International Truck and Engine Corp. says its new CF Series low-cab-forward truck model marks the OEM's entry into the Class 4-5 market with an “all-new product designed and produced in North America, for North American customers. It is specifically aimed at customers in urban areas seeking a truck “that's easy to drive, efficient to maintain and economical to own.”
First two models in the CF Series will be the CF 500 (maximum 16,000-lb. GVWR ) for Class 4 and the CF 600 (maximum 19,500-lb. GVWR) for Class 5 applications.
Both will be powered by the newly developed International VT 275 diesel. The 4.5-liter V6 boasts peak ratings of 200 hp. @3,000 rpm and 440 lb.-ft torque @1,850 rpm. The OEM points out that the new powerplant is built on technology first used for its VT 365 diesel V8. The CF's integrated powertrain will also include a 5-sp. overdrive automatic transmission as standard.
The truck is designed to offer “great ride and handling along with superior visibility and maneuverability,” noted Dave Johanneson, group vp & gm for International's Medium Vehicle Center. “Drivers will immediately notice its responsive power, smoother shifting and quiet, comfortable cab environment.”
The CF Series is built on a high-strength, low-alloy steel frame with 34-in. wide frame rails, taper-leaf front suspension and standard front and rear shocks. PTO capability is offered optionally.
“Buyers of cabover trucks have never had a consistent or reliable North American choice,” stated Johanneson. “By extending the International brand into these markets, we'll offer high standards of powertrain reliability as well as the industry's best parts and service support through our dealer network.'
All International dealers will offer the trucks for sale. First orders will be accepted late this year and production is slated to begin next January.
