Peterbilt Motors Company says it will begin using a new paint formulation for its heavy-duty truck cabs and sleepers.
The change, which will be implemented across the complete lineup of Axalta coatings, enhances color qualities and durability, Peterbilt says. Additionally, the new coatings make production more environmentally friendly and reduce the company’s carbon footprint.
“The new paint coatings have better color characteristics for greater gloss, reflectivity and luster,” says Leon Handt, Peterbilt’s assistant general manager of operations. “Resistance to environmental damage, such as acid rain, de-icers and bird debris is also increased.”
The new formulations – which include both base and clear coats – are robotically applied at Peterbilt’s Denton, Texas manufacturing facility and dry significantly faster than the previous formulations so the drying ovens operate at lower temperatures requiring less energy. Additionally, the faster process releases fewer emissions.
If aftermarket repainting or refinishing is required, such as in the event of collision repair, it can be done through Peterbilt dealerships with the same paint formulations to ensure consistency and maintain durability.