2018 in review
This article was published in the November 2018 edition of NTEA News.
The commercial vehicle community gathered at NTEA’s Truck Product Conference Sept. 25–26 to review new model year chassis and engage OEM engineers. Held at Suburban Collection Showplace (Novi, Michigan), the 2018 event drew 650 industry professionals, highlighting programs and displays from 13 leading chassis manufacturers — in addition to live demonstrations from IHS Markit (TIPNet system offering new market opportunities) and NTEA (Vehicle Center of Gravity and Axle Weight Calculator). View more photos and presentations from the event at ntea.com/tpccoverage.
Tuesday, Sept. 25
The Freightliner Trucks presentation outlined the company’s key pillars: upfit, uptime, safety, quality and productivity. OEM representatives reviewed new items aligned with these priorities. An AirLiner® lightweight extra-duty rear suspension (rated at 40,000 pounds) delivers an improved ride, increased busing life and shorter frame. Allison FuelSense® 2.0 offers fuel-saving technology and algorithm-based shifting. Available January 2019, a logic-/switch-controlled high-current interface will improve upfit time. Freightliner mentioned a washable HVAC pre-filter extending the life of the main filter (available second-quarter 2019). A radiator change was noted for the M2 106 and 108SD; mounting will transition from the engine to the frame, saving 130 pounds on the front end.
Freightliner referenced full launch of the Detroit DD5 and DD8 engines. For the inline four-cylinder DD5, range has been extended to 200–240 horsepower. Typically, these engines are used for short-haul jobs; variable cam phasing advances the camshaft for early valve openings, reducing required regenerations.
The team overviewed its recently developed custom hardware and electronics configurator — collaborative, online software to help customers organize builds and set up designs.
Access Freightliner body builder resources at dtnaconnect.com.
Isuzu Commercial Truck of America Inc. described its Class 3–6 vehicle lineup. The 2020 model year N-diesel comes with several upgrades, including an enhanced automatic transmission which results in better fuel economy (a material change translates into reduced rotation and drag resistance); superior drivability (deceleration skip down shift allows for a lower gear command when acceleration is required); and higher quality (fewer contaminants in the oil circuit and improved gear position misdiagnosis). A tire change lowers rolling resistance by 5–10 percent, while maintaining dual sourcing between Bridgestone and Yokohama. Air conditioning is now standard.
Isuzu’s team explained that the 2020 FTR is mainly a carryover but contains a few product upgrades. A compressor change boosts air output volume by approximately 33 percent; a purge valve silencer minimizes excess noise; a rear axle modification triggers an 86-pound weight loss; and factory options can accommodate a 50-gallon aluminum fuel tank and low-profile tires.
The chassis manufacturer emphasized its commitment to forward collision and lane departure warnings with Mobileye technology.
Find body builder materials, including a frontal area calculator, at isuzutruckservice.com.
Hino Trucks underscored its vision to innovate, connect and expand. Toyota Motor North America Inc. joined Hino for a combined display with Mercedes-Benz USA, showcasing 2018 Tundra and Tacoma models.
Hino representatives discussed the new lineup addition — XL Series. For straight truck and tractor options, the maximum gross combined weight rating is 66,000 pounds. Vehicles in this line are fully integrated and connected; Hino Insight comes standard. Exterior updates include a 3D grill, LED headlamp and smooth airflow shape. The interior showcases intelligent design, equipped for safer operation (major controls are ergonomically positioned close to the driver); more storage; a roomy ride; versatility (dynamic indicator cluster and auxiliary switches for add-ons); on-wheel operation (multi-information display control, cruise control and air horn); and fast charging capabilities for phones and tablets. Regarding body integration and electrical components, there’s a customizable dash panel, with a flat primary surface from the factory to accommodate auxiliary equipment. The panel’s rear is embossed with popular switch insert options, enabling premium customer interface during multi-stage vehicle production.
Hino provided an update on its 2020 model year conventional product line. Cruise control can be disabled. For cab-over-engine product, improved wide mirrors offer 21-percent longer stay than the current version. Mobileye technology — a passive safety system — will be optional for the 155 and 195.
Attendees were encouraged to download the Hino Augmented Reality App. Body builder resources are available at hinobodybuilder.com.
Mercedes-Benz USA discussed platform-specific models, telematics and upfitting considerations.
The presentation focused on the new 2019 Sprinter — now produced at a new factory in Charleston, South Carolina. Each van is comprised of more than 1,000 just-in-time parts. Mercedes-Benz has invested in features that resonate, bringing passenger safety, connectivity and telematics to the large van market. The 2019 Sprinter showcases new LED headlights, overhead stowage and a luxury upgraded interior package. New standard options include 7G Tronic Plus, galvanization, keyless start and drivetrain warranty. A USB-C port delivers fast charging capabilities. In terms of safety and assistance, new reverse and 360-degree cameras come with the parking package. Attention, active brake and active distance assists are other integrated tools. Improved pillars bring driver comfort, larger cargo use and an overall refined feel. In addition to return of the six-cylinder diesel engine, a four-cylinder gas engine is being introduced for the first time.
