DELIVERY MAGAZINE Issue #81 December/January 2019

AUSTRALIA’S GUIDE TO UTES, VANS, LIGHT TRUCKS & PEOPLE MOVERS

www.deliverymagazine.com.au ISSUE 81 DEC/JAN 2019 RRP: $8.95

ISSUE 81 DECEMBER / JANUARY 2019 Delivery Magazine is an AfMA Strategic Alliance Partner

NEW: MITSUBISHI TRITON MERCEDES-BENZ SPRINTER SSANGYONG MUSSO + IAA HANOVER REVIEW

The new Sprinter. Coming Soon.

Stay ahead of the game with the most advanced Sprinter ever. Filled with advanced connectivity, and car-like comforts, it’s designed to help you work smarter, by doing more of the work for you.

Standard features include: • MBUX multimedia system • Automated emergency braking • ATTENTION ASSIST • Lane Keeping Assist • Crosswind Assist • Exceptional ergonomic design

Optional features include: • Active Distance Assist (DISTRONIC) • 360° camera Register your interest at new-sprinter.com.au

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New Triton Revealed Mitsubishi’s hope for increased market share

Sprinter takes the high spot

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The new Mercedes-Benz hits the road

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Star Gazing Nissan looks up with its Navara

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I Load, I Leave, I Deliver The latest upgrades to the Hyundai iLoad.

Light Relief The appeal of the Isuzu N-Series

Horse Sense The brave new world of autonomous control systems

Urbanetic

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SsangYong Resurgence

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Super Slider

62 4X2 Small Cab/Chassis Utes

Earthcruiser reinvents the slide-on camper

66 4X4 Vehicles

Musso comes back to the market

Innovation, futuristic designs and interpretation of market trends

71 People Movers

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Close Encounters

72 Small-Medium-Large Vans

RAM 1500 deserves serious consideration

76 Light Trucks

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Powerplay Generating interest from Briggs & Stratton

For all editorial information and subscriptions please contact: Managing Editor - Chris Mullett Contributors - S tuart Martin, Rob Randazzo, Brenton O’Connor, Ed Higginson Photography - B andits & Co - Mark Bean, Warren Caves ‘Torque It Up’, Warwick Kent Designer - Steven Foster Account Manager - Maree Mullett Editorial Division, PO Box 271AB, Airlie Beach, Qld 4802 Telephone: +61 (0) 7 4946 4658 Email: info@motoringmatters.com.au Website: www.deliverymagazine.com.au

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Fork Torque The latest developments in materials handling

Delivery Magazine is published by: Motoring Matters Pty Ltd Advertising Enquiries National Business Development Manager Delivery Magazine Email: advert@deliverymagazine.com.au Telephone: +61 (0) 7 4946 4658 Website: www.deliverymagazine.com.au Newsagency disitrbution by: Integrated Publications Solutions, A division of Fairfax Newspapers.

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Disclaimer: Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information the publisher will not accept responsibility for errors or omissions or for any consequence arising from the reliance on information published. The opinions expressed in Delivery are not necessarily the opinions of, or endorsed by the publisher.

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Chris Mullett

EDITORIAL

Welcome to Delivery Magazine, The recent European IAA Expo in Hanover certainly emphasised how the industry is expected to change, starting with the choice of fuels and drive systems for vehicles in the PUD sector.

European cities are now legislating for the removal of vehicles from inner urban city streets that conform to Euro 3 and earlier emissions regulations. Clean diesel and petrol engines are alternative options, but so too are gas and hydrogen-fuelled engines, with hybrid and fully electric battery-powered options lining up as replacement for the older technologies.

Vans that autonomously advance from one parking spot to another further up the street are already being trialled in order to reduce the effort involved for the driver as they deliver packages for the final metres. Drones are another suggestion for completing the last kilometre as they drop their load on the doorstep at the final destination.

It’s one thing to marvel at the increasing autonomy, but it’s quite different to think ahead to the days when perhaps this scenario is commonplace. To be successful these systems have to be completely reliable and foolproof, with both these factors aligning to achieve their goals of delivery. That’s the hardest part of the equation to achieve, and, despite glowing accolades about their respective algorithms, we are a long way from signing off on this technology.

