The all-new 2007 Dodge Ram 3500 Chassis Cab from DaimlerChrysler features enhanced functionality and bold styling. It has a gross vehicle weight rating (gvwr) of 10,200 pounds and “best-in-class standard V8 power,” according to the company.

The standard powertrain consists of a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine and a manual six-speed transmission. The new 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel I-6 is optional.

This engine features increased horsepower (from 325 hp to 350 hp) and torque (from 610 pound-feet to 650 pound-feet). It has a life-to-overhaul interval of 350,000 miles, “providing more than a 100,000-mile advantage over the competition.” An exhaust brake is optional.

Transmission alternatives are an automatic five-speed for the 5.7-liter V-8 engine and an Aisin six-speed automatic.

The Sentry Key engine-immobilizer theft-deterrent system comes standard.

CargoDodge’s Sprinter 3500 Cargo high-roof van features a tall walk-through height and low-load height for easy loading and unloading. It has 73 inches of headroom, compared to the standard 64 inches. Full-height rear doors and an opening angle of 270 degrees make for easy access.

The Sprinter has a gross vehicle weight rating of 9,990 pounds and is available in 140- and 158-inch wheelbase models. Its power comes from a Mercedes-Benz MBE 600 2.7-liter turbocharged diesel that generates 154 hp and 243 pound-feet of torque. The transmission is a Mercedes-Benz five-speed automatic.

Web site: www.dodge.com

Ford Motor Co. “offers the widest variety of trucks built for commercial applications,” according to the company. The lineup features everything from E-series cargo vans and wagons to Super Duty F-Series trucks and chassis cabs.

Ford’s 2007 F-650 and F-750 Super Duties come in gross vehicle weight ratings of 20,500 to 33,000 pounds, in wheelbase lengths from 134 to 281 inches and in regular, supercab and crew cab versions. By packaging major components under the cab and not on the frame, the company has created a clean cab-to-axle (CA) length, across the top and down the sides, for easier mounting of bodies and equipment.

Ford offers three families of diesel engines to chose from: Caterpillar 7.2-liter Turbo Diesel, Cummins 5.9-liter Turbo Diesel and Power Stroke 6-liter V8 Turbo Diesel. There are 21 horsepower/torque ratings, beginning at 185 hp and 420 pound-feet of torque and topping out at 300 hp/860 pound-feet.

Engines can be mated to a selection of five- and six-speed Eaton Fuller and seven-speed Spicer manual transmissions and eight Allison automatics. The cab is available in regular, supercab and crew cab versions.

The Pro Loader F-650 and F-750 Super Duty are low-profile models, with a shorter top-of-frame to top-of-cab height and lower overall ground to top-of-cab clearance.

Ford’s LCF is a tilt cab, low cab forward vehicle, said to the have the “best-in-class turning radius” of 16-feet 5-inches curb-to-curb.

The 2007 LCF comes in four gross vehicle weight ratings: 15,000, 16,000, 17,999 and 19,500 pounds. The only available powertain is the 200-hp/440 pound-feet 4.5-liter Power Stroke V6 Turbo Diesel paired with the TorqShift five-speed automatic transmission.

Available wheelbases stretch from 113 to 185 inches. Like the F-650 and F-750, all LCF models have clean cab-to-axle dimensions for easy, more cost efficient body and equipment mounting.

The F-450 Chassis Cab, with a gross vehicle weight rating of 16,000 pounds, comes in a variety of wheelbase lengths and cab styles, with gas or diesel power.

The F-550 Chassis Cab has a greater capacity with its 17,500-pound gvwr. With wheelbases of 165 and 201 inches, it too, is available in a variety of cab styles and in gas or diesel power.

Web site: www.commtruck.ford.com

Freightliner Trucks’ Business Class M2 line of medium- and heavy-duty vehicles is ideal for beverage applications.

The M2 106 model comes as a single or tandem rear axle truck or tractor with gross vehicle weight ratings up to 64,000 pounds. The M2 112 is a tandem rear axle model, also available as a truck or a tractor, with a gross vehicle weight rating of up to 66,000 pounds.

Available wheelbases for both the M2 106 and M2 112 range from 130 inches to more than 300 inches.

All Business Class M2 models come standard with one of Freightliner’s proprietary Mercedes-Benz diesels: the MBE 900, in ratings from 190 hp to 300 hp; or the MBE 4000, from 350 hp to 450 hp.

A selection of Cummins engines — ISB and ISC in ratings from 200 hp to 330 hp, as well as the Caterpillar C13 in ratings from 305 hp to 470 hp — are available as options.

