LOUISVILLE, Ken. (Mar. 31, 2005) — Peterbilt wants to expand in the regional-haul market with the introduction of the aerodynamic Model 386.

While the 387 is still the premier aero-truck in the company’s lineup, Peterbilt GM and PACCAR Vice-President Dan Sobic said at the Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville, Ken. that the 386 is a scaled down version aimed at operators in short-haul operations who are looking for fuel efficiency and resale value,

The truck can be configured with either Unibilt sleepers or detached for use as a day cabs, offering users with a second life option in other regional or vocational applications.

The new truck, designed to maximize on aero efficiencies, features a contoured sun visor, side chassis fairings, dramatically sloped hood, sweptback fender design and form-fitted bumper.

Versus its predecessor, the 385, aerodynamic efficiency was increased by 10 per cent, the company states.

The truck — through lower radiator mounting and repositioned front axle — utilizes a different chassis than its big brother 387. It also incorporates several materials for best component construction, including advanced composite material like Metton for the bumpers, which is 60 percent lighter than steel and able to withstand rigorous highway wear and tear.

The truck’s interior improves operator ergonomics and comfort and is available in three trim levels: Probilt for vocational; Prestige for optimum balance, and the luxurious Platinum package.

The interiors feature improved lighting, five grab handles for safety entry and egress, an ergonomic pedal package with “dead pedal” footrest, new gauge and instrumentation lighting that reduces eye fatigue, and additional overhead space when combined with the UltraCab.