New sleeper cab options, an anti-idle cooling system and the ISX12 G among Peterbilt’s new offerings

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LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Peterbilt has closed the book on a successful 2012, which saw it set new highs for market share in North American Class 8 (14%) and medium-duty (7.5%) markets respectively.

The company also claimed to be the market share leader in natural gas trucks, with 35% of the market.

Bill Kozek, general manager of Peterbilt and Paccar vice-president, said he’s optimistic about 2013, forecasting total Canada/US Class 8 truck sales of 210,000-240,000 units, compared to 225,000 units in 2012. That would make 2013 the fourth best year on record, Kozek said.

He said he expects sales to strengthen throughout 2013. The medium-market will grow slightly to between 65,000 and 70,000 units, Kozek predicted.

In addition to introducing an all-new vocational truck, Peterbilt announced the addition of a mid-length BBC Model 579. The 117-inch BBC Model 579 retains the model’s aerodynamic characteristics, while offering improved visibility and maneuverability, Peterbilt announced at the Mid-America Trucking Show.

“The new mid-length BBC Model 579 configuration offers additional weight reduction and performance advantages with the standard Paccar MX-13 engine as the perfect powertrain complement,” Kozek said. “This combination of performance attributes optimizes the vehicle for weight sensitive customers, such as regional and bulk haul applications.”

The 117-inch BBC Model 579 will be available beginning in June.

Also new on the Model 579 is an 80-inch sleeper, which Peterbilt officials said is the largest sleeper in the company’s history.

Peterbilt also announced at the Mid-America Trucking Show, availability of the new Cummins Westport ISX12 G natural gas engine. The new engine will be available beginning in August, with power ratings of up to 400 hp and 1,450 lb-ft. of torque.

Peterbilt also made available a new, factory installed anti-idle cooling system. The SmartAir system provides comfortable cab temperatures in hot climates, the company announced. It can provide up to 7,500 BTU/hour of cooling capacity for up to 10 hours on a single charged and is powered by four batteries. It’s available on the Models 384, 386, 388, 389, 587 and 579.

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