Transmission choices are the Mercedes-Benz MBT six-speed manual and automated-manual; five-, six-, seven-, nine-, 10-, 11- 13- and 18-speed Eaton Fuller manuals; Eaton Fuller 10-speed automated; and an assortment of Allison automatics.

The Business Class M2 cabs — available in day cab, extended cab and crew cab styles — are made from aluminum for lighter weight and better corrosion-resistance. Body installations are simplified by clear back-of-cab frame rails and multiple exhaust options.

Web site: www.freightlinertrucks.com

General Motors offers a full product line that meets the needs of the beverage industry and is the only truck manufacturer to offer gasoline power in a Class 8 truck.

Its TopKick and Kodiak 4500 conventional model trucks are offered in gross vehicle weight ratings up to 17,500 pounds and have “one of the best turning diameters within Classes 4 and 5,” according to the company. The TopKick and Kodiak 5500s have a 26,000-pound gvwr.

GM’s 325 hp/450 pound-feet of torque Vortex 8.1-liter V8 gasoline engine backed to an Allison automatic are the standard powertrain for the 4500s and 5500s. The Duramax 6600 Turbo Diesel at 300 hp/520 pound-feet or 605 pound-feet of torque is optional.

The 6500 TopKick and Kodiak models have a gross vehicle weight rating of up to 25,095 pounds and a wheelbase spread from 128 to 296 inches.

The standard engine is the Vortex 8.1-liter V8 gas engine rated at 295 hp/400 pound-feet coupled with an Allison automatic. Available engines are the Isuzu 7.8-liter diesel at 200 hp to 230 hp/520 pound-feet to 660 pound-feet of torque and the 7.2-liter Caterpillar C7 rated at 207 hp to 230 hp/520 pound-feet to 660 pound-feet of torque.

Next in the GMC TopKick and Chevy Kodiak lineup is the 37,600-pound gvw-rated 7500. With wheelbases of 140 to 296 inches, the 7500 also comes standard with an Allison automatic and a 295 hp/440 pound-feet of torque Vortex 8.1-liter V8 gas engine.

The Caterpillar C7 rated at 200 hp to 300 hp/520 pound-feet to 860 pound-feet of torque and the Isuzu 7.8-liter diesel with the same ratings are optional.

A variety of manual and Allison automatic transmissions are available as options on the 4500, 5500, 6500 and 7500 models.

The air-braked 8500 TopKick and Kodiak have a gross vehicle weight rating of up to 42,000 pounds and are available in the same range of wheelbase lengths as the 7500.

Engine choices for the 8500 are the 295 hp/440 pound-feet of torque Vortex 8.1-liter V8 gas engine, Isuzu 7.8-liter diesel in ratings from 215 hp to 300 hp/660 pound-feet to 860 pound-feet of torque, and the Caterpillar C7 in ratings from 210 hp to 300 hp/605 pound-feet to 860 pound-feet of torque.

The 8500 also is available in a tandem version with a 61,000-pound gvwr and a range of wheelbase sizes, from 152 to 308 inches.

Its standard powertrain is the 230 hp/660 pound-feet Isuzu 7.8-liter diesel coupled to an Allison transmission. The engine is also available in 250 hp to 300 hp/660 pound-feet to 860 pound-feet ratings.

Caterpillar’s C7 diesel in ratings from 230 hp to 300 hp/660 pound-feet to 860 pound-feet is optional, as are a variety of Allison automatic and Eaton Fuller manual transmissions.

The W Series is GM’s line of low cab forward vehicles that have been redesigned for 2007. The Chevy and GMC W3500 have a gross vehicle weight rating of 12,000 pounds, while the W4500 has a 14,500-pound gvwr.

All models come standard with a 300 hp/360 pound-feet of torque Vortec 6000 V8 gas engine and four-speed automatic transmission. A 190 hp/387 pound-feet of torque turbocharged and intercooled diesel and six-speed manual is an option.

The 17,950-pound gvwr W5500 comes with the same diesel engine. A four-speed automatic is the standard transmission; optional is a six-speed manual.

The heavier version of this truck, with a gross vehicle weight rating of 19,500 pounds, is the Chevy and GMC W5500HD. It has the same standard powertrain and options.

Available wheelbases for all W Series trucks go from 109 to 150 inches.

General Motor’s line of diesel-powered cabover trucks is the T Series. It starts with the T6500, offered in wheelbases from 128 to 260 inches and a gross vehicle weight rating of up to 29,000. Standard is the 200 hp/520 pound-feet of torque Isuzu 7.8-liter diesel and an Allison automatic. The engine can be had in a rating of 230 hp/660 pound-feet of torque.

