Today’s Pickup: International adds driver-centric features to LoneStar

Good day,

International has made several enhancements to its flagship LoneStar truck to make it more driver-friendly and serviceable.

The truck features the Cummins X15 engine, contoured hood, fenders and new aerodynamic pedestal mirrors, for a 3% fuel efficiency improvement over the previous generation. Every LoneStar can be equipped as an option with OnCommand Connection, the company’s remote diagnostics system and Over-the-air (OTA) programming. OTA, available through the nine-pin InternationalLINK device, enables drivers or fleet managers to utilize a mobile interface to initiate authorized engine programming at the customer’s facility over a safe, secure Wi-Fi connection.

The LoneStar features a new ergonomically designed interior with new digital information display, a new integrated stalk shifter integrating transmission and engine brake functionality, durable and easy to clean soft touch vinyl interior, and stylish diamond interior is standard. Drivers will notice that the doors, side glass and cab mirrors have all been redesigned to enhance visibility and ultimately helping to reduce neck strain and fatigue over the long haul, the company said.

New features include:

• A new single-canister aftertreatment system that is 60% smaller, 40% lighter and simplified for quicker servicing.
• Cab wiring that includes all-new harnessing and an in-cab power distribution module that is inside the truck, away from the elements.
• Key service points under the hood, inside the cab and around the vehicle are ergonomically designed for easy access and servicing, and many components have been engineered with longer intervals between required maintenance.
• An all-new HVAC system includes quick defrost functionality that cleared 100% of the windshield in under 30 minutes from start-up.

LoneStar comes with Bendix Wingman Advanced Collision Mitigation system standard and is also available with the optional Bendix Wingman Fusion. Additional safety features include improved side visibility and RollTek seats which all make the LoneStar one of the safest trucks on the road.

Did you know?

On average, small business truckers drive more than 115,000 miles per year and spend more than 240 nights per year away from home. 

Quotable:

 “Now more than ever, driver retention is one of the top concerns among fleets both large and small. Therefore, enhancing the LoneStar at this time with critical driver-centric updates gives fleet operators and owners an additional tool to reward and retain drivers.”

– Dave Majors, vice president, Product Development, Navistar

In other news:

China to reverse policies bolstering yuan

As its currency has surged, hurting Chinese exports, the country is looking at ways to curtail measures it uses to support the yuan. (Wall Street Journal)

Gas shortage arrives in Florida

Trucks may soon begin hauling fuel into Florida as the state is likely to face a shortage of fuel as Irma leaves the area. (Bloomberg)

Former Iowa DOT director chose to lead FHWA

Paul Trombino III has been picked by President Trump to lead the Federal Highway Administration. (Fleet Owner)

A sweetened electric truck

An engineer has developed an electric-powered truck that uses glycerine – a sweetener commonly found in cakes – as a power source. (The Sunday Times)

UPS tests drone for disaster delivery aid

UPS and ChPhy Works have tested a drone to make a delivery of medicine to an island off the coast of Massachusetts. (Atlanta Business Chronicle)

Final Thoughts

As always, there is plenty of transportation-related news today, but with the recent lives lost in Hurricane Harvey and now Irma, as well as the more than 3,000 lives lost on this date in September 2001, it seems appropriate to offer our thoughts and prayers to those affected by these events.

Hammer down everyone!