Peterbilt has announced enhancements to the Model 579 Epiq package that delivers an 8% fuel economy improvement for the 2018 model year. Peterbilt’s Model 579 Epiq is available with the PACCAR MX-13 and MX-11 engines and is paired with the Fuller Advantage automated transmission to provide a wide range of horsepower and torque ratings. Fuel economy improvements incorporated into the 2017 MX engines result in up to 4% improvement over the prior model year.

The 2017 release of Predictive Cruise Control on the MX engine provides additional fuel economy improvements of up to 3%. Predictive Cruise Control utilizes onboard maps and GPS information to maximize the truck’s own kinetic energy and determine the optimal vehicle speed as it approaches a hill. As the truck crests the top of the hill, the system engages the engine brake as needed to curb the vehicle speed as it approaches the bottom of the hill.

The recently introduced PACCAR 40,000-lb. tandem drive axle is also standard with the Model 579 for line-haul applications. It features a unique through-shaft design that optimizes power flow in the forward rear axle for maximum efficiency and minimum oil churning losses, resulting in a 1% fuel economy improvement, Peterbilt said.

Peterbilt also announced that its engineered routings comes standard in all configurations of the Models 579 and 567, as well as the Model 389. The engineered routings bundle each system (air, fuel and electrical) separately, allowing easier identification and service by technicians. Routing enhancements are standard with orders specifying 2017 emissions engines.

Citing an ongoing commitment to customer support, Peterbilt highlighted record dealer network growth by adding a total of 93 new locations over the last four years. In addition, many existing locations have been expanded or upgraded to enhance the responsiveness and coverage of the network.