Specifically designed for the Australian and New Zealand markets, Western Star’s 48X has quickly emerged as the most popular model in the manufacturer’s X-Series line-up – and it’s not hard to see why.
Standing alongside the 47X and 49X, the 48X is an Australasian exclusive model that boasts two engine options, various sleeper configurations, AMT and Roadranger transmission options and multiple suspension and final drive options, making it an exceptionally strong B-double truck, as well as suitable for various road train and heavy haulage applications.
Locally distributed by Penske Australia & New Zealand, the X-Series has been making waves since it was launched in November 2022, with the line-up crowned with the prestigious 2024 Truck of the Year Australasia title earlier this year.
The 48X is powered by the 450-525hp Detroit DD13 Gen 5 or the 500-600hp Detroit DD16, both of which comply with the upcoming ADR 80/04 emission standards. And in terms of the gearbox, operators can select from the Detroit DT12-OV and DT12-OVX automated manual transmissions, or the Eaton Fuller manual transmission – depending on their preference.
Head of Western Star at Penske Australia & New Zealand, Kurt Dein, says the 48X is truly unique and a strong player on the market.
“The significance of the 48X is that it has multiple engine, driveline and cab options, making it very diverse in terms of its applications,” he explained, adding that the model has seen the highest growth of sales in the B-double segment, proving its exceptional cost of ownership.
“When B-double length laws changed to 26 metres in 2006, that was the opening for Western Star to fit into the 34-pallet B-double space that the brand has become renowned for. So it was critical that when the 48X was launched, that we’d dimensionally fit within the B-double envelope while offering a driveline up to 16L and 600hp.
“What we have with the 48X is a truck that features the latest safety offerings, with multiple engine and transmission options, while still fitting into the 26-metre, 34-pallet B-double space and achieving 1500 litres of fuel storage. The 48X is the shortest dimension truck on the market with a 36-inch sleeper.”
As Kurt continued, “Because the Australian market has longer trailer dimensions and such a broad range of configurations we need to play within, it’s all about being dimensionally fit, with high horsepower ratings and high GCM offerings.
“The 48X also complies with new ADR 80/04 legislation which means that from the 1st of November this year, under mass limit laws, it can qualify to carry an extra 500kg spread over front and rear axles.”
The 48X has four different sleeper options. Choose from the trench or standard day cab, or sleeper. Options available are the 36” low trench, 36”, 48” and 60”. It’s also capable of achieving a gross combination mass (GCM) of over 130,000 tonnes. Along with driver comfort, safety was top of mind in the design of the 48X. It’s equipped with an enhanced safety package that includes:
•Active Brake Assist 5 (ABA 5), which detects distance and speed to moving and stationary objects in its path and determines if braking is necessary.
• Adaptive Cruise Control.
•Side Guard Assist, to detect objects on the passenger side of the truck and alert the operator.
As part of a current promotion, the X-Series has extended on its already generous warranty package.
The usual 24 month comprehensive truck warranty has now been bumped up to a warranty of 48 months /800,000km/400,000 litres of fuel burn or 12,000 engine hours.
“It’s about backing the brand and giving absolute confidence to the buyer. This is a class-leading warranty,” said Kurt.
To add, the Star Assist roadside assistance program is now also being offered for 48 months, up from the usual 24 months.
Both the extended warranty and extended roadside assistance package is available for purchases made through to March 31, 2025.
“Penske has a comprehensive dealer network with demonstrator models of the 48X on hand,” added Kurt. “Come and see it, come and try it, and come and buy it. We currently have stock on hand across the various options.”
For more information on the Western Star 48X, visit westernstar.com.au/48x.