2005 MODELS IN REVIEW

Oct. 1, 2004
LIGHT TRUCKS DaimlerChrysler DaimlerChrysler's Sprinter continues to be badged either a Dodge or a Freightliner. Commercial versions of the Class 2 van are available as cargo, cab/chassis, or passenger units. The cargo, passenger, and cab/chassis versions all offer a choice of three wheelbases (118 in., 140 in., and 158 in.) and two GVWRs (8,550 lb and 9,990 lb). Cargo and passenger models are available

LIGHT TRUCKS

DaimlerChrysler

DaimlerChrysler's Sprinter continues to be badged either a Dodge or a Freightliner. Commercial versions of the Class 2 van are available as cargo, cab/chassis, or passenger units. The cargo, passenger, and cab/chassis versions all offer a choice of three wheelbases (118 in., 140 in., and 158 in.) and two GVWRs (8,550 lb and 9,990 lb). Cargo and passenger models are available with a standard (64.3 in. inside) or high roof (73 in. inside).

The Class 1-2 trucks boast straight frame rails, integrated body-mounting rackets, and a fuel system integrated into the cab to ease body installations. An Electronic Stability Program (ESP) is available on 2,500 models only. The manufacturer says ESP helps reduce the danger of skidding by electronically intervening to help the driver handle critical driving situations more effectively.

All Sprinters are powered by a 2.7-liter Mercedes-Benz CDI turbodiesel that generates 154 hp at 3,800 rpm and 243 lb-ft of torque at 1,600 rpm to 2,400 rpm. It's driven through a Mercedes-Benz five-speed automatic transmission with electronically controlled shifting. Other features include power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering, a body structure designed to channel the force of an impact to the frame, full-size driver and passenger airbags, and four-wheel disc ABS brakes.

Web site: www.sprinter.com
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Hybrids on the Horizon

Almost two-thirds of EC&M readers say continually rising gas prices haven't caused them to adjust their truck purchasing practices, but that could be because they haven't had many alternatives. To date, automakers have focused most of their hybrid development efforts on cars and SUVs, experiencing only limited success with trucks and minivans. Although it doesn't appear that will change any time soon, DaimlerChrysler is about to launch a joint project with the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), Palo Alto, Calif., that will test the viability of hybrid work vans. The manufacturer recently announced plans to design, build, and test a series of Dodge Sprinter vans that combine a plug-in hybrid-electric drive train and internal combustion engine.

Starting in early 2005 and lasting for three years, the Kansas City Regional Transit Authority will test a diesel version of the van, and Southern California Edison and South Coast Air Quality Management District will each fleet-test one gasoline version. DaimlerChrysler will use the results to determine the feasibility of a full-scale launch. The company and EPRI are positive about the project's prospects. “If we get the results we're expecting, production could start reasonably soon,” says Mark Duvall, EPRI manager of technical development for electric transportation.

Plug-in hybrid vehicles combine an internal combustion engine with an electric motor and rechargeable battery. The systems operate in parallel, making it possible to drive on gas and electric power simultaneously or on electric power only. The rechargeable battery can be charged through a standard 110V or 220V receptacle. Running on electricity alone, the Sprinter will travel 20 miles before the engine is needed. EPRI reports that the hybrid system can offer fuel consumption savings of 10% to 50%.

Dodge

DaimlerChrysler's Dodge truck division has put together an all-new Dodge Dakota mid-size pickup for 2005. It offers a stronger and more durable fully boxed frame, along with new front and rear suspensions to provide more than 7,000 lb of towing capability and a gross combined weight (GCW) of 11,500 lb. The '05 Dodge Dakota is 3.7 in. longer than its predecessor, primarily ahead of the front axle, to provide added crush space for improved impact performance. The bumpers are extended slightly farther fore and aft to increase their protective capabilities in low-speed impacts, and the body is 2.7 in. wider.

