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Navistar puts International ProStar to the test

Local and US engineers are examining the ProStar ahead of its Australian launch.

 

Ahead of the Australian launch of the International ProStar next year, Navistar engineers have begun analysing how components are coping in local conditions.

Announced at the Brisbane Truck Show, the Cummins-powered ProStar will headline the brand’s return to Australia and ship in a range of power variants from 475hp (350kW) to 550hp (405kW).

Engineers in Australia and the US have been testing the truck for its suitability down under, using information it has gained over the past five years with the Cat brand to examine the ProStar’s current durability.

Navistar Auspac chief engineer Adrian Wright is heading the analysis, along with senior engineers John Drakopoulos and Garry Perkins and US counterparts.

“This is certainly no quick ‘tick the box’ exercise,” Wright says.

“Between now and ProStar’s commercial availability next year, every component and assembly will be assessed, evaluated and ultimately validated for Australian conditions.”

The chief engineer says the team will compare the truck’s aerodynamics and fuel efficiency to the US and examine each of the 2,200 parts and assemblies that make up the right-hand drive ProStar’s ‘bill of materials’.

“Everything is being assessed, from the chassis to cab structures, to minor components and attachments, and electrical systems,” Wright says.

“Where there is the possibility for difference between the US and Australia in the durability of a particular part or assembly, then that difference is analysed, tested and if necessary, the component is strengthened.

“So far there has been little need to change anything but this is an ongoing exercise and it won’t be complete until we’re sure that each part or assembly will meet its original design goals under Australian conditions.”

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The International ProStar made a splash at the Brisbane Truck Show, winning the coveted Truck of the Show Award.

The truck is powered by a 15 litre Cummins ISXe5 and features an Eaton 18-speed overdrive transmission in manual or automated UltraShift-Plus variants.

It will be available in day cab and two sleeper cab forms with a gross combination mass of 90 tonnes.

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