DALLAS, Texas – A new motor, a day cab conversion kit and new stainless steel accessories were all made available on Western Star trucks at the Great American Trucking Show.

Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) announced Western Star trucks will now be available with the Detroit Diesel DD15 engine under the hood. The DD15 is known for its instantaneous torque response and excellent fuel mileage, thanks in part to a technology called turbocompounding.

Turbocompounding turns normally wasted exhaust gas into reusable power, providing 50 ‘bonus’ horsepower, Detroit Diesel officials explain. Currently, it’s only available on the DD15. Turbocompounding combines with an Amplified Common Rail Fuel System (ACRS) to provide improved fuel mileage over the Series 60, the company says.

The DD15 also boasts excellent torque, reaching 90% peak torque in just 1.5 seconds thanks to a turbocharger and dual overhead cams, according to Detroit Diesel. The DD15 will be available in horsepower ratings of 450-560 with 1,550-1,850 lb.-ft. of torque.

Also new to Western Star is a day cab conversion kit, which transforms trucks with a Stratosphere sleeper into a day cab. The kit includes: a new overhead console; a new, reinforced roof cap; a new headliner; and a new back wall and trim panel as well as a rear window.

The company says the kit allows the conversion to take place while maintaining a distinct Western Star look.

It makes used Western Star highway trucks more practical for a second life in many vocational segments.

“Stratosphere sleeper owners are loyal to their trucks, so we wanted to make the trucks even more versatile,” said Richard Shearing, manager of product strategy with Western Star.

“Now owners can enjoy their trucks for new uses, or take advantage of the increased resale value that converting the trucks can provide.”

The conversion kit will soon be available for order through Western Star dealers, the company announced.

A new premium line of stainless steel accessories was also introduced by Western Star at the Great American Trucking Show. The line includes more than 300 mirror-finish items specifically designed for Western Star.

“We are excited to offer our customers new stainless steel accessory options that match the premium quality of their Western Star truck,” said Angelique Deas, product manager for Western Star accessories. “Highly customizable for every design preference, we continue to meet our customer’s needs by enhancing our product offerings at every level.”

The accessories are constructed with high-quality non-magnetic 304 stainless steel, giving them corrosion resistant properties that even stand up to road salt and other anti-icing agents, the company claims.

The accessories will be available through Western Star dealers beginning in mid-October, the company says.