Dodge is also offering new engine options for the '05 Dakota: a standard 3.7-liter Magnum V6 rated at 210 hp at 5,200 rpm and 235 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm; a 4.7-liter V8 Magnum rated at 230 hp at 4,600 rpm and 295 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm; and a new 4.7-liter High Output Magnum V8 with more than 250 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque. Both V8 engines are rated between 3% and 4% more fuel efficient than the previous Dodge Dakota V8 engines, the company says.

The interior has been upgraded as well: the Dakota Quad Cab is available with six-passenger seating and can be equipped with heated cloth seats if desired.

Web site: www.dodge.com
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Ford

Ford Motor Co. continues to tweak its popular F-150 pickup, despite a complete overhaul of that line last year. For 2005, Ford is offering a new 4.2-liter V6 gasoline engine option and a five-speed manual transmission option, along with a new electronic throttle and powertrain control module.

Aside from those changes, Ford continues to tout the improvements it made to the F-150 line overall for the 2004 model year: a 50% stiffer frame, an additional 6 in. of room in the Regular Cab and SuperCab models, an exclusive overhead rail storage system, and enhanced noise-dampening to make the cab much quieter.

The F-150 still comes in three cab styles (Regular, Super, and Crew), three box lengths (5.5 ft, 6.5 ft, and 8 ft), two box styles, and five distinct series (XL, STX, XLT, FX4, and Lariat). Maximum tow rating is 9,500 lb, and maximum payload capacity is 2,900 lb.

Also for 2005, Ford's Mercury division plans to roll out a four-door luxury pickup based on the F-150. Looking ahead to 2006, Ford noted that its compact Ranger pickup line is earmarked for a major overhaul to improve power for greater towing and hauling capability.

Web site: www.ford.com
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General Motors

General Motors is beefing up the brake systems for its 2005 model-year GMC Sierra and Chevrolet Silverado pickup trucks. Working with Robert Bosch AG, GM says the '05 versions of both pickup lines have reduced braking time by two seconds and cut stopping distance by 85 ft.

The OEM expects the half-ton crew cab versions of the Silverado and Sierra to continue to be big draws in '05, along with its specially equipped Z71 Off-Road Silverado model. The company says these half-ton Crew Cabs provide four full-sized doors, roomy six-passenger seating, and a new 5-ft, 8-in. cargo bed that permits easy handling and parking.

GM is formally introducing a hybrid version of the Silverado and Sierra pickup for '05. The new trucks will be powered by GM's 5300 Vortec V8 engine and Hydra-Matic 4L60-E four-speed automatic transmission, coupled with hybrid technology that delivers 10% to 12% improved fuel economy over current GM half-ton pickups. According to GM, the hybrids have reduced emissions and unique accessory power capability, without any sacrifice in load-carrying, towing, and grade-climbing capability. In addition, four 120V, 20A electrical auxiliary power outlets located under the rear seat of the cab and in the pickup bed can accommodate up to four accessories while driving or when parked.

Web sites: www.chevrolet.com and www.gmc.com
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Nissan

Nissan is revamping its Frontier pickups for 2005 along the lines of its forceful redesign of the Titan pickups in 2004. The new Frontier is larger and more powerful than its predecessor, and shares several features with the full-size Titan: similar suspension, factory spray-in bedliner, utili-track bed channel tie-down system, and a fully boxed, all-steel frame based on the Titan platform. Nissan plans to offer the 2005 Frontier in both King Cab and Crew Cab body styles, and both vehicles will be available in 4×2 and 4×4 configurations.

The wheelbase is 9.8 in. longer than the current model. Overall, it's slightly longer at 205.5 in. Width and height measurements have been increased and the suspension layout gains the design benefits of the Titan, including an all-steel double-wishbone front suspension and rigid leaf rear suspension with overslung leaf springs and a long suspension stroke for better off-road ride. Power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering and four-wheel disc brakes with ABS are standard.

