Navistar unveiled the International LoadStar, a severe service low-cab-forward work truck at the Mid-America Trucking Show March 22-24 in Louisville KY. Designed from the ground up with input from drivers and fleet managers, the LoadStar was built to serve customer needs in the waste, concrete pumping, home heating fuels distribution, and airplane refueling markets among others.
LoadStar will be available for orders in October 2012 through International dealers in the United States and Canada. LoadStar is equipped with numerous customer-friendly features:
*Stainless steel cab to minimize corrosion and increase durability;
*Vocationally designed variable depth frame rails for maximum durability, lighter weight, lower frame rail heights and better ride characteristics;
*Ergonomically designed cab interior, including excellent control placement;
*Diamond Logic capabilities provide seamless body integration for increased safety and ease of operation in specific applications;
*Integrated powertrain powered by MaxxForce engines, featuring CleanBurn Emissions Technology or optional natural gas version in early 2013.
"We talked to drivers to better understand their needs and what is missing from the trucks they drive," said Jim Hebe, Navistar senior vice president, North American sales operations. "To fit driver needs, we optimized the space in the cab, increased seat and steering wheel movement, and adjusted joystick placement to deliver an outstanding ergonomic and customizable work environment. The exterior boasts the signature appearance and design of the International Truck brand."
LoadStar's high performance and durable design features the industry's first stainless steel cab-over design, creating a high-strength, long-lasting and corrosion-resistant cab. The truck also has variable depth frame rails designed for vocational usage offering maximum durability for users.
Featuring a standard tilt/telescoping steering column and 10" fore/aft and 6.5" up/down seat travel, LoadStar's settings provide for unprecedented belly room. A wide 90-degree door opening and easy 18" first step height, were also included to provide drivers with maximum comfort. With superior driver visibility and up to 40-degree wheel cuts, the LoadStar delivers excellent maneuverability.