Next in the lineup is the up to 37,600-pound gvwr T7500. It comes with the same standard powertain as the T6500. Optional engine ratings are 230 hp to 300 hp/660 pound-feet to 860 pound-feet of torque.

Then comes the T8500, with a gross vehicle weight rating of 49,090 pounds. It gets its power from a 230 hp/660 pound-feet of torque Isuzu 7.8-liter diesel and an Allison automatic. The engine with ratings of 250 hp to 300 hp/660 pound-feet to 860 pound-feet of torque is optional.

The T6500, T7500 and T8500 all have a wheelbase range from 128 to 260 inches.

The last model in the Chevy and GMC T Series is the T8500 tandem. It has a gross vehicle weight rating of up to 56,000 pounds and 152- to 260-inch wheelbase lengths.

The base powertrain is the Isuzu 7.8-liter diesel rated at 250 hp/660 pound-feet of torque united with an Allison automatic. Available engine ratings are 250 hp to 300 hp/800 pound-feet to 860 pound-feet of torque.

A selection of Allison automatic and Eaton Fuller manual transmissions are offered for the T Series.

Web sites: Chevy Trucks: www.chevrolet.com/mediumduty; GMC Trucks: www.gmc.com/mediumduty

Hino Trucks offers a diversity of Class 4 to Class 7 conventional model trucks, all with clean access from the back-of-cab to the end of the frame rails for simplified body and equipment installations.

The Hino 145 model, rated at 14,050 pounds gvwr, and the Hino 165, with a 16,000-pound gvwr, come in wheelbases of 147, 169, 183 and 201 inches. At a higher gross vehicle weight rating of 18,000 pounds is the Hino 185. Wheelbases for this model are 169, 183 and 201 inches.

The Hino 145, 165 and 185 models each come standard with a turbocharged and intercooled Hino 5-liter diesel engine rated at 175 hp and 347 pound-feet of torque. Standard is a five-speed Eaton Fuller manual transmission, with an optional four-speed Aisin automatic.

The Hino 238 is rated at 23,000 pounds gvw, in wheelbases of 187, 205, 217, 235 and 253 inches. Then comes the 25,500-pound gvw-rated Hino 258LP (Low Profile), which shares the same wheelbases, plus has one additional — 175 inches.

Hino’s model 268 and 268A each have a gross vehicle weight rating of 25,950 pounds and share some common wheelbase lengths: 217, 235, 253 and 271. The Hino 268 is also available in 187- and 205-inch wheelbases versions.

The Hino 238, 258LP, 268 and 268A all come standard with a larger 220 hp/520 pound-feet of torque, 8-liter turbocharged and intercooled Hino diesel and Eaton Fuller six-speed manual. An Allison five-speed automatic transmission can be had as an option.

The heaviest Hino hauler is its 338, with a capacity of 33,000 pounds gvwr, in wheelbases of 187, 205, 217, 235, 253 and 271 inches. There is an optional single rear axle City Tractor version with a choice of two wheelbases: 144 and 151 inches.

The Hino 338 comes with an 8-liter turbocharged and intercooled Hino diesel rated at 260 hp/585 pound-feet of torque and an Eaton Fuller six-speed manual transmission. Optional is an Allison five-speed automatic transmission.

Model year 2008 Hino Trucks will get a variety of new standard features, including LED marker lights (for longer life and bright light), full trim cab interior, Davco fuel filter (with a clear cover for instant visual indication of filter life), engine glow plug, exhaust brake and a new dash information display system that monitors engine and vehicle performance.

Among the new options, additional wheelbase offerings on all models, alloy wheels, synthetic oil, red and black factory paint and chrome mirrors.

Web site: www.hino.com

International produces a wide range of commercial trucks and engines designed for beverage delivery.

New to the company’s line of conventional trucks is the 4100, a low-profile Class 5. It is powered by a 230 hp/540 pound-feet of torque International VT 365 diesel engine with an Allison automatic transmission. Available wheelbases are 140 to 217 inches.

Available in a regular and low-profile version, the International 4200 has an International VT 365 diesel engine rated at 175 hp/460 pound-feet of torque to 230 hp/620 pound-feet of torque. Transmission selections are Eaton Fuller five- or six-speed manuals or Allison automatics. The 4200’s wheelbase range is 128 to 254 inches.

