ST. LOUIS. Several improvements have been made to the Business Class M2 106V truck, Freightliner Trucks announced at the National Truck Equipment Assn.’s Work Truck Show here.
Notably among the changes, of course, is that the vehicle, which is designed for medium- and heavy-duty vocational applications requiring a front engine PTO or front frame extensions such as those needed in refuse collection, snow plowing, crane and utility operations, is ready to meet the 2010 EPA emissions regulations.
“With the enhancements we’ve made to the Business Class M2 106V, we have the next generation of one of our most versatile vocational trucks,” said Melissa Clausen, director of product marketing for Freightliner Trucks. “We’ve further extended the options for our vocational customers while meeting the stringent 2010 emissions standards.”
The vehicle includes a new 1,200 sq. in. radiator that can accommodate up to 380 hp with an automatic transmission and up to 80,000 lbs. GVW. Increased cooling and reliability are also features of the improved radiator, which is mounted to the engine above the top of the frame. This also allows a front-engine PTO shaft to run below the radiator.
Also new is a composite headlight system, which features complex reflectors with easy-to-replace halogen bulbs available at auto and truck supply stores. The truck’s new Blend-Air intake system pulls air from under and outside the hood, which helps the stream of air when it may otherwise be restricted due to debris.
“We took a close look at what our customers want in a heavy-duty vocational truck, and made the right enhancements to accommodate their needs,” said Clausen.
The front frame rail extensions are now integrated with the vehicle, rather than bolted on, allowing for a constant resistance bending moment (RBM) from the front of the frame extension to the end of the rail. Available in 6 in. and 24 in. lengths, the rail extensions are standard and provide a solid mounting point for pumps, winches, and plows.
Allison Optimized packages, exclusive to Freightliner, can also be spec’d.
The M2 106V received exterior updates as well. A new fiberglass hood with restyled front fenders join the non-corrosive aluminum cab to offer a contemporary look, Freightliner, a division of Daimler Trucks North America, said. Low step-in heights with slip resistance dual steps, large door openings and strategically placed grab handles add to driver comfort, as do flexible seating options. A 2,500 sq. in. windshield offers excellent visibility, the company said.
The Business Class M2 106V blends style and function to the benefit of the driver,” said Clausen. “Special attention was paid to the cab design to decrease driver fatigue and increase productivity.”
