NEW Model Truck Product Conference Recap
Chassis Manufacturers Reveal Product Changes, Technical Updates at NTEA Truck Product Conference
Ten chassis manufacturers unveiled new products, technical changes and preliminary plans for compliance with 2010 emissions regulations for their commercial vehicles at the NTEA’s New Model Truck Product Conference held Sept. 29–Oct. 1, 2008 at the Hyatt Regency Dearborn (Dearborn, MI). Nearly 550 NTEA members took advantage of the opportunity to look under the hood of new models; speak directly with truck makers and product engineers about compatibility issues; and learn about key technical and specification modifications.
At this year’s event, the following chassis manufacturers presented new product updates and vehicle displays:
Dodge
Dodge announced 2009 model year product enhancements on its full line of commercial trucks and vans, including the all-new Dodge Ram 1500, 3500, 4500 and 5500 Chassis-cabs, Caravan/Grand Caravan C/V and the Dodge Sprinter. Changes to the Dodge Ram line of trucks include 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.
Ford Commercial Truck
Ford 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 2009 Ford LCF.
Freightliner Trucks
Freightliner presented features and updates to its full line of 2009 models, including emission and exhaust modification guidelines and new exhaust system options. Freightliner also discussed its strategy for upcoming 2010 emissions changes.
General Motors Fleet and Commercial Operations
General Motors discussed 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 2-Mode Hybrid, a full-size hybrid pickup. In addition, GM presented detailed specification and technical changes to the medium-duty Kodiak/Topkick and Colorado/Canyon.
International Truck
International presented information on features of its 2009 lineup, including hybrid system, electronic stability and rear axle enhancements to DuraStar as well as other changes impacting different vocational applications. International also revealed preliminary plans and modifications for 2010 emissions regulations and impacts to upfitters.
Isuzu Commercial Truck of America, Inc.
Isuzu discussed the latest features of its all-new 2009 N-Series, including duel fuel tanks, an idle shutdown timer and a high-mount intake duct and air cleaner. In addition, the N-Series will also be 50-state diesel emission-certified.
Mitsubishi Fuso Truck of America, Inc.
Mitsubishi presented information on its 2009 FE and FG models. The company addressed the addition of auxiliary fuel tanks; increased cargo storage; front and rear parabolic spring suspension systems; and other 2009 model enhancements.
Sterling Truck Corporation
Sterling presented detailed preliminary plans for compliance with upcoming 2010 emissions regulations. The company also discussed 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. and Hino Trucks
Toyota presented information on its 2009 lineup and discussed features and options relevant to upfitters. Attendees also learned about changes to the Tundra; an upcoming facelift for the Tacoma; and several new standard and optional equipment features.
Hino discussed its new exhaust brake system, mechanism for idle shut-down, extended cab and future truck changes.
Save Next Year's Dates: Sept 22 - 23rd, 2009, See you then!