Next in the lineup in the 4300, also in a regular or low-profile model, in the same wheelbases as the 4200. Power is supplied by an International DT 466 diesel in two ratings: 210 hp/520 pound-feet of torque and 255 hp/660 pound-feet of torque. These can be joined to six- or seven-speed Eaton Fuller manuals or Allison automatics.

The 4400 is a sturdier model. It also is available as a low-profile truck and with a tandem rear axle version. The spread of wheelbases is 140 to 254 inches.

The model has the option of two engines: the International DT466 High Torque in ratings from 225 hp/620 pound-feet of torque to 300 hp/860 pound-feet of torque, and the International DT570 Standard Torque in ratings from 285 hp/800 pound-feet to 330 hp/950 pound-feet of torque.

Available transmissions include Eaton Fuller six-, seven- and 10-speed manuals and Allison automatics. The 4400 is also offered as a single rear axle Mid Cab Tractor in wheelbases from 128 to 189 inches. It has a 4-inch higher stance and ride-enhancing standard cab air suspension system for applications that require a significant amount of bobtailing.

The 4400 Mid Cab Tractor can be ordered with the same International DT466 High Torque engine or with a 310 hp/950 pound-feet of torque International DT570 Standard Torque. There is the choice of Eaton Fuller six, seven- and 10-speed manuals and Allison five- and six-speed automatics.

All of the previously mentioned models can be had in regular and crew cab versions.

The CF Series is International’s low cab forward Class 4 and 5 trucks. They come standard with the International VT 275 4.5-liter V6 engine rated at 200 hp/440 lb ft torque and a Ford 5-speed automatic transmission. The trucks have 64-inch bumper-to-back-of-cab (BBC) dimensions and are available in wheelbases from 113 to 185 inches.

International trucks are available with the company’s Aware Vehicle Intelligence, a telematics technology that links a truck’s electrical system to allow wireless monitoring of truck routes, performance, maintenance, security and fuel.

Web site: www.internationaldelivers.com

Isuzu Trucks has redesigned its N-Series line of low cab forward vehicles for 2007.

The NPR gas-powered model rated at 12,000 pounds gvwr begins the N-Series line. The heavier duty NPR HD has a 14,500-pound gvwr. Power is supplied by a 6-liter Vortec 6000 V8 engine rated at 300 hp/358 pound-feet of torque joined to a Hydra-Matic four-speed automatic transmission.

Both NPR models are available with diesel power: a 5.2-liter 190 hp/387 pound-feet of torque turbocharged and intercooled diesel and six-speed manual. An Aisin four-speed automatic transmission is optional.

Next in the line is the 17,950-pound gvw rated NQR. It has the same powertrain selections as the NPR diesel models, as does the NRR, with its gross vehicle weight rating of 19,500 pounds.

Wheelbase offerings for the NPRs, NQR and NRR are 109, 133, 150 and 176 inches. Crew cabs are available on the NPR HD diesel and NQR models.

The F-Series is Isuzu’s line of low cab forward trucks for heavier loads, starting with the FTR at a gross vehicle weight rating of 25,950 pounds. It is outfitted with a 7.8-liter turbocharged and intercooled diesel rated at 200 hp/520 pound-feet of torque and Allison five-speed automatic.

The FRV has a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 to 33,000 pounds. It has the same engine and transmission as the FTR.

The last F-Series model is the FXR. The single rear axle version has a gross vehicle weight rating of 33,001 pounds; the tandem version’s gross vehicle weight rating is 52,350 pounds.

The FXR’s powertrain is a 230 hp/660 pound-feet of torque 7.8-liter turbocharged and intercooled diesel and an Allison six-speed automatic. The FXR Tandem gets the same transmissions and engine, but it is rated at 250 hp/660 pound-feet of torque.

Available wheelbases for the FTR, FVR and FXR range from 128 to 160 inches. The FXR Tandem’s wheelbase offerings are 152 to 260 inches.

Isuzu also offers a line of conventional trucks, the H-Series.

The HTR, rated at 25,950 pounds, comes with a 7.8-liter overhead cam diesel rated at 200 hp/520 pound-feet of torque. Transmission choices are Allison five-speed automatics and a six-speed Eaton Fuller transmission.

Next is the HVR with gross vehicle weight ratings of 25,950 to 33,000 pounds. Its 7.8-liter overhead cam diesel comes in 215 hp and 250 hp versions, with torque ratings of 520, 660 and 800 pound-feet of torque. Available transmission include an Eaton Fuller six-speed and several five- and six-speed Allison automatics.

