The totally redesigned operator station provides better visibility, reduced sound, improved ventilation and improved controllability. A sophisticated dash monitor – incorporating a standard rear-view camera – provides a wide range of operating data, as well as the ability to adjust systems and provide fuel economy data on request. The cab also includes an air ride seat with optional heating, hydraulic-over-hydraulic pilot controls, thermostatically controlled air conditioning, better ductwork throughout, a four-fold increase in cab pressurization, lots of available storage and even an AM/FM/CD radio.

On the service end, standard HN bushings in the linkage system extend grease intervals to 500 hours. The use of KCM EX46 hydraulic oil allows for hydraulic oil change intervals to be doubled to 4,000 hours.

"If you run the numbers and do an apples to apples comparison with the older models, the price increase is almost offset by the standard equipment content," Bell asserts. When added to the gains in fuel efficiency, any additional cost is rapidly recovered.