Power for the Frontier comes from a new 4.0-liter DOHC V6 engine that offers more than 250 hp, and a 2.5-liter DOHC inline four-cylinder engine is standard on the base model King Cab. Transmission choices include a five-speed automatic or a six-speed manual. Four-by-four models include a shift-on-the-fly four-wheel drive system and an optional off-road traction system that features performance gas shocks and alloy wheels.

Web site: www.nissan.com
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Toyota

Next year Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A. will introduce the all-new Tacoma X-Runner pickup, one of several new Tacoma redesigns for 2005. “The new Tacomas will offer an extensive variety of body-and-bed configurations with substantially more passenger room, cargo volume, and towing capacity than ever before,” says Don Esmond, senior VP and general manager of the Toyota Div.

The X-Runner will ride on a wheelbase that has been extended by 5 in., and a track that has been widened by 4 in. compared to the previous-generation Tacoma S-Runner. The increased size translates to an extra 4.5 in. of interior shoulder and hip room.

The chassis for the X-Runner will sit 1 in. lower than the standard Tacoma frame, resting on 18-in. 45-series V-rated performance radials wrapped around alloy wheels. Firmer and shorter springs are mounted at all four corners, while specially tuned gas shocks are positioned outboard of the frame rails for increased stability. Power comes from a 4.0-liter, 240-hp V6 engine that cranks out 275 lb-ft of torque. It also features a six-speed close-ratio manual transmission. Safety features include ABS (standard) and optional side-curtain airbags and electronic vehicle stability control.

Web site: www.toyota.com
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MEDIUM TRUCKS

Ford

Ford Motor Co. is offering a range of improvements to its 2005 F-Series Super Duty models. At the lighter end of the category, tow ratings have been increased to a maximum of 17,000 lb for the F-350. Also new is the TowCommand system, a combination of standard and optional features, including a factory-installed trailer brake controller, that make towing easier. Payload capacity for the F-250 and F-350 lines will also increase: the F-350 will have as much as 5,800 lb of cargo carrying capacity in '05, while the dual versions of both the F-250 and F-350 will get yet another 500 lb and 1,000 lb, respectively.

Ford is also providing a new front suspension and improved steering on its 4×4 pickups, for better ride, handling, and maneuverability. In addition, a revamped 6.0-liter Power Stroke diesel engine, built by International Truck & Engine Corp., offers 570 lb-ft of torque.

Enhancements to the F-450, F-550, F-650, and F-750 lines for '05 will be modeled after improvements made last year to the commercial version of the E-Series van chassis. One example is a new engine for the F-450 and F-550. Ford's three-valve-per-cylinder-head engine design, first introduced on the 2004 F-150, is now available on a V10 engine for some of its heavier Super Duty trucks. The new 6.8-liter, 3-valve Triton V10 engine produces 355 hp and 455 lb-ft of torque.

Turning diameter for F-450 and F-550 trucks has improved by an average of 12 ft on '05 models.

Web site: www.ford.com
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Freightliner

Freightliner LLC's medium-duty Business Class M2 trucks are now powered by 2004-model Mercedes-Benz MBE900 diesel engines. Sized from 4.3 liters to 7.2 liters, the MBE900 boasts advanced electronic controls, sophisticated fuel injection and extended maintenance cycles. Available in four-cylinder and six-cylinder configurations, the engine offers ratings from 170 hp to 330 hp and a torque range of 420 lb-ft to 1,000 lb-ft. Freightliner points out the MBE900 delivers this range of torque at a low rpm to allow for “fewer, smoother shifts, better driveability, and more capacity to climb hills and negotiate stop-and-go traffic.”

The MBE900 uses an exhaust gas recirculation system (EGR) to meet '04 emission standards. The engine features an optional exhaust brake, compression brake, or combination exhaust/compression brake for improved vehicle control and less service brake wear. The company notes the combination exhaust/compression brake produces up to 215 braking hp (182 bhp at 2,300 rpm).

