Peterbilt revamps a classic, but stays true to roots with new Model 589
With the introduction of the Model 589, Peterbilt has reassured consumers that the long hood conventional is here to stay for the foreseeable future at a time when electric cars are grabbing the majority of the headlines.
The traditional-looking Model 389 truck will be replaced by the 589. A wider 2.1-meter cab gives drivers an additional eight inches of space while retaining much of the aesthetics that made the 389 famous, including cab-mounted mirrors, pod-style headlamps, dual stacks, and external air cleaners. This has a significant impact whether getting into the sleeper or putting things in the day cab.
The new truck was unveiled to thousands of dealers and customers at Texas Motor Speedway on May 9 before they got to drive it on the track the next day. Outside the track, a Pride & Class show'n'shine was staged, attracting more than 200 Peterbilt show and operating trucks.
Customer consultations
These same fans were reportedly contacted throughout the creation of the 589, according to Jason Skoog, general manager of Peterbilt and vice-president of Paccar.
The qualities they loved most were "distinction, customization, and connection to the heritage," he said.
The update completes a thorough product line refresh and standardizes the Peterbilt Class 8 line cab at 2.1 meters. In its Class 8 and medium-duty lines, the truck manufacturer now reportedly offers the newest cabs in the business, according to Skoog.
“We’re all out of trucks to refresh,” he said.
The 389 that is being replaced debuted in 2006 and has already sold 110,000 units. Sales increased last year, according to Skoog, maybe as a result of rumors that it might be canceled. However, those who are fans of the 389 will appreciate the added space and familiarity of the 589.
Jake Montero, assistant general manager for sales and marketing at Peterbilt, said, "We kept the classic exterior and upgraded the driver experience and amenities." Drivers may obtain good fuel efficiency while preserving traditional styling with the help of contemporary technology like predictive cruise control and tire pressure monitoring.
Aesthetic daytime running lights are integrated into the fenders, and the cab-mounted mirrors are heated and operated. The stainless grille with brilliant aluminum surround features a rectangular pattern design that is brought back by the Model 589. Additionally made of aluminum to save weight and make repairs easier, the cab and hood. Using a rubber mallet to remove dents is frequently effective.
Scott Newhouse, chief engineer, said: "The beauty about aluminum is, that damage won't put you down on the side of the road." The aluminum hood was one of the items that we discussed extensively with customers in order to grasp the fundamental principles of the truck.
The truck's 15-inch diameter external air cleaners not only add to its vintage appeal but also make maintenance simpler. The air filter is easily accessible without having to open the hood by turning the top of the vehicle quarter turn. The two 7-inch stacks are another nod to vintage trucks.
It is simple to switch to the new model because the cooling module is the same as in the 389. Mirrors that are mounted on the cab dispel worries about water getting into the door through the mirror's connections.
The Paccar MX-13 and Cummins X15 are two power alternatives; the latter is preferred by power-hungry severe service clients. There is a wide range of manual and automated manual transmissions available from Paccar, Eaton, and the Cummins-Eaton JV.
To enhance driver comfort, the inside has been totally remodeled. According to Newhouse, visibility was increased by 50%, and every decision—including the materials and color schemes—exuded luxury. For improved comfort, even the pedal package was changed.
The aluminum construction, which provides durability and noise reduction, is responsible for the cab's quietness, which Newhouse credits. There is enough for a 42-inch mattress and a 22-inch TV inside, and there is LED lighting installed throughout.
Legendary version
Customers can select a Legendary package that honors Peterbilt's past if they want even more distinction on the road. It has brightwork on the polished fenders and rockers as well as a Peterbilt script on the side of the hood.
Leather-grain seats with script logos in the headrest and distinctive stitching and badging on the door pad and dash are further highlights. Since the first 589 to be constructed will be numbered, collectors will be drawn to them.
In regards to the Legendary variant, Skoog commented, "I wouldn't be surprised if this becomes the core spec'.
Beginning in August, orders will be accepted for the new 589 and 589 Legendary, with manufacturing scheduled to start in January 2024. To make room for the new model, the 389 will no longer be produced.