Ending the final H-Series is the HXR, which comes in a single rear and tandem rear axle configurations. The gross vehicle weight ratings are 35,000 pounds and 54,600 pounds respectively.

As with the other H-Series models, the HXRs also use a 7.8-liter overhead cam diesel. The single axle model gets a 250 hp/800 pound-feet of torque rating; tandem axle version, 300 hp/860 pound-feet of torque. Five- and six-speed Allison automatics and nine- and 10-speed Eaton Fuller manuals are the transmission options.

The H Series is offered in wheelbases of 152, 206, 212, 236, 248 and 260 inches. The HVR is available in a crew cab version with a 194- or 260-inch wheelbase.

Web site: www.isuzucv.com/trucks

Kenworth’s primary vehicle for the beverage industry is its Class 6 and Class T300 conventional. It is offered in both a truck and tractor version, with single or tandem rear axles, in gross vehicle weight ratings from 24,000 up to 54,600 pounds.

Kenworth recently introduced five new Class 6 air brake configurations and two new hydraulic brake configurations in both 19.5-inch and 22.5-inch wheels and tires. The T300 offers “excellent” visibility with its 20-degree sloped hood, standard DayLite doors with peeper window, according to the company. Optional corner windows can aid in backing up and negotiating tight spots.

Standard power is the new Paccar PX-6 and PX-8 line of medium-duty engines. The 6.7-liter PX-6 is offered in ratings ranging from 200 hp to 325 hp and 520 to 750 pound-feet of torque. Ratings for the 8.3-liter PX-8 engine go from 240 hp to 330 hp and 660 to 1,000 pound-feet of torque.

A wide variety of automatic and manual transmissions are available from Allison and Eaton Fuller. All automatics have an electronic dash-mounted shifter module.

Among the new standard features and options for the T300 are power door locks, passenger-side electric windows (optional on the driver’s side), long-life coolant, silicone hoses, a 860-square-inch cooling module, heating and air conditioning, and glove box with locking door. New options include remote keyless entry and a low voltage disconnect system that continually monitors battery voltage.

The T300 now comes standard with air brakes, with optional hydraulic brakes. Wheelbases extend from 140 to 320 inches.

Just introduced by Kenworth at the end of October was its new K360 Class 7 cabover for delivery applications in urban areas that require a highly maneuverable truck with 22- to 26-foot bodies. The K360 is based on the DAF LF55 which was European Truck of the Year in 2002. “European customers have touted the high-volume payloads through its low chassis weight and clear back of cab as one major reason for its success,” says the company.

The 33,000-pound gvwr K360 initially will be launched as a single rear axle truck model with a new 5.9-liter 220 hp/605 pound-feet of torque Paccar PX-6 diesel engine and six-speed manual transmissions. Horsepower ratings will range from 220 to 280 hp with maximum torque of 620 pound-feet. A combination of automatic and manual transmissions will be offered.

Web site: www.kenworth.com

This is the last year for Mack’s Vision (introduced in 1999) and its CH Series (brought to market in 1988). The Vision DayCab models were particularly well-suited local and regional daily hauling.

For 2007, Mack is offering its Pinnacle Axle Forward and Pinnacle Axle Back DayCab highway tractors, available in single rear axle and tandem axle versions.

The Pinnacle is built on Mack’s Advantage Chassis, a total chassis designed for an “excellent” strength-to-weight ratio and to provide improved maneuverability, ride and handling. An innovative air suspension incorporates vibration dampening and noise reduction engineering for reduced driver fatigue and improved comfort.

Standard power for the Pinnacle models comes from the MackPower Engine Series. These engines have been developed to “deliver plenty of horsepower plus great low-end torque,” according to the company.

The Pinnacle Axle Backs come equipped with Mack’s MP8-415C diesel rated at 415 hp/1,660 pound-feet of torque connected to an Eaton Fuller 10-speed transmission. Other MP8 engine ratings are available, from 425 to 485 hp with a range of peak torques.

MP7 diesels in hp ratings from 325 to 395 and a variety of torque ratings are optional, as are a wide selection of Mack (six-, nine-, 10-, 13- and 18-speed) manual transmissions, Eaton Fuller (nine-, 10-, 13-, 15- and 18-speed) manuals and Eaton Fuller automated (10- and 18-speed) transmissions.

The Pinnacle Axle Forward trucks have a MP8-425E diesel rated at 425 hp/ 1,560 pound-feet of torque, also mated to an Eaton Fuller 10-speed transmission. As with the Pinnacle Axle Back models, there are a number of other horsepower (415 hp to 485 hp) and torque ratings.

