Daimler Trucks North America, in late July, announced that it will begin production, in early October, of Freightliner M2106 trucks equipped with the new DD5 engine. The newest Detroit engine, the DD5 is built off of the same sound principles and design as Detroit’s DD13, DD15 and DD16 diesels.
I was fortunate enough to be at the announcement, which was made in Yountville, CA, near Napa.
I was also offered the opportunity to drive one of the DD5-equipped Freightliner M2106s. My truck had an engine with 230hp and a rating of 660 ft/lbs, mated to an Allison 2500 RDS automatic transmission.
The Class 6 truck had a 20’ dry van body and a 24,000lb load.
Responsive
The truck had plenty of get up and go and was very responsive. I was surprised to learn the DD5 is a 4-cyliner engine, not the typical 6 cylinder.
Moreover, this new medium duty engine has been designed to meet 2017 greenhouse gas and fuel efficiency standards, as well as all onboard diagnostic and near-zero criteria pollutant standards.
The automatic transmission, along with the truck’s tight turning radius, makes it easy to drive and maneuver, and the low step-in height easies cab entry and egress.
The M2s have superior visibility with a large windshield, plus a spacious cab that is quiet. This is due in part to the DD5’s design that minimizes noise.
I enjoyed my drive so much, I got back line for another spin.
