Navistar delivers new highway, construction vehicles

CHICAGO (March 3) — Navistar International, North America’s No.2 truck producer, unveiled a new line of vehicles for the construction market and showed off improvements to the company’s venerable 9000-series tractor.

The company’s 9000i class-8 trucks — the “i” stands for innovation, the company said — are updated versions of Navistar’s International 9000 line of premium conventionals: the International 9100i, International 9200i, International 9400i, and what the truck maker is calling its “kings of the road” models, the International 9900i and International Eagle 9900ix.

The trucks have been restyled with both the driver and the bottom line in mind. “I”-series improvements include better visibility from the driver’s seat, more comfort room between the driver and the steering wheel, an improved heating and air conditioning system, and new aerodynamic features which Navistar said would bring up to 5% gains in fuel economy.

The flagship of the new line-up is the International Eagle 9900ix, with a classic look and feel (the “x” stands for extended hood). Designed with the input of owner-operators, the 9900 ix is 130 inches from bumper to back of cab, and with its square, long-nose hood design, can handle engines up to 600 horsepower. A wide grille and headlights set in chrome, standard dual-external air cleaners and dual cab-mounted exhaust, and a full-width bright-finish bumper add to the classic appearance, designed to appeal to both owner-operators and companies looking to attract and retain drivers.

The 9900i is similar to the 9900ix but with a 120-inch BBC.

All the cabs feature two inches more belly room; new windshield, door glass and mirrors for better visibility; and improved heating and air conditioning systems. All cabs are aluminum for longer life and less weight. All are available in both day cab and Pro Sleeper configurations, except for the International 9100i, available in day cab only.

The International 5000i series, designed for construction, refuse, municipal, forestry, and other vocational applications, features two set-forward axle (SFA) models and one set-back-axle design: the International 5900i SFA with 120-inch bumper-to-back-of-cab; the International 5500i SFA with a 114-inch BBC; and the International 5600i SBA with 114-inch BBC. All three are built on a common chassis.

The 5000i series offers roomier cabs, better climate control, and plush interiors. International’s 5500i and 5600i have International’s 530E HT engine, which provides 330 horsepower and 1150 pound feet of torque at the high end, as standard. All 5000i models are available with engine options up to 600 horsepower.

Production of the 5500i and 5600i begins in July, with the 5900i to follow later this year.

All will be built as 2000-model-year vehicles.

The 5000i series will make its public debut later this month at the ConExpo-Con/Agg show in Las Vegas. The 9000i series will be on display at the Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville, Ky., March 25-28.