Fleet continues to adapt to new technologies and change operational needs. Therefore, Peterbilt refines his product development strategy both in the motorway and professional segments. In a recent discussion with company managers outlined executives, such as design updates, drive rangers and intelligent integrations, current and future models shape current and future models. All of this, while the position of the company in key markets increases.
“When we look at the market share for the class 8 segment within the industry, we achieved a record of 15.3% last year, which was only enormous. We also increased our market share with medium service by 1.3% to 9%,” said Jake Montero, General Manager of Peterbilt and Paccar Vice President. “We have achieved 21.2% of our professional market share, which leads to Peterbilt in this business segment. It has always been a very strong position for us to take part in professional income and to achieve over 21%.”
Flexibility drives Peterbilt product development into professional segments
Peterbilt continues to prioritize the adaptability in his professional offers. Here, customers need trucks that are tailored to certain job functions such as garbage, construction and concrete. Representatives of the company emphasized that in-CAB technology and interface designs develop further, and the adaptation is still essential. Peterbilt has retained professional flexibility, even if it comes from physical measuring devices in favor of digital interfaces that only occur if necessary.
“Ultimately, the options and expectations of customers as the leading market share and the fact that customers have to fulfill a mixer compared to a garbage car compared to a dump truck in order to meet the demand for application,” said Scott Newhouse, chief engineer of Peterbilt. “That is why the flexibility of the factory is so important for us.”
New engine platform is expanding natural gas applications
Product development also focuses on alternative fuel options, especially on natural gas. The introduction of natural gas was traditionally limited to return to basic operations. However, Peterbilt sees an expanded interest after the start of the 15-liter engine platform Cummins X15N.
“We have sold natural gas units for many years and they usually have a very specific application in which it fits,” said Montero. “But what we also see … is that you now have more customers on the pitch who look at different routes that make sense for natural gas.”
Montero found that the trend of early electrical truck launch is similar. “Some customers wanted to try out certain trucks in the early days to see if it would work for the route, and then they would scale appropriately,” he said. “The same happens with natural gas.”
Digital interfaces correspond to modern driver expectations
With the shift in driver anography, Peterbilt contains new technologies that reflect changing expectations of comfort, productivity and connectivity. Manufacturers integrate LED headlights, customizable digital displays and infotainment systems as standard features into production models.
“From a security perspective, fleets and customers expect technology to be integrated into the truck,” said Newhouse, among other things, to the digital dashboard functions, visibility options and the operating advantages of improved lighting systems, including digital solutions and systems.
“We see a day when technology will no longer be retrofitting,” said Montero.
Developmentally managed by market presence and practical needs
Peterbilt justifies its product strategy in its operational strengths and market performance. The OEM has a strong professional market share and continuous development in motorway platforms. Peterbilt continues to concentrate on the construction of trucks that perform a practical, professional function. Technology supports this by improving daily experience for both drivers and fleet managers.
The OEM found that vehicles with integrated flexibility, optimized maintenance and embedded support for emerging technologies are transmitted. Keep this and the structural and functional reliability that require your operations.