Navistar unveil International LoneStar big-rig

Navistar International Corp. has rolled-out a new flagship product under its International® brand at the Chicago Auto Show. Developed in a process that saw the design jump directly from math and clay models to production without any development prototypes, the LoneStar combines fuel-saving aerodynamic design with a raft of on-board technological features and creature comforts that would put most home offices in the shade. Highlights include Bluetooth connectivity, Monsoon stereo system with 11 speakers, sub-woofer and amplifier, a desk-like workspace for laptop computers, wooden flooring, swivel chairs and a pull-down bed with a 42-inch premium mattress.

“This truck is unlike anything on the road today,” said Daniel C. Ustian, Navistar chairman, president and CEO. “The International LoneStar closes the gap between workstyle and lifestyle for driving professionals, combining peak productivity with emotional appeal. It is the product of Navistar’s culture of relentless innovation, and embodies the spirit both of today’s driving professionals and the dynamic, transforming energy inside our company.”

The distinctive grille and sloped hood were inspired by International’s early 20th Century D-Series trucks. The aerodynamic elements of the hood, windshield and side skirts combine to deliver between 5 and 15 percent better fuel efficiency than classic trucks according to Navistar, equating to an annual savings of $3,000 to $8,000.

The LoneStar boasts standard ABS, roll stability and traction control with the automotive inspired interior incorporating dash and gauges with rosewood or titanium trim, closed “airline” cabinets for maximum storage and of course, a mini refrigerator.

The LoneStar will be available for order in North America beginning in April 2008.

Production of the trucks will begin in August 2008 at Navistar’s plant in Chatham, Ontario, Canada and will be delivered to customers in fall 2008.

“Our engineering team, which has diverse backgrounds in the automotive, aerospace and trucking industries, felt confident that we could develop this truck without spending months in prototyping,” said Tom Baughman, vice president and general manager, Navistar Heavy Truck Vehicle Center. “We knew we had a winning truck, and we wanted to make it available to our customers as soon as it could be ready.”