Wabash National Receives Manufacturing Excellence Award for Innovation for Sustainable Solutions in Commercial Trucking

LAFAYETTE, Ind., Oct. 25, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Wabash National Corporation (NYSE: WNC), the innovation leader of engineered solutions for the transportation, logistics and distribution industries, received the 2021 Indiana Manufacturers Association’s (IMA) Manufacturing Excellence Award for Innovation for its patented molded structural composite (MSC) technology that is used to improve thermal efficiency and reduce weight in refrigerated commercial fleets.

The IMA’s Manufacturing Excellence Awards highlight Indiana companies and individuals for the exceptional contributions they make to the industry and their impact on the future of manufacturing in Indiana. Wabash National was chosen from a select group for its achievements in the category of Innovation Excellence.

“Our patented MSC technology is bringing new levels of thermal performance to commercial transportation in a way that allows fleets to reduce their carbon footprints,” said Kevin Page, senior vice president, Customer Value Creation. “The cost to operate and maintain a diesel reefer system can total hundreds of millions of dollars for U.S. fleets. Our MSC technology is enabling battery-powered refrigeration and solar technology from our partners for the most thermally efficient, eco-friendly refrigerated haul available on the market.”

Wabash National’s MSC technology products offer a new approach to addressing equipment challenges that refrigerated carriers have been facing for years: thermal efficiency, strength, weight and longevity. The unique chemistry of this advanced composite material improves thermal efficiency by up to 28% and reduces weight by up to 20% compared to traditional refrigerated trailer designs. The lightweight properties of MSC, coupled with improved thermal performance, make this advanced composite material more practical for carriers looking to reduce their greenhouse emissions with electric-powered solutions.

Wabash National’s MSC technology was recognized as a top 20 product by Heavy Duty Trucking magazine earlier in the year.

“The Indiana Manufacturers Association instituted the Indiana Manufacturers Hall of Fame Awards in 2015 to help bring awareness and recognition to the many positive contributions of Hoosier manufacturers. We added the Manufacturing Excellence Awards in 2019 to focus and honor companies in specific areas of achievement,” said IMA President and CEO Brian Burton. “We congratulate Wabash National for their outstanding work and continued dedication to making Indiana manufacturing a positive and driving force for the state.”

Manufacturing Excellence Award recipients were recognized on October 14, 2021, at the IMA’s Manufacturers Hall of Fame Luncheon in Indianapolis.

About Wabash National Corporation
As the innovation leader of engineered solutions for the transportation, logistics and distribution industries, Wabash National Corporation (NYSE:WNC) is Changing How the World Reaches You™. Headquartered in Lafayette, Indiana, the company’s mission is to enable customers to succeed with breakthrough ideas and solutions that help them move everything from first to final mile. Wabash National designs and manufactures a diverse range of products, including: dry freight and refrigerated trailers, platform trailers, liquid tank trailers, dry and refrigerated truck bodies, structural composite panels and products, trailer aerodynamic solutions, and specialty food grade processing equipment. Its innovative products are sold under the following brand names: Wabash National®, Benson®, Brenner® Tank, Bulk Tank International, DuraPlate®, Supreme®, Transcraft®, Walker Engineered Products, and Walker Transport. Learn more at www.wabashnational.com.

About the Indiana Manufacturers Association
Formed in 1901, the Indiana Manufacturers Association is the second oldest manufacturers association in the country and the only trade association in Indiana that exclusively focuses on manufacturing. Manufacturing is the driving force of Indiana’s economy, employing more people and contributing more to Indiana’s gross domestic product than any other industry. The Indiana Manufacturers Association, representing more than 1,100 companies, is dedicated to advocating for a business climate that creates, protects, and promotes quality manufacturing jobs in Indiana. The staff of the Indiana Manufacturers Association are recognized experts in areas including tax, environment, labor relations, human resources, energy, workforce development, and health care. To learn more about how membership can be a be a benefit for your company, visit www.indianamfg.com.

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

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7c929c4c-b48f-4304-b1a8-e08f8824f0e4