Transmission choices for the Pinnacle Axle Forwards include Mack (nine-, 10-, 13- and 18-speed) and Eaton Fuller (nine-, 10-, 13-, 15- and 18-speed) manuals and Allison (five- and six-speed) automatics.

The single rear axle Pinnacle Axle Back model has a wheelbase of 150 inches and a gross vehicle weight rating of 34,700 pounds. The tandem version’s wheelbase is 162 inches and has a 52,000-pound gvwr.

The Pinnacle Axle Forward single rear axle model has a 166-inch wheelbase; 177 inches for the tandem. The gross vehicle weight ratings are the same as the Pinnacle Axle Back models.

Web site: www.macktrucks.com

Mitsubishi Fuso has a variety of medium-duty cabover truck models targeted to the beverage industry, commencing with its FE Series and the FE140. It is powered by a Mitsubishi 4M50 turbocharged and intercooled diesel rated at 147 hp/347 pound-feet of torque attached to a Mitsubishi five-speed manual transmission. The optional transmission is an Aisin Electronic six-speed automatic.

The FE150, rated at 14,500 pounds gvwr, shares the same standard powertrain, with the same optional transmission. It comes in 115-, 134-, 152-inch wheelbases — as does the FE140, plus a 164-inch wheelbase.

The heavier duty model is the FE180 with a 17,995-pound gross vehicle weight rating. The standard powertrain is a the 175 hp/391 pound-feet of torque Mitsubishi 4M50 diesel and a Mitsubishi six-speed manual. As with the other FEs, an Aisin Electronic six-speed automatic is optional.

The FE180 has the same wheelbase configurations as the FE150 plus an additional one of 176 inches.

The next step up is Mitsubishi Fuso’s FK200, at a gross vehicle weight rating of 20,935 pounds.

It comes standard with a 243-hp/516 pound-feet of torque Mitsubishi 6M60 turbocharged and intercooled diesel and Allison five-speed automatic. The optional transmission is a Mitsubishi six-speed manual. The wheelbase choices are 168, 180, 192 and 205 inches.

For higher capacity hauling there is the FM260, gross vehicle weight rating of 25,995 pounds, and the FM330, at 32,900 pounds gvwr. Both models come equipped standard with a 243-hp/516 pound-feet of torque Mitsubishi 6M60 diesel.

For the FM260, an Allison five-speed automatic comes standard. A Mitsubishi six-speed manual transmission is optional.

The standard transmission on the FM330 is an Allison six-speed automatic. Optional manual transmissions are a Mitsubishi six-speed or an Eaton nine-speed.

Both FMs share the same wheelbases offerings: 145, 182, 200, 218 and 239 inches.

Web site: www.mitfuso.com

Earlier this year Peterbilt expanded its medium-duty truck and tractor lineup with the cabover Model 220 and conventional Model 330. These products join the company’s Model 335 to serve the full range of beverage delivery applications.

The Class 6 Model 330 has a 26,000-pound gross vehicle weight rating and can be configured for non-CDL operation with both air and hydraulic brakes, accommodating a wider audience of drivers. It is available as a truck or tractor and can be customized with 19.5-inch tire and wheel combinations, low-profile air brakes and steel fuel tanks and battery boxes.

The Class 7 Model 335 is a single rear axle truck or tractor with gross vehicle weight ratings from 31,000 to 33,000 pounds. It can be purchased with a wide range of options, including many appearance-enhancing features such as aluminum wheels and “bright” accents.

The Model 330 and Model 335 both have an all-aluminum cab that is said to match the lifecycle of aluminum beverage bodies and trailers.  

Both vehicles are offered exclusively with the new Paccar engines. The Model 330 is standard with the PX-6 engine with 200 hp to 260 hp and torque ranging from 520 pound-feet to 620 pound-feet.  

The Model 335 is standard with the PX-8 engine with 240 hp to 330 hp and from 660 pound-feet to 1,000 pound-feet of torque. The Model 335 will also be optional with the PX-6.

Among the transmissions options are six-, nine- and 10-speed Eaton Fuller manuals and four-, five- and six-speed Allison automatics.

The new Model 220 cabover is being offered in Class 7 truck configuration, with a Class 6 configuration scheduled for late 2007.

This new truck is based on the award-winning design of the DAF LF, introduced by Peterbilt’s sister company, European truck builder, DAF Trucks.

Web site: www.peterbilt.com

Sterling Trucks offers three product lines for beverage delivery applications: Sterling 360, Acterra and L-Line.