Also new is an available Mercedes-Benz Automated Gear Shift (AGS) transmission on Business Class M2 models. The transmission features a two-pedal, automated clutch actuation system. With the AGS transmission, no manual shifting or clutching is required. The transmission automatically manages all gearshifts, which Freightliner says makes the truck more efficient and easier to drive. And by eliminating the clutch pedal, the life of the clutch and the transmission are significantly extended. While AGS is designed to operate as an automated transmission, a manual shift option is offered. Freightliner says its SmartShift lever allows drivers to shift manually, depending on conditions or preference, to allow for “total control and versatility while driving in tough road conditions.”

Web site: www.freightliner.com
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General Motors

GM's introduction of factory-engineered four-wheel drive represents the big improvement for the 2005 GMC TopKick and Chevrolet Kodiak models. The 4×4 TopKick and Kodiak trucks are available in both regular and crew cab configurations. Wheelbases range from 152 in. to 235 in.

Off-road handling is enhanced by a new electronically controlled Venture Gear Model NV273 two-speed transfer case and an instrument panel-mounted rotary selector switch for four-low, four-high, and two-wheel-drive settings. Four-wheel-drive TopKick and Kodiak models also feature manually activated front locking hubs for additional traction capability, and a heavy-duty off-road skid plate to protect the transfer case.

The TopKick and Kodiak keep their gasoline- and diesel-engine options. The Vortec 8100 MD V8 gasoline powerplant is standard, while the Duramax 6600 V8 turbo diesel is optional. Both are mated to a standard Allison 100 series five-speed transmission. To zero-in on optimal engine power for various operating conditions, all TopKick and Kodiak models come equipped with electronic throttle control. This means the 4×4-equipped trucks will have better throttle control in slow-speed maneuvers like parking, as well as during fast-response situations when operating off-road.

Web site: www.chevrolet.com and www.gmc.com
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Hino

The new family of conventional medium-duty Class 4-7 trucks, introduced by Hino Motors Sales USA last year to replace its cabover line here in the United States, is undergoing some changes for 2005. Hino's conventional lineup comprises six models: the 145, 165, 185, 238, 268, and 338. GVWRs range from 14,050 lb to 33,000 lb, and all models are equipped with Hino's J-Series 5-liter or 8-liter engine, offering between 175 hp and 260 hp.

One change for '05 is the addition of a low-profile option with 19.5-in. wheels to the Model 238 line (23,000-lb GVWR), according to Guy Bradford, Hino's national marketing manager. A fully air braked version of the 238 will also be available for '05, complementing the hydraulic brake option that's currently available. At the heavier end of the conventional lineup, Model 268 (29,500-lb GVWR) and Model 338 (33,000-lb GVWR), Hino is offering an optional air rear suspension package from Hendrickson. “We plan to roll all of these new changes and options out starting in August through the end of this year,” Bradford says.

Web site: www.hino.com
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International

International Truck & Engine Corp. has rolled out the CF Series line of low-cab-forward trucks. The line consists of the CF 500, with a 16,000-lb GVWR, and the CF 600, with a 19,500-lb GVWR. The company says the CF Series marks its entry into the Class 4-5 market with an all-new product “designed and produced in North America, for North American customers.” Both the CF 500 and CF 600 are powered by the newly developed International VT 275 diesel. The 4.5-liter V6 boasts peak ratings of 200 hp at 3,000 rpm and 440 lb-ft of torque at 1,850 rpm. International says its new powerplant is built on technology first used for its VT 365 diesel V8. The CF's integrated powertrain includes a five-speed overdrive automatic transmission as standard.

The CF Series offers “great ride and handling along with superior visibility and maneuverability,” says Dave Johanneson, group VP and general manager for International's Medium Vehicle Center. “Drivers will immediately notice its responsive power, smoother shifting, and quiet, comfortable cab environment.” The trucks are built on a high-strength, low-alloy steel frame with 34-in. wide frame rails, taper-leaf front suspension and standard front and rear shocks. PTO capability is optional.

