When Darrin Siver, Peterbilt general manager and PACCAR vice president, talks about current industry trends, he notes the increasing optimism throughout the industry and that trucking will have a strong year in terms of fleet performance and manufacturer and dealer sales.
Siver says, “We’re seeing fleets replacing older equipment, as well as adding capacity. Reducing operating expenses remains a primary goal for all trucking companies, and our customers continue to seek ways to minimize expenses for fuel, maintenance and driver attraction and retention. Peterbilt’s products provide solutions in these areas and we work with our dealer network and customers to provide products and after-sale support that best meets their needs. Our newest on-highway vehicle, the Model 579, delivers outstanding fuel efficiency and with its superior performance and premium operating environment, is a proven tool for maximizing driver satisfaction. Not only are fleets buying for replacement and expansion, but also they’re buying equipment that they know will make a positive impact on their drivers and on their bottom lines.”
According to Siver, “Peterbilt’s products are among the most technologically advanced, and we continue to invest and develop new innovations that boost productivity, durability and safety. For instance, we recently introduced a new feature that contributes to all three of those areas called the Driver Performance Assistant.”
He goes on to talk about how this driver coaching tool reinforces positive driving habits with a real-time visual messaging system through an in-dash display. It promotes improved fuel efficiency, reduced brake wear and safer operation by providing operating tips to help optimize acceleration, deceleration and shifting.
This new tool is part of the Driver Information Center that also provides in-cab diagnostics to help keep the vehicle running efficiently and within the recommended maintenance cycles.
“We recently introduced two new technology packages that will bring that efficiency to even greater levels,” says Siver. “The new EPIQ package can improve fuel economy by up to 10% through an enhanced drivetrain, full aerodynamic add-ons and other fuel conscious spec options. Part of the EPIQ package, and also available separately, is the new APEX option that pairs the PACCAR MX-13 engine with the Fuller Advantage Automated Transmission. Automated manual transmissions, like the one included with the APEX, are gaining popularity as fleets look for ways to enhance driver satisfaction and recruit from a larger pool of drivers.
Peterbilt recently developed the SuperTruck jointly with Cummins and the Department of Energy, which recently achieved 10.7 miles per gallon, Siver notes. Additionally, greenhouse gas emissions were reduced by 43% and freight efficiency improved by 86%. The SuperTruck showcases technologies that, for the most part, are here now. The technologies and components on this vehicle can be adopted short-term to help customers minimize fuel costs.
This year is Peterbilt’s 75th anniversary and it’s a milestone that marks a legacy of innovation. One of those many highlights is the Model 579, which is among the most innovative vehicles in Peterbilt’s history. The Model 579 on the cover of this issue is a special 75th anniversary edition that integrates the Model 579’s advanced technologies with unique styling elements and accents that pay tribute to Peterbilt’s heritage.
According to Siver, “The past several years have been witness to the greatest investment and introduction of new products in Peterbilt’s 75-year history. It’s a very exciting time for Peterbilt, our dealers and for the industry. Customers—including large fleets—choose Peterbilt products for their outstanding durability, reliability and driver retention benefits. We are fortunate to have a loyal and successful customer base and the strongest dealer network in the industry. That foundation drives everything we do as we continue to introduce new products and services focused on delivering greater levels of efficiency, productivity, profitability and overall customer satisfaction.