The Sterling 360 is the company’s new low cab-over-engine model, available with gross vehicle weight ratings ranging from 14,050 to 17,999 pounds, in and wheelbases ranging from 115 to 176 inches.

The Acterra is available with 106-inch BBC in both truck and tractor configurations. Its gross vehicle weight ratings range from 18,000 to 64,000 pounds.

The Acterra’s chassis is offered with a specially reinforced frame for beverage applications. Wheelbases spread from 140 to 272 inches.

Power options are the Mercedes-Benz MBE 900 diesel in ratings from 190 hp to 300 hp, Cummins ISC in 240 hp to 330 hp and new for 2007, the Cummins ISB in 200 hp to 300 hp. Available transmissions include a range of Eaton Fuller and Mercedes-Benz manual, Allison automatic and Eaton Fuller automated transmissions.

Sterling L-Line tractors, with BBC dimensions of 101, 111, 113 and 122 inches, are offered in wheelbases ranging from 136 to 318 inches. Gross vehicle weight ratings go from of 27,500 to 105,600 pounds.

Several engine options exist for the L-Line: Caterpillar C13 and C15 diesels from 305 hp to 550 hp, Detroit Diesel Series 60 from 425 hp to 515 hp, MBE 900 engines from 190 hp to 330 hp and MBE 4000 engines from 350 hp to 450 hp. These can be linked to a collection of Allison automatic, Eaton Fuller automated and Easton Fuller and Meritor manual transmissions.

Web site: www.sterlingtrucks.com

UD Trucks is Nissan Diesel America’s line of cab-over-engine light- and medium-duty trucks. The line begins with the UD1300 at 13,000 pounds gvwr, followed by the UD1400 with a 14,250-pound gvwr and the UD1800CS (city spec) at 17,995-pound gvwr.

All are powered by the turbocharged and intercooled Nissan Diesel MD-175 diesel, which generates 175 hp and 347 pound-feet of torque. Harnessing the engine’s power on the UD1300 and UD1400 is an Aisin four-speed automatic transmission. The UD1800CS comes standard with a six-speed Nissan Diesel manual transmission. The four-speed Aisin automatic is an option.

Wheelbases for the UD1300 and UD1400 are 109, 132 and 149 inches. For the UD1800CS, wheelbase configurations are 143, 160, 172, 184 and 197 inches.

The UD1800HD is a heavy-duty version of the UD1800CS. Also rated at 17,995 pounds gvwr, it is outfitted with a the turbocharged and intercooled 230 hp/506 pound-feet of torque Nissan Diesel MD-230 diesel mated to a Nissan Diesel six-speed manual transmission. A five-speed Allison automatic is available as an option.

The range of wheelbases on the UD1800HD is 148, 167, 178, 190 and 217 inches.

Next in the lineup is the 19,500-pound gvwr UD2000, with the same wheelbases and powertrain offerings as the UD1800HD.

Also with the same powetrain offerings is the UD2300, which comes in two versions: low profile (LP) and dock high (DH). The gross vehicle weight rating for both is 23,000 pounds. Wheelbase configurations are 147, 166, 177, 189 and 216 inches.

Rated at 25,995 pounds gvwr is the UD2600 and the low-profile UD2600LP. These also come with the 230 hp/506 pound-feet of torque Nissan Diesel MD-230 diesel and 6-speed Nissan Diesel six-speed manual, with an optional Allison five-speed automatic.

The UD2600LP comes in 171- and 187-inch wheelbase model. Those wheelbases are available for the UD2600, along with 150-, 203-, 219-, 238- and 254-inch models.

At the top end of the UD Trucks line is the 32,900-pound gvwr UD3300. It also has the same powertrain selections for its available wheelbases of 156, 177, 193, 209 and 238 inches.

Web site: www.udtrucks.com

Volvo Trucks recommends its VNM 200, VNL 300 and VT800 models for beverage applications. All come with Volvo’s new family of engines.

The VNM 200 has a mid-length hood and a 114-inch bumper-to-back-of-cab dimension. It is available in single and tandem rear axle configurations, as both a truck and tractor.

Engine offerings are the Volvo D11 diesel in ratings from 325 hp to 405 hp and 1,250 pound-feet to 1450 pound-feet of torque, and the Volvo D13 in 335 hp to 485 hp and 1,350 pound-feet to 1,650 pound-feet torque ratings.

Transmission choices include Eaton Fuller seven-, 10-, 13-, 15- and 18-speed manuals, the automated Eaton AutoShift in 10- and 18-speed versions and the automated 12-speed Meritor FreedomLine.

