What is a Prime Mover?
A prime mover is the powerhouse of a truck, designed to operate independently without a trailer. This essential vehicle component features a robust engine, a driver's cab, a sleeper cabin, and a fifth wheel for easy trailer coupling. Prime movers can accommodate various trailer configurations, including single trailers, B-doubles, and road trains.
The term "prime mover" is commonly used in Australia and Europe, while in the United States, it is referred to as a tractor unit. When paired with a trailer, Americans often call it a tractor-trailer combination.
Why the Freightliner Cascadia Excels as a Prime Mover
The Freightliner Cascadia is a top-tier heavy-duty prime mover, extensively tested on Australian highways and across various industries. Designed for maximum efficiency and reliability, it surpasses previous Freightliner models in durability, fuel economy, and technology.
Available in two variants, the Cascadia 116 and 126 set new standards in the heavy-duty trucking sector, delivering exceptional performance for transport operators.
Committed to continuous improvement, Freightliner enhances the Cascadia's quality, durability, and efficiency to meet the evolving needs of the transport industry.
The Freightliner Cascadia represents the pinnacle of heavy-duty prime mover technology, offering unparalleled fuel efficiency, safety, reliability, and power. Whether operating single trailers, B-doubles, or road trains, the Cascadia is engineered to maximise productivity and cost savings for businesses.
For transport operators seeking a dependable and high-performance prime mover, the Freightliner Cascadia 116 and 126 stand out as the ultimate choice for efficiency, safety, and profitability.
Optimised Fuel Economy and Detroit Power
Freightliner continually advances fuel efficiency through cutting-edge aerodynamics and powertrain innovations. The Cascadia's lightweight construction maximises payload capacity while maintaining superior fuel economy, making it a cost-effective solution for businesses.
At the heart of the Cascadia is the Detroit Powertrain, engineered for seamless integration and optimal efficiency. The Detroit engine and transmission work together to enhance performance, power delivery, and fuel consumption. Built for maximum uptime, Detroit engines prioritise reliability and productivity.
- Freightliner Cascadia 116 - Powered by a Detroit 13-litre DD13 engine, producing 450-505 horsepower and 1,650-1,850 lb-ft of torque. Available in four cab configurations, it's ideal for tippers, single trailers, and B-Double freight operators.
- Freightliner Cascadia 126 - Equipped with a Detroit 16-litre DD16 engine, generating 500-600 horsepower and 1,850-2,050 lb-ft of torque. Designed for A-Doubles, B-Doubles, livestock transport, and road trains, this model sets new benchmarks for power and fuel efficiency in demanding applications.
Advanced Safety Features
Safety is a core focus of the Freightliner Cascadia, ensuring driver protection and operational security on every journey. Featuring an advanced safety suite, the Cascadia is equipped with industry-leading active and passive safety systems:
- Active Brake Assist - Automatic braking to prevent collisions.
- Side Guard Assist - Monitors blind spots and detects obstacles.
- Tailgate Warning - Alerts drivers to unsafe following distances.
- Adaptive Cruise Control - Maintains safe distances automatically.
- Lane Departure Warning - Helps drivers stay in their lane.
- Video Capture - Records footage for accident investigation.
- Automatic Wipers & Headlamps - Adjusts to weather conditions.
- Intelligent High-Beam - Enhances night-time visibility.
Maximising Uptime for Business Success
Freightliner has subjected the Cascadia to over one million kilometres of rigorous testing, ensuring its reliability in extreme conditions. Testing includes cold chamber trials and hot room simulations, verifying the truck's durability in harsh climates.
The Detroit Connect Virtual Technician provides remote diagnostics, reducing downtime by identifying maintenance needs before they become critical. Additionally, Daimler's engineering expertise optimises components and repair processes, ensuring faster servicing and minimal disruptions.
With an extensive dealer network of over 60 service points across Australia, Freightliner offers comprehensive support and maintenance, keeping trucks on the road longer and operating more efficiently.
Unmatched Build Quality and Reliability
As the best-selling heavy-duty truck in the United States, the Freightliner Cascadia has been extensively tested to withstand Australia's toughest conditions. With over one million kilometres of testing, this truck delivers superior uptime, longevity, fuel efficiency, and ride comfort.
Freightliner maintains exceptional quality standards through rigorous manufacturing processes:
- Coordinate Measurement Machines (CMM) ensure precise cab alignment.
- Automated robotic painting guarantees a consistent finish.
- Dash modules undergo electrical and air pressure testing before installation.
- High-pressure water testing simulates real-world weather exposure.
What Our Customers Say...
"The Cascadia is a truck you can rely on, in just about any application or condition"
- Peter Clifford, Owner and Director Clifford Brick and Tile
What Our Customers Say...
"It's a good complete package the Detroit motor and the Detroit transmission, it works perfectly. The pulling power and the torque of it is exceptional."
- Rocky Capisciolto, Owner-Driver Australian Livestock Traders
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