EuroStars arrive in the autumn
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by John Kendall 0 Three cabs and three engine -anges spanning 278kW-378kW 370-507hp) feature in the new Eveco Ford EuroStar range which reach the UK this autumn. First to arrive will be 4x2 tractive mits followed by 6x2 twin-steer models. Iveco Ford has also innounced details of the luroTrakker heavy multi-wheelnchassis.
Iveco designed the EuroStar cab in conjunction with .taldesign in Italy. The cal) variints are a top sleeper, medium ind high roof sleepers. All vannits are 2.46m wide, the short cab s 1.68m long and the long cab ?.12m. High roof and top sleeper nodels are 2.5m tall, the medium roof 212m. The result is a whopping 2.37m maximum headroom in the high-roof cab with 2.05m over the engine cover; maximum headroom in the medium roof cab is 2in .
Power comes from the 9.5 litre and 13.8 litre Euro-1 in-line sixes available in the EuroTech. These engines are joined by a revised version of the 17.2 litre we-eight from the TurboStar. Power is boosted to 378kW (507hp) at 1,900rpm and torque to 2,197Nm (1,6211bft) at 1,100rpm, while the engine will meet the 1996 Euro-2 emissions regulations. Models are badged 380, 420, 470 and 520.
Higher-powered
Only the higher powered version of the 9.5 litre engine finds its way into the EuroStar, developing 276kW (370hp) at 2,100rpm and 1,540Nm (1,1361bft) between 1,100 and 1,700rpm. The 13.8 litre engine is unchanged from its EuroTech rating, producing 309kW (414hp) at 1,90Orpm and 1,900Nm (1,4011bft) between 1.000 and 1,400rpm. The higher powered EDC version of the engine developing 350kW (469hp) at 1,900rpm and 2,080Nm (1,5341bft) at 1,100rpm will also be offered.
The same combustion chamber design from the in-line six engines has been used in the vee-eight, to improve fuel economy and exhaust emis sions; it also gets the six-hole injectors used in the sixes. Oil change intervals are set at 50,0(X)km for all engines, using the specified lubricants.
A choice of ZF 16-speed synchromesh or Eaton 12-speed Twin Splitter constant mesh gearboxes is offered. The Twin Splitter boxes will also be offered with Eaton's SAMT (semi automated manual transmission). Iveco is also working on an automated transmission with Eaton.
Single reduction hypoid drive axles will be available with a range of ratios. As on the EuroTechs, front ventilated disc brakes will be fitted to all EuroStars.
All-steel, front steel or all air suspension is available across the range while all EuroStars have airsuspended albs. The four-point system includes integrated dampers and an antiroll bar at the front.
Inside, there is an obvious family resemblance with the EuroTech. The same instrument and control panel faces the driver but a second angled panel contains controls for the standard air conditioning, check system and trip computer. An air-suspended driver's seat is standard and the steering wheel is adjustable for height and reach.
The generous interior dimensions provide plenty of acconunodation space, even for tall drivers. Lower bunks are 190cm long and top bunks 209cm long, with a maximum 90cm headroom in the high roof cab lower bunk.
A brief drive in a 420 and 520 high roof EuroStar showed how cavernous the big cab is. The build quality is good, with no obvious squeaks and rattles, supporting Iveco's decision to build the EuroStar in Germany. The company claims low noise levels, 67dB(A) at 80km/h (50mph) and our initial impression bears that out.
Following 4x2 and 6x2 tractive units, 6x2 tag axle and 6x4 models will also become available. Drawbar chassis will also be offered.
Iveco Ford's heavy 8x4 replacement is also scheduled for autumn launch in the UK. Tagged EuroTrakker it is designed pri manly for off-road use and site work. There will be a lighter 8x4 chassis based around the EuroTech, for general, mainly onroad use, which should go on sale at the end of this year.
The EuroTmkker shares the EuroTech MP cab and its 95 litre and 13.8 litre Euro-1 engines. For the UK there will be one power rating for each, 257kW (345hp) at 2,200rpm from the 9.5 litre and 276kW (370hp) at 1,900rpm from the 13.8 litre.
As with EuroStar, there is a choice of Eaton 12-speed Twin Split-ter and 7.F 16-speed synchromesh gearboxes.
Suspension is by cantilever parabolic or semi-elliptical springs at the rear. Parabolic suspension is standard at the front.