International Truck and Engine Corp.’s new 2007 Class 8 tractor is called ProStar, the OEM announced today.

“Pro” represents the professional driver for whom this product has been developed, while “Star” refers to International’s parent company, Navistar.

ProStar is the product of a $300 million investment, according to International.

“A new product is the perfect opportunity for us to introduce a new name,” said Dee Kapur, International Truck Group president. “It reflects our understanding of our customer needs and evokes the heritage, pride and Americana that is our brand.”

ProStar is the first of multiple International product introductions planned for the next several years, the OEM added. International said it expects the '07 tractors will have a $7,000 to $9,000 price premium compared to the base price of its current equivalent models, subject to factors such as costs passed on by engine manufacturers and volitile raw material costs.

International will unveil ProStar to the public at the Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville this March. Shipments to dealers will begin in the first quarter of 2007. Initial production will be based on 122-in.-BBC tractors with a high-rise sleeper configuration. The second phase will include additional BBC and sleeper configuration options. ProStars will be produced at the International Assembly Plant in Chatham, Ontario.

For more information, go to www.InternationalDelivers.com.