LOUISVILLE, Ky. — If introducing the new Model 579 wasn’t enough, Peterbilt also announced a series of enhancements across its broad product line at the Mid-America Trucking Show.

The company announced Bendix ESP (electronic stability program) is not standard on most heavy-duty Peterbilt trucks, including the newly announced 579.

“Stability control has long been an option for our product lineup and we are now advancing it to a standard feature due to customer demand and our continuing focus on serving the industry by offering vehicles with uncompromising performance, reliability, efficiency and safety,” said Bill Kozek, Peterbilt general manager and Paccar vice-president.

The stability system will be made standard on all Class 8 trucks and tractors, except for the Models 320 and 382, Peterbilt announced.

Peterbilt also announced the availability of an extended day cab version of its full line of medium-duty trucks. Customers can now extend the length of their day cabs by an extra 10 inches and add about six inches of additional head room, the company announced.

“Peterbilt’s extended day cab has been very popular since its launch last year, proving ideal for customers who require a larger operating environment,” said Kozek. “With the large standard rear window, the extended cab also provides superb visibility, making it optimal for both pickup-and-delivery and vocational applications.”

Also new to Peterbilt is its SmartAir, battery-powered anti-idling cooling system.

“SmartAir is green technology that provides multiple business solutions by reducing fuel costs, minimizing maintenance requirements and increasing payload capacity through its lightweight, compact design,” said Kozek. “Additionally, it helps companies comply with anti-idle laws nationwide while reducing their carbon footprint.”

The system provides 7,500 BTU/hour of cooling capacity and can run for a driver’s 10-hour off-duty period on a single charge, the company announced. Pete claims the cooling capacity is the best battery-powered solution offered in the industry.

And finally, Peterbilt announced it is now offering the Bendix Wingman Advanced collision mitigation system across its entire line of on-highway truck models.