Volvo updates Mack Pinnacle, Granite interiors with driver-focused features

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Fleet Owner  /  September 14, 2017

ALLENTOWN, PA. Building on the launch this week of its Anthem highway tractor, Mack Trucks introduced new interiors for its Pinnacle axle-forward and Granite models designed to support customers in attracting and retaining drivers as well as improving productivity and profitability.

Mack unveiled the updated models at its Global Dealer Summit here in Allentown. Along with the interior changes, Mack showed off LED headlights and a new grille for the Pinnacle that echoes the design of the Anthem; the redesigned interiors also share features with that of the Anthem truck.

"The new interiors for the Mack Pinnacle and Granite speak to the design team's focus on driver comfort," said Jonathan Randall, senior vice president of sales for Mack Trucks North America. "Everything from the dash to the racecar-like feel of the steering wheel was carefully designed to make things better for drivers and owner-operators, and consequently, for fleets looking to retain them."

Mack said it captured feedback from thousands of drivers in designing the new interiors and driver environment. A new gauge cluster and dash layout aims to improve visibility and readability and puts frequently used controls at the driver's fingertips. Switches are repositioned higher on the dash, while the Mack mDRIVE automated manual transmission shift pad is now within easier reach.

The dash panel has room for up to 18 switches, which feature laser-etched labeling so it won't rub off like painted surfaces. HVAC controls now include automatic temperature control that maintains a temperature set by the driver.

A lower center console includes cup holders and storage bins, and multiple 12-volt and USB charging ports are available throughout the dash. A new non-slip pad on top of the dash features two USB charging ports; drivers can place smartphones there for easy access or navigation use.

The flat-bottom steering wheel is designed to make entering and exiting the vehicle or heading from the cab into the sleeper berth easier. The steering wheel also allows a better view of the dash and can be equipped with illuminated cruise control, Bluetooth and audio system buttons.

Updates to Mack's Co-Pilot display located behind the steering wheel include a new 5-in. color screen for better visibility, and a new infotainment screen option features a 7-in. touchscreen display and is available in Pinnacle and Granite models. It provides access to Apple Car Play, satellite radio, weather band radio and TomTom truck navigation.

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Mack Updates Interiors on Pinnacle, Granite

Heavy Duty Trucking (HDT)  /  September 11, 2017

Mack Trucks has updated its Granite and Pinnacle models with new, more driver-focused interiors aimed at attracting and retaining drivers, the company announced during the Mack Global Dealer Summit in Allentown, Penn.

A new gauge cluster and dash layout is designed to improve visibility and readability and puts frequently used controls at the driver’s fingertips. Switches are repositioned higher on the dash, while the Mack mDrive automated manual transmission shift pad is now within easier reach as well. The dash panel has room for up to 18 switches, which feature laser etched labeling that won’t rub off, even after repeated use over the life of the truck.

 Along with interior changes, Mack has introduced LED headlights and a new grille for its Pinnacle model that echoes the design of its recently launched Anthem on-highway model. Mack also announced that the axle-back Pinnacle was being phased out in 2018 and would not receive the interior upgrade. The axle-forward Pinnacle, formerly known as the CH, will now be called the Pinnacle and is not being phased out.

“The new interiors for the Mack Pinnacle and Granite speak to the design team’s focus on driver comfort,” said Jonathan Randall, senior vice president of sales for Mack Trucks North America. “Everything from the dash to the racecar-like feel of the steering wheel was carefully designed to make things better for drivers and owner-operators, and consequently, for fleets looking to retain them.”

HVAC controls now include automatic temperature control that maintains the temperature set by the driver. A new lower center console includes cup holders and storage bins and can be easily removed for cleaning. Multiple 12-volt and USB charging ports are available throughout the dash. A new non-slip pad on top of the dash features two USB charging ports.

The racecar-inspired flat-bottom steering wheel – a trucking industry first – improves driver comfort and makes entering and exiting the vehicle easier. The new steering wheel also gives the driver a better view of the dash and can be equipped with illuminated cruise control, Bluetooth and audio system buttons.

Updates to Mack’s Co-Pilot display, located behind the steering wheel, include a new 5-inch, full-color screen for better visibility and more intuitive navigation through its many functions. Co-Pilot provides drivers a way to monitor vehicle information, including engine and oil temperatures, trip odometers, aftertreatment status, tire pressures and more. The Pre-Trip Assistant guides drivers through inspection points and includes a single person exterior light inspection mode. Controls for the Co-Pilot functions are located on the updated right-hand steering column stalk.

“We’ve incorporated more ergonomics and comfort features to make the driving environment more automotive,” said Stu Russoli, Mack highway product manager. “These enhancements make a real difference to the driver who’s behind the wheel all day, every day.”

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