In this issue of Delivery Magazine we preview the next major step for Japanese manufacturer Mitsubishi and its well-known Triton nameplate. The ute is a major seller for Mitsubishi and will play a pivotal role in the company’s future viability. Nissan shows off some futuristic design influences for the Navara, and the South Korean based but Indian owned SsangYong releases a much-improved product range with a full factory backed distribution network across Australia.

For those wanting something larger than life, it comes in the form of the RAM 1500 from American Special Vehicles.

With excellent assembly quality and a level of comfort and ability that outranks all but its larger siblings, the RAM 2500 and 3500, this is the aspirational ute that outranks the pack.

For the van and cab/chassis market, the Mercedes-Benz van division has fired a broadside with the launch of the new Sprinter. No less than 1700 variants should fill the requirements of almost any application, with a model range that builds on the reputation of its predecessors, 6

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adding higher safety levels, improved ride comfort, lower noise levels and greater appeal. The previous Sprinter was always going to be a hard act to follow. The new Sprinter is a hard act to match.

For those that need an alternative weekend option or want to travel the length and breadth of the land, then EarthCruiser is a highly plausible solution to your plans for mobile accommodation. Slide-on camper bodies used to be the go, but then fell from favour. The latest EarthCruiser option has all the comforts of home and more for the intrepid traveller.

Hyundai’s iLoad has taken over the crown from Toyota’s HiAce as the tradies’ preferred vehicle, with its semibonneted design and higher ride comfort levels beating the HiAce on every turn. It’s had a long production run, but with a few of the latest tweaks it remains good value for those mixing work with pleasure.

Isuzu Trucks is close to celebrating its 30 years as the leading commercial vehicle brand in Australia. Delivery evaluates the latest upgrades to N-Series and identifies the qualities that make this brand a standout performer.

Just finally, we take a look at future passenger transport through the eyes of Mercedes-Benz and its electric holistic mobility. A solution for some may be a problem for others.

For those looking at replacing their vehicle or adding further vehicles to their fleet, remember to check the pricing and specifications of all other vehicles in the categories that are outlined in every issue of Delivery.

The latest technology found in prestige luxury cars is now spreading through the light commercial vehicle segment, increasing driver comfort, but, more importantly, improving the safety levels available. The introduction of the latest Chain of Responsibility legislation should sound some alarm bells for those fleet operators that order the highest spec for themselves and the lowest spec for their workers. Safety comes at a price, but it’s a price that needs to be factored into your operating costs for all the fleet, not just the chosen few.

As always, thanks for joining us, stay safe and enjoy the drive.

Kind regards

Chris Mullett, Managing Editor and Publisher

FEATURE

NEW TRITON REVEALED Mitsubishi’s hope for increased market share depends on rapid acceptance of its nextgeneration Triton range

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n light of the increasing competition hotting up from Ford and Holden, with their Ranger and Colorado models adding more bling to justify higher pricing (and increased profitability), Japanese ute maker Mitsubishi Motors has slammed down the industry accelerator to bring the next-generation upgrades to market on a global scale.

With its hometown for manufacturing being the ‘Detroit of Asia’ in Bangkok, Thailand, Mitsubishi Motors held its world premiere coinciding with the 40th anniversary of the Triton model range. These days, the specific ownership of the manufacturer has become somewhat clouded, with Nissan having taken a one-third ownership as recently as 2016, bringing the independent into the family to comprise the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance.

Triton comes off a highly credible history of motorsport involvement, dating back to the days of Andrew Cowan campaigning the Pajero and proving its ability in rally events such as the Wynn’s Safari and later the Australian Safari rally, plus of course the full blown rally raids of the Dakar events.

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With an on-sale date for the Thailand domestic market of November 17th, manufacturing takes place at the Laem Chabang Plant operated by Mitsubishi Motors (Thailand) Co. Ltd. (MMTh), MMC’s producer and distributor in Thailand.

The vehicle is a global strategic model which, following its Thai launch, will be launched in the other ASEAN markets as well as Oceania, the Middle East, Europe, Africa and Latin America. Eventually it will be sold in some 150 countries around the globe, and, for those eagerly awaiting its Australian launch, the best guestimate at this stage is mid to late January 2019.

