Freightliner Trucks has announced that factory-installed Meritor front drive axles – which allow for an All Wheel Drive (AWD) option – are now available for immediate delivery on Business Class M2 106 and 106V truck models.

The front drive axle option is a part-time system ideal for use in fire and rescue, utility, snowplow and municipal service applications. The operator can activate the system when AWD is needed during traction-poor conditions. The AWD option can be engaged at or below 10 mph or while the vehicle is coasting on a level grade.
"Our Business Class M2 product line was specifically designed to tackle tough vocational jobs," said Alex Bernasconi, vice president of sales for Freightliner Trucks. "This new front drive axle option meets our customers' needs for increased traction and mobility during off-road and slippery conditions."
These axles utilize straight front-to-back frame rails, eliminating the need for a step frame for optimized cab height. The transfer case of the front drive axle is mounted between the transmission and rear axle. Additionally, the axle bowl is offset by 11-inches to the passenger side, matching the driveline angles and eliminating the need for a lift kit.
The front drive axles are available in a 4x4 or a 6x6 configuration on Business Class M2 106 or 106V truck models running MBE900 or Caterpillar C7 engines.
For additional information, visit www.freightlinertrucks.com.