LYNN SCHENKMAN

Autocar, Union City, Ind., is expanding engine options for the 2004 Xpeditor WX, WXR and WXLL low-cab-over-engine (LCOE) truck models. The expansion is the first step in Autocar's new engine program that will continue to add new models every few months.

Cummins, Columbus, Ind., and Caterpillar, Peoria, Ill., engines will replace the Volvo, Greensboro, N.C., engine, which will be discontinued. The new engines will be available in the Xpeditor line in 7- through 11-liter versions.

Two Cummins engines — the V-rated ISM-EGR 285V with 285 horsepower rating and 1,050 pounds of torque and the ISM-EGR 320V with 320 horsepower and 1,150 pounds of torque — will be available in the Xpeditor WXLL model in May, the WX in June and WXR in July.

Autocar also will offer the Caterpillar C-10 diesel fuel bridge engine and the C-10 dual-fuel version. The C-10 is rated at 305 horsepower with 1,050 pounds of torque and will be available in WX models beginning in June and in the WXR in July. By mid-March, all 2004 Xpeditor models with these engines will be built at Autocar's new manufacturing facility in Hagerstown, Ind.

Autocar had previously offered limited Caterpillar and Cummins engines for the Xpeditor, but this expansion will increase offerings while the company phases Volvos out of production.