The Peterbilt 587’s main claim to fame is that it’s earned the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) SmartWay certification, thus being recognized as fuel efficient and environmentally friendly. But just as important in some eyes will be the fact that air disc brakes — by Bendix — are standard on the front axle. That’s a first.

It’s available with one of two sleepers or in a day cab configuration, the cab interior featuring swivel seats and a roomy 30-inch walk-through space in sleeper versions. On the aerodynamic front you’ll see a 2.5% decrease in drag that results in a 1.25% fuel-efficiency gain, thanks to a new streamlined hood and moulded bumper, validated through wind tunnel and computational fluid dynamics testing.

Drivers may be most pleased of all by the new, industry-first PACCAR in-dash system called SmartNav, also seen on the new Kenworth T700. It’s basically an onboard computer that offers navigation, vehicle diagnostics, communication and entertainment technologies in a touch-screen-operated unit customized for the trucking industry. It’s driven by the Microsoft Auto 4.0 Windows CE 6.0 operating system that uses the J1939 SAE standard for vehicle communication and diagnostics. The system is said to be very flexible and features 8 gigabytes of memory, an ARM11 processor, a fully integrated satellite tuner, and an embedded microphone for voice recognition. Accessing the system is through hard keys that, along with a touch screen and voice recognition, provide the operator three means of operation.

Drivers should also be happy to see an improvement in their forward line of sight by over 2 ft and stronger halogen headlamps that are said to bring 35% more brightness. A projector module design is used for low beam lighting to provide enhanced road coverage and consistent light distribution. Optional high-intensity-discharge lights provide over a 200% increase in brightness.

On the handling front there’s better maneuverability because fresh steering geometry has improved curb-to-curb turning diameter by 12%.

Serviceability has been improved, says Peterbilt, by features such as bonded construction, advanced circuit board technology, and reduced wiring. As well, the hood features tilt-assist to facilitate hood opening and closing as well as an advanced anti-blow down protection device to help protect technicians performing service. 

The battery/toolbox has a new and "robust" gas spring design that makes opening and closing easier, plus a T-handle lock that ensures security.

The Model 587 features the new 2010 PACCAR MX engine rated at 380-485 hp or the 2010 Cummins ISX15 with a horsepower range of 400 to 600. Fuller manual and automated transmissions are available, as are axle ratings up to 46,000 lb.