Morgan Truck Body introduced two new concept bodies at NTEA Work Truck Week 2024, specifically Projects “Agora” and “Blackjack.”
“Reflecting years of design evolution, the Morgan concept bodies are built with a focus on aerodynamics, lightweighting, improved ergonomics, and enhanced situational awareness for increased driver convenience and productivity,” said Corby Stover, Morgan Truck Body president. “These designs represent the continuing evolution of the Morgan Truck Body to meet future market and customer needs.”
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Customers utilizing either traditional fuel engines or electric battery vehicles will be able to access each universal design to meet their final-mile delivery needs. The Project Agora concept body is featured on an Isuzu FTR chassis, while the Project Blackjack concept body is featured on an International eMV Series battery electric chassis. Innovations on both bodies include:
- Extended range and efficiency with military-grade advanced composites to shape airflow around the body to reduce drag and improve aerodynamics for both traditional fuel engines and electric vehicles
- A mid-panel translucent roof that allows natural sunlight to pass through while reducing the amount of heat transferred into the truck body associated with typical translucent roof panels
- Lightweight body components including an aluminum subframe that is anti-corrosive and significantly improves customer payload capacity
- Ergonomic enhancements and ease-of-use features to reduce operator stress include motion sensor-activated LED strip lighting provides efficient and consistent light throughout the length of the body and an encapsulated hardwood floor with anti-slip surface
Project Agora’s specific features include:
- Rivetless smooth wall aluminum construction.
- A reduction of 18% in aerodynamic drag to improve fuel economy and extend range for both traditional fuel engines and battery electric vehicles.
- A powered rear overhead door and powered side canister door to reduce physical strain with effortless operation. Operators can easily operate the powered doors with a touchscreen in the cab, remote key fobs, or intelligent keyless entry.
- Situational Awareness with EAVX VX-Controls includes external 360-degree and internal cargo area cameras, which can be viewed in both the cab and cargo area and provide enhanced awareness of potential hazards in or around the vehicle. Rear and side blind spot monitoring supplements the camera systems to alert drivers of potential moving hazards near the truck.
Project Blackjack’s specific features include:
- A body constructed with structural composite foam core wall panels.
- A reduction of 20% in drag to improve fuel economy and extend range for both traditional fuel engines and battery electric vehicles.
- Situational Awareness with Morgan SA 5.0 Package featuring digital rear-view mirror, back up proximity sensors, 360-degree and internal cargo area cameras and supplemental hazard detection.