Japanese manufacturers like to work to a scripted definition that underlines their design philosophy, and for Mitsubishi and its Triton the catchphrase is ‘Engineered Beyond Tough’.

With the word ‘tough’ underlining its creation, the design brief was to include elements making it significantly more competitive, starting with more powerful styling that incorporates the latest iteration of the Dynamic Shield front design concept.

MITSUBISHI TRITON

The frontal lower skirt area surrounding the grille carries on the ‘tough’ impression, as with its heavier appearance comes the impression of increased strength. This is important to the promotion of Triton as it shows a perceived strength that Mazda has lacked right through the developments of its current BT-50 through using a softer frontal styling approach.

Backing up its tougher external appearance is an enhanced 4WD system that delivers improved off-road performance, and the latest in active safety and driver assistance systems. Overall, the new model features significant refinements to the durability and reliability required by the commercial user and to the comfort and ride sought by the private user.

The styling is certainly more imposing than the previous design, even though elements such as the rear section of the side bodywork curving upwards from the rear side panels retains the basics of the previous version.

Stylists have done some work around this area with newly sculpted body curves with contrasting sharp lines, extended wheel flares and bright accents. The lighting and bumper parts become part of the tough design, framing the front and rear designs and adding visual width.

The interior has benefited from a substantial makeover, not just in looks but also in feel, touch and overall impression.

Some of its competition have remained with fairly low rent trim standards of panel fit and finish, and, together with the texture of the plastics used the interiors, haven’t necessarily lived up to the highest expectations of the levels of quality. First impressions here for Triton are that the product has moved up a peg on the scale, with framed surrounds for the switch panel and air outlets. A higherquality look is created by soft pad materials and stitching on the floor console, armrests and parking brake.

The jewel in the crown for Triton, and carried on through the Pajero, has always been the Super-Select 4WD system, which delivers optimum traction and handling characteristics for any type of on-road or off-road surface.

In its more basic form, the Easy-Select 4WD simplifies switching between drive modes for different road surfaces, but it’s no match for the greater sophistication and higher inherent safety levels of the Super-Select 4WD that enables all-wheel-drive, without the centre differential being locked, when travelling on the highway in low grip situations such as torrential rain or slippery road conditions. Drive split is 40 percent front and 60 percent rear.

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FEATURE

“Speed is electronically controlled to allow the driver to negotiate steep or slippery descents more safely and with more assurance”

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Both the Super-Select and Easy-Select 4WD systems use a new Off-road Mode, which has GRAVEL, MUD/ SNOW, SAND and ROCK (in 4LLc only) settings. When engaged, Off-road Mode integrally controls engine power, transmission and braking to regulate the amount of wheel slip and thereby maximise all-terrain performance and self-extraction performance in mud or snow. There’s also the inclusion of Hill Descent Control where the vehicle speed is electronically controlled to allow the driver to negotiate steep or slippery descents more safely and with more assurance.

All these safety and traction enhancements are valuable, but it tends to suggest that the driver no longer has ultimate responsibility for safety, having had their required skill set replaced by a computer algorithm that absolves them from having to exercise care and control.

There are many opportunities for seriously bad things to happen when a driver is relying purely on autonomous interventions and is not supervising the vehicle on the basis of knowledge. Similar problems are occurring in the tourism industry with scuba diving and snorkelling, with non-swimmers genuinely believing that donning a snorkel and flippers will enable them to float, swim, dive and surface. No matter what the YouTube clip might suggest on the way to their tourist destination, in most cases they sink like a stone and have to be monitored all the time to ensure safety.

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FEATURE

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MITSUBISHI TRITON

Currently, the only ute manufacturer offering factorybacked driver training and weekend trips away to practise your skill and that of the vehicle is Isuzu Ute Australia with its I-Venture programme. Other manufacturers are content to make the claims for the products, but do not back them with practical training options.

Safety standards such as five-star ANCAP ratings are now becoming part of the purchase equation, in much the same way as the wearing of seat belts is universally recognised as saving lives.

