International unveils two new truck models

International Truck and Engine Corp. unveiled two new truck models at the 2002 Mid America Trucking Show, a regional Class 8 tractor and Class 7 heavy-duty construction chassis. International truck group president Steve Keate said the company's 7600 severe service chassis, aimed at waste and construction fleets, will go into production in August, followed by its 8600 regional day cab tractor in September. Both will be built at Internationals truck plant in Garland, TX. Keate also unveiled new interior packages for International's 9000I and 5000I Class 8 sleeper tractors. The interior re-design of those two models doubles internal storage capacity, offers wood-grain dash and door panels, and also boost interior lighting fixtures. Keate added that there are no plans to introduce a sleeper version of Internationals new 8600, as the 9000I remains the company's primary Class 8 sleeper product. He did note that International is aiming to unveil a completely new Class 8 sleeper tractor sometime in 2005.