“Since introducing the 4700 in 2011, customer acceptance has continued to exceed expectations,” says Samantha Parlier, Western Star vice president of marketing and product strategy. “We know customers already appreciate the truck’s versatility and dependability, and our newest features will deliver at an even higher level.
“The 4700 has always been all about providing customers with the choices that are best matched for their exact business needs,” says Parlier. “Our new powertrain options expand the adaptability of the already versatile 4700.”
Western Star 4700 trucks and tractors can now be spec’d with the new Cummins X12 engine. Weighing 2,050 lb. — which is up to 600 lb. lighter than other medium-bore engines in the 10 to 13-liter category — the Cummins X12 contributes to enhanced productivity without compromising the power required for tough vocational jobs. Front- and rear-engine PTO offerings enable more upfitting options, a benefit to both customers and body builders, the company says.
The Cummins X12 engine, which delivers up to 1700 lb.-ft. of torque and 500 hp, has a low-friction design that is suited for higher MPGs. It is compatible with a range of fully automatic, automated manual and manual transmissions, and has oil drain, filter and fuel filter replacement intervals that rival comparable engines, according to the company.
Another new option is the Detroit DT12 automated manual transmission, which can now be spec’d for Detroit-powered 4700s. With features such as creep mode, hill start aid and a precise pneumatic shift and clutch control, the DT12 gives a smoother ride and reduces driver fatigue, the company says.
The enhanced 4700 also has additional upfit-friendly improvements, including updates to the electrical system, such as the addition of a third Power Distribution Module, and improved interface connections on the back floor of the cab as well as four new options for trailer connections.
“The 4700 is a workhorse, and our customers want it to get on the job as fast as possible. That’s why we made the 4700 easier for body builders to upfit,” says Parlier.
The inside of the 4700 has been refreshed to help drivers stay focused on the road and more productive throughout the day. The company says larger gauges on the instrument panel provide improved visibility and a new LCD dash display delivers more information to the driver in an intuitive format. Four customizable LED indicators are available for body builders to keep the operator informed of various truck functions, data and alerts.
The truck’s multi-function steering wheel offers the driver easy-to-reach access to cruise control, radio functions, phone controls and dash display menus.
“We worked directly with customers to create an environment that drivers can customize to best meet the needs of their specific job and lifestyle,” says Parlier. “From dash-mounted USB ports for personal mobile devices, to a variety of mounting and pre-wire options for telematics systems, the 4700 is easier than ever to operate.”
For the first time, the 4700 can now be spec’d with a 40-inch low or ultra-low roof StarLight sleeper. This additional space can be used for extra storage or fitted with a comfortable mattress.
Western Star says everal new features will keep drivers and others on the road safer. Wabco OnGuard uses a bumper-mounted radar unit to track vehicles and objects in the truck’s path and then automatically applies the brake if the driver doesn’t slow the truck in time. Bendix lane departure camera tracks the truck’s lane position and provides audible warnings to the driver.
“We’re proud that the 4700 has been an ever-growing number of customers’ choice for eight years, and we know that our new enhancements will make their experience even better and more profitable,” says Parlier.