Triton retains the current model’s high-durability, high-reliability ladder-type frame and high impactsafety cabin structure, while featuring class-leading advanced active safety and driver assistance systems.

The systems providing all-direction safety and reassurance include Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM), which can detect vehicles and pedestrians ahead, and Blind Spot Warning (BSW with LCA), which helps avoid sideswiping another vehicle when changing lanes by detecting vehicles behind or at the rear quarter and alerting the driver with an audible alert and flashing light in their door mirror.

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FEATURE When heading in reverse, the Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) helps avoid collisions when reversing in the same way. The rather clumsily worded Ultrasonic Misacceleration Mitigation System (UMS) reduces accidents resulting from improper use of the accelerator when moving off or reversing in car parks and other confined spaces.

Triton can provide its driver with a total overview of their current situation through its Multi Around Monitor, which generates a bird’s-eye view image of the area around the vehicle, and parking sensors.

The realisation that stopping is sometimes more important that going brings us to the braking system. Braking performance and feel are improved with the use of larger front discs and calliper pistons. No mention has been made of a switch from rear drums to rear discs, which is way past time, but attention has been paid to the back end with a claimed improvement in ride through the use of larger rear dampers with a larger oil reservoir for improved damping control and new rear leaf springs.

Although final specifications have yet to be confirmed for the Australian market, it appears our version will remain powered by the 2.4-litre, variable-geometry turbocharged and intercooled, four-cylinder diesel with 133 kW at 3500 rpm and peak torque of 420 Nm at 2500 rpm. There has been mention of structural improvements having been

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made to the ladder-frame chassis, but at this stage the maximum towing ability for a braked trailer looks like it will remain at 3.0 tonnes.

There have been changes to the transmission, with the automatic box adding a 6th ratio, spreading the love between the power and torque curves to give a more seamless shift protocol, while mindful of the general trend to downsize engine capacity to reduce harmful exhaust emissions.

As an indication of the importance of the Triton in the overall scale of Mitsubishi’s global operation, the company plans to sell some 180,000 units of the new and current models globally, with Triton playing second string to the mid-size SUV Outlander in the MMC line-up last fiscal year.

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FEATURE

SPRINTER TAKES THE HIGH SPOT Stuart Martin reviews the new Sprinter from Mercedes-Benz

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hots have been fired back across the bow of former bedfellow Volkswagen with the arrival of the new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. No longer will Sprinter and Crafter follow down the same production line under the terms of the original joint venture with similarities as to body but with differences of engine, driveline and badging.

From now on Mercedes-Benz is focused purely on achieving dominance of the medium to large van segment with a three-pointed star out front, leaving VW to its own future of manufacturing Crafter in its own factory in Poland.

The third-generation Sprinter has now launched in Australia with a new nose and tail design for more than 1700 model variations, starting with the van and cab/chassis range and extending to the minibus and what the company calls ‘tractorhead’ (5th wheeler or cab/chassis) variants in early 2019.

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Also coming in the first half of the new year is the 12-seater minibus model, followed by the all-wheel-drive variants mid-year, but there’s no sign yet of the all-electric eSprinter being on the same boat.

One of the most significant changes to the Sprinter range is the new front-wheel-drive model, mirroring its main opposition from VW. The Benz front-wheel-drive models lay claim to an extra 50 kg of payload with the change in drivetrain, as well as an 80 mm lower rear load height.

The updated drivetrain now boasts a nine-speed auto for the front-drive models, as well as a six-speed manual option with certain engine variants, despite the fact that manual gearboxes comprise less than five percent of the Sprinter’s sales.

MB SPRINTER

Payloads for the new van and cab/chassis range stretch from 1169 kg to 2929 kg, with the vans boasting a cargo volume range from 7.8 to15.5 cubic metres, while encompassing load lengths from 2607 mm to 4810 mm.

Pricing for the panel van starts from $46,008 for the 311CDI short-wheelbase front-drive manual, which claims a 3.55-tonne GVM. The same wheelbase and GVM can be selected in the 314CDI with the 105 kW drivetrain starting from $51,763.

