In late 2017, International expanded its offerings in the vocational market with the introduction of its HV Series. The series features two mid-range models: the HV507 has a set-forward axle (near the front bumper) and the HV607 has a set-back axle (away from the front bumper). For equipment mounted on the front of the vehicle, such as a snowplow, the set-forward axle allows the weight to be transferred more directly toward the axle. For equipment mounted on the rear of the vehicle, the set-back axle properly distributes the weight.

International Truck also offers the HV507 Bridge Formula model, which is designed to work with bodies that have a large swing arm that comes off the back. The set-forward axle helps spread the load out across a greater distance and helps to ensure the truck meets bridge law requirements.

While the model was designed to meet the needs of the concrete industry, it’s suitable for other applications with swing arms, including dump trucks or vocations geared toward delivering and spreading a product at a job site.

Driver-Centric Design

Walking around the HV507 and HV607, a new window or mirror may be apparent, but the exteriors are nearly the same as their predecessors — and David Hillman, VP of vocational marketing, said there’s a reason for that.

“We didn’t have drivers telling us they had a problem with the looks of their trucks. So we focused on the inside,” he said.

Stepping inside the cab, the updates become apparent.

“We’re looking at factors such as visibility, line of sight, mirrors — all factors that seem like little details until you spend a lot of time in the truck,” Hillman said.

Ergonomic improvements include pedestal-mounted mirrors that reduce head-turn movement, the largest cab in its class, better placement of mirrors, a one-piece window for less obstructed side views, and controls that can be operated while wearing gloves.

A Premium Gauge Cluster positions gauges and key alerts where drivers can easily view them without distraction. Fleets can customize up to 15 digital gauges to access the information most pertinent to their drivers, including tire pressure, axle loading, and real-time or average fuel consumption.

Smart Integration

On-Command Connection is a new tool that alerts a fleet manager to fault codes, allowing him or her to take the action that is best for the productivity of the vehicle.

For instance, one fault code may indicate that if a truck isn’t taken out of service immediately it will cause further damage to the vehicle. Another may indicate a minor issue that can be resolved at the end of the day when the job is done.

As with previous models, the HV Series features Diamond Logic, a system that allows users to program automated tasks, such as adjusting wiper settings.

Programming automated tasks can also help prevent damage to larger equipment — and keep crews safe from accidents, too. For instance, a truck equipped with a cherry picker can be programmed to lock out the “drive” function if the lift isn’t properly stored.

“If your needs change, you can make updates or reprogram the vehicle all together – and even at your own shop if you have a trained technician on staff,” Hillman said.

International Truck is accepting orders now for the new HV Series models, which is available in May 2018.