Mack Cavalcade hits top gear

It is always difficult to estimate crowd numbers when you are addressing the logistics of an around the country Cavalcade to show a new model range and demonstrate new equipment to those in the road transport industry. Mack Trucks, however, had no problem attracting large numbers of people including high quality operators at each stop as the new 2011 trucks travelled the length and breadth of the country.

Mack Titan, Super-Liner, Trident, Granite and Metro-Liner began the tour in Sydney with the comprehensive visit list including stops in Albury, three in Melbourne, Hobart, Newcastle, Brisbane, Rockhampton, Mackay, Townsville, Darwin and Adelaide – and to date the crowds have kept coming.

At the top of the attraction list is the latest Mack MP8 engine with SCR technology and the company’s new mDRIVE automated transmission, unique to Mack and with high Australian content. Operators are given the opportunity to drive the vehicles and take a close look at how the trucks have been designed and engineered for applications in this country and many have put themselves into the driver’s seat.

At each stop along the way people have queued for some time before the gates have opened just to take a look at the truck range. In some instances the crowds have been so large the cavalcade viewing hours at dealerships have been extended. Weather has had little impact on visitor numbers, in fact pouring rain was no obstacle for those keen to step into the new Macks.

The new mDRIVE transmission opens another chapter for Mack, offering concise and rapid gear changes in a two pedal operation, and the line-up of people wanting to put the box to the test saw constant running of the truck fitted with the unit.
Kids were encouraged to come along at some dealerships as part of Cavalcade activities. Mack the Transporter, inspired by the Disney Pixar CARS Truck Tour prior to the release of the CARS 2 movie in June, made an appearance at selected dealerships with its trailer folding out to reveal a host of family activities related to the movie and Mack Trucks. This attraction saw a host of next generation truck drivers take a close look at the new range while taking part in competitions on the day.

The 2011 Mack Cavalcade will return to Brisbane with all units involved going on display at the Truck Show before resuming the last sector of the national tour.