Wabash Announces 2026 Model Year DuraPlate Dry Van

Rhea-AI Summary

Wabash (NYSE: WNC) has announced its 2026 model year DuraPlate® Dry Van with significant enhancements. The new model features the Webb Vortex Drum with Wear Indicator, designed to improve brake performance and extend brake life by up to 25%. The van includes DuraPlate Cell Core panel construction, reducing trailer weight by 300 pounds for improved fuel efficiency, and the TrustLock® Plus System for secure door operation.

Additional features include flush mount intermediate logistics, upper ID/AUX stop light system, high-strength steel coupler, four-post rear impact guard, EZ 7-Way electrical housing, and LED light system. Production began on December 1, 2024, with units manufactured in the United States in an ISO 9001:2015 registered facility.

Positive

• New Webb Vortex Drum technology extends brake life by 25%
• 300-pound weight reduction improves fuel efficiency and cargo capacity
• Enhanced safety features with ToughGuard designation from Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
• Domestic manufacturing with secured component availability through long-term supplier agreements

Negative

• None.

Insights

Manufacturing Technology Expert

The 2026 DuraPlate Dry Van represents a significant technological advancement in commercial trailer manufacturing. The Webb Vortex Drum with Wear Indicator innovation addresses a critical pain point in fleet operations by extending brake life up to 25%. The DuraPlate Cell Core panel construction's 300-pound weight reduction directly impacts fuel efficiency and cargo capacity, providing measurable operational benefits. These enhancements, combined with the TrustLock Plus System and high-strength steel components, demonstrate Wabash's focus on durability and operational efficiency. The timing of this release is strategic, coinciding with the industry's emergence from a freight recession, positioning Wabash to capture market share as fleets look to optimize their operations.

Transportation Industry Analyst

This product launch is particularly relevant given the current market dynamics in the trucking industry. As fleets emerge from a freight recession, the focus on cost containment and operational efficiency is paramount. The enhanced features address key maintenance cost centers, particularly the brake system improvements. The domestic manufacturing commitment and secured component supply chain are significant advantages amid ongoing global supply chain challenges. While the immediate revenue impact may be modest, this positions Wabash strongly for the anticipated market recovery, potentially leading to increased market share and improved margins through value-added features.

LAFAYETTE, Ind., Dec. 12, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Wabash (NYSE: WNC), the visionary leader of connected solutions for the transportation, logistics and distribution industries, today announced the 2026 model year DuraPlate^® Dry Van featuring enhancements that elevate performance and value.

One of the key new features of the 2026 Wabash DuraPlate Dry Van is the Webb Vortex Drum with Wear Indicator (WI), designed to improve brake performance and extend brake life by up to 25 percent. Industry data shows brake systems are one of the most critical—and costly—components of fleet maintenance. Featuring patented cooling fins, the Webb Vortex Drum dissipates heat more effectively than standard brake drums, reducing wear and maintaining optimal performance. The built-in wear indicator allows fleet crews to quickly assess repair needs, minimizing downtime. Made in the U.S. and backed by a lifetime warranty, the Webb Vortex Drum provides unmatched durability and reliability.

Wabash DuraPlate Dry Vans are engineered to deliver the durability, efficiency and value that fleets have come to rely on. In addition to the new Webb Vortex Drum with Wear Indicator, these key standard features make the DuraPlate Dry Van the benchmark for superior performance.

• DuraPlate Cell Core panel construction: Best-in-class durability while reducing trailer weight by 300 pounds for improved fuel efficiency and increased cargo capacity.
• TrustLock^® Plus System: Eases door operation and secures the door within 3 inches of the sidewall, preventing damage during loading/unloading.
• Flush mount intermediate logistics: Eliminates snag points, protects cargo from damage, and shields the logistic cavity from corrosive elements.
• Upper ID/AUX stop light system: Enhances visibility and safety during road use.
• High-strength steel coupler: Delivers exceptional durability, corrosion resistance and longevity.
• Four-post rear impact guard: Unique lightweight, high-strength steel construction increases full-width underride protection, exceeding U.S. DOT and Transport Canada standards and earning the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s ToughGuard designation.
• EZ 7-Way electrical housing: Simplifies installation, minimizes downtime with quick replacements and offers weatherproof durability.
• LED light system: Provides enhanced visibility and long-lasting performance.

“Our 2026 model year dry van builds on the durability, performance, and total cost of ownership savings that fleet owners have come to expect from Wabash,” said Drew Schwartzhoff, senior vice president, Strategic Marketing. “As the trucking industry emerges from an extended freight recession, containing costs and operating efficiently are key objectives. Wabash DuraPlate Dry Vans offer consistent reliability that addresses both operational costs and safety concerns for our customers.”

DuraPlate Dry Vans are backed by secured availability of key components through long-term domestic supplier agreements and are proudly manufactured in the United States in an ISO 9001:2015 registered facility.

Production of the 2026 model year DuraPlate Dry Van began on December 1, 2024. Customers can learn more about DuraPlate Dry Vans at onewabash.com. Contact a Wabash sales representative at 855-530-3870 or find a dealer near you at findwabash.com.

Wabash: Changing How the World Reaches You^®
Wabash (NYSE: WNC) is the visionary leader of connected solutions for the transportation, logistics and distribution industries that is Changing How the World Reaches You^®. Headquartered in Lafayette, Indiana, the company enables customers to thrive by providing insight into tomorrow and delivering pragmatic solutions today to move everything from first to final mile. Wabash designs, manufactures, and services a diverse range of products, including: dry freight and refrigerated trailers, flatbed trailers, tank trailers, dry and refrigerated truck bodies, structural composite panels and products, trailer aerodynamic solutions, and specialty food grade processing equipment. Learn more at onewabash.com.

Media Contact:
Dana Stelsel
Director, Communications
(765) 771-5766
dana.stelsel@onewabash.com

Investor Relations:
Ryan Reed
Vice President, Corporate Development & Investor Relations
(765) 490-5664
ryan.reed@onewabash.com

FAQ

What are the key improvements in Wabash's 2026 DuraPlate Dry Van (WNC)?

The 2026 model features the Webb Vortex Drum with Wear Indicator extending brake life by 25%, reduced trailer weight by 300 pounds, and enhanced safety features including the TrustLock Plus System and four-post rear impact guard.

When will Wabash (WNC) begin production of the 2026 DuraPlate Dry Van?

Production of the 2026 model year DuraPlate Dry Van began on December 1, 2024.

How much weight reduction does the 2026 Wabash DuraPlate Dry Van achieve?

The DuraPlate Cell Core panel construction reduces trailer weight by 300 pounds, improving fuel efficiency and increasing cargo capacity.

What safety certifications does the 2026 Wabash DuraPlate Dry Van have?

The van's four-post rear impact guard exceeds U.S. DOT and Transport Canada standards and has earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's ToughGuard designation.

How much does the new Webb Vortex Drum improve brake life in the 2026 Wabash van?

The Webb Vortex Drum with Wear Indicator is designed to improve brake performance and extend brake life by up to 25 percent.