Peterbilt Motors Co. unveiled their new Model 537 and Model 548 trucks, designed for the Class 7 and 8 segment, during a live video event on April 7. The trucks are now available for order, with deliveries starting in July.

The new Model 537 and Model 548 are built upon a brand-new customizable chassis and multiplex electrical architecture. The trucks deliver seamless body builder integration allowing customers complete customization to spec their truck to fit their needs, Peterbilt officials said.

Two hood options are available for the trucks: a vocational three-piece Metton hood featuring a stationary grille with full through rail; and a three-piece SMC aerodynamic hood for maximum visibility.

Both hood options can use a variety of vocational and front engine power take-off bumpers to fit different applications. The bumper is front mounted to the chassis with a drop-and-go feature for self-locating. Bumper options include two finishes (chrome or painted), three bumper light mounted options (headlight, daytime running lights or fog), two radar options, two tow options (two tow loops or center tow), and two license plate mounting locations (center or offset).

The Model 537 and 548 offer wide or standard track axles featuring wheel cut angles for a shorter turning radius and mono-leaf or taper-leaf front springs rated from 8,000 up to 20,000 lb. The rear suspension is available with a taper-leaf or air leaf suspension rated from 12,500 to 40,000 lb. depending on a single or tandem drive configuration. The AWD option features a new offset bowl design to offer the lowest possible cab height.

Inside the Cab

A 2.1 meter cab is 8 inches wider inside than the previous generation cab and has room for three adults to seat comfortably, company officials said.

Stair-style steps and knurled grab handles make getting into the trucks easy. The best-in-class

Interior features include 4.6 cubic feet of storage space, three cup holders and a dash layout with available space for optional gauges, switches and ram mounts.

The trucks feature an all-new instrument cluster, featuring an analog speedo and tachometer with a high-resolution, seven-inch digital display which relays key information. Drivers are able to toggle through menu cards on the digital display utilizing the new multi-function steering wheel and the display navigation knob. The digital display is deeply integrated into the electronics of the truck with key information like system check, trip summary, power take-off functions, advanced driver-assistance systems and tire pressure monitoring systems all displayed through the menu cards.

Additional Models For Non-CDL Holders

Peterbilt also unveiled its new Model 535 and Model 536 trucks, which are designed for the Class 5/6 non-CDL lease and rental markets.

The trucks feature a robotically-assembled aluminum cab with a width of 2.1 meter, a floor height of 40.5 inches and a roof height of 74 inches.

Ingress and egress is improved with a 3” lower cab height, stair-style steps and knurled grab handles. The all-new, self-closing doors feature larger windows for increased driver visibility and three opening positions. The Bumper to Back-of-Cab measurement can be either 107” or 109” and the trucks offer excellent maneuverability with a turning radius of 51 feet, officials said.

Options available on the Model 535 and Model 536 include two hood lengths, two roof heights, composite and steel bumpers, as well as multiple options of fuel and DEF tanks.

Paccar TX-8 Transmission

Peterbilt announced the all-new Paccar TX-8 Automatic transmission and updated Paccar PX engines are available for order with the new medium-duty lineup.

The 8-speed Paccar TX-8 automatic transmission features the latest technology, Peterbilt officials said. The transmission monitors changes in road grade, vehicle acceleration, torque demand, weight and engine load to keep the truck in the most fuel-efficient gear. The transmission delivers automotive-like shifting with up to 5% better fuel economy, they said.

The Paccar TX-8 incorporates an Auto Park Lock safety feature that automatically engages the park lock should a driver forget. Next, a Twin Torsional Damper enables early first gear lock-up for smoother shifts and faster acceleration. Finally, the Mechatronic unit and Transmission Control Unit are combined into one unit within the oil pan for ease of service.

Peterbilt’s new family of medium-duty trucks is also equipped with Paccar’s updated line of PX engines that will see longer oil and fuel filter service intervals and fuel economy improvements. The updated PX-9 also logs higher torque ratings in the 260, 350 and 360 horsepower versions as well as a lower torque drop-off speed.

In addition, existing Paccar powertrain components will be rebranded to align with the newest member of the family. All PACCAR transmissions will take on the TX designation with the 12-speed being renamed the TX-12. The PACCAR 40K drive axle will become the PACCAR DX-40 and the vocational 20K front steer axle becomes the FX-20.