(Photo courtesy of Daimler Truck North America)
Western Star has introduced the latest addition to its X-Series, the all-new Western Star 57X. The on-highway truck joins the new Western Star 47X and 49X to complete a lineup the company says is purpose-built for toughness, productivity and efficiency. The 57X is the most fuel-efficient truck Western Star has ever built, coming in at 5.8 per cent more fuel-efficient than its predecessor, the 5700XE.
The 57X gives owners a choice of Detroit engine models, the DD13 Gen 5, DD15 Gen 5 or DD16, and is available with Detroit Powertrain components, including Detroit DT12 Direct or Overdrive AMT transmissions. The trucks’ Intelligent Powertrain Management system anticipates terrain and adjusts to road conditions. They are available with Detroit front steer and high-speed ratio rear tandem axles.
Aerodynamic improvements to the cab and chassis include a new aerodynamic hood and bumper with air ducts, roof and chassis fairings for the Day Cab, 60-inch and 72-inch Mid-Roof models, chassis side fairings with flexible skirts specifically designed to fill the gaps between cab and chassis, aerodynamic roof fairing or adjustable aerodynamic deflector for day cab, 24-inch sleeper side extenders (12-inch for day cabs), optimized drive wheel fairings, and FlowBelow mould-in colour drive wheel covers.
Equipped with industry-leading safety and connectivity features, the truck is designed to protect the driver, pedestrians and other motorists, while providing the operator with crucial, real-time information about the vehicle.
It comes standard with the Detroit Assurance 5.0 safety system with Active Brake Assist 5, an always-on system that fuses camera and radar technology to detect moving obstacles in front of the truck and can deploy full braking.
With Detroit Assurance also comes Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) to 0 mph, which helps keep the truck at a safe distance and provides a more confident driving experience. Detroit Assurance 5.0 also offers optional Active Lane Assist (ALA), which includes Lane Keep Assist, Auto Stop, Lane Departure Protection and Steer Assist. Steer Assist can help reduce fatigue on the road and makes maneuvering in yards far easier. Additionally, Active Side Guard Assist (ASGA) makes its debut in the 57X to mitigate blind-side issues during right-hand turns.
Standard Detroit Connect offers a comprehensive and innovative suite of connectivity systems that provide real-time, actionable insights into vehicle performance.
All new for Western Star trucks, a digital dash display features a configurable instrument cluster to provide an experience similar to today’s luxury cars. The larger screens display entertainment options such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as vehicle information from Detroit Assurance. Integrated steering wheel controls let drivers control most entertainment and information functions without taking their hands off the wheel.
Four cab options are available to suit any application, including Day Cab, 60-inch Mid Roof, 72-inch Mid Roof or 72-inch Stratosphere. All deliver feature leather seating and, sleeper models offer an optional enhanced driver’s lounge with table and Murphy bed. An easy-to-operate HVAC system, improved insulation, and a larger windshield over the company’s earlier model also contribute to a more comfortable driver experience.
Numerous customization and bright finish options are available to tailor the truck to the owner or driver’s needs. Production is planned to begin in early Q1 2023 at DTNA’s Cleveland, N.C., Truck Manufacturing Plant.
