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PETERBILT’S COMFORT CLASS SYSTEM SAVES FUEL, LOWERS EMISSIONS AND ENHANCES DRIVER COMFORT

Bringing customers greater levels of fuel efficiency and ease of regulatory compliance, the proprietary Peterbilt ComfortClass™ system will be available as a factory-installed option mid-year for select Peterbilt models, the company announced during its press conference at the 2007 Mid-America Trucking Show.The revolutionary new battery-based system provides heating, cooling and 110-volt electrical power without the need for the engine to run for up to 10 hours. ComfortClass will be available for Class 8 vehicles equipped with a 70-inch Unibilt® sleeper.

“The ComfortClass system can reduce annual fuel consumption by about eight percent,” says Peterbilt Chief Engineer Landon Sproull. “That results in a significant bottom-line improvement by reducing operating expenses by as much as $5,000 a year, per vehicle. Additionally, ComfortClass helps customers comply with anti-idle regulations and operate in a more environmentally friendly way, in addition to the cost savings.”

How the System Works
While the vehicle is in operation a 185-amp alternator charges the power pack (four dedicated, advanced glass mat, deep-cycle batteries) and starting batteries. At the same time, the electric air conditioning compressor charges the thermal storage unit mounted behind the sleeper.

When the ComfortClass system is activated, the power pack batteries supply power to an electric fan blower in the cooling unit to circulate chilled air though the thermal storage unit and into the sleeper. Air temperature is regulated by adjusting a thermostat and fan speed dial conveniently located in the sleeper area, near the bunk.

In cold climates, Peterbilt uses a small diesel-fired heating unit which is mounted under the bunk. Also thermostatically controlled, with ducting below the bunk, the unit keeps the sleeper and cab warm in temperatures below freezing.

If shore power is available, the system can be plugged in to provide power for all the system functions, as well as hotel loads and battery charging needs.

“The ComfortClass System helps ensure operator comfort by maintaining the desired temperature within the sleeper while the truck is not in operation,” Sproull says. “It provides climate control performance as effectively as traditional systems, but uses much less energy to do so. It will provide up to 10 hours of HVAC, even with outside temperatures of up to 95 degrees, ideal for the typical off-duty period of an over-the-road operator.”

Peterbilt Motors Company, a division of PACCAR Inc (Nasdaq: PCAR), manufactures premium quality trucks for a wide range of markets, including over-the-road, construction, municipal and medium-duty. Based in Denton, Texas, Peterbilt combines classic styling, innovative design and superior-quality features in a custom-engineered truck that stands as the “Class” of the industry. Through its 200-plus North American dealer locations, Peterbilt also provides a comprehensive array of TruckCare® aftermarket support programs, including preventive maintenance plans, expedited QuickCare services, automated parts inventory replenishment and 24/7 complimentary Customer Assistance through 1-800-4-PETERBILT. For more information about Peterbilt, visit www.peterbilt.com.