International Truck has announced “major enhancements” to its classic-styled LoneStar model. These include redesigned doors, windows and interior gauges and controls, as well as greater comfort and a number of uptime and safety enhancements.
Above: Though primarily a highway tractor, in special cases the LoneStar can be outfitted with vocationally oriented specifications suitable for some construction duties.
Introduced in 2005, the LoneStar created an “advanced classic” segment, combining styling based on International’s D-series heavy trucks from the 1930s with modern powertrains and electronics, said David Majors, vice president, Product Development, for Navistar, International’s parent.
“When a driver arrives in a LoneStar, it says something about him and his company,” Majors declared. For styling, LoneStar’s unique grille is retained, but new contouring has been added to the hood and fenders.
LoneStar came from the builder’s DriverFirst design philosophy, he said. It’s the latest to benefit from the Project Horizon redesign of the steel cab also used in the previously announced LT and other models.
LoneStar is primarily a highway model, but “in special cases, we will apply vocational specs, primarily as wreckers but certain other applications,” he said in answering a question from ConstructionEquipment.com. So a customer could conceivably order one for use as a dump truck or, as now, to pull construction-type trailers.
"Over the past decade drivers have come to love the iconic status of the LoneStar tractor's exterior styling and appearance with the distinctive grille and sloped hood that were inspired by International's D-Series trucks," Majors said. "Based on this feedback, we wanted to incorporate much of what we've recently learned from drivers and focus our engineering on an all new driver-centric interior while maintaining the iconic exterior look of the truck.
“As a result, we've made major improvements to the LoneStar in vehicle uptime performance and multiple new and improved features that enhance driver appeal." During a webcast this morning, Majors discussed LoneStar’s driver-centric improvements that include a “beautiful interior” inspired by comments received during driver clinics:
- Redesigned doors are stiffer and better sealed against road noise to achieve a quieter ride, include lower window sills for greater visibility to the sides and rear through the new mirrors.
- Mirrors sit on strong, aero-shaped pedestals, and are positioned so drivers need to turn their heads 12 to 15 percent to view them, and all parts are easily replaceable.
- Door handles are redesigned for easier grasping and to match the mirrors’ profile.
- Deeper map pockets can hold more paper and other flat items.
- Gauges are more clearly marked, switch labels laser-etched and now back-lit for durability and readability.
- An updated digital readout can display a number of engine and component conditions, and is operated by a conveniently located pagination control.
- A new HVAC system is more adjustable and powerful so it can quickly heat and cool the cab, and clear frost off the windshield, after start-up in extreme temperatures.
- The fuse panel at the lower edge of the dashboard includes an overhead gutter to direct spilled beverages away.
- Bluetooth connectivity is now included, and one USB port is standard and two more aare optional.
- Two cup holders and two bottle holders are included.
- Black cherry wood accents are used throughout the cab and in optional sleepers.
Cummins’ X15 diesel is the only engine available, in either Performance or Efficiency tuning. Horsepower ratings go from 400 to 605 and torque from 1,450 to 2,050 lb-ft. Specialized ratings to dial in a balance of performance and efficiency.
All ratings use a single-canister exhaust aftertreatment system that’s 60 percent smaller and 40 percent lighter than the previous system, and is simplified for quicker servicing. Greater engine efficiency and improved aerodynamics can deliver up to 3 percent better fuel economy than before.
Maximum Uptime
The LoneStar was designed with the goal of best-in-class uptime with new features that improve reliability and serviceability, as well as functionality, Majors said. For example:
- The cab wiring includes all-new harnessing and an in-cab power distribution module that is inside the truck, away from the elements.
- All key service points under the hood, inside the cab and around the vehicle are designed for easy access and servicing, and many components have been engineered with longer intervals between required maintenance.
Every LoneStar can be equipped with OnCommand Connection, the company's remote diagnostics system, and Over-the-air (OTA) programming. OTA, available through the nine-pin International LINK device, enables drivers or fleet managers to utilize a mobile interface to initiate authorized engine programming at the customer's facility over a safe, secure Wi-Fi Connection.
The service offers drivers and fleets an easy, secure means of updating engine control modules to reflect the latest manufacturer-approved calibrations, without the necessity of visiting a dealer or other service facility.
LoneStar was engineered to make it easier to get maintenance and get back on the road fast, Majors said. When service is needed, International dealers have trained, expert technicians and an extensive parts inventory wherever a driver may be throughout North America.
Central to the advances of the International LoneStar are advanced driver assistance systems that support safety and efficiency goals and pave the way for additional customer-selected options. LoneStar comes with Bendix Wingman Advanced Collision Mitigation system standard and is also available with the optional Bendix Wingman Fusion.
Additional safety features include improved side visibility and RollTek seats which all make the LoneStar one of the safest trucks on the road, Majors said.
The LoneStar is available as a Day Cab, 56" Low Roof Sleeper, 56" Hi-Rise Sleeper, 73" Hi-Rise Sleeper, and 73" Sky-Rise Sleeper. The company is taking orders today and trucks should be at dealers starting in January. More information is at https://www.internationaltrucks.com/LoneStar.
