MONTREAL, Que. — International has introduced a Canadianized version of its ProStar ES, featuring an optimized powertrain and the ability to handle 110,000-lb gross combination weights.

The new ES 110 Canadian spec’ was shown for the first time today at ExpoCam. It sheds the limitations of the SmartAdvantage powertrain that’s been so popular in the US, but is capped at an 80,000-lb GCW.

“We are committed to technology, innovation, tools and services that deliver industry-leading uptime and low total cost of ownership,” said Bill Kozek, president Truck and Parts, Navistar. “The ProStar ES continues to leverage the latest advancements and has established a reputation in the industry for being one of the most fuel efficient, highest quality trucks on the road.”

The spec’ consists of an International ProStar ES, an Eaton 16-speed UltraShift Plus LSE transmission mated to the Cummins ISX15 or Navistar N-13 engine. A new XFE 75W-90 axle lubricant is used to reduce friction and spin losses.

“The launch of the ProStar ES in late 2014 generated a lot of interest in Canada, but the 80,000 pound GCWR limited its appeal, as many Canadian fleets want the flexibility up to run 110,000 pounds and still achieve outstanding fuel economy,” said Mark Belisle, president, Navistar Canada. “The ES 110 is the result of close collaboration among engineers at Navistar and key component suppliers like Cummins and Eaton, to quickly respond to customer needs and develop a solution for the Canadian market.”

The SmartAdvantage spec’ has found a home with some Canadian fleets running lightweight cross-border loads, but in an interview at ExpoCam, Belisle said most customers here demand greater payload capabilities.

“Even running from Montreal to Toronto, they want that capability,” Belisle said. “Fleets want the flexibility. They want the fuel economy and they want the flexibility.”

The 16-speed automated manual transmission enables the greater payload capabilities. Fully integrating it with the Cummins or Navistar engine and packaging it all inside the aerodynamic ProStar ES is a winning combination for the Canadian market, Belisle suggested.

“We believe it’s going to be a huge success here in Canada,” he said. “We’ve been selling a version of the ES up here for the past year. We have had the 16-speed and the ISX engine. Major fleets have certainly embraced that combination. Now we’re going to be able to really take it to the next level with them and really differentiate ourselves with that product. We’re really, really excited about this.”