The 579 EPIQ’s fuel gains come from aerodynamics, drivetrain, tire pressure monitoring and automatically generated driver performance tips, said Chief Engineer Scott Newhouse during the during the Mid-America Trucking Show. He detailed some key elements:
- A roof fairing bridge that reduces the gap between truck and trailer;
- Enhanced chassis fairings that minimize the opening in front of the tandem axle;
- Rubber wheel closeouts on the front axle;
- A bumper dam that reduces aerodynamic lift and drag; and
- A bumper-to-hood seal that redirects air around the truck.
“The Model 579 is the most aerodynamic truck in Peterbilt’s 75-year history and when configured with the EPIQ package, it takes fuel economy to even greater levels,” said Darrin Siver, Peterbilt General Manager.
![The Platinum Graphite Interior Package is available now for Peterbilt Models 579 and 567 in daycab configurations or when equipped with a 72- or 80-inch sleeper.](https://img.overdriveonline.com/files/base/randallreilly/all/image/2015/03/ovd.58-Inch-Sleeper_3QViewRGB-300dpi-med.png?auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=max&q=70&w=400)
Peterbilt introduced a new 58-inch sleeper for its Model 579 in low- and mid-roof configurations, which it says is ideal for weight conscious short- and regional-haul operations.
The new sleeper, which goes into production during the fourth quarter, reduces weight by up to 100 pounds (versus the 80-inch sleeper) while including all of the amenities found on Peterbilt’s larger sleepers.
The new sleeper includes a full-length door to help facilitate loading personal gear and belongings. Full-length, integrated extenders to minimize trailer gap and improve aerodynamic efficiency. Other features include a television mount, refrigerator and microwave shelf.
Peterbilt launched a new set-forward front axle configuration for its flagship vocational Model 567 that is ideal for mixer and other weight-conscious applications.
Like the set-back axle version, the Model 567 SFFA is available in both 115- and 121-inch BBC lengths. The 115-inch BBC has a bumper to front axle distance of 29 inches and the 121-inch BBC has a bumper to front axle distance of 31 inches.
Peterbilt introduced two new medium-duty vehicles powered by compressed natural gas: the Model 337 and the Model 348. Both vehicles are now in production and can be configured as trucks or tractors. They are optimized for configuration with 110-inch BBCs.
Newhouse said the optimized spec, including steering geometry that provides up to a 50 degree turning angle, provides improved maneuverability in congested operations.
Both the Models 348 and 337 are powered by the Cummins Westport ISL-G with 320 horsepower and 1,000 lb.-ft. of torque.
Peterbilt introduced its Models 579 and 567 in liquified natural gas configurations, available as daycabs. Production is scheduled for June. Both trucks are powered by the Cummins-Westport ISX12 G with up to 400 horsepower and 1,450 lb.-ft. of torque.
“Peterbilt is the industry’s natural gas leader with the largest market share, most experience and broadest, most versatile product lineup,” said Robert Woodall, assistant general manager of sales and marketing.