly room. A 90-degree door opening and easy 18-in. first step height provide drivers maximum comfort in a vehicle with maneuverability underscored by up to 40-degree wheel cuts, Navistar engineers note. The truck also features the Diamond Logic system, which helps decrease downtime and improves productivity by enabling control of and communication between vehicle components and body equipment. LoadStar will be available for orders in October 2012 through U.S. and Canadian International dealers.