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2005 Chicago Auto Show: World's Largest Production Pickup Truck Gains Sidekick With Introduction of International RXT


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International Truck and Engine Corporation Showcases International(R) RXT, CXT, Pre-Production Prototype and Concept Trucks at Chicago Auto Show

CHICAGO, Feb. 10 -- International Truck and Engine Corporation, the operating company of Navistar International Corporation and a leading truck manufacturer, has unveiled the International(R) RXT, a more than five-ton, 22-foot-long commercial pickup truck.

  

Drawing on the family bloodlines of the International(R) CXT -- the world's largest production pickup truck -- the International RXT is one of four vehicles that International is showcasing at the 2005 Chicago Auto Show from February 11-20 as part of its new "International(R) XT Family" that the company is bringing to customers -- now and in the future.

"International is a company boldly building brand excitement," said Daniel C. Ustian, Navistar chairman, president and chief executive officer. "The International RXT is an example of our ability to proactively and quickly bring products to market. With this truck, and the whole International XT Family, we are giving our customers one more reason to say, 'I'm excited to own an International.'"

The International RXT was built for business owners who want a truck that promotes themselves as much as their businesses. However, just as people have unique personas, the International RXT is designed for business owners who prefer a strong and athletic look rather than a vehicle as big and bold as the International CXT.

Standing eight feet tall, the International RXT is a 4x2 pickup truck. It features an eight-foot-long bed, great hauling and tow capability and commercial hydraulic brakes for stopping large loads or trailers. Its exterior design is sleek and refined, offering full-body side skirts, a low step-in height, aerodynamic hood and overall stylish design. From the driver's seat, the ride is made comfortable by a spacious crew cab that seats five, as well as an air cab suspension and an International(R) ride-optimized suspension (IROS).

"The International RXT is like nothing else on the road today," said Dee Kapur, president of International Truck and Engine Corporation's Truck Group. "After introducing the International CXT in 2004, International received an overwhelming customer response for more vehicles that are powerful in performance but refined in appearance. The International RXT meets that need with refined styling and functionality. It is yet another symbol of the creative innovation helping to drive the company's bold growth."

The International RXT features an International(R) VT 365 diesel V8 engine with 230 horsepower and 540-lb.-ft. of torque for optimal performance and efficiency.

"As the leading manufacturer of mid-range diesel engines, International is proud to showcase our product in the International RXT and XT Family," said Jack Allen, president of International Truck and Engine Corporation's Engine Group. "International has a strong history of diesel engine leadership and we continue to build on our legacy. Today's diesel engines are in fact 20 to 40 percent more fuel efficient than gasoline engines and are delivering increasing levels of environmental performance."

In addition to the International CXT and RXT, two other vehicles are included in the International XT Family of trucks. A pre-production prototype vehicle derived from a military chassis, called the International(R) MXT, which was unveiled in March 2004, and a futuristic concept pickup truck, called the International(R) ProjectXT.

The International MXT is a commercial pre-production prototype. It has the same distinctive International grill and the same crew cab as all of the XT Family, a whole different look with an aggressive design of headlights integrated in the front fenders, rough terrain tires, low step-in height and outstanding 4x4 capability. The International ProjectXT is a commercial concept truck showcasing such customizing capabilities as special interior and exterior trim with dual sky glass roof panels and a rear roof spoiler that shades passengers from direct sunlight and improves aerodynamics. The truck also features a "straight-through" design pickup bed that eliminates wheel well humps.

Orders for the International RXT can be placed through International dealers throughout North America in fall 2005, with a starting price just under $70,000. The International MXT will be available late 2005 with the first version designed for military applications and government agencies, such as the U.S. Border Patrol. A commercial variant of the International MXT is targeted for production in 2006. Ideal commercial markets for the International XT Family include: the horse industry, ranchers, commercial boating businesses, auto body repair, construction companies, lawn care businesses, lawn and garden stores, racecar haulers, home builders, home improvement companies and business owners who want to promote their business.

For more information on the new International RXT, CXT and XT Family pre-production and concept trucks or to find a local International dealer, visit http://www.internationaldelivers.com/ .

International Truck and Engine Corporation is the operating company of Navistar International Corporation . The company produces International(R) brand commercial trucks, mid-range diesel engines and IC brand school buses and is a private label designer and manufacturer of diesel engines for the pickup truck, van and SUV markets. With the broadest distribution network in North America, the company also provides financing for customers and dealers. Additionally, through a joint venture with Ford Motor Company, the company builds medium commercial trucks and sells truck and diesel engine service parts. Additional information is available at http://www.internationaldelivers.com/ .

The International RXT. With this truck, it's always "game on."

The International RXT represents a whole new game for truck owners who demand, well, everything. Sleek and refined looks. Powerful performance. A remarkably spacious interior. A smooth, comfortable ride. Excellent hauling capability. The RXT is a complete player. And like a superstar athlete, this truck is sure to attract a crowd wherever it goes.

 GVW Range: 25,000 lbs  
 
 Payload Capacity: 6-8 tons 
 
 Towing: Suitable for a variety of hauling configurations. (9-12 tons)  
 
 Drivetrain: Up to 300 horsepower  
 
 Exterior Features: 4x2 Crew Cab; 8-foot pickup bed; aero front bumper and rear bumper; aero front bumper valance and side skirts 
 
 Interior features: Center console; wood grain accents; premium sound system, Black leather seats; full carpet