Attendees learned about Mercedes Pro connect — a cloud-based fleet management tool that provides maintenance and business insights.
Access Mercedes-Benz USA body builder details at upfitterportal.com.
General Motors Fleet reviewed key product portfolio changes. The all-new medium-duty Silverado (4500HD/5500HD/6500HD) — revealed at The Work Truck Show® 2018 — was a prominent topic. OEM representatives noted a factory-painted frame with one-piece frame rails and through-the-frame fuel fill lines. Seven cab-to-axle options range from 60–162 inches, with five unique axle-to-back-of-frame lengths sized in 8-inch increments. A lightweight front-hinged clamshell hood, combined with a 50-degree wheel cut, allows easy walk-up access to underhood components. Triple-sealed inset doors reduce wind and road noise.
According to Ed Peper, U.S. vice president of General Motors Fleet, “Chevy’s designers and engineers were obsessed with making this Silverado the most customer-focused medium-duty truck of any major competitor. By customer-focused, I mean work-ready trucks that are easy to upfit, easy to drive, easy to service and easy to own.”
Proportions are changing for the 2019 Silverado/Sierra LD to allow a much larger cab, longer wheelbase, shorter front end, small overall length increase and higher seating position/ground clearance. A mixed materials strategy of high-strength steel and aluminum optimizes performance, cost and strength. The Silverado LD has a new, fully-boxed ladder frame, and the Sierra LD comes with a MultiPro™ Tailgate.
General Motors addressed several low cab forward product changes: discontinuation of 3500HD; a crew option added to 5500XD; and a new cold weather pack and transmission/tire changes for 4500HD/XD and 5500HD/XD. Mobileye technology will be available on all models.
For 2019, General Motors is eliminating ZW9 (factory pickup box removal) from its Colorado/Canyon lineup.
Get body builder information at gmupfitter.com.
Peterbilt Motors Company reviewed chassis specifications and best practices for body installation and equipment mounting.
“Throughout 2018, Peterbilt has introduced a variety of new product features and updates to its versatile lineup of medium- and heavy-duty trucks and tractors,” said Kim Lawton, Peterbilt’s medium-duty marketing manager. “At this year’s Truck Product Conference, we highlighted several of those, from the availability of advanced driver assistance systems to the new Vehicle Electrical Control Unit (VECU) that will help streamline body upfitting and electrical customization.”
Attendees learned that an Allison automatic transmission and front air disc brakes come standard on the Model 220 cabover. Interior features include a wraparound dash and driver information display.
In terms of the medium-duty conventional line, an axle upgrade streamlines weight by 60 pounds.
Peterbilt’s team addressed vocational product. The Model 567 gross vehicle weight rating exceeds 33,000 pounds; set-back and set-forward configurations are available. The VECU will be integrated in the new Model 567 and Model 579, enhancing truck capabilities, electrical system security, diagnostics and service time.
Body builder materials are available at peterbilt.com/resources.
Wednesday, Sept. 26
Ram Commercial discussed new innovation and unique product attributes. Representatives covered the 2018 model year Ram 3500/4500/5500 chassis-cab and 2019 Ram 1500; a new heavy-duty chassis-cab lineup is set to be unveiled in January 2019.
Commercial van enhancements were reviewed in detail. Attendees learned that high-durability vinyl seats are part of the new taxi cab package (optional for retail and fleet customers), and a complete window van is now available (polycarbonate used for increased strength). Some new configurations for the 2019 model year increase payload capability. A new hitch receiver reinforces the body in strategic areas, allowing up to 6,800 pounds of towing capacity.
Ram’s team referenced the vehicle system interface module — located on the cupholder bracket. Available in second-quarter 2019, this feature is packaged as a standalone option and comes with all wiring loose shipped.
Ram Telematics is expected late next year. This tool facilitates internet-connected vehicles and real-time information, allowing customers to track and trace their vehicles, ensure safety and security, study driver behavior, and assess performance and diagnostics.
The team indicated continued expansion of its Q-Pro Program, which involves an in-house quality and process audit; evidence of a corporate (regulatory) compliance program; and collaboration on safety, quality and manufacturing processes.
Find body builder resources at ramtrucks.com.
Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation shared up-to-date technical content on its product lines. Representatives discussed the WEMC hydraulic disc brake which has large pad volume, enabling longer pad replacement intervals. Clamp load has been removed from both brake linings to minimize brake drag, reduce lining wear and improve fuel economy. Top load pads make maintenance easy.