Medium and long-wheelbase models in front and rear-drive are also offered, topping out at just over $60,000. Stepping up to the 120 kW model removes the front-drive variant, which stops at a 4.1-tonne GVM, and puts the pricing into the $60,000 bracket.

The auto-only medium-wheelbase V6 starts from $66,374, and the options for this van top out with a V6-powered 5.0-tonne GVM long-wheelbase auto for $76,069.

Those looking at the cab/chassis side of the pricelist start at the same point – a 311CDI 84 kW six-speed front-wheeldrive manual with 3.55-tonne GVM is priced from $41,238, rising to $46,993 for the more powerful 105 kW 314CDI. The front-wheel-drive options extend to the 84 kW 411CDI, with 4.1-tonne GVM and a six-speed manual from $43,108, or the 105 kW 414 CDI asks from $48,863.

As the driveline switches from the front wheels to the rear wheels, the wheelbase grows to compensate from here on up, with peak power expanding to 120 kW in the 316CDI, and a price tag starting from $52,939.

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FEATURE Mercedes-Benz claims any small price increases are more than offset by extra features and specification added to the new Sprinter, and it’s here that Sprinter continues to impress.

The new spec includes keyless ignition, power-folding mirrors, rear step, reach and rake steering adjustment, overhead storage, semi-automatic climate control, cruise control, a 7.0-inch display for the MBUX system, and USB and 12-volt outlets within the plentiful dashboard storage.

Selectable options include a leather-wrapped steering wheel, electric park brake, wireless phone charging for compatible devices, power-adjustable seats and wheelarch boxes. Meanwhile, the standard safety equipment includes the carry over crosswind assist, active brake assist system, blind spot warning and reversing camera (not on cab/ chassis), lane keeping, and driver attention assist systems.

There’s also stability control (which encompasses rollover and brake drying among its many features), as well as dual front and side airbags.

Amongst the optional safety kit inclusions are the radar cruise control system, LED headlights, traffic sign assist, active lane departure and the Parking Package with a 360-degree camera and autonomous emergency braking.

Warranty is a three-year 200,000 km cover (matching VW but less than Ford with five years, both with unlimited kilometres) with roadside assistance, and with service intervals every 40,000 km or two years.

Benz is offering a number of servicing plans, including a prepaid plan that reduces the costs by about 20 percent.

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MB SPRINTER

The ‘Best Basic’ to cover the first three scheduled services would cost – at the time of writing – $3785, whereas prepaying would drop that to $2265, which, like the warranty, is neither the best nor the worst in the segment.

Benz is also boasting new standards when it comes to telematics, with the Sprinter becoming the first LCV and second Benz overall behind the recently-launched A-Class to be equipped with the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) satnav and multimedia system.

MBUX has a 7.0-inch HD touchscreen display as standard, with the option of a broad 10.25-inch head unit, controlling much of the vehicle’s functionality, as well as delivering satellite navigation, luxury car levels of connectivity and the ability to store data that tailors the vehicle for up to 10 different profiles.

Android Auto is already on board, but Apple users will have to wait until the end of the year for CarPlay; but the system is comprehensive. The driver also gets a large colour centre display between the traditional dials, which has myriad displays including digital speed readouts.

The Sprinter also inherits the touch-based steering wheel controls from its passenger car siblings as an alternative to control the system when underway.

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FEATURE

MBUX also brings with it a new voice control system, mimicking the Apple and Google systems with a “Hey Mercedes” phrase to get instruction underway, with a far less rigid menu vocabulary that responds to everyday phrases.

When considering the choice of four and six-cylinder power plants they are all equipped with diesel particulate filters. The flagship engine is the only V6 in this segment and is a 3.0-litre unit producing 140 kW and 440 Nm between 1600 and 2600 rpm, and it is only available with the seven-speed automatic transmission. The four-cylinder, common-rail, direct-injection turbodiesel is offered in twin and single turbo guises for the rear and front-wheel-drive models respectively.

There is a difference in power and torque ratings between the front and rear-wheel-drive models, and, for those choosing to send the power to the back end, the figures come out at 84 kW and 300 Nm, 105 kW/330 Nm or 120 kW and 360 Nm, all of which will be offered with a standard sixspeed manual gearbox, or an option up to the seven-speed automatic that adds $2875 to the purchase price.