International will build the CF through its Blue Diamond joint venture with Ford Motor Co., using components from both OEMs. All International dealers will offer the CF Series. Production is slated to begin in January.

Also new to International's medium-duty lineup are two brawny trucks. The 7300 Commercial Use Vehicle (CUV), which only looks like a pickup, is a severe-service 4×4 designed for fleets that need an off-road truck that can be piloted by a non-CDL driver. It boasts a four-door, air-ride cab that seats six and carries a six-ton payload. The CUV is powered by an International DT 466 engine that offers 210 hp to 255 hp and is driven through an Allison 2000 Series automatic transmission.

The other addition is the commercial variant of the International SmarTruck III. This truck is aimed at government agencies, such as the Border Patrol, as well as commercial customers who seek a very rugged vehicle that offers a 16,000-lb GVWR (20,000-lb GCW). The truck features a four-door air-ride crew cab and is powered by an International VT275 4.5-liter V6 diesel (230 hp) with five-speed automatic transmission and two-speed transfer case.

Web site: www.internationaldelivers.com
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Isuzu

General Motors Isuzu Commercial Truck (GMICT) is making few changes to its N-Series and F-Series cabover lineup for 2005 because it considers the models released last year to be 2005 models. A notable exception, however, is the addition of an NRR model equipped with a diesel engine that offers engine displacement of as much as 190 hp. In fact, the entire N-series line will see an increase in engine torque.

The OEM is boosting the payload capacity of its NRR Class 5 by 1,500 lb. A beefed-up Aisin automatic transmission will be an option for the entire N-Series line, through 19,500 lb GVWR, according to Todd Bloom, the company's VP of marketing. Previously, this engine was an option only on models up to 19,000 lb GVWR.

The big change for GMICT's heavier F-Series remains the tandem axle 56,000-lb GVWR model, which was added to the lineup for 2004. Single-axle configurations for the F-series have between a 19,501-lb GVWR and 39,000-lb GVWR. The engine for these trucks, the Isuzu 6HK1 7.8-liter, will be available in 275-hp to 300-hp versions.

Web site: www.isuzucv.com
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Kenworth

Kenworth Truck Co. has announced a range of enhancements to its T300 medium-duty conventional model. The T300 is available as a single- or tandem-axle straight truck or tractor in a variety of wheelbases, with air or hydraulic brakes, in GVWRs that range from 26,000 lb to 54,000 lb.

Along with the truck's standard sloping hood and DayLite doors with “peeper” windows, the '05 T300 will offer optional corner windows to aid in backing up and negotiating tight quarters. Other exterior enhancements include a distinctive new wire-mesh grille with polished stainless steel center trim. Also new are standard complex reflector headlamps that provide a 50% increase in illumination and an optional one-piece stainless steel-clad aluminum bumper with fog lights.

The interior of the T300 was modified to make it more driver-friendly. “Many drivers, especially those making multiple stops in a day, use the cab as their office,” says general marketing manager Steve Gilligan. “To make it easier, Kenworth developed an optional workstation between the driver and passenger seat. It conceals a small desk for completing paperwork tasks, and two 12V outlets can be used to power computers and other devices. Close it up and there's a convenient beverage holder on top.” Helping dress up the interior are new dash colors. Also available are new two-tone seats in either fabric or vinyl.

According to Kenworth, for those who want a “heavierduty work truck,” a heavier front-axle option (14,600 lb) is now available to go along with the available 30,000-lb rear axle (for single-axle applications). Frame inserts are also available. “These are especially great options for customers running cranes or hanging forklifts off the back of the body,” says Gilligan. In addition, the company is now offering an air accessory package for trucks spec'd with hydraulic brakes. And the 330-hp Cat C7 engine is now available for all T300 applications.

