#MATS2014: Peterbilt launches Anniversary Edition 579, fuel-saving package

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LOUISVILLE, Ky. — This year marks Peterbilt’s 75th anniversary, and to celebrate, the truck maker is releasing a limited edition Model 579.

The 75th Anniversary Edition 579, now available for order, can be dressed up in a red and white paint scheme that harkens back to the company’s original Peterbilt, built in 1939.

Exterior features include: a highly polished hood crown that surrounds a new oval grille deign; 75th anniversary emblems; a new proprietary colour dubbed Diamond Red; and rear stainless steel mudflap hangers with anniversary emblem. Inside, you’ll find: a Platinum Titaniu interior, accentuated with a new charcoal dash top and blackwood finish trim accents; a 75th anniversary emblem added to the dash accent trim; a steering wheel lined with custom red stitching; black leather seats; and bright gauge bezels, chrome interior handles and a bright logo’d shifter plate, among other features.

Peterbilt will also be pulling a specially designed 75th anniversary trailer to events across North America. It will roll through Canada in August and September.

Peterbilt also announced at the Mid-America Trucking Show, a new EPIQ package for the Model 579 it says will improve fuel economy by up to 10%.

“It utilizes an enhanced drivetrain – including Peterbilt’s new combination of the Paccar MX-13 Engine and Fuller Advantage UltraShift transmission – all available aerodynamic options and optimized spec’ing through our proprietary software system used throughout our dealer network,” said Landon Sproull, Peterbilt’s chief engineer.

The EPIQ package includes: a complete aerodynamic package, combining all fairings and enhanced components offered on the 579; an optimized Paccar MX-13 engine; the Eaton Fuller Advantage automated transmission (dubbed the Apex package when optimized for the MX); a single horizontal exhaust; SmarTire tire pressure monitoring system; low rolling resistance tires; and optimized spec’ing software.

Also announced at the show is a new Driver Information Center that provides a real-time visual messaging system that reinforces and coaches positive driving habits. The module can be ordered on 579, 567 and 587 models equipped with the Paccar MX engine.

A dash display scores drivers on categories such as gentle braking and coasting as well as providing an overall scoring percentage.

And Peterbilt’s medium-duty truck line got some attention as well, with the introduction of a completely redesigned Model 220 cabover with new cab.

“Productivity and safety are two major areas of improvement. We’ve facilitated ease of entry and egress with doors that open a full 90 degrees and there’s ample courtesy lighting,” said Sproull.

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