Ten chassis manufacturers unveiled product changes, technical updates, and preliminary plans for compliance with 2010 emission regulations for their commercial vehicles at the New Model Truck Product Conference held September 29-October 1 at the Hyatt Regency Dearborn in Dearborn, Michigan.
This exclusive member-only event drew 535 National Truck Equipment Association (NTEA) members seeking to obtain new product information, learn about key technical and specification modifications as well as speak directly with truck makers and product engineers about compatibility issues. Attendees obtained first-hand access to new model chassis information through product displays and presentations given by the engineers who design them.
The following chassis manufacturers presented new product updates and vehicle displays:
Ford Commercial Truck presented information on its entire model line, including new technical specifications and changes impacting fuel efficiency and safety on the next-generation 2009 E and F-Series. Ford also discussed the 2009 F-250/F-750 Super Duty and the Ford LCF.
Dodge announced 2009 model year product enhancements on its full line of commercial trucks and vans, including the Dodge Ram 1500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 Chassis Cabs, Caravan/Grand Caravan C/V, and the Dodge Sprinter. Featured for the Dodge Ram line of trucks were changes including a legitimate crew cab, link oil rear suspension, and other enhancements that balance ride quality with fuel economy. For the Caravan, Mopar offers partition-compatible seating with side air bags.
Freightliner Trucks presented features and updates to its full-line of 2009 models, including emission and exhaust modification guidelines and new exhaust system options available. Freightliner also discussed its strategy for the upcoming 2010 emission changes.
General Motors Fleet and Commercial Operations provided modification changes to the 2009 model Express/Savana cargo vans and cutaways. Attendees also heard updates on GM's new 2009 commercial Silverado/Sierra line of trucks and the introduction of the Silverado Two?Mode Hybrid, the first full-size hybrid pickup. Also, detailed specification and technical changes to the medium-duty Kodiak/Topkick and Colorado/Canyon were presented.
International Truck and Engine Corporation presented information on features of its 2009 lineup, including hybrid system, electronic stability, and rear-axle enhancements to DuraStar and other changes impacting different vocational applications. Presenters also revealed preliminary plans and modifications for 2010 emissions regulations and how these plans will impact upfitters.
Isuzu Commercial Truck of America Inc discussed the latest features of its all-new 2009 N-Series, including dual fuel tanks, idle shutdown timer, and a high-mount intake duct and air cleaner. In addition, the N-Series will be 50-state diesel-emission-certified.
Mitsubishi Fuso Truck of America Inc presented information on its 2009 FE and FG models, addressed the addition of auxiliary fuel tanks, increased cargo storage, parabolic spring suspension systems, and other 2009 model enhancements.
Sterling Truck Corporation presented detailed preliminary plans for compliance with upcoming 2010 emission regulations. Also discussed was information relevant to upfitters for the Acterra, L-Line, 360, and Bullet models, including enhancements to chassis configurations and factory-installed in-cab batteries.
Toyota Motor Sales USA Inc & Hino Trucks presented information on its 2009 lineup and discussed features and options relevant to upfitters. Attendees were also updated about changes to the Tundra and informed of a facelift to the Tacoma. Several new standard and optional equipment features were covered. Introduced for the Hino line of trucks were a new exhaust brake system, mechanism for idle shutdown, extended cab, and a preview of future truck changes.