The new front-drive model is also offered in 84 kW/300 Nm and 105 kW/330 Nm, with the motorhome-specific model delivering 130 kW and 400 Nm, teamed to the ninespeed automatic, also a $2875 option. Both autos get the ability to shift manually with wheel-mounted paddles, and will hold the selected gear.

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MB SPRINTER

The first example of the new Sprinter driven by Delivery magazine during the launch event was the 314 longwheelbase van, with the 2.1-litre turbodiesel four-cylinder producing 105 kW and 330 Nm to the rear wheels via the seven-speed automatic.

Boasting a GVM of 3.55 tonnes, the 4.5 m length cargo deck had 500 kg of concrete retaining wall sleepers lashed to some of its dozen load restraint points, plus two occupants, all of which gave the drivetrain a solid load to move.

Highway speed was maintained up a steep grade with a wide-open throttle and cruising speeds well maintained on undulating terrain, but the venerable seven-speed auto is clearly chasing fuel economy. Engine noise is well subdued at cruise, but the noise from the cargo bay is less suppressed, with tyre rumble on coarse-chip and degraded surfaces punctuated by panel wobble from the load bay’s flanks.

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FEATURE

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MB SPRINTER

The driver gets a first-rate instrument panel with large centre display and digital speed readout, all controlled by touch-sensitive controls.

The van was fitted with the new (but optional) wider touchscreen for the MBUX system, offering myriad functions and could potentially integrate with aftermarket dispatch and fleet control systems.

A stint behind the wheel of a single-cab/chassis model followed, a 416 mid-wheelbase rear-driver also sporting the seven-speed auto but directing 120 kW and 360 Nm to the back wheels. It too had 500 kg of retaining wall sleepers strapped into the tray but was not quite as nimble.

Early impressions of a quiet power plant were reinforced in the cab/chassis variant, but neither model was sporting the standard fitment of the plastic steering wheel or the smaller touchscreen.

The steering response is light and direct, feeling more-so in the latter, but both left an impression of manoeuvrability in tight spots, tested by an exercise using only the proximity sensors and the external 360-degree camera (with windows blacked out) and negotiating a small course forwards and backwards.

There’s no question that the new Sprinter is a major step forward for the Benz workhorse badge, bringing with it a raft of new in-cabin technology and class-leading safety for the asking price.

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FEATURE

STAR GAZING Nissan joins forces with the European Space Agency to launch the Navara mobile space observatory

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isitors to the bi-annual IAA Show in Hanover, Germany, expect to see concepts and creations, and Nissan certainly supplied both of those categories by displaying the Navara Dark Sky Concept.

Developed in the UK in collaboration with the European Space Agency (ESA), the concept vehicle functions as a mobile astronomy lab, featuring a world-leading, observatory-class telescope on a bespoke off-road trailer.

As the latest embodiment of Nissan Intelligent Mobility, the vehicle comes with ProPILOT driver assistance technology, which has been upgraded and is claimed by Nissan to be the most capable system available for safe and convenient towing.

ESA is mapping the stars with unprecedented precision using the Gaia satellite, which has already observed more than a billion stars.

The Nissan Navara Dark Sky Concept supports this project by helping astronomers conduct follow-up observations of the universe from hard-to-reach, so-called “dark sky” locations – away from the nighttime glow of urban areas, which decreases visibility.

“The Nissan Navara Dark Sky Concept is a brilliant example of Nissan serving as an authentic partner, empowering our customers to go anywhere,” said Ashwani Gupta, senior vice-president of Nissan’s light commercial vehicle business.

Nissan has included a plethora of technology in the build of the Dark Sky Navara, including the ProPILOT system, which enhances the driver’s control by combining Nissan’s Intelligent Cruise Control and Steering Assist technologies.

ProPILOT not only maintains the distance with the vehicle in front while keeping the car and rig centred during singlelane driving, even on curves, it incorporates upgrades to the Intelligent Around View Monitor system that support towing, giving the driver a bird’s-eye-view around the vehicle and rig and making parking easier.

