HUNTINGTON, Ind. — Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems has struck a deal with refuse truck maker Autocar, to provide complete cab modules.

The company says it will take the shell of a cab and trim it out with more than 1,000 components to make it fully-operational.

Bendix has revamped a 75,000 sq.-ft. plant here to accommodate the new business. The company says it will develop and assemble the modules, which include valves, brake control and driver control functions. Bendix also builds modules for OEMs such as Navistar, GM, Kenworth and Blue Bird.

Autocar claims to be the only major truck manufacturer to focus 100% on the commercial severe-duty market. Bendix will assemble the complete cab module for the Xpeditor models, a low cab-forward Class 8 refuse truck.

“We believe our partners are integral to our company’s success, and we look forward to a long, productive relationship with Bendix,” said Ryan Billet, chief financial officer for Autocar. “Bendix delivers the module expertise and commitment to excellence that will enable us to continue and enhance our legacy of quality and performance. We expect Bendix to be a significant supplier partner for years to come.”

The first cab module assembled by Bendix rolled off the line earlier this week. Bendix CEO Joe McAleese said the deal represents a significant milestone for the company.

“The quality and sophistication of our module program has enabled us to forge this new relationship as we continue to not only evolve our modules program, but also to diversify our overall business,” he said.

Bendix already produces more than 100,000 commercial vehicle modules at its Huntington plant each year, the company says. Some modules include only a vehicle’s brake and accelerator pedals while others are much more complex, including the fully-dressed cab module being provided to Autocar. It encompasses more than 1,000 components from over 140 suppliers, Bendix claims.