The International LT Series was officially unveiled 10 years ago as a replacement for the ProStar. While the LT got an evolutionary update with a completely overhauled interior, the cab itself—beyond aerodynamic tweaks—didn't get that same generational leap.
The LT retained a cab structure that evolved from International's Next Generation Vehicle platform—a cab that is shared with the regional RH model. While ergonomically comfortable and aerodynamically efficient, its door-to-door cabin width is slightly narrower than comparable Class 8 competitors.
After more than a decade on the highway and a $3.7 billion change in corporate ownership, International Motors' parent company TRATON seems poised to soon overhaul the cab that surrounds the newest integrated powertrain in North America as part of a broader strategy to boost market share and deploy global modular components across its truck lines.
For years, International has watched its North American market share hover around 15%—a long way from historic peaks of 25%. While the launch of the S13 Integrated Powertrain has started to turn heads, something fundamental was still missing for the drivers spending long hours on the interstate. Engine performance was only half the battle. If International wanted to win back the highway, the driver’s workspace needed a reinvention.
"We indicated that we are also looking into, let’s call it a cab update, since the cab that we are having right now, even though we developed a little bit in there, is quite old," TRATON Chief Financial Officer and Chief Human Resources Officer Michael Jackstein said on a call with financial analysts and investors, confirming that the group is working on an updated cab platform for International Motors to replace its aging design. "There is something to do in the upcoming years. We should have a good basis coming from the product side to further increase market share, and this is our ambition."
Executives view the updated cab—combined with the S13 Integrated Powertrain produced in Huntsville, Alabama—as crucial to regaining ground.
Enter the engineering teams collaborating across North America and Södertälje, Sweden—global headquarters for heavy truck maker and International sibling Scania. TRATON Chief Executive Officer Christian Levin emphasized that designers wouldn't be slapping a new grille on a familiar frame; they will be integrating the brand deeply into the TRATON Modular System.
"We’re gradually introducing TRATON Modular System, which means two things," Levin said. "It means that we’re improving product performance, which can be translated into market shares, but also into bigger, better pricing. It’s also, which is more important long-term, building a portfolio of captive components where we can benefit the service market."
