International unveils the ProStar Class 8 flagship aerodynamic tractor at world’s largest Trucking Show

The internal test units are subjected to rigorous performance, reliability and accelerated durability tests to ensure longevity for long haul, regional haul and bulk applications. Internal testing includes 10 simulated years of shaker testing and significant corrosion testing.

Finally, test vehicles were put in the hands of customers hauling freight for private carrier and major truckload and LTL for-hire carriers in diverse applications, geographic and climate conditions.

Lowest Cost of Ownership

Designed with ease of access for maintainers and a minimal requirement for special service tools, the International ProStar will be in and out of the shop in record time. In total, more than 60 efficient repair and maintenance features have been incorporated. For example, transmission replacement time has been reduced by 90 minutes, headlight bulbs and windshield wiper blades can be replaced by a driver or mechanic without tools. A four-piece bumper allows maintainers to replace only damaged pieces, rather than the whole bumper, in the event of an accident.

Just as ergonomic design was incorporated into the cab to enhance the driver environment; innovations like a low-effort E-Z Tilt hood and a Tilt-Away bumper provide a walk-in engine compartment and allow easy engine and underside access.

International also synchronized service intervals so that customers gain an average of 59 more days on the road over the life of the vehicle.

Initial production will be based on 122" BBC (bumper-to-back-of-cab) tractors with day cab and high-rise sleeper configurations. The second phase of production will include additional BBC and sleeper configuration options. The truck will be produced at the International Assembly Plant in Chatham, Ontario, Canada.

Shipments of the new International ProStar to dealers will begin in the first quarter of 2007. Once customers take ownership, they will have access to nearly 900 service locations in the U.S. and Canada and an extensive domestic parts network that offers affordable and available replacement parts.