Workhorse Front Engine Diesel Chassis Motorhomes at Florida RV Show

Workhorse diesels are ready for takeoff. The RV public will get its first view of Workhorse's latest front engine diesel, the W20D, at the Florida RV SuperShow Jan. 14 to 18 at the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa (Workhorse Booth 145 in the Expo Hall).

Show goers will also get the first public look at one of the first all-new Class A motor homes built on the Workhorse W20D — the 2009 Serrano from Four Winds International (Booth 895 by the West Midway). Small, aerodynamic and fuel efficient — the just over 32-foot Serrano boasts both diesel power and diesel amenities.

The Workhorse W20D chassis is part of the signature pair of Workhorse W20/W22 gas chassis (20,500 lb. and 22,000 lb. GVWRs) that have been converted into a front engine diesel platforms. These are proven platforms upon which Workhorse has built its reputation in the RV industry. Their well-regarded ride and handling, among other features, have made them our most popular gas platforms with RV owners. Now these same features are matched with an exceptional diesel engine.

Fuel efficient power

The Serrano design enhances the fuel efficiency provided by the MaxxForce™ engine from Navistar, with a sleek, aerodynamic front cap and sidewalls that makes it "a looker" among new motor home models. The 6.4L MaxxForce 7 diesel is a V8 powerplant that puts out 230 hp and 620 lb.-ft. of torque. It is also a "clean" diesel that provides an in-cylinder Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system to achieve NOx emission reduction and meet stringent emissions standards without sacrificing performance or fuel economy.

Smaller but still better

With two floorplans, the Serrano offers a lot in a small package, beginning with massive "MEGA" storage in the basement. Deluxe European-inspired and heated rear view mirrors, Infiniss™ leather U-shaped dinette, slick fiberglass with full-body paint, European style cabinetry and fixtures, and a complete outside entertainment center (optional) are some of the immediate attractions.

A closer look reveals such diesel-like features as an optional electric lateral arm patio awning, side-hinged aluminum luggage doors and an eight-foot double door refrigerator. "The Serrano makes it very comfortable for people to move from a larger to a smaller Class A," said Jon Krider, Four Winds director of marketing. "Its smart looks are also attractive to first time buyers."

Workhorse will have the W20D chassis on display with its other new platform, the W16D, a 16,000 GVWR front engine diesel that uses the 4.5L MaxxForce™ V6 engine. In internal testing, the W16D achieved up to 70 percent better fuel economy than chassis with competing Class A motor homes.

Workhorse will also show the upgraded Chevy Workhorse Class C cab chassis for 2009. The new Chevy Workhorse Class C offers a huge boost in towing capacity and now boasts best-in-class payload capacity.

A diesel for every segment — now

"Our new ‘W' chassis now bring diesel fuel efficiency to every segment of the Class A market. They show that we intend to be a serious player in the diesel market," said Bill Walmsley, Workhorse director of marketing. "By adapting the MaxxForce engines to our popular gas platforms, we've made it easy for RV manufacturers to put many existing floorplans on them right now, while also supporting the development of new, more fuel efficient motor homes, like the Serrano."

"We expect to ramp up our push into the diesel market in 2009, and we will continue to offer proactive solutions to the industry that help meet consumer needs. We invite everyone to come and take a look!"