Mack Trucks has launched a new MD Series range of medium-duty trucks for North America – making a mid-range market comeback after an 18-year absence.
The MDs come in two 4x2 conventional models, the Class 6 MD6, with an 11.7 tonne gross vehicle weight, and the Class 7 MD7, with a 14.9t GVW.
Both models are powered by a 6.7-litre Cummins B engine, rated from 220 to 300 horsepower/164-223 kilowatts, with 560 to 660 lb ft/759-894 Newton metres of peak torque, driven through Allison six-speed automatic transmissions, including one rated for PTO use. Also standard are Meritor front and rear axles and optionally available is Mack's Maxlite cab air suspension.
Mack is aiming at the likes of dry van, refrigerated, flatbed, tipper and tanker applications with the MDs.
The truckmaker is already taking orders and will start full-scale production in a new $US13million manufacturing plant in Virginia in July.
"Mack Trucks is very proud to make this investment and to now offer a full lineup of Class 6 to Class 8 commercial vehicles, serving virtually every segment of the market," says Mack Trucks president Martin Weissburg.
"With this investment, Mack is well-positioned for future success."
Both models, Mack says, feature a sharp wheel cut for enhanced manoeuvrability "for tough urban settings."
The MD has a 103-inch-BBC dimension and will be offered in eight wheelbase lengths. Its cab styling is based on the heavy-duty Anthem.
Driver-friendly features include a low step height, a short bonnet for good forward visibility and an ergonomic wraparound dash, tilt/telescopic steering column, a flat-bottomed steering wheel and an air-suspended driver's seat.
Mack says that it used to have a strong presence in the medium-duty market and its return to the segment means it can once again be "a single-source supplier for all our clients."