Web site: www.kenworth.com
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Mitsubishi Fuso

Mitsubishi Fuso Truck of America is offering eight new cabovers for the 2005 model year, including standard chassis designs, a low-profile model, a seven-passenger crew cab, and a four-wheel-drive medium-duty model. Air suspension will be offered as on option. All new models feature an adjustable steering wheel that tilts and telescopes, power windows and daytime running lights (except on the crew cab), and easy-to-read instrumentation. Cab doors feature a crush bar that's intended to help increase frontal impact protection, according to the manufacturer.

Inside the roomier FE and FG cabs, drivers can expect to find a clear floor area since the transmission shifter has been relocated to the dash, the parking brake has been moved between the seats, and FG's transfer case range-selector level has been mounted to the left of the steering wheel at dashboard height. New offset hinges for the cab doors are intended to allow full-entry access without creating a traffic-blocking wider door swing. Exterior changes to the FE and FG lines include compact halogen headlamps, higher windshields, optional split-door mirrors, and more sculpted fender styling.

Web site: www.mitfuso.com
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Peterbilt

Peterbilt Motors Co.'s new Model 335 is its latest entry in the Class 6-7 conventional field. The 335 will replace the company's existing medium-duty offering, the Model 330, by the end of 2004. According to General Manager Dan Sobic, the new truck is distinguished by new exterior styling. Front and center is a sloping, aerodynamically styled hood that's lighter and offers better visibility than that of its predecessor. The one-piece hood with integrated fenders is made of Metton, a composite material that's highly durable and impact-resistant.

A distinctive headlight package derived from Pete's Class 8 Model 387 is said to provide 40% better forward illumination. Other new exterior features include “repeater” lights located on the quarter fenders that complement those in the headlamps, to more visibly signal lane changes and turns to other vehicles. The new fenders are engineered for use with 19.5-in. and 22.5-in. tires to retain the Model 335's profile and proportions with either tire specification.

The Model 335's interior is upgraded to enhance operator comfort, productivity, and ergonomics. Interior styling has been made more contemporary, including a new two-tone color pattern that includes plush charcoal-and-gray seats.

Serviceability is improved thanks to Peterbilt's new proprietary hood tilt assist and anti-blow-down locking mechanism. A torsional hood pivot and tilt assist make opening the hood much easier. The system is maintenance-free and isolates the hood from the transfer of road noise and impact shocks absorbed by the chassis. While the hood is open, an “anti-blow-down” locking mechanism keeps it in position and prevents unintentional closing. Inside the hood handhold is an ergonomic lever that releases the mechanism and allows the hood to close easily.

Peterbilt also says a program with America's Body Company (ABC) provides customers with “convenient, expedited delivery” of Model 335s equipped with dry freight vans or platform bodies. Other programs available for the 335 include Heil dump bodies and London mixer bodies.

Web site: www.peterbilt.com
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Sterling

Sterling Truck Corp. has made a number of enhancements to its Acterra line of medium-duty trucks. Chief among these are an available Mercedes-Benz Automated Gear Shift (AGS) transmission and factory-installed all-wheel drive.

The two-pedal AGS is based on the company's six-speed manual transmission. It improves performance and fuel economy by sensing and evaluating road conditions, load conditions, and grades to precisely determine shift points. The transmission requires no manual shifting or clutching, allowing operators to focus on driving. The AGS is backed by a two-year warranty with unlimited miles. Also available is another automated transmission: the new Eaton Fuller UltraShift six-speed.

The Acterra all-wheel-drive system features a full, four-wheel automatic traction control. This includes an exclusive Automatic Lock Control Transfer Case coupled with the standard front and rear wheel traction control systems.

Sterling says that Acterra models equipped with all-wheel-drive offer an improved three-step cab entry and are available with front axle ratings of 12,000 lb, 14,000 lb, and 16,000 lb.

