Whenever Biglorryblog posts a story on the quirky International LoneStar tractor it attracts a fair amount of brickbats. Indeed one recent commentator says: "What was Navistar thinking of?" Well I can tell you that the inspiration for the LoneStar's distinctive grille and sloped hood was, in fact, from International's venerable D-Series trucks from the 30s and 40s, (pictured above and below) which, I'm told, " helped transform America's cross-country transportation in the early 20th Century."
And who is Biglorryblog to argue with that? What I like about the LoneStar is that it's different in a world where everything increasingly looks the same. However, there's more to the LoneStar than just looks and click through here to find out what......
Even in the US, where the cost of diesel is way below that of the UK or Europe, the LoneStar is projected to be 5-15% more fuel efficient than 'classic' trucks, equating to an annual savings of some $3,000-$8,000. "The aerodynamic design of LoneStar's hood, windshield and side skirts will save money," says the manufacturer "Truck pros can have a unique, customisable truck that will reward them at the pump. When you are spending $1,000 or more with each fill-up, you really appreciate the fuel efficiency of the LoneStar."
Personally I think in a world where accountants play a huge part on our industrial design landscape, it's nice to see something so aesthetically exciting to the world's collective inner schoolboy.
There are enough bland boxes in the world of vehicle design, so good on them for giving the world something that is worthy of comment.
I love the Lonestar - the concept truck that got away.