International's ProStar+ and TranStar models are getting some driver comfort upgrades, along with some performance and safety enhancements.

"Rebounding freight volume, along with the effects of CSA 2010, have resulted in a growing driver shortage among Class 8 fleets," said Jim Hebe, Navistar senior vice president, North American sales operations. "Customers today are asking us more and more to provide products that will help fleets attract and retain qualified drivers. We believe these product features deliver on that need."

ProStar+ Features Diamond Interior Concept; Includes New Technology, Creature Comforts

The International ProStar+ vehicle showcased at this year's American Trucking Associations Management Conference & Exhibition conference features a new Diamond interior trim package design concept, offering diamond-stitched trim on the seats, door panels, and throughout the sleeper cab. The aesthetics put a modern twist on the classic "tuck-and-roll" look, but it's also designed for durability and easy cleaning. This interior option will be available for order in mid-2012.

Navistar also featured several new driver-centric options that are available for order in ProStar+ today, including:

~ A premium in-dash GPS system featuring prognostics, fault code and tire pressure monitoring. It also includes a premium stereo featuring XM Radio, iPod/MP3 command and control and multiple speakers. These options are designed to make the drive both more productive and more enjoyable for drivers.

~ The MaxxPower Battery Powered HVAC system delivers a no-idle heating and cooling solution. In addition, the auto stop/start feature safeguards against battery depletion under extreme temperature conditions by automatically starting the engine to recharge the batteries. This feature assists drivers with sleep apnea by ensuring the truck battery does not deplete overnight due to CPAP machine operation and ensures adequate starting power after extended bunk time.

~ The Bendix Wingman Advanced collision mitigation system brings together adaptive cruise control with braking features along with collision mitigation braking technology. Bendix Wingman Advanced provides the driver following distance alerts. If necessary, the system will apply brakes to help the driver potentially avoid the collision, or help reduce its severity. The system also provides unique stationary object alerts, providing the driver up to a three-second warning of any metallic object blocking the driver's lane of travel.

~ The Bendix all-wheel air-disc brake package meets and exceeds the new reduced stopping requirements, providing the very best braking performance in its class.

~ Bendix AutoVue lane-departure warning system alerts the driver when the vehicle unintentionally departs a lane to the left or right.

~ LED exterior lighting that is designed to last 100 times longer and use 75 percent less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. This feature helps keep drivers in compliance with CSA 2010 regulations by reducing the number of times a bulb goes bad over the life of a vehicle.

~ A Fontaine 12-inch Ultra NT fifth wheel offers weight savings of up to 50 lb or more over competitive products. It has a no-slack feature which reduces the "chugging" caused when a trailer pin has excess room in the fifth wheel, making for a smoother ride for the driver, especially in stop-and-go situations.

TranStar Now Features Eagle Interior, In-Dash GPS and Allison TC-10 Transmission

As many fleets in the trucking industry shift toward Class 8 regional haul applications, Navistar has upgraded the International TranStar with a premium Eagle interior trim package -- the same package currently offered on ProStar+. It features premium air-ride seats, a wood-grained dashboard, chrome accents and bezels, and an ergonomically-designed "wing panel" over the center console.

This interior offers a premium, comfortable driving environment for regional haul applications. In addition, TranStar is now available with a new Rand McNally in-dash GPS system with truck-specific map software to helps drivers stay on course and on schedule.

Also showcased was a new commercial-duty Allison TC-10 transmission that will be available for order in mid-2012. The transmission offers seamless shifting through a 10-gear range using both a torque converter and twin countershaft design. The TC-10 optimizes acceleration and eliminates the interruption of power that occurs in manual and automated-manual shifting and increases safety by offering greater low-speed maneuverability and better traction.

Navistar has also added several new driver-centric features to TranStar that are available for order today, including the same LED package the ProStar+ gets, and the Bendix Wingman Advanced collision mitigation system.

Diamond Logic Electrical System Powers Additional Driver Features

Both the ProStar+ and the TranStar are fully integrated with the Diamond Logic electrical system to drive down costs while giving customers available convenience features that make their jobs easier and safer, including:

~ An automated pre-trip vehicle inspection feature that prompts drivers to confirm the operation condition of exterior lights prior to leaving the yard.

~ A parking brake alarm that sounds when the key is off and the parking brake is not set before leaving the truck, preventing roll-away situations.

~ Wipers that automatically slow down once the parking brake is set to prevent dry wipe damage, avoiding the cost of replacing a windshield.

~ Headlights, park lights, trailer lights and marker lights that automatically turn on with wipers to ensure your vehicle is visible on the road in rainy situations.