Powerful new high-spec model fills a gap in product line
Iveco has released a new Euro 6-rated model with 550hp (410kW) and 70 tonne GCM and a focus on B-double work.
The 6×4 AS Highway B-Double is available in both low and high roof variants and shares some underpinnings with the latest X-Way and ACCO ranges, said to boast similar benefits in terms of advanced safety features, driver aids, low emission performance and productivity.
“Iveco is excited to be adding the new Highway B-Double model to our heavy duty product line, filling a gap in our model range which, until now, has been without a Euro 6-rated, B-double-capable prime mover,” Iveco Trucks Australia MD Michael May said.
“The new Highway B-Double model features extremely high specification levels as standard, ensuring buyers enjoy the added safety, comfort, convenience and productivity that is so important for the intra and interstate applications the vehicle is targeted towards.
“The combination of powerful 550hp Euro 6 performance, 70t GCM, market-leading transmission, advanced safety and technology, coupled with Iveco’s well regarded productivity and low total cost of ownership benefits, will make the Highway B-Double an attractive proposition for many B-double applications.”
Powering the new model is a revised 13 litre Euro 6 Cursor engine that develops 550hp at 1,900rpm and 2500Nm of torque at just 1,000rpm. Emission control comes courtesy of Iveco’s own Hi-eSCR system.
Hi-eSCR is a single after-treatment system featuring passive diesel particulate filter (DPF) – DPF regeneration that does not require driver intervention.
“Another benefit of this technology is that it’s uncomplicated and efficient, and provides many benefits compared to EGR and SCR equivalents, including reduced fuel consumption and a lower tare weight,” the company said.
Coupled to the engine is a revised Hi-Tronix 16-speed automated manual transmission that aims to deliver fast gear changes and select the correct ratio for the conditions.
Additionally, the Hi-Tronix is equipped with ‘rocking’ and ‘creeping’ modes as well as four reverse gears.
“Extremely quiet operation is another hallmark of the Hi-Tronix, leading to a quieter cabin and higher driver comfort levels,” Iveco said.
Other driveline features oinclude rear 8-bag eectronically-controlled air suspension and Meritor differentials with driver-controlled locks. The truck also benefits from an expansion module and PTO provision as standard.
To cover the longer intra and interstate routes, the new model is likely to work in, the Highway B-Double has a 1,010 litre on-board fuel capacity (630l on the driver’s side and 380l on the passenger side), plus an 80 litre AdBlue tank.
As with other recent Iveco heavy duty model releases, safety and technology is extremely well catered for in the Highway B-Double.
Standard equipment includes electronic braking system (EBS) with brake assistance system (BAS), electronic stability program (ESP), hill holder, adaptive cruise control (ACC), advanced emergency braking system (AEBS), daytime running lights and an extended catwalk allowing for safer access to the back of cabin area to connect air hoses or conduct maintenance.
Additionally, the Highway B-Double provides other standard safety equipment such as a hydraulic retarder, lane departure warning system (LDWS), driver attention support (DAS), tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) and bi-xenon headlamps and washers.
The high standard specification levels continue inside the cabin with leather heated and air-suspended driver and passenger seats, automatic climate control, modern instrument cluster design with intuitive features and Iveconnect multi-media.
The Iveconnect system includes Driving Style Evaluation (DSE) software that aims to improve the operator’s driving style by giving feedback and making recommendations. The system provides two types of feedback: indexes that evaluate real-time driving behaviour and pop-ups that provide real-time driving hints.
Elsewhere in the cabin, there are generous storage spaces to accommodate longer periods on the road as well as a fridge and comfortable bedding. The cabin’s spacious interior also allows comfortable in-cabin movement and sleeping amenities when parked-up for the night or at rest stops.
As part of its standard aftersales offering, the new Highway B-Double is equipped with Iveco Telematics as standard, including a complementary 12-month program subscription enabling owners and operators to access detailed information on all facets of vehicle and driver performance.
The model is also backed by a 3 year/750,000km/9,000 hour standard factory warranty and complementary 24/7 roadside assistance for the duration of the vehicle warranty period.
Owners wanting additional protection can opt for Iveco extended warranties, which are available as a cost option.
Personalised vehicle maintenance packages are also available as an extra, providing operators with the convenience of known fixed maintenance and repair costs.