Get ready for some serious trucking magic because Peterbilt has unleashed a wave of upgrades that’ll keep you ahead of the game. We’re talking new tech, stronger engines, and electric vehicles that shout innovation. If Peterbilt’s recent updates were a race, they’d already be at the finish line while the rest of us are still trying to start the engine.
Peterbilt just wrapped up its Vocational VIP Customer event, and the upgrades they unveiled weren’t just good—they were game-changing. From smarter safety features to more powerful transmissions and electric vehicles, these trucks aren’t just built to keep up with the times; they’re built to define the times. Let’s dig in.
Model 520: The Refuse Truck That Refuses to Quit
First on the docket: the Model 520. This beast isn’t your run-of-the-mill garbage hauler—it’s had a serious brain upgrade. We’re talking smoother cable routing, standard body connectors, and the Bendix Fusion safety system that reacts quicker than your morning coffee kicks in. Whether you’re navigating urban mazes or tackling tough terrain, this refuse truck is built to handle it all—like a boss.
Ben Whitaker, Peterbilt’s vocational marketing manager, put it simply: “We’re not just building trucks; we’re building the future of trucking.” Translation? Peterbilt isn’t just playing the game—they’re rewriting the rules.
MX Engines: Power Meets Precision
And then there’s power—Peterbilt’s MX engines are the secret sauce of their vocational fleet. If fuel efficiency is your jam, the MX-11 has your back. Need to handle the toughest jobs while staying EPA compliant? Enter the MX-13 EPA. But wait, there’s more—the CARB-certified MX-13 engine. It’s the first of its kind, letting you keep rolling with diesel while meeting California’s super-strict regulations. With upgraded crankshafts and injectors plus a 48-volt generator, this engine is the ultimate triple threat: power, efficiency, and compliance.
Whether you’re navigating the labyrinth of California’s rules or just looking to go green, Peterbilt’s MX engines have your back—no compromises necessary.
TX-18 Pro: Ready for Anything
Bad roads? No problem. The TX-18 Pro transmission is your ride-or-die for any rough situation. Six reverse gears (yes, six!) and an extreme-duty clutch mean you’re equipped for anything the job throws at you. And when the terrain gets tough, the TX-18 Pro’s rock-free mode keeps those wheels turning no matter what.
Think of this transmission like the Swiss Army knife of trucking—it’s got a tool for every challenge.
TX-8: Medium-Duty Muscle
For those of you rocking medium-duty trucks, Peterbilt’s got something for you too—the TX-8 transmission just leveled up. Now boasting 1,050 lbs.-ft. of torque, this transmission delivers a perfect blend of power and comfort. Tiffany Cavazos, Peterbilt’s medium-duty marketing manager, summed it up perfectly: “It feels like driving a pickup truck.” Who says you can’t have the best of both worlds?
Electric Vehicles: Peterbilt Powers Up
Peterbilt’s not just riding the wave of electric vehicles—they’re making it. With models like the 520EV and 579EV built for grueling stop-and-go jobs like refuse collection and urban hauling, they’re electrifying the future of trucking. And for versatile dry-van work? The Model 220EV is your go-to. According to Patrick Wallace, Peterbilt’s zero-emissions lead, “We’re putting EVs where they make the most sense today.” Translation: Peterbilt’s not just jumping on the EV bandwagon—they’re building it from scratch.
And charging? Don’t sweat it. Paccar Parts has rolled out a whole lineup of charging solutions. Whether you’re charging overnight or need a quick boost on the go, they’ve got you covered. (Truckingboards Trucking Forum)
Prognostics: Trucks That See the Future
Downtime? Not in Peterbilt’s dictionary. With their new Prognostics system, your trucks now come with a built-in crystal ball, predicting issues before they become problems. Fewer breakdowns, more uptime, and a whole lot less headache. It’s like having a sixth sense for maintenance—keeping you rolling without interruptions.
Dealer Network Expansion: Service Everywhere, Anytime
Peterbilt knows it’s not just about the trucks—it’s about keeping them on the road. Since 2015, they’ve added 96 new dealership locations, unleashed 1,000 more service trucks, and trained over 1,400 technicians. Whether you’re coast-to-coast or in the heart of the Midwest, Peterbilt’s got your back with a pit crew ready to spring into action.
And for those trucking through Advanced Clean Truck (ACT) states like California, Peterbilt’s making sure compliance isn’t a headache. Whether it’s diesel or electric, they’re setting up dealers to help fleets transition smoothly—no sweat. (HDT Truck Fleet)
The Future Is Now: Peterbilt’s Supply Chain Revolution
Peterbilt isn’t just building trucks—they’re revolutionizing how they’re built. In their Denton, Texas plant, they’ve deployed Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) to streamline operations and add flexibility. By reshoring parts of their supply chain, they’re gearing up for future growth and making sure supply chain hiccups don’t slow them down. (Transport Topics)
Conclusion
These aren’t just updates—they’re redefining the future of trucking. With smarter safety, monster engines, and an electrified future, Peterbilt is setting the pace for vocational and medium-duty trucks. Between Prognostics minimizing downtime and an expanding dealer network, Peterbilt’s mission is crystal clear: keeping you on the road, no matter the challenge.
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