The new system features improved driveline angularity to minimize driveline vibrations, outstanding ground clearance, and low maintenance componentry. The all-wheel drive system includes a standard 10-in. offset front differential carrier and right-side mounted transfer case, reducing the need to raise overall frame heights to accommodate the front drive components.

Other standard features include Meritor Q Plus cam brakes with outboard-mounted drums, Meritor automatic slack adjusters, a straight tie-rod for easy toe adjustment, and ABS-ready wheel ends with installed tooth wheel and sensor for additional safety.

The Acterra all-wheel drive is also now designed for medium-duty applications, including utility, fire and emergency, oil field, snowplow, and municipal operations.

Also new for Sterling's medium-duty lineup is a shorter turning radius on all Acterra models. This results from a five-degree improvement of the wheel-cut, which was made possible by new chassis developments.

Now standard on the Acterra is the new THP60 high-pressure steering gear from TRW. Sterling says this offers design improvements, including a new angled tooth system, shot peening for strength, and a faster steering ratio.

Sterling offers the Mercedes-Benz MBE900 engine for medium-duty applications. Standard features include air-to-air charge cooling with a matched turbocharger, electronically controlled high-pressure injector pumps, and data logging to monitor fuel consumption. The engine uses EGR to make it EPA-'04 compliant.

Web site: www.sterlingtrucks.com
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UD Trucks

Nissan Diesel America is completely revamping its UD Truck line for 2005. The manufacturer is dropping its 12,000-lb GVWR UD 1200 chassis and replacing it with a 13,000-lb GVWR UD 1300 model. The UD 1800 CS (City Spec) will undergo several changes, the most significant of which is a larger cab. The 1800 CS will be spec'd with the same cab used on Nissan's UD 1800 HD (Heavy Duty) model, giving it more side-to-side room so that three people can fit more comfortably. The larger cab also increases the truck's forward visibility, expanding its windshield size from 1,900 sq. in. to 2,465 sq. in.

Engines for all of Nissan's UD trucks are going to change as well. Units will have either the new four-cylinder MD 175 or the six-cylinder MD 230 diesel powerplants. The MD 175, standard on UD 1300, 1400, and 1800 CS models, offers 175 hp and 347 lb-ft of torque. The MD 230, standard on the 1800 HD through the 3300 HD chassis, offers 230 hp and 506 lb-ft of torque.

Other changes include an automatic Aisin transmission, which is standard on the 1300 and 1400 models. Factory-installed air conditioning will be standard on all UD trucks. Finally, a standard air-ride driver's seat will be offered on the UD 1800 HD chassis and above.

Web site: www.udtrucks.com
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Workhorse Custom Chassis

Workhorse Custom Chassis is now offering a heavy-duty gasoline alternative to diesel engine platforms for 19,500-lb GVWR walk-in trucks: the GM Vortec 8100 8.1-liter gasoline engine coupled with an Allison 1000 Series transmission. The new engine option produces 340 hp and 455 lb-ft of torque, and has been durability tested for 200,000 miles. Oil and filter changes are the only maintenance required for the first 100,000 miles.

Other changes for the 19,500-lb model include a new stabilizer bar and parabolic leaf suspension with new technology springs for improved ride and handling performance. The 19,500-lb chassis is available in wheelbases of 178 in., 190 in., and 208 in.

Workhorse is also offering other gasoline engine options for its smaller chassis and walk-in trucks. The Vortec V8 4.8-liter LR4, for example, provides 270 hp at 5,200 rpm, while cranking out 285 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. The 6-liter LQ4 has 300 hp at 4,400 rpm, with 355 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. Both have sequential fuel injection and two overhead valves per cylinder. Workhorse says they also provide 7% to 10% better fuel economy than its previous standard gasoline engines. Oil change intervals of 7,500 miles and coolant life of 150,000 miles are a few of the benefits that reduce maintenance costs.

Web site: www.workhorse.com
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