Navistar, Inc., Lisle, Ill., and Swift Transportation, Phoenix, Ariz., announced a joint pilot program designed to maximize fuel economy.

Navistar developed a specification for the International ProStar tractor that is projected to deliver industry leading fuel economy results. Swift will pilot test the specification, which pairs the ProStar with the Cummins ISX15 and the Eaton Cummins Smart Advantage automated manual transmission.

“We feel the marriage of automated transmissions with complimentary engine parameters will generate optimal fuel economy performance while also helping retain drivers,” says Bert Kinsel, vice president of heavy equipment for Swift. “This combined with truck aerodynamics should prove to be a winning combination.”

At its heart, the ProStar is a driver’s truck, which features a 1-piece, aerodynamic wrap-around windshield, sloped hood and lower placed instrument panel to ensure drivers have an unparalleled view of the road. The ProStar also features a 4-point, air-over-strut cab suspension, a combination of on-and-off center steering, a wide-track front axle and auto-like steering for superior ride and handling.

“Swift is North America’s largest full truckload carrier, and we are looking forward to delivering their International ProStar units with the ISX15 and Eaton Cummins Smart Advantage automated manual transmission,” says Bill Kozek, president, North American truck and parts, Navistar. “Our testing shows this truck configuration provides outstanding fuel economy performance, and we are confident Swift Transportation will experience the same benefits we have observed.”