The first Stralis cab, the AS (Active Space), was launched on the Iveco heavy vehicle range early in 2002, in a single version, which was long, extra-wide (2.48 m) and had a high roof. 2003 saw the introduction of the AT (Active Time), long with a standard or high roof, and AD (Active Day), short for trucks and tractors performing domestic transport and delivery services. The AT/AD cabs differ from the AS for the width (2.28 m) and increased height (+15 cm) of the engine bonnet, which allows the floor pan of the driver’s position to be lowered by the same amount with respect to the ground. The AT/AD cabs now equip the Trakker range.
The ideal width for the cab
The width of 2.28 m, which is the same on all the AT/AD cabs, has particular advantages on construction sites. It simplifies manoeuvres in tight corners and reduces the risk of the edge of the cab hitting an obstacle, even when protruding mud deflectors are mounted. The non-slip access steps slide out, to make it safer to get out of the cab (a frequent operation on construction site vehicles). And the lower step is made of flexible material, without joints: if it meets an obstacle as the truck moves forward or reverses, the platform deforms but then returns to its original shape. And the final advantage of the cab width: Iveco offers the option of a mini-platform on the off-side (on the mudguard behind the door), to allow the driver to check inside the rear body, holding on to a grab handle positioned on the roof.
Bumpers in three sections
The bumpers on the Trakker range are made of steel, in three sections to cut replacement costs in the event of a collision. They have been re-designed, with rounded corners to harmonise with the curved front of the Stralis cab and to remove any visual trace of aggressiveness from the front of the vehicles. The lower part is rounded like the front approach angle; on the road, it stores the platform that the driver uses when he wipes the windscreen. When it is released, the platform automatically locks in the use position. The halogen headlights are protected both by their recessed position and by a solid grill.
A short, spacious cab
Most construction site vehicles have short cabs. But the driver must feel comfortable, no matter what his size. In the AD cabs, which have an external length of 1.66 m, there is still a space of about 15 cm behind the fully retracted driver’s seat with the squab in the normal position. It is a concept that Iveco has always applied on its short cabs, so that the driver does not feel he is hemmed in. This space also allows a number of clothes hangers to be added, and to position a storage compartment at the centre, incorporating a table-desk, and still leaves space for a third seat.
At the wheel of a Trakker, the driver might think he is on board a Stralis road vehicle. The air-sprung seat adjusts for reach, height and rake. It is also fitted with a head restraint and a built-in seat belt. The standard dark red fabric can be replaced by vinyl upholstery, and in this case the door panels, rear bulkhead and ceiling are also covered with washable material. The steering wheel, jointed high up, offers an excellent angular stroke: a total of 20, with a maximum of 40 from the vertical. The rake and height can be adjusted using a pneumatic foot pedal on the floor.
The steering wheel incorporates several buttons: the radio controls on the left, and on the right those to surf the onboard computer and to view the information provided by the dashboard monitor. On the right, under the steering wheel, a column switch groups together the controls that govern the vehicle speed: speed governor, engine retarder (standard on all Cursor models) and the optional Intarder ZF hydraulic retarder on the transmission.
A clear, comprehensive instrument panel
In front of him the driver has the instrument panel, which is rounded at the top so that it is always visible no matter how the steering wheel is positioned. The analogue instruments include a 5" black and white monitor, divided into three information zones: at the top, driving conditions, the setting of the speed governor and limiter, and the gear ratio engaged. At the centre, the vehicle “check list” performed before setting off, including the oil level. On the move, the monitor displays data regarding the engine functions or, if the driver prefers, parameters regarding the average speed, consumption and travelling time. And to encourage greater fuel economy, consumption is represented both in figures (l/100 km or mpg) and by a coloured zone, whose extension is directly related to consumption at that moment. And finally, the lower part of the screen is reserved for messages regarding anomalies.
The other controls are perfectly accessible: to the left of the steering wheel (lights), to the right (hazard lights, ABS exclusion, parking brake), on the centre console (differential lock, heating or optional manual climate control, PTO controls, etc.). There are special recesses to hold a glass or a mobile phone. The electric window controls are located on the armrest in the door, together with the optional electrical adjustment and heating controls of the wing mirrors. The electronic tachograph is positioned above the windscreen, next to the radio and the radio controls are duplicated on the steering wheel; the stations are displayed on the dashboard so that the driver is not distracted. A number of practical details are designed to simplify life on board: the mobile board-desk that fits on the steering wheel, a 12V electric socket and compressed air socket to use when cleaning the cab. The centre console incorporates the 30-pin socket to connect to the Modus workshop diagnostic system. The plastic panelling around the instruments and controls is all made of synthetic, scratchproof material. The external air intake for the air conditioning is fitted with a pollen filter.
Two cabs to rest in
Some missions of the Trakker range oblige the driver to sleep on board. Iveco has therefore envisaged the possibility of mounting the AT long cab (2.15 metres) with a standard or high roof. With the standard roof, the cab has a single bunk which lifts up in three sections, raised above the engine tunnel. The central section, 82 cm wide, is also a comfortable bench under which are located a bottle holder and a document pocket on the driver’s side, and there is an insulated or refrigerated container (optional) on the passenger side. With the high roof, one or two bunks can be fitted, and it is possible to stand upright, because there is standing room of 1.82 m.
All the cabs are fitted with a sunroof that opens manually (standard roof) or electrically (high roof).
The comfort of an on-road cab
The adoption of the AT/AD road cabs on the Trakker range has considerably improved comfort over the previous models. The adjustable suspension also plays a part: the setting of the four coil springs can be modified by a ratchet and pawl mechanism using a special tool. The four springs can be stiffened or loosened at an Iveco service centre, depending on the use the vehicle is put to. Four hydraulic dampers and a transverse front torsion bar complete the action of the springs.
The AT cabs are offered with the option of air suspension. Combined with the air suspension of the rear tandem, it is recommended for powerful 6x4 tractors, used for exceptional loads on long hauls by road.
The soundproofing of the AT/AD road cabs has not been modified, and the acoustic level is significantly lower than on the EuroTrakker cabs. Because the Trakkers are destined to work on uneven ground and dirt tracks, effective filtering of jolts and engine noise will reduce driver fatigue and improve the quality of his driving, which in turn benefits safety and the environment
