Top OEMS update their cabover options for urban environments
Cabover vehicles might have become much more common sights on European, Asian and Australian highways after the U.S. relaxed its stringent length requirements in the 1980s, but the trucks have continued to maintain their niche in America as a preferred option for urban delivery, with many top OEMs offering low cab forward options.
GM/Chevy
GM is playing in the cabover space with its 2026 Low Cab Forward models. Multiple powertrain configurations are available, including one gas engine, two diesel engines and five transmission options. The 3500 HG and 4500 HG models feature a 6.6-liter v8 gas engine, 350 horsepower, 425 pound-feet of torque, and gross vehicle weight ratings (GWVR) of 12,000 pounds and 14,500 pounds, respectively. The 5500 HG and 5500 XG include the same engine, horsepower, and torque, but with GVWRs of 17,950 pounds and 19,500 pounds.
On the diesel side, the 4500 HD, 4500 XD and 5500 XD feature a 5.2-liter, turbocharged diesel engine and showcase 215 horsepower and 452 pound-feet of torque. The 4500 models have GVWRs of 14,500 and 16,000 pounds, while the 5500 HD’s GVWR is 19,500 pounds. All the above models are available in regular cab and crew cab configurations.
Other diesel options include the 6500 XD and the 7500 XD, both featuring a 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Engine.
PACCAR/Peterbilt/Kenworth
Two of PACCAR’s brands, Peterbilt and Kenworth offer their own low cab forward options.
The latest edition of Peterbilt’s 220 model is popular in beverage delivery applications, with GVWRs between 26,000 and 33,000 pounds, 200 to 260 horsepower, tight turning radius, optimal visibility, and ergonomic interior. The line also features an Allison automatic transmission, as well as air disc brakes. There’s also an electric option, the 220EV, with estimated daily ranges of 100, 150 or 200 miles per charge, with a minimum charge time of 2.1 hours.
Image courtesy of PACCARKenworth’s class 7 model K370 is known for its maneuverability, with a 55-degree wheel cut, offering a tight curb-to-curb turning radius. The PACCAR PX-7 engine, built for a lot of stop-and-start applications, powers the vehicle, with the help of an Allison 2000 or 3000 automatic transmission.
Isuzu
We’re saving the most obvious for last, as no list of cabover models is complete without Isuzu, whose bread-and-butter is the low cab forward vehicle.
The company’s biggest news this year was its launch of a new body program in collaboration with specialty vehicles group Aebi Schmidt. Completed Isuzu N- and F-Series trucks with the new Advantic body are available to dealers through Isuzu. The body’s design features sleek, modern styling and is constructed from high-tensile glass fiber panels and high-grade aluminum frame for optimal strength, dent resistance and long-term performance.
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