Smaller 'Star unveiled

Western Star has set its sights on the 15 to 22.5t GVM class with a new rigid model, the 2800SS.

Unveiled today at the Brisbane Truck Show, the model will go head to head with numerous firmly entrenched Japanese cab-over rivals, yet Western Star says the bonneted 2800SS sets new benchmarks for manoeuvrability, cabin space and cab access.

While it's an all-new model for the Australian market the 2800SS enjoys a 24 per cent share of the medium-duty segment in America, where over 45,000 examples were produced in 2014.

From an American brand typically associated with heavy-duty offerings, the new model promises to ruffle some feathers in distribution markets dominated by cab-over trucks from the likes of Isuzu, Hino, Fuso and UD.

The model is powered by a Cummins 6.7-litre ISB engine. The six-cylinder, high-pressure common-rail turbo-diesel is said to produce 260hp (191kW) and 895Nm, although a higher output of 325hp (242kW) will also be available.

Utilising SCR technology and complying with America's 2013 OBD certification, the model already meets ADR80/04 emissions standards and Cummins says it's Australia's cleanest-running diesel.

The engine is mated with a fully automatic Allison 3000 RDS six-speed transmission, while the model sports a 6426mm wheelbase and will be available in both 10- and 12-pallet configurations. The truck rides on Detroit axles front and rear, with Airliner rear suspension.

Western Star says the model's bumper-to-back-of-cab (BBC) measurement of 2692mm leads the segment, as does the 20-metre turning circle of the 12-pallet model.

According to Doug Shand, General Manager Western Star Trucks Australia, the model is set for considerable success in the local market.

"With Australia’s cleanest diesel engine, segment best cabin space, best turning circle, best cabin entry and egress, plus excellent safety technology, longer service intervals, lower maintenance and operating costs as well as overall durability and versatility, we believe the Western Star 2800SS will carve its own niche in the market with customers," he said.

Mr Shand said the first examples of the 2800SS were already here, with the trucks to officially go on sale towards the end of this year.

"We've got four models here now that will be used as demo trucks and we've got 10 on order that will go into the Penske Truck Rental fleet, but by the end of the year we'll have trucks on the ground," he said.

"The 2800SS on show here [in Brisbane] is a 4x2, but it will also be available in 6x2 and 6x4 formats, which is where we're mainly going to be concentrating."