International showcases upgraded ProStar+, TranStar at ATA

www.chinatrucks.com: Navistar showcased an International ProStar+ and TranStar at the American Trucking Associations' convention, highlighting a variety of new driver-friendly options.

"Rebounding freight volume, along with the effects of CSA 2010, have resulted in a growing driver shortage among Class 8 fleets," said Jim Hebe, Navistar senior vice-president, North American sales operations. "Customers today are asking us more and more to provide products that will help fleets attract and retain qualified drivers. We believe these product features deliver on that need."

The ProStar+ on display had a new Diamond interior trim package, with diamond-stitched trim on the seats, door panels and throughout the sleeper cab. The new interior will be available for order in mid-2012 and in addition to being stylish, is also durable and easy to clean, Navistar officials said.

Already available for order on the ProStar+ are: an in-dash GPS system featuring prognostics, fault code and tire pressure monitoring and a premium stereo; the MaxxPower battery-powered HVAC system that provides no-idle heating and cooling while guarding against battery depletion by automatically starting the engine to recharge the batteries when necessary; Bendix's Wingman Advanced collision mitigation system, which combines adaptive cruise control with braking features; Bendix disc brakes; the Bendix AutoVue lane departure warning system; LED interior lighting designed to last 100 times longer and use 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs; and a Fontaine 12-inch Ultra NT fifth wheel that saves up to 50 lbs.

The regional haul TranStar was displayed with a new Eagle interior trim package with air ride seats, a wood-grained dash, chrome accents and bezels and a 'wing panel' over the center console. Navistar officials said the new package offers a more premium and comfortable driving experience for regional haul truck drivers.

Also on display was a new commercial-duty Allison TC-10 transmission that will be offered in mid-2012. Company reps said the transmission will provide seamless shifting through a 10-gear range through the use of a torque converter and twin countershaft design.

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