Rockford, Illinois (Aug. 20, 2008) Bergstrom, Inc. has teamed up with International Trucks® to help long-haul fleets reduce idling time and fuel usage. The two companies announced recently the development of a new, fully-integrated version of Bergstrom’s NITE (No-Idle Thermal Environment) climate control system for the International® ProStar® and LoneStar® trucks. The new system will be available as a factory-installed option in ProStar/LoneStar models beginning fourth quarter of 2008. Terry Zeigler, vice president of electrified systems at Bergstrom, reports that the new system was designed as an integral part of ProStar/LoneStar trucks right from the start.

“This is the next generation of our NITE system,” said Zeigler. “Our engineers worked closely with International’s engineers to integrate the NITE system into the conventional HVAC system of ProStar/LoneStar trucks.” According to Zeigler, two of the major benefits of the new integrated system will be increased performance and higher reliability.

The NITE no-idle system is an engine on/engine off climate control system designed to keep the sleeper compartment cool in hot weather and warm when it’s cold outside, without idling. The new system features a unique sleeper AC system for both over-the-road and engine-off operation. With the engine off, the sleeper AC system operates on deep cycle batteries, and with the engine running, it switches over to belt-driven power supplied by the truck’s engine.

In addition to year-round temperature control, other benefits include savings on fuel and reduced engine wear by eliminating overnight idling, making the system both environmentally friendly and cost-effective. Eliminating overnight idling reduces fuel usage by approximately 3790 gallons a year for the typical Class 8 truck. “Total savings in fuel costs and lower maintenance can run well over $18,000 a year,” said Zeigler. “The system pays for itself in about six months.” Engineered specifically for long-haul trucks, the NITE system is lightweight and compact, making it highly efficient. It consists of a rechargeable, deep-cycle battery system that supplies electricity to a hermetically sealed air-conditioning unit and an auxiliary heater.

The NITE system also includes a smart control system, featuring electronic variable functions for comfort and power management. The engineered ductwork circulates air, providing a low-voltage cutout to safeguard the independent NITE battery and a status indicator to notify the owner when recharging is needed.

“With fuel prices skyrocketing, and more and more states passing idling restrictions, the NITE no-idle system is a major advance for the trucking industry,” said Zeigler. “We’re very pleased to work with International Trucks to bring this advance to ProStar/LoneStar owners, and help them reduce their fuel usage and keep their drivers comfortable and productive.”

About Bergstrom Inc.
Bergstrom Inc. is a global leader in the design and supply of climate systems to the commercial vehicle industry. Since 1949, Bergstrom has supplied many of the world’s largest and most respected companies with their heating and air-conditioning needs. By combining progressive engineering talent, lean manufacturing principals and a global footprint, Bergstrom offers a unique blend of commercial vehicle marketplace focus and customer value.

About International Trucks®
A wholly owned subsidiary of Navistar International Corporation, International Truck and Engine Corporation is a leading producer of medium trucks, heavy trucks, severe service vehicles, mid-range diesel engines, parts and service. International and its affiliates sell their products, parts and services through a network of nearly 1,000 dealer outlets in the United States, Canada, Brazil and Mexico and from more than 60 dealers in 90 countries throughout the world.

For more information contact:
Bill Gordon
National Director of Aftermarket, Director of Global Marketing
bgordon@bergstrominc.com
(815) 873-4580