Peterbilt Motors Co. has officially debuted its new Class 5 conventional—the Model 325. The OEM says the new model is its first truck dedicated specifically to the needs of the Class 5 user. Intended applications include vehicle recovery and towing, lease/rental, P&D and such business services as parcel delivery, landscaping and construction. The Model 325 begins production in mid-July.
“The new Model 325 is the ideal truck for customers seeking a non-CDL, easy to operate, reliable and affordable truck in the rapidly growing Class 5 segment,” said Bill Jackson, Peterbilt gm & Paccar vp.
The Model 325 is rated 19,500 lbs. GVW—putting it at the very top of Class 5-- in straight truck configuration. It’s powered by Paccar’s new PX-6 diesel, offered in 200-, 240- and 300-hp ratings and torque ratings running up to 620 lb.-ft. Standard specs include front and rear hydraulic disc brakes with ABS and a 6-speed manual transmission. An automatic transmission is optional.
According to Peterbilt, the Model 325 is extremely durable, thanks to such features as an all-aluminum cab, steel bumper and aerodynamic hood and fenders made from Metton, an advanced composite material that can withstand minor impacts, bumps and scratches. In addition, a stainless steel grille with chrome surround provides greater protection compared to plastic grilles and “also adds distinctive Peterbilt style to the vehicle.”
The Model 325 uses the same headlamp system as Pete’s other medium-duty conventionals. This advanced forward-lighting system provides broad, even light distribution with 40% better down-road coverage than conventional sealed beam designs, according to the OEM. The new model also features a fixed rear view window and a right-hand door view window for increased visibility. The Model 325’s in-frame, bundled wiring and hoses as well as “clean” frame rails are clear of obstructions and allow for easier body installation for the wide range of medium-duty applications, stated Peterbilt.
The OEM said that the Model 325 offers drivers a comfortable operating environment. Designed for easy entry and egress, a new step configuration allows drivers to move in and out of the cab at a more comfortable and safe position. The interior features a high-back driver’s seat in a plush, two-tone fabric as well as a two-person passenger bench seat with under-seat storage.
“The Model 325 is the best truck to maximize our customer’s profitability and productivity when considering factors like durability, fuel efficiency, serviceability and the cost of ownership, including future resale value,” noted Jackson
The Model 325 joins Pete’s lineup of medium-duties consisting of the conventional Model 330, Model 335 and Model 340 and the cabover Model 220 and Model 210. The OEM points out the Model 330 is a Class 6 truck that can be configured for non-CDL operation while the Model 335 is a “true Class 7 vehicle ideal for the majority of medium-duty applications, such as van body and beverage distribution and the Model 340 is available for more robust vocational applications.” The Model 220 and Model 210 are Pete’s Class 7 and Class 6 cabovers for applications requiring a “tight turning radius, ease of operation and high-volume payload capacity,” the OEM added, and both these vehicles can also be configured for non-CDL operation.
Fleet owners can see the new Model 325 up close with Peterbilt’s “Models of Innovation Tour,” a demonstration program aimed at giving existing and prospective customers the chance to test and evaluate trucks in a customers’ operation. The tour includes every 2008 Peterbilt model and the fleet of vehicles is distributed throughout Pete’s dealer network consisting of 238 locations across the U.S. and Canada.
The OEM stated that customers can contact their Peterbilt dealer for more details and to make arrangements to participate in the Models of Innovation program.
For more information, go to www.peterbilt.com.
