This week at the 2019 International Construction and Utility Equipment Exposition (ICUEE), International Truck introduced a new configuration for its all-wheel drive International HV Series, featuring a high visibility hood and set-back axle that allows for improved visibility and maneuverability.
“Our customers are truly at the center of everything we do. We’re constantly working with them to find the best solutions for their business,” says Mark Stasell, Vice President, Vocational Truck Business, Navistar. “We received customer feedback requesting improved visibility and maneuverability with vocational fleets, so we immediately started working on plans to make it a reality.”
“The HV Series that you see in our booth today is a direct result of those discussions and of listening to our customers,” Stasell continues.
The high visibility hood and set-back axle are extremely important for the vocational industry, especially for utility companies working in remote areas where a 4x4 chassis and maximum maneuverability are necessary. In addition, the new configuration provides an added level of safety around the vehicle.
“While the performance improvements are obvious, this configuration also helps improve safety around the worksite,” says Stasell. “Safety is always a top concern, and the improved visibility provides the driver with better awareness of what, and who, is around the vehicle; improving the safety of the driver, the vehicle and everyone on site.”
The new configuration is yet another example of the company doubling down on its efforts to improve its existing presence within the vocational market. Earlier this year, the company launched its Diamond Partner Program, which focuses on building stronger relationships and communication between truck equipment manufacturers and International dealers. Since its launch in March, the program has accumulated over 130 partners.
“International is not sitting back; we have the best products and the best vocational team in the industry,” says Stasell. “We are hard at work, listening to our customers and stakeholders to constantly improve. We’re extremely excited to have this configuration now available for our customers, and we have a number of other exciting things in the pipeline to continue our journey to becoming the premiere partner for the vocational truck industry.”
