Makes & Models 2009: Class 4-6
October 2008 Commercial Carrier Journal 85 Makes & Models 2 9 Medium-duty Class 4-6 (14,001-26,000 lb. GVWR) Detroit and Japan upgrade their offerings, while the commercial-only brands go hybrid n medium-duty, you can sum up the biggest change in 2009 for the U.S. manufacturers specializing in commercial trucks in one word: hybrid. Also, the Detroit and Japanese automakers continue to finesse their medium-duty products by adding more features intended mainly for those who use their trucks for work, not play. Here are some highlights of the latest offerings: Dodge: The 2009 Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs now tout longer-lasting front and rear brakes, as well as the Cummins diesel 50-state emissions package and exterior labeling; the Cummins 6.7-liter diesel engine is available with Remote Start on automatics. An ambulance prep package now is available, as well as a 55 percent increase in the power take-off pump rating; also, the PTO prep package now is avail-able with Laramie trim-level trucks. Ford: The F-450 pickup, which enjoyed a redesign last year, offers a towing capacity in excess of 24,000 pounds and maximum payload of more than 6,000 pounds, and is powered by a 6.4-liter Power Stroke V-8 turbo diesel that delivers quiet, clean power. An integrated tail-gate step and stowable bed extender offer cargo-hauling flexibility, while a refined chassis and suspension help improve ride and handling with available options for a premium turning radius. For towing, the PowerScope power-fold, power-telescoping trailer-tow side mirrors help improve rear visibility, while the TowCommand System features an integrated trailer brake controller and the TorqShift transmission helps improve towing performance. A rearview video camera backup system helps enhance visibility at the rear of the box to help drivers maneuver in tight spaces or line up the truck's hitch with trailers. Freightliner: The Business Class M2e Hybrid which features the Eaton Hybrid Electric Drivetrain System, a parallel electric-hybrid sys-tem targets utility, beverage and pickup-and-delivery applications. The truck maker says the hybrid motor provides additional power to launch the vehicle and improves fuel economy in high stop-and-go Dodge Ram 4500 Chassis Cab Ford F-550 Super Duty XLT Chevrolet Kodiak C4500 Freightliner Business Class M2 Ext. Cab GMC Topkick C5500 Hino 268 Chassis Cab