Daimler Trucks North America has unveiled a new Western Star platform in the United States – the all-new 49X – which is due to hit Australian shores within the next few years.
As the official distributor of Western Star Trucks across Australia and New Zealand, Penske worked closely with DTNA over several years throughout the development process of the new trucks and will continue to do so in the lead up to the launch in the local markets.
Comprising the toughest, most tested, and most durable Western Star trucks, the new trucks will build on the rugged American heritage of the Western Star brand, with the technologically‐ advanced safety and performance features that tomorrow’s market demands.
“We are thrilled to see the brand new Western Star platform unveiled today in the United States,” says Randall Seymore, President of Penske Australia & New Zealand.
“Here in Australia and New Zealand, Western Star has amassed a loyal customer base over the decades and we are confident our customers will be just as excited by today’s launch.”
Underpinned by a stronger, lighter chassis and equipped with an X-series cab, the 49X is designed to deliver maximum versatility.
“Our dealers, truck equipment manufacturers and, most importantly, our customers, rely on the dependability, reliability and sheer toughness of Western Star trucks,” says David Carson, senior vice president, Vocational segment, Daimler Trucks North America.
“With the 49X, Western Star delivers on our promise of tough, while introducing segment-first safety features, an operator- focused experience and easier upfit solutions that will keep our customers’ businesses running smoothly.”
Seymore explains that a testing program will be rolled out next year to ensure the new trucks are well suited to local conditions and applications.
“We will continue to support our current Western Star truck portfolio which has been proven to thrive in our tough and unique conditions, and Penske is committed to continuing to provide our customers with the service excellence they have come to expect,” says Seymore.
“Our launch plans for the new trucks will be revealed in due course, however we expect to see the trucks enter our local markets in late 2022 or early 2023.”