Navistar and American LaFrance have new plans to work together to develop, manufacture and support low cab-over engine (LCOE) vocational trucks.


The two companies Wednesday announced plans to launch a joint venture that will combine the strengths and resources of both companies to manufacture and distribute vocational trucks for domestic and global markets.

The initial product focus will target the refuse and construction segments with future products planned for additional vocational markets. Through the venture, the American LaFrance Summerville, S.C., manufacturing facility will become the manufacturing hub for the new products.

The joint venture will build upon the engineering platform of American LaFrance and further enhance the product offering with proprietary Navistar components. Navistar engines will be incorporated within the product offering providing a clear advantage for the new line of trucks heading into the 2010 EPA emission requirements.

The companies have commissioned teams to focus on truck and engine opportunities. The initiatives contemplated by the Term Sheet are subject to completion of due diligence, execution of definitive agreements and regulatory approvals.