Mack Trucks brings to fruition the Mack Pioneer highway truck, a Class 8 project it started back in 2017. You don’t have to be familiar with the ins-and-outs of long-haul trucking to appreciate that the Pioneer is visually stunning and bursting with technology and comfort. Mack, which celebrates its 125^th anniversary this year, is proud of this truck too, emphasizing that every design cue is purposefully tailored toward efficiency, productivity, and driver comfort.

“The Pioneer’s comfort features reflect our deep understanding of drivers’ needs and our commitment to their well-being,” said Stephen Roy, president, Mack Trucks. “With the Pioneer, we’re not just introducing a new truck. We’re redefining what a highway truck can be, taking trucking into the 21st century with features that transform the daily experience of professional drivers who spend an average of 150 hours per month in their trucks.”

Cross Country Interior Comfort

Long gone are the days of sub-par interiors. The Mack Pioneer’s cabin features high-quality materials for a classy look and refined experience. An optional upgraded called Mack Integrated Parking Cooler uses the truck’s batteries and integrated HVAC system to cool the cabin without idling the engine, resulting in driver comfort, energy efficiency, and reduced emissions. The Pioneer’s new seats have wider and taller frames with more prominent shoulder and headrest areas. A first for Mack, these seats have armrests on both sides, so drivers don’t have to rest their arms on door panels. These perforated seats also allow for heating, cooling, and massage functionality. Other interior highlights include a push-button start; steering column gear selector; industry-first flat-bottom steering wheel combined with an advanced active steering system called Command Steer; wireless charging options; Electronic Log Device (ELD) mounting plate; tablet holder; customizable switch layout; one-piece windshield; and more.

“This truck was designed for class-leading driver comfort and to maximize aerodynamic performance,” said Lukas Yates, expert chief designer at Mack Trucks. “Every detail, from the lowered fenders to the continuous surface from the front grille to the back of the sleeper box, was engineered to reduce drag and enhance fuel efficiency while maintaining the commanding presence for which Mack is known.”

Mack Pioneer: 13-liters of Diesel Power

The new 13.0-liter Mack MP13 diesel engine provides a 3% increase in fuel efficiency over the MP8. It delivers up to 515 horsepower and up to 1,950 lb-ft of torque. The MP13HE (High Efficiency) provides up to 13% improved fuel economy compared to previous models. Among various improvements is an updated engine brake design that improves braking power. According to Mack, the Pioneer’s cutting-edge aerodynamics and engine/transmission upgrades improve fuel efficiency by 11% compared to the equivalent prior Mack model. Aiding in aerodynamics and increased visibility is Mack’s first-ever digital mirror system (DMS)  that replaces traditional side mirrors with cameras and interior video screens. Ditching traditional mirrors equates to a 1% fuel savings alone.

Through a combination of radars and cameras, Mack Protect keeps drivers safe. The top-tier Mack Protect Premier provides a robust safety suite: Frontal Collision & Rollover Protective Actions, Forward Pedestrian Detection, Traffic Stop & Go, Road Sign ID, Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Warning, Side Curtain Airbags, Lane Chane & Blind Spot Support, Side Pedestrian Detection, Lane Keeping Assist, and Oversteer Guidance.

You can go to Mack’s website and configure your own Pioneer.