LOUISVILLE, Ky. V International Truck and Engine Corporation offered the first look at its new International brand big bore diesel engine recently at the Mid-America Trucking Show.

The new line of big bore diesels will provide greater choice to owners and operators of Class 8 highway tractors and severe service trucks. The fully emissions compliant engine, in the 11- to 13-litre range, is projected to debut in International Class 8 vehicles in fall 2007.

With this introduction, Class 8 customers gain a valuable alternative from an integrated truck and engine company, said Jack Allen, president, International Engine Group, at a press conference at the International booth. It will be specifically engineered to integrate leading diesel technologies with cab, chassis and systems innovations, all backed by the industrys largest dealer, service and parts network.

Allen stressed that the new engine is a true big bore platform, a full step up in size and power from Internationals leading mid-range diesels. The International big bore powertrain will command attention and respect as we deliver a new choice for Class 8 customers that meets their demands for fuel economy, reliability, uptime, durability, robust performance and an exceptional driver experience.

The big bore diesel includes:

h Performance driven direct injection high-pressure common rail electronic fuel system capable of multiple injection events.
h Durable single overhead cam actuated with 4-valves/cylinder and roller rocker arms.
h Compacted Graphite Iron cylinder block for high strength and low weight.
h Rugged gear-driven air compressor and power steering pump.
h Rear gear train and pad mounted accessories designed for low noise.

Dee Kapur, president, International Truck Group, referenced heavy truck innovations introduced by International in the past few years as evidence of the companys commitment to the Class 8 market. And today, the unveiling of our first big bore diesel engine leaves no doubt about the expertise and passion our Truck Group and Engine Group together bring to owners and drivers of Class 8 vehicles, he said.

Officials also announced the company is expanding upon the technology platform it has been developing for the last five years, Green Diesel Technology. This technology platform is built on extensive research, development and real world testing of improved diesel emission solutions, they said.

When customers buy International big bore and mid-range engines with Green Diesel Technology they will get the most reliable and advanced powertrain on the market, due to our experience and leadership in emissions solutions, said Allen. Green Diesel Technology allows for optimized drivability and life cycle value, minimized emissions and a new level of driver comfort with very low noise and vibration – its pure power and power that is pure.

The flexibility of Green Diesel Technology provides International the edge to design application specific solutions using advanced air management, selected fuel system application, proprietary combustion strategies, electronic controls and optimized after-treatment solutions, said officials.

The new International big bore engines will be offered exclusively in International brand severe service trucks, regional haul tractors and long haul tractors. The company also will continue to offer Cummins and Caterpillar big bore engines in International Class 8 vehicles.

This engine launch is part of a previously announced strategic agreement between International and MAN Nutfahrzeuge to collaborate on design, development, sourcing and manufacturing of components and systems for commercial trucks and diesel engines. Together, MAN and International have more than 180 years of diesel engine experience, going all the way back to when Rudolf Diesel developed the first diesel engine at MAN in 1893.

International Truck and Engine Corporation is the operating company of Navistar International Corporation (NYSE: NAV). International Truck and Engine is a leading producer of mid-range diesel engines, medium trucks, heavy trucks, severe service vehicles, and a provider of parts and service sold under the International brand. The company also is a private label designer and manufacturer of diesel engines for the pickup truck, van and SUV markets. Additionally, through a joint venture with Ford Motor Company, the company will build medium commercial trucks and currently sells and services truck and diesel engine parts. International Truck and Engine has the broadest distribution network in the industry. Financing for customers and dealers is provided through a wholly owned subsidiary of Navistar.

For information visit www.InternationalDelivers.com.