Western Star X-Series for power and safety

Western Star is renowned for producing some of the toughest, most durable trucks on the road, and its X-Series models are no exception. The new Western Star X-Series range of trucks continues the company’s tradition of delivering superior, powerful drivelines, now with increased power outputs that take the performance of these trucks to the next level. In addition, the new X-Series trucks come with industry-leading vehicle safety systems designed to keep drivers and other road users safe.

Powering the new Western Star X-Series trucks are engines that include the Detroit DD13, and DD16 (pictured below), along with the Cummins L9. These engines are designed to provide maximum power and torque while meeting stringent emissions standards.

However, one of the best arrows in the quiver in the new Western Star X-Series is its advanced transmission system, the Detroit DT12. This advanced transmission is designed to provide smooth and efficient shifting, while also delivering excellent fuel economy. The DT12 transmission features intelligent shift management, which uses advanced algorithms to optimise shift patterns based on load, grade, and terrain, ensuring the best possible performance and efficiency.

Moreover, the X-Series offers driveline flexibility for operators with a choice of manual or automated transmissions, including the Eaton Fuller 18-speed manual transmission and the Allison 3000, 3500, 4000 and 4500 Rugged Duty Series automatic transmission. All these transmissions are designed to provide smooth and precise shifting while also delivering maximum power and torque to the wheels.

In addition to its powerful engine and transmission options, the new Western Star X-Series also features a range of advanced driveline components that further enhance its performance and reliability. These components include heavy-duty axles and suspensions designed to withstand the most demanding applications.

The X-Series is available with a choice of Meritor or Dana rear axles, both of which are designed to deliver exceptional durability and reliability. These axles are available in a range of ratios to suit desired applications with optional Driver Controlled Diff Lock (DCDL) and advanced gearing and differential systems that provide maximum torque to the wheels, while also ensuring smooth and precise handling. These components are engineered to provide maximum strength and durability while minimising vibration and noise.

Another key feature of the Western Star X-Series driveline is its advanced telematics system. The Detroit Connect system provides real-time data on the truck’s performance, including fuel consumption, engine performance, and maintenance requirements. This data can be used to optimise fleet management and improve operational efficiency, reducing downtime and increasing profitability.

“Our team has worked closely with Daimler Trucks North America on the design of these three models, including the 48X, which is a global exclusive, to deliver a product that is bespoke to our local needs,” said Craig Lee, Executive General Manager of On-Highway, Penske Australia.

“We’re excited by what the X-Series means for Australian customers. We have passionate Western Star enthusiasts who will want a 49X 6x4 with the 600hp Detroit DD16, drum brakes, spring suspension, and an Eaton Fuller manual transmission – a space in which we are renowned – and we can deliver that.

“On the other side of that, for a fleet operator after a 47X or 48X to haul B-doubles with Detroit’s DT12 transmission and all the advanced telematics that comes with that, we can deliver that too.”

But in addition to their powerful, rugged durability, these trucks are also equipped with industry-leading safety features developed specifically to suit heavy vehicle applications by Western Star’s parent company, Daimler Trucks.

One of the most critical safety features on any truck is the braking system, and Western Star’s X-Series models come equipped with Active Brake Assist 5 (ABA 5) as standard with the DT12. ABA 5 uses radar sensors to monitor the distance between the truck and other vehicles on the road. If the system detects that a collision is imminent, it will automatically apply the brakes to bring the truck to a stop. This can help prevent accidents caused by driver distraction or inattention and reduce the severity of accidents that do occur.

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) is another safety feature found on Western Star X-Series trucks. Like traditional cruise control, ACC allows a driver to set a cruise speed for their truck. However, ACC also uses radar sensors to monitor the distance between the truck and other vehicles on the road. If the system detects that the truck is getting too close to another vehicle, it will automatically adjust the truck’s speed to maintain a safe following distance. This can help prevent rear-end collisions caused by driver inattention or misjudgement.

Lane Departure Warning (LDW) is a safety feature that alerts drivers when their truck begins to drift out of its lane. Western Star’s X-Series trucks use a camera mounted on the windshield to monitor the truck’s position on the road. If the system detects that the truck is drifting out of its lane without the driver signalling, it will sound an alert to get the driver’s attention. LDW can help prevent accidents caused by driver fatigue, distraction, or impairment.

In addition to Lane Departure Warning, Western Star’s X-Series trucks also come equipped with Lane Keeping Assist (LKA). LKA is a more advanced system that helps steer the truck back into its lane if it begins to drift. Like LDW, LKA uses a camera mounted on the windshield to monitor the truck’s position on the road. If the system detects that the truck is drifting out of its lane, it will apply steering torque to bring the truck back into its lane. LKA can be especially useful in situations where a driver is fatigued or distracted.

One of the most significant safety risks for any truck is the potential for a rollover accident. To help prevent this, Western Star’s X-Series trucks come equipped with Roll Stability Control (RSC). RSC uses sensors to monitor the stability of the truck while it is in motion. If the system detects that the truck is at risk of tipping over, it will automatically apply the brakes to specific wheels to help stabilise the truck. This can be especially important in situations where a driver is forced to make a sudden evasive manoeuvre.

Another safety feature on Western Star’s X-Series trucks is Side Guard Assist (SGA). SGA uses radar sensors to monitor the blind spots on the side of the truck. If the system detects that there is a vehicle or other obstacle in the truck’s blind spot, it will sound an alert to the driver. This can be especially useful when changing lanes or merging onto a highway and can help prevent accidents caused by misjudging the position of other vehicles on the road.

Finally, the Western Star X-Series High Visibility Hood is an innovative feature that sets these trucks apart from their competitors. It provides greater vision for the driver and reduces blind spots, which can help prevent accidents and improve overall safety on the road. In addition to improving vision, the HVH also has other safety benefits. For example, the hood’s sloping design can help deflect debris away from the windshield, reducing the risk of damage or injury in the event of an impact. The HVH is also designed to be more aerodynamic than traditional hood designs, which can help to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.

“With Active Brake Assist 5, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, side guard assist, tailgate warning, brake hold mode, an improved visibility package, and a RollTek driver’s seat with rollover restraint and a seat-mounted airbag, drivers and fleet operators can have complete peace of mind that their Western Star will protect their most important asset, the occupants,” says the head of Western Star Trucks, Penske Australia, Kurt Dein (pictured below).

The Western Star X-Series is a new benchmark for the brand in this country. Add in superb driver comfort and an exceptional build quality, and the Western Star X-Series represents a complete package that delivers for drivers and operators alike, across a broad spectrum of applications, and amid some of the toughest conditions on the planet.

Find out more information on the new Western Star X-Series.