PHOENIX, AZ. Western Star Trucks has expanded its Stratosphere sleeper line with three models to now offer what it calls the broadest line of walk-through sleepers for on-highway and vocational Class 8 applications.
The new additions are a 40- and a 54-in. size aimed at vocational operators and an 82-in. “Ultra High” model for over-the-road truckers that Western Star says is the largest OEM sleeper available by interior volume. Western Star rolled out the new models here yesterday at its annual dealer meeting.
The new sleepers are now available for order from dealers on Western Star 4900 EX, 4900 SA, and 4900 FA models. They join the existing 68- and 82-in. Stratosphere sleepers and boast the same trio of key features: walk-through design, flat floor and roof-mounted air horns and marker lights.
"Since introducing our first Stratosphere sleeper three years ago, customer demand has increased tremendously," said Matt Stevenson, manager of product strategy, at a press briefing. "By adding the new 40-, 54-, and 82-in. Ultra High configurations, we are now able to offer both over-the-road and vocational customers the best and broadest selection of walk-through sleepers in the industry."
Stevenson pointed out that all Stratosphere sleepers provide additional headroom in the area between the driver's and passenger's seat so walking through the cab to the sleeper can be done “without crouching or bending over.” Because the floor is flat between the cab and the sleeper, the driver or passenger does not have to navigate steps or ledges, he added.
40-in. Stratosphere
The new 40-in. sleeper, the shortest walk-through sleeper offered by a Class 8 OEM, is aimed at vocational users such as for specialized hauling, construction, oil field, and logging. Even though in these types of applications the sleeper may only be needed to meet operating requirements or for storing equipment, customers will benefit from the same stand-up room as a larger sleeper but without the added weight or reduced visibility, said Stevenson.
"For a customer working on a vocational job site where there is activity in every direction, it's imperative for them to have excellent visibility," he said. "This new Stratosphere meets that demand with four optional windows-- front Vista, left- and right-hand side, and rear. This gives drivers more than 16 sq. ft. of added glass for outstanding visibility." The 40-incher weighs less than 500 lbs. and has a 31-inch bunk.
54-in. Stratosphere
Designed for heavy haul, regional haul, construction and export (especially Australia) applications, the 54-in. sleeper was designed to be light but strong as weight and payload are critical in these applications. The 54-incher has a 35-in. bunk. It has a full roof fairing and side extenders for over-the-road applications to help improve fuel economy.
"With so many comfort and performance options, both the 54- and 40-in. Stratospheres are poised to make a significant contribution to our success in the vocational sleeper market," noted Stevenson.
82-in. Ultra High Stratosphere
Designed for long-haul drivers, the new 82-in. Ultra High Stratosphere sleeper offers the largest sleeper by volume on the market, said Stevenson. It’s 13.8 in. higher than the original 82-in. Stratosphere and boasts more than 30 cu ft of additional living and storage space. The extra space allows for a fixed upper bunk that can be used with optional “dinette” seating.
"Not only will drivers appreciate the roominess of the sleeper, but they may also see an impact on their bottom line because of its improved aerodynamics," said Stevenson. "The Ultra High model stands from ground to top of sleeper at more than 13 ft, improving airflow efficiency on a standard 13-ft, 6-in. van trailer."
Each Stratosphere model is offered with numerous optional features to enable buyers to “customize their premium truck to their exact specifications,” Stevenson added.
For more information, contact a Western Star dealer by calling 866- 850-7827 or by visiting www.WesternStarTrucks.com.
