Freightliner Trucks will begin production of the optional Extended Cabs and Crew Cabs in the fourth quarter of 2002. Customers can order the cab options from Freightliner Trucks dealers starting in October, according to Mark Lampert, senior vice-president, sales and marketing.
Business Class M2 trucks with extended cabs feature a 132-inch BBC (bumper to back-of-cab) measurement, 26 inches longer than the standard 106-inch BBC day cab models. The extended cab can seat up to four people comfortably and is designed for applications in towing, specialty hauling, emergency rescue and ambulance service, or in other vocations where extra capacity and storage are needed. The extended cab is also ideal for use as a moving van or RV trailer hauler.
The extended cab option can be specified with or without rear seats. The two optional rear jump seats face forward and fold up when not in use, for more storage space. In place of rear seats, a 24-inch-wide bunk that meets DOT specifications is available for sleeper applications. The bunk option includes a cab privacy curtain and a 12-inch deep under-bunk storage compartment.
For improved interior lighting and visibility in the bunk area, the extended cab has 460 square inches of tinted glass on each side. As an option, the bunk windows can tip out for improved ventilation. The one-piece, 882-square-inch rear window offers unobstructed visibility. It measures 63 inches wide by 14 inches high and features tinted glass.
The Business Class M2 crew cab with its 154-inch BBC offers even more passenger room, with seating for up to six occupants, including the driver. Crew cabs are designed for applications in fire and rescue, various service applications, moving vans and RV hauling.
A variety of seating options are available, including air-suspended or non-suspended seats and bench seats for both the front and the rear of the cab. Both the front and rear doors of the crew cab have been redesigned and offer improved entry and exit--especially important for fire and rescue workers wearing bulky protective gear.
Over the next year, Freightliner Trucks will introduce a number of Business Class M2 configurations that can be customized to meet a broad range of commercial truck requirements. The crew cab and extended cab options offer the same Business Class M2 advantages, including excellent visibility safety, a driver-friendly cab and outstanding maneuverability. The vehicle's enhanced wheel cut of up to 55 degrees provides a tight turning radius and makes the truck very nimble in tight spots and on crowded city streets.