Morgan Truck Body Unveils 'NEO' proof-of-concept body innovations

Morgan Truck Body Unveils ‘NEO’ proof-of-concept body innovations

It comes off the heels of last year’s first-phase concept body that introduced lighter-weight materials and situational awareness elements, many of which are now available.

Morgan Truck Body, manufacturer of light- and medium-duty freight and refrigerated van and truck bodies in North America, provided an up-close look at its proof-of-concept body, NEO, during NTEA Work Truck Week. The NEO proof-of-concept body (POC), shown on Navistar’s International eMV Series chassis, represents the next step of Morgan’s product to achieve extended range, improved aerodynamics, and a lighter-weight dry-freight body.

“During development of the NEO POC body, we worked from the ground up by designing new structural profiles, refining materials and enhancing construction and mounting methods,” says Corby Stover, interim president, chief operating officer, vice president, engineering, Morgan Truck Body. “We appreciated collaborating with Navistar to integrate its electric chassis on this exciting concept vehicle. Our goal is to improve our customer experience by gaining valuable feedback about NEO so we can incorporate the features customers want and need into our evolving designs.”

The 24-foot-long NEO POC body is built on a lightweight aluminum sub-frame, nearly 40% lighter than a standard sheet and post or FRP body, the company noted. Improved aerodynamics, including an aerodynamic roof, coupled with lower weight, results in extended range. The NEO POC body includes:

  • Ergonomic enhancements to assist operators;
  • Improved safety with a lateral protection device that is hinged for under-vehicle access and outfitted with aerodynamic side skirts;
  • Powered rear overhead door with active remote control and EAVX’s automated VX Control passive entry and exit system;
  • Morgan SA 3.0 Situational Awareness Package with camera and sensors for improved visibility, pedestrian protection, and distracted driver awareness; and
  • Lighter body to increase available payload.

You May Also Like

What can be achieved by ZEV adoption: Lessons learned from California

California has a significant number of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) in comparison to other U.S. states.

In 2020, California Governor Gavin Newsom issued an executive order mandating that all new passenger vehicles sold in the state be zero-emission by 2035. The goal of this order was to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and oxides of nitrogen emissions from cars statewide. Two years later, in 2022, Governor Newsom introduced a $10 billion ZEV package to support the adoption of clean-energy vehicles, including heavy-duty zero-emission vehicles and infrastructure. As a result, California has a significant number of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) in comparison to other U.S. states.

ProMaxx Tool introduces fuel injector puller kits

According to the company, each of the three available kits are constructed to withstand professional use and are engineered to resist bending, cracking.

Mullen announces Class 3 EV production start

Mullen will be gradually ramping up production rate over the course of September through December.

Light commercial vehicles drive rapid EV growth in China

In May, total sales of new energy light commercial vehicles exceeded 17,000 units, a year-on-year increase of 133%.

IC Bus, ASE to sponsor students for electric truck, bus safety certification

The purpose of the standards is to provide guidance, document and establish electrical safety requirements.

Other Posts

Accelera by Cummins, Daimler Truck, PACCAR JV to advance battery production

Three trucking industry giants aim to supercharge U.S. battery production.

Accelera-Cummins-Daimler-Truck-PACCAR-Battery-Joint-Venture-1400
How the International SuperTruck 2 makes 16 MPG a reality

A hybrid powertrain and unique trailer powers Internationals’ SuperTruck fuel efficiency.

navistar-supertruck-1400
Volvo Trucks introduces program to support EV infrastructure development

The electromobility program has two full-service partners — InCharge Energy and Gilbarco Veeder-Root — and is available to all Volvo Trucks customers.

Daimler Truck North America executive joins U.S. Government’s Electric Vehicle Working Group

DTNA’s head of eMobility has been appointed to the newly founded EV Working Group (EVWG) by the U.S. DOE, DOT.