The OEM is offering the Detroit DD5 engine, which brings durability, fuel economy, increased maintenance cycles, and the ability to use a four-cylinder engine in a high-torque operation. An optional integrated engine brake (with up to 220 brake horsepower) is available to extend service life.
Detroit Connect Virtual Technician is the remote diagnostic service for vehicles equipped with Detroit engines. In the event of a fault code or warning light, technicians receive a signal and start diagnosing the situation, alerting the nearest dealer to be prepared to fix and service, as needed.
Aligning with Daimler’s CASE (Connected, Autonomous, Shared, Electric) initiative, the OEM implemented ProTek — a telematics system that allows customers to monitor trucks in operation.
Visit fccccommercial.com for more information.
International Truck presented new technical information, communicating the theme: “We’ll work with you so you can get to work.”
The MV line showcases some exterior changes (including a new door to minimize road noise, door handles and mirrors) and an updated interior. A redesigned one-piece side window gives the driver a clearer line of sight; a more powerful HVAC system affords greater driver comfort and defrosting capabilities; new gauge clusters offer more functionality and important alerts; switches are grouped by frequency of use; and new displays increase instrument readability.
Company representatives discussed HV features, including a new column-mounted shifter and pedestal mirrors that enhance visibility and ergonomics.
The International team shared that, with 700 foot-pounds of torque on tap, CV Series has the muscle to pull, haul and carry the heaviest of loads. PTO capability can be used to run auxiliary equipment (left-hand PTO functionality is coming in summer 2019). Standard steps are self-cleaning and high-grip; the chassis is painted to enhance longevity and resist corrosion; and the forward-tilting hood provides easy access to the engine and routine service points.
Visit bodybuilder.navistar.com for International’s body builder information.
Mitsubishi Fuso Truck of America Inc. outlined its vehicle models.
Leighton Good, Mitsubishi Fuso’s product management expert, discussed launch of the new FE gas truck. It sports a General Motors V8 6-liter gas engine with an Allison six-speed automatic transmission. The team described how engineering of the versatile Mitsubishi Fuso chassis, strong powertrain and commercial-grade transmission makes it an ideal work truck for many different applications. An upgraded interior and roomy cabin make it a comfortable cabover truck.
From a body builder standpoint, the FE gas truck is built on the same frame as its diesel-powered counterpart. The frame of the gasoline-powered truck is powder-coated through a special heat-treated process performed at the factory — one of the best methods to prevent corrosion. Mitsubishi Fuso adds an anti-corrosion treatment for critical areas on the frame and cabin.
Equipment mounting and chassis handling requirements for the all-electric eCanter trucks were other topics of discussion.
Visit mitfuso.com for the latest body builder information, including product drawings.
The Ford Commercial Vehicles team was honored to participate in this year’s NTEA Truck Product Conference. The marketing and engineering teams presented updates on the state of the industry and key vehicle lines, special vehicle engineering changes, and benefits of the Qualified Vehicle Modifier program.
Brock Winger, marketing manager for Ford Commercial Solutions, offered insight into the new Ford telematics and connectivity strategy that is currently being rolled out to customers. Commercial Vehicle Chief Program Engineer John Scholtes closed the program by recognizing those on his team that are retiring and introduced new engineering team members.
After the presentation, attendees had an opportunity to evaluate the vehicles and engage with the Ford team. Included in the Ford display was the entire Built Ford Tough product lineup, from the 2019 Ranger to the F-650/F-750 medium-duty trucks.
Find Ford body builder layout books at fleet.ford.com/truckbbas.
Western Star Trucks highlighted its continued growth in key vocational segments. Company representatives mentioned some modifications affecting all Western Star models. An HVAC update provides faster defrost, a 30-percent increase in airflow, quieter operation and lower air conditioning temperature capacity. A new tough wrap harness system for snowplow and dump applications reduces water/deicer intrusion and enhances dependability of point-to-point chassis harnesses.
OEM representatives discussed the new XD OFFROAD Series. According to Western Star’s John Tomlinson, “The new XD OFFROAD Series is designed for easy spec’ing and durability. With this line, it’s bulletproof; it starts every morning, and it lasts three times the length of a standard chassis or more.”
Attendees heard a series of other updates. The 4700, 4800 and 4900 will come integrated with RollTek — an advanced side rollover airbag protection system. Specific to the 4700, Western Star referenced a durable, high-mount toolbox and a three-step configuration designed to improve ingress and egress. For the 4700 and 5700XE, 12-volt receptacles have moved out of the auxiliary panel into the dash. A 16-liter engine is available for use across the 4900, 5700 and 6900, enabling high- horsepower applications.