International LoneStar truck tractor, Highway Star

The International LoneStar is a long haul tractor that has been produced in the United States since 2008 and has become a real legend for 14 years. It is distinguished by an unusual retro-design, 3-axle model and comfortable cabin.

It is equipped with a 450-600 horsepower power unit ISX15 by Cummins, working in conjunction with the "manual". Below we will briefly discuss the history of the truck, its features and technical characteristics, talk about the interior.

History of International LoneStar Truck Tractor

The history of the manufacturer began in 1902, after the association of three different companies and the appearance of a single enterprise International Harvester. The new manufacturer worked in Chicago and produced a wide range of agricultural equipment, cars and trucks. Herewith, the main activity was producing of trucks.

The first truck model "Autobuggy" was released in 1905, and in 1915 a whole line of truck models weighing up to 3.5 tons was produced. In 1941, the company celebrated the release of the millionth truck, and the total number of models exceeded the mark of 45. By 1960, the manufacturer produced a wide range of trucks, ranging from simple pickups to dump trucks with good capacity.

Important

In February 2008, the manufacturer introduced a new model International LoneStar, which means "Lone Star". The company announced the release of a completely new vehicle, which corresponds to the 8th class by payload, and will take the leading position in its field.

During the development of the car engineering and design team of specialists offered many options for transport.

The novelty was created and developed in the shortest possible time - in just two years. For clarity, clay models were created, allowing to see the final result. The developers abandoned the standard approach of modernization and created a completely new model based on the wishes of future buyers.

The general description of the truck LoneStar, the purpose

International LoneStar - a full-fledged long haul truck, designed to work with semi-trailers and with a total weight limit up to 60 tons. The truck has nothing in common with heavy trucks, which are used today on the roads of the USA. The developers managed to combine unique performance and modern look.

While creating the truck, the company conducted a big survey of truckers from the USA. They asked what they would like to see on their trucks. It turned out that the main wish was to get more chrome elements, lots of built-in lights and other original "gimmicks".

The main "feature" of the International LoneStar is a huge grille with chrome plating, as well as the original design of the hood with the angular location on both sides. Such design elements have a lot in common with the D-series trucks, which were produced in the mid-20th century, but today they are embodied in reality again.

The result of the developers' work was the addition of the following options:

• An updated dashboard with a bright, large display.
• An integrated transmission knob for more comfortable shifting.
• More comfortable and comfortable RollTek seats.
• Durable interior trim that is easy to clean and retains its original appearance.
• Improved insulation that provides a high level of comfort and quietness in the cabin, even when driving at high speeds. 
• Wide-opening doors.
• More space between the driver and steering wheel.

When creating the Lone Star, the developers understood that the vehicle is designed to solve commercial problems. Consequently, many of the decisions taken were aimed at generating income, increasing the service life of the truck and simplifying maintenance. A modern Cummins engine, fail-safe gearbox and high reliability suspension were used in the assembly.

International LoneStar Specifications

The key feature of the truck is an improved technical characteristics. The main ones are:

Let's look in detail at the features of the engine, transmission and running gear of International LoneStar.

Engine

The tractor is equipped with a modern Cummins ISX15 engine, which can reach 450-630 horsepower. The basis of such engines is the principle of exhaust gas recirculation to reduce the harmful effects on the atmosphere without negative effects on power. In parallel, an "overhead cam" type system is used to provide optimal performance and efficient motor braking.

Basic parameters of the power unit:

• fuel type - diesel;
• number of cylinders - six
• arrangement of cylinders - in one row
• volume - 12,4 liters;
• power - 450 to 600 hp 

The Cummins ISX15 engine combines power, which is indispensable when towing semi-trailers, and fuel efficiency. With fuel consumption of 36 liters per 100 kilometers and a 750-liter tank, the truck can cover more than 1000 km without refueling. An additional plus-point is the turbocharger, which provides a quick response to driver's commands and improves controllability.

The Lonestar International Truck features a lightweight exhaust system with 40% less weight and 60% more compact dimensions. This feature provides greater efficiency and ease of operation. In parallel, all engines meet EPA 2007 requirements and have a larger radiator.

Running Gear and Transmission

Truck tractors are equipped with several types of transmissions. Among them is a 10, 13 or 18-speed mechanical transmission. In practice, all types of transmissions for ProStar version are installed. All transmissions are reliable, unpretentious maintenance and easy to engage.

In some models, you can find a 10-speed "automatic". As for the transmission's producers, usually it is presented by three companies: Dana-Spicer, Hendrickson or Meritor.

Special attention is paid to the running gear of the truck. There is an independent suspension at the front and rear. But if in the front the preference is given to springs, in the rear there is a place for the air pneumatic cylinders. In some cases, an air suspension is installed at the front. The drive works on both rear axles, which can be blocked from the driver's control panel. Such option is useful in winter when the car is stuck on a slippery road.

Additionally, the car is provided with ABS system, which functions in conjunction with drum brakes around the perimeter. For safe driving, the mountain brake provides smooth deceleration and prevents abrupt acceleration when descending.

Driver's work and rest place - multifunctional cabin

A special reason for the developers to be proud of is the International LoneStar's interior, which has undergone many changes. Depending on the configuration, the cab can be supplied with or without a sleeper. Accordingly, the width depends on it. Inside, there is a small sliding table, which allows transforming the cabin into a small office. 

To improve reliability, the cab wiring has been improved, with cable connections and an upgraded voltage distribution module. The fuse box is located in a convenient location for the driver, allowing for quick replacement in the event of damage. Some circuits are equipped with circuit breakers that, in the event of a trip, simply turn on.

The new model managed to achieve a higher level of comfort and improved visibility. Testing has shown that at temperatures of -14 degrees Fahrenheit outside the truck's windows completely thaw in half an hour.

For comfort, the cabin is also equipped with electric windows adjustment and there is a lifting / lowering of windows. A radio is installed, as well as the On Command Connection system that allows you to update the software and check the main modules of the truck without a trip to the service station.

The International LoneStar's cabin itself is huge. It has two comfortable seats with multiple adjustments. The dashboard is divided into two sections, which are as if enveloping the driver, making all the controls accessible. There are recesses under the dashboard on the right side for glasses and bottles. Many compartments for documents and small items are located on the top.

A comfortable bed with its own lighting, plenty of pockets and other useful options is available in the sleeping compartment. The distance between the seats is about 80 cm, which allows the passenger to move freely without interfering with the driver's control of the vehicle. At the same time, the height is enough to safely walk around the cabin and not to bend over.

The design of the dashboard and seats looks modern and unusual. The main colors used in the design are gray and burgundy.

In the manufacture used quality plastic, which does not squeak and is soft to the touch. The seats have perforated material, which guarantees good air circulation. An additional element of comfort is an air conditioner, provided even in the basic version.

Conclusion

The International LoneStar is a motor home with a trailer oriented for long trips. This is a commercial long haul truck, distinguished by its unique design, comfortable interior, as well as thought-out technical "stuffing".

The developers have managed to significantly reduce operating costs, increase uptime and optimize maintenance. At the same time comfortable and roomy cabin, updated interior design, a lot of modern systems and good load capacity - all this makes the truck one of the leaders in the U.S. market.