The VNL300 daycab — also is offered in both single and tandem axle truck and tractors configurations — has a longer hood, a greater BBC at 123 inches, and an expanded choice of powerplants.

Its available engine choices are the Volvo D11 and D13 in the same ratings offered on the VNM 200; the Volvo D16 in ratings of 450 hp to 535 hp I-Torque and 1,650 pound-feet to 1,850 pound-feet of torque; and the Cummins ISX and ST2, from 385 hp/1,450 pound-feet of torque to 550 hp/1,850 pound-feet of torque. It has the same transmission choices as the VNM.

I-Torque (Intelligent Torque) is Volvo’s engine management system that controls the amount of engine torque delivered to the driveline in any gear, thereby protecting components from excessive torque at low speeds.

For heavier hauling, there is the VT 800 is a tandem rear axle tractor. It has a 134-inch BBC.

Engine choices are the Volvo D16 in ratings from 450 hp/1,650 pound-feet of torque to 600 hp I-Torque/2,050 pound-feet of torque and the Cummins ISX and ST2, from 425 hp/1,550 pound-feet to 600 hp/1,850 pound-feet of torque.

The choice of transmissions includes the Volvo ATO I-Shift 12-speed, Eaton Fuller 10-, 13- and 18-speed manuals and AutoShift, and a 12-speed Meritor FreedomLine.

Incorporating numerous safety features, the VNM 200, VNL 300 and VT800 all are aerodynamically designed for improved fuel economy, as well as to provide a smooth, quiet and comfortable ride.

Volvo trucks with 2007 EPA emission-compliant engines will come standard with Volvo Link Sentry two-way satellite communications and Volvo Action Service 24/7 roadside assistance service. Volvo Link Sentry allows remote monitoring of driver and truck efficiency by transmitting information from the truck to Volvo technical personnel while the truck is in operation.

For model year 2008, Volvo Trucks will offer the fuel-saving Volvo I-Shift automated transmission. The transmission has been designed specifically for Volvo’s new family of heavy-duty diesel engines.

Web site: www.volvo.com/trucks/na/en-us

David Kolman is a veteran truck communicator, keynote speaker and long-haul trucker. Commissioned as an Honorary Colonel on the Kentucky governor’s staff for his work promoting traffic safety, he actively participates in trade associations and reports news and information about the trucking industry for broadcasting and print media.

Vehicle class is determined by gross vehicle weight rating (gvwr), the maximum total vehicle weight that the vehicle components can safely carry.

Federal standards require states to issue a Commercial Drivers License (CDL) to drivers according to the following license classifications:

•  Class A – Any combination of vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (gvwr) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the gross vehicle weight rating of the vehicle(s) being towed is in excess of 10,000 pounds.

•  Class B – Any single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more, or any such vehicle towing a vehicle not in excess of 10,000 pounds gvwr.

•  Class C – Any single vehicle, or combination of vehicles, that does not meet the definition of Class A or Class B, but is either designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, or is placarded for hazardous materials.

A CDL is not required for vehicles less than 26,000 pounds gvwr.

Manufacturers of beverage truck bodies and trailers include the following:

Cabover (Cab-Over-Engine, COE) — A design in which the truck cab sits over the engine on the chassis. Along with improved visibility, it offers tighter turning radiuses and better maneuverability compared with conventional cab vehicles due to shorter overall length. A shorter overall length also allows for maximum body length. The cab tilts forward for access to areas on the engine for service and maintenance.

 Low Cab Forward — By its design, low cab forward model trucks also offer improved forward visibility. They have a taller windshield and low-dash design. Like cabovers, they too, offer better maneuverability, allow for maximum body length and have cabs that tilt forward.

 Low-Profile — These are truck models that have a lower platform height, with a shorter top-of-frame to top-of-cab height and lower overall ground clearance for easier entry and exit and loading and unloading.

 Set-Back Axle — In this design, the front steering axle is moved rearward from the generally accepted standard position. This results in a shorter turning radius for improved maneuverability and handling ease. It also shifts more of a vehicle’s weight to the front axle for better weight distribution.

January 1, 2007, is the effective date for the new, more stringent U.S. EPA diesel emissions standards. These regulations mandate a reduction of emissions of oxides of nitrogen (NOx) by 50 percent and particulates (soot) by 90 percent from current levels.

The start date affects diesel engines, not trucks. Pre-EPA 2007 diesels can be built through Dec. 31, 2006 and installed in 2007 truck models.