More choices from Workhorse Custom Chassis come with the launch of another new walk-in truck. Called the W62, the new truck (chassis by Workhorse, bodies by Morgan Olson or Utilimaster) extends the capacity of the Workhorse walk-in lineup with 19,500 lbs. and 23,500 lbs. GVWR models.
Workhorse’s initial offering in these weight classifications will be gasoline powered. It will use General Motors’ 8.1 L Vortec V8 gasoline engine mated to the five-speed Allison 1000HS (for 19,500 lb. GVWR) or Allison 2200HS (for 23,500 lb. GVWR) transmission. The big block Vortec produces 310 hp and 455 lb.-ft. of torque. Workhorse said it is the only chassis manufacturer to power a gas walk-in at these GVWRs. A diesel version using International’s MaxxForce 5 V6 engine will be launched by mid summer.
With the higher cost of diesel fuel and ’07 emissions compliant diesel engines, fleets are taking a new look at gas engines, the company said.
“Modern gas engines are no longer that far behind diesels in terms of
longevity and maintenance,” said Jay Sandler, Workhorse vice president of commercial products. “They are emissions compliant everywhere. They’re less expensive and they weigh less, so you have more payload capacity. If you’re putting less than 25,000 miles a year on the truck, and particularly if it sits for stretches at job sites, gas is a viable option, even for those with higher GVWR needs.”
With the addition of the diesel W62 this summer, Workhorse will offer both gas and
diesel choices for GVWRs ranging from 9,400 lbs. to 23,500 lbs., with
wheelbases from 125 inches to 218 inches. The W62 comes with wheelbases of
157, 178, 190, 208 and 218 inches.
Parcel delivery, utilities, textile/uniform rental, municipalities, newspapers and mobile tool sales are some of the vocations that Workhorse expects to compete in more effectively with the higher GVWR classifications.
Workhorse also offers a free 24/7 emergency roadside assistance for the duration of the warranty period. Workhorse Roadside Assistance gives them a number to call to help them quickly obtain needed service.
The W62 incorporates a number of features developed for the new Workhorse W42 truck, which was launched two years ago and covers GVWRs from 9,400 to 16,000 lbs. The features include Meritor Quadraulic brakes – four-wheel disc brakes with four pistons at each caliper. The braking system also includes WABCO 4-channel ABS system with full J-1939 diagnostic capability.
The W62 uses 225/70 19.5-inch tires as standard, with a 245/70 19.5-inch
option on steel wheels in black, gray or white. Mud/snow treads are also an
option for the rear tires. The W62 also uses two-leaf parabolic springs coupled with premium gas shock absorbers.
For more information, visit http://www.workhorse.com/.
