Well, it has finally happened for Mack in Australia, this week has seen the highly anticipated Anthem arrival with a virtual launch online. The YouTube introduction gave us the basics with, more information, and test drives, scheduled to roll out into the future.
The new Anthem is not just a new model, it is a new system for building all of Mack’s trucks. The change is a radical rethinking of the way the trucks are built and brings the traditional Mack brand int the 2020s.
Along with the new design, Anthem means Mack can offer state-of-the-art technology throughout the range and also introduces more flexibility in cabin design, with integrated walk-through sleeper cabins now a reality in many models, both of which are major factors in the highly anticipated Anthem arrival.
The new, locally engineered and Australian built Mack Anthem is still powered by the 13 litre Euro 5 MP8 engine with horsepower ratings ranging from 435 to 535hp and 2,244-2,603 Nm (1,655-1,920 ft lb) of torque, the Anthem, suitable for vocational rigid roles to B-double highway hauler.
Aerodynamic gains have been aided by closing gaps between panels and minimising seams. Even the tow hooks in the three-piece bumper have been covered to assist with air flow.
The Mack Anthem will be available as a sleeper or day cab and will be available in 6×4 and 8×4 rigid guise or as a 6×4 prime mover.
An integrated Bendix Wingman Fusion active safety system is standard equipment in the new Mack Anthem providing adaptive cruise control, blind spot alerts, autonomous braking and roll stability.
A 36-inch integrated stand up sleeper cab is now an option for Anthem, Trident and Super-Liner models. The new cab features 1.8 metres of headroom in the cockpit and 2.1 metres of headroom in the sleeper compartment.
The mDrive transmission controls remain on the dash panel, however controlling the Powerleash engine brake is now done via a steering column mounted multi-function stalk.
A 5-inch colour digital Co-Pilot display includes various digital menus and functions, including the integration of the Bendix safety system now accessed via the Co-Pilot display.
The mDrive automated manual transmission get some extra low gearing with the arrival of the mDrive HD and mDrive XHD transmissions. By providing options of deep reduction gearing these transmissions offer safer heavy hauling at high gross weights with excellent start ability/gradeability, eliminating the need for auxiliary transmissions.
“I’m very excited to see these new trucks emerge from our Wacol factory,” says Gary Bone, Vice President Mack Trucks. “The Anthem takes our brand in a bold new direction and our new stand up sleeper cab gives long haul operators a fantastic new environment to both work and rest in.
“The Mack brand has built up an enviable reputation over the last century for building tough uncompromising trucks that get the job done in some of the most inhospitable environments on the planet.”