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NISSAN NAVARA

“The Nissan Navara Dark Sky Concept is a brilliant example of Nissan serving as an authentic partner, empowering our customers to go anywhere”

Blind spot warning has been enhanced to highlight objects in blind spots within the trailer range. Intelligent Towing Hitch Alignment lets your car take control of steering, acceleration, braking and shifting, so that it can automatically manoeuvre to align with the trailer for easy hook-up. Finally, Nissan’s portable battery packs utilise electric vehicle technology from the Nissan LEAF to ensure auxiliary power supply, no matter how remote the location.

At the heart of the trailer is the ultra-high-power PlaneWave telescope, which is transported to wild, remote darksky locations so that observations can take place while avoiding light pollution.

Reflective orange piping on the seats provides visibility inside the vehicle, negating the need for white lights that would disrupt the astronomer’s night vision.

Since red light affects human night vision least, both the vehicle and trailer exclusively use red lighting to avoid visual disruption during observations.

Working closely with ESA, the trailer module also incorporates a special refrigerated atmosphere, allowing the telescope to remain stable and calibrated at the optimum temperature in transit to any location. Once at the often hard-to-reach destination, the trailer module’s mechanised roof can be opened to focus the telescope on the night sky.

Using a 40-centimetre (primary) mirror, it has the ability to give detailed views beyond the rings of Saturn, to distant galaxies, nebulae and supernovas.

The Navara and trailer both feature xStorage ROAM battery power packs, putting to use the brand’s tried and tested electric-vehicle battery technology. When docked in place, the battery packs are constantly in charging mode and ready for use when required. Additional smart features include Wi-Fi, a laptop station and UHF transmission to relay data instantaneously, anywhere in the world.

Eight combined radar units, on each corner of the vehicle and trailer, update the driver on the vehicle’s surroundings through the NissanConnect infotainment touchscreen on the dashboard. These technologies work together to make the Nissan Navara Dark Sky Concept the most intelligent pickup in its class for towing.

World-class Nissan Intelligent Mobility systems enable the Navara to manoeuvre the telescope trailer into prime position. Radar sensors and cameras scan the terrain for the right location to park and stabilise the trailer.

If that project sounds a little too ethereal for some readers, Nissan showcased something a little more down to earth at the IAA, in the form of the Navara N-Guard.

The N-Guard features a number of exterior and interior design upgrades, extending the Navara’s appeal to those who want a superior pickup for off-road adventures.

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FEATURE

Inspired by the Nissan Navara EnGuard Concept unveiled at the Hanover IAA Show in 2016, the N-Guard is available with the OFF-ROADER AT32 conversion pack, for European buyers.

With increased ground clearance, underbody protection and an optional snorkel, it is the most capable Navara ever offered to European customers.

It’s Nissan’s goal to achieve 40 percent sustainable growth by 2022, and these factory-modified models continue to attract new customers worldwide. Global LCV sales for the first half of 2018 reached 464,900 units, a 5.7 percent increase from the prior year.

While these examples were aimed purely at the European buyer, Australian buyers have not been forgotten, with Nissan Australia following the success of last year’s Navara ST-X N-SPORT variant by expanding its special edition range to include the Navara Dual Cab 4X4 SL-based Silverline and ST Black Edition.

The 2017 Navara ST-X 4X4 N-Sport sold out of the limited run 500 units not long after its release, but feedback from the market indicated that buyers wanted the opportunity to purchase accessorised mid-spec models. In response, from October onwards Nissan has made available the Navara Dual Cab 4X4 Silverline and ST Black Edition.

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NISSAN NAVARA

In similar vein to Henry Ford, who said in his autobiography that his Model-T Ford was available in any colour as long as it was black, the Black Edition of the Navara Dual Cab 4X4 ST, features black 18-inch alloy wheels with dealer fitted all-terrain tyres, black sports bar, black wheel arch flares, black nudge bar, LED light bar, soft tonneau cover, protective tub liner, black front grille, black mirror caps, black fog lamp surrounds, smoked bonnet protector, mobile phone holder and black body decals.

Delivery’s view is that whoever buys the Black Edition will be permanently washing it, especially if they ever travel on dirt roads. The aircon will also be working overtime whenever the driver heads north towards the sunshine state, suggesting that the main attraction for a totally black ute will be Tasmania, especially in winter.

