KENWORTH UPGRADES INTERIOR PACKAGE

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KIRKLAND, Wash. — Improved ergonomics, contemporary styling, an improved HVAC system and additional storage are key features of Kenworth’s new cab interior for its T600, T800, W900 and C500 models.

“Kenworth places a great deal of emphasis on building trucks that are comfortable and convenient for drivers,” says Ed Caudill, Kenworth general manager and PACCAR vice-president. “Our engineers continually strive to enhance Kenworth’s premium products to provide even greater driver comfort.”

In designing this new cab interior, he adds the company listened closely to suggestions and recommendations from fleet customers and Kenworth Drivers’ Board members to help maximize satisfaction.

Kenworth’s new interior design features a standard wrap-around instrument panel, easy-to-reach dash location for placement of an AM/FM radio, and rotary controls for the heater/ventilation/air conditioning (HVAC) system.

“The wrap-around design makes the cab almost like being in a jet cockpit,” says Steve Gilligan, Kenworth general marketing manager. “This set-up enables the driver to easily reach all the controls and read all the gauges. We selected rotary dials because customers told us that they’re easier to use.”

Kenworth further enhanced the dash by installing rocker-style switches in the key-switch panel, a dedicated light-switch panel, and a flush-mounted knob for the wiper switch. Under-dash trim and a steering column shroud provide an additional level of noise dampening. Soundproof insulation is placed underneath the trim and shroud.

To help make driving more comfortable, Kenworth has also added an under-dash console. The standard console comes complete with driver and passenger cup holders, storage compartment, ashtray, lighter and 12-volt power outlet.

On the road, drivers will especially appreciate an improved HVAC system that features new louvers and ducting.

“We added split ventilation between the defrost and floor modes, so that the driver can get heat coming up from the floor while defrosting the windows at the same time,” adds Gilligan. “We also now have two floor vents per side, which improves heating and cooling at floor level. In addition, we improved the side-window defrost.”

First production of Kenworth models with the new cab interior will begin during the first week of March.

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