Makes & Models 2009: Class 7-8
November 2008 Commercial Carrier Journal 57 Makes & Models 2 9 Heavy-duty Class 7-8 (more than 26,000 lb. GVWR) International launches a LoneStar, Mack unleashes a Titan, Sterling says farewell and more F or 2009, International and Mack introduce the two biggest newcom-ers to the heavy-duty scene International with its owner-operator-minded LoneStar, and Mack with its severe-service behemoth Titan. And Daimler Trucks North America is ending the Sterling Trucks brand in March as part of a response to continued low truck sales and struc-tural changes in the market. (We continue to list specs for Sterling products because dealers will take orders through Jan. 15 and because Daimler may con-tinue some models under the Freightliner and Western Star brands.) Meanwhile, the other major players are making their own model modifications and spec adjustments. Here are some highlights: Freightliner: The truck maker is adding several enhancements to its Cascadia tractor and other models. The Cascadia now is available in a 72-inch XT sleeper model targeting flatbed and tanker operations. Dometic under-bunk refrigerators, also available for the Cascadia, include a slide-out drawer to ease driver access and can serve as both a refrigerator and freezer (based on thermostat setting). Air disc brakes are available as factory-installed options for the Cascadia, Columbia, Coronado and Century Class S/T. The Bendix ADB22X-V Air Disc Brake, designed for 22.5-inch steel and alumi-num wheels, is compatible with all 22.5-inch wheel combinations and approved for all on-highway applications; the disc brakes also are compatible with drum brake-equipped trailers. Freightliner, in conjunction with Meritor WABCO, announced the avail-ability of the OnGuard Collision Safety System for select Cascadia and Century Class S/T fleets; OnGuard is a forward-looking radar-based adaptive cruise control system with active braking. Also, high-visibility bright-orange seatbelts manufactured by LifeGuard Technologies are a factory-installed option on the Cascadia, Columbia, Century Class S/T and M2. GM: The Chevrolet Kodiak/GM Topkick now boasts revised air seats and Allison Prognostics on all 3000/3500 Series transmissions. GMC's T-Series also offers Allison Prognostics on all 3000 Series transmissions. Chevrolet Kodiak Chevrolet T-Series Ford F-650 Super Duty Ford F-750 Super Duty Freightliner Cascadia Freightliner Century Class ST