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Producing a commercial vehicle in a single location to satisfy the needs of multiple applications in a world market, cannot be realistically accomplished. Instead, Mercedes-Benz and its subsidiary, Freightliner Corporation, have adopted a strategy, characterized as multi-domestic rather than multinational, which relies on production of trucks in many locations. In this way, qualities can be offered which are in unique demand in those markets while minimizing the development effort and capitalizing on worldwide component sourcing. Presently Mercedes-Benz, including Freightliner, operates 54 truck manufacturing and assembly plants throughout the world. As a part of, and following this strategy, Freightliner has recently launched an all new medium-duty truck program for the U.S. market, produced in an all new manufacturing plant in Cleveland, North Carolina. The present paper describes this program and its development. Refer to Fig. 1.

This paper presents a program to develop, build, exhibit, and test a Freightliner/Heil Advanced Concept Truck that will demonstrate experimental features for improved safety, productivity, and operational compatibility with the highway environment. The paper contains background information on the motivation for the Concept Truck. Project objectives are explained. Vehicle performance characteristics are described, along with the design features employed to achieve the desired performance. Technical specifications are listed. Finally, the proposed validation and field testing program is described.

The Surface Transportation Assistance Act of 1982 caused significant changes in US truck transportation and truck configurations. The act made possible the increased usage of vehicles with setback front axles, which represents an important development. Trucks with setback front axles offer several improved performance characteristics which contribute to higher vehicle productivity and safety. The STAA, however, did not change the Federal Bridge Formula-B. Constraints prevail on the usage of setback axle vehicles in many truck operations, notably those depending on shorter trucks or trailers, and especially those hauling high density commodities. Ongoing research activities concerning future revision of the bridge formula offer a positive outlook to eliminating the gross vehicle weight penalties related to the placement of front axles.