van equipped with a standard driver-side airbag (except for 350-series models, exempted by their GVWR). The instrument panel received more legible instruments (but no tachometer); a 6-digit LCD odometer replaced the previous 5-digit analog unit. For 1994, CFC-free R134a air-conditioning refrigerant was adopted beginning with September 1993 production. For 1995, the tail lamps were revised, removing the amber turn signals. For the 1996 model year, Ford introduced a new Class 4 medium duty variant of the E-Series, offered exclusively as either a cutaway van chassis or cab chassis. Dubbed the E-Super Duty (in line with the F-Super Duty sold at the same time), this version was created using heavier duty materials than the existing E-350 commercial models, such as a Dana 80 rear axle with higher 4.63 axle ratios, new parking brake assembly, and heavier duty shocks to allow for a max GVWR of 16,000 lbs. It was offered with either the existing 7.3L diesel or 7.5L gas V8s, the latter eventually being replaced by the 6.8L Triton V10. It was sold in either a 158" or 176" wheelbase. Due to its shorter front nose and tighter turning circle compared to the equivalent F-Series model, the E-Super Duty was a popular choice for box truck and bus conversions. 1997–2002 For 1997, the E-series underwent a revision of both its exterior and interior, largely to bring its appearance in line with other Ford trucks. The previous egg-crate grille was replaced by an eight-hole oval-shaped cutout (matching the Explorer and F-150). For 1999, in line with the newly introduced Super Duty models, the E-Super Duty would be renamed to the E-450. The interior underwent a complete redesign, adopting an all-new dashboard. Following the adoption of dual airbags (for all versions), the "brick"-style steering wheel was replaced by one with a center-mounted horn. To improve the convenience of interior controls, rotary switches for climate controls were introduced, along with a double-DIN radio. The instrument panel was redesigned, reintroducing an analog odometer. The front seats underwent a redesign, relocating the seatbelt mounting to the B-pillars. Ford E-550 Super Duty (2002–2003) For 2002, Ford introduced the E-550 Super Duty as the highest-GVWR version of the E-Series. Offered solely in a cutaway-cab design, the E-550 was intended to bridge the gap between the pickup truck-derived F-450/550 Super Duty and the F-650 medium-duty trucks. Sharing a number of chassis components with the F-550 Super Duty, the E-550