Freightliner Trucks has come out with a new model for Class 8 Cascadia tractor and added several factory-installed options.
The Cascadia tractor is available in a 22-inch XT model, which features a standup sleeper, 78 inches tall from the base of the bunk to the ceiling. It has an optional upper bunk or storage cabinets against the back wall of the cab, providing additional storage while maximizing space.
Built from an entirely new platform, the aerodynamic Cascadia was introduced in May 2007. The company plans to introduce additional sleeper variations, including a 60-inch raised roof, 60-inch XT, and 48-inch XT, throughout 2008.
SmartWay designation
The Cascadia has been designated a SmartWay tractor by the US EPA. The SmartWay Transport Partnership is a voluntary collaboration between US EPA and the transportation industry to increase energy efficiency while significantly reducing greenhouse gases and air pollution.
To be SmartWay-certified, tractors must have an engine that is model year 2007 or newer and energy-efficient components, including fuel-tank side fairings on the tractor; integrated cab-high roof fairing; tractor-mounted cab side extenders; aerodynamic mirrors and bumpers; low rolling-resistance; and an auxiliary power unit or other idle-reduction technology.
Factory options
Three new factory-installed options — the MeritorWABCO Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Eaton VORAD Collision Warning System, and Bendix air disc brakes — can be spec'd on Freightliner's Cascadia, Coronado, Columbia, and Century Class S/T heavy duty vehicles.
Available this spring, the MeritorWABCO ESC provides stability assistance in critical driving situations by automatically sensing dangerous driving events and taking appropriate action. MeritorWABCO's Roll Stability Control is available on Freightliner vehicles.
Also available this spring is the Eaton VORAD VS-400 Collision Warning system. It helps drivers identify traffic conditions in advance with in-cab notifications and alerts for slow-moving vehicles, stationary objects, short following distance, and more.
An additional system feature is SmartCruise. It collects data from the collision warning system and helps the truck automatically maintain a pre-determined distance from vehicles ahead.
The other new factory-installed option is the new Bendix ADB22X-V air disc brake, designed specifically for 22.5-inch steel and aluminum wheels. Compatible with drum brake-equipped trailers, these air disc brakes can be spec'd without the usual suspension and wheel restrictions.
The air disc brake system, available for order this June, is available on drive axles, but only in combination with steer axles produced by Axle Alliance Corp.
The air disc brake design provides better stopping performance and has less brake fade, officials said. Air disc brakes make for easier and faster brake maintenance, allowing for less downtime.