It’s actually not a lay down misere. The Nissan Navara Dual Cab 4X4 ST Black Edition is available in five contemporary colours, including Polar White, Brilliant Silver, Cosmic Black, Slate Grey and Burning Red. The Navara SL Silverline comes in the same colours, minus Slate Grey.

The new Navara special edition options feature a 2.3-litre intercooled twin-turbo diesel engine that boasts 140 kW of power and 450 Nm of torque. Both models are fitted with a rear-view camera built within the audio display plus an automatic dimming rear-view mirror, electronic rear differential lock, privacy glass, LED headlights and daytime running lamps, Bluetooth and cruise control as standard.

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The ST Black Edition has a seven-inch colour touchscreen with satellite navigation and a leather accented steering wheel, while the Silverline has a five-inch display.

With 900 units available, and offered on a five-strong exterior colour palette, prices for the Black Edition start from $48,690 driveaway for private buyers.

With a 3500 kg braked towing capacity, the Navaras also come with seven standard airbags including a driver knee airbag, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Brake Limited Slip Differential (BLSD), Active Brake Limited Slip (ABLS) and Brake Assist (BA).

For the Northerners, Nissan has released the Navara Dual Cab 4X4 Silverline. Based on the SL variant, this includes 16-inch alloy wheels, replacing standard steel wheels, a polished alloy sports bar, mobile phone holder and ‘Silverline’ tailgate badging. With a further 900 units available for private buyers, the Silverline retails from $39,490 driveaway.

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FEATURE

SSANGYONG RESURGENCE The South Korean manufacturer returns to the Australian market as a factory-owned marketing operation

A

fter a long period of uncertainty, SsangYong Motors has returned to the Australian market with the latest version of its Musso ute, reinforcing its intention to challenge existing one-tonners from Japan, Thailand and China.

The cargo area is protected by a fitted load liner, with a 12-V/120-W power outlet and rotating hooks to help secure cargo.

“We are determined to offer Australia a range of vehicles that is fun to drive, great value to own and complete with a suite of the latest safety technology,” said SsangYong managing director, Tim Smith.

The four-wheel-drive system draws on SsangYong’s years of experience in all-wheel-drive technology and features a selectable 4x4 system. Power is delivered permanently to the rear wheels, with front-wheel-drive dialled in electronically as required, with high and low ratios available as conditions demand.

Pricing for the Musso has yet to be announced, with its introduction slated for November. The equipment spec compares well with other utes, with a larger than average cab interior offering excellent shoulder and leg room front and rear, and the option of nappa leather seats.

In the previous Musso, the drive system was by renowned specialist Borg Warner, but so far the company has not confirmed that it has continued with the same supplier. The system includes hill descent control and hill start assist to provide optimum grip, traction and safety.

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SSANGYONG MUSSO In typical 4WD form, SsangYong has stayed away from monocoque construction, retaining the ladder frame chassis on which the separate body is joined via eight body mounts and large rubber engine mounts. With the highstrength steel construction of its quad-frame, the vehicle is stiffer than its competitors, achieved by using 1.5-Gpagrade ultra-strength steel. The benefits are twofold, with greatly-improved body strength, but also reduced weight.

The Musso has also been tuned by Pininfarina (also now owned by Mahindra), to ensure low levels of noise vibration and harshness (NVH). Polyester wheel-arch linings reduce road noise, the engine bay includes better sealing to minimise sound and dust levels, and improve waterproofing, while wind noise is reduced thanks to detailing such as fourfold door sealing and aerodynamically designed wiper blades.

Safety standards are certainly on the high side and include six airbags on all models. Impact absorbing elements in the steering wheel and steering column minimise injuries from a frontal collision, while the structure and materials employed in the frontal area of the body are designed to improve pedestrian safety.

All models feature an advanced infotainment system that includes DAB radio, Bluetooth and MP3 connectivity, with Apple CarPlay and Android. Other standard features include an adjustable tilt and telescopic steering wheel, electric windows, cruise control, central locking, and air-conditioning with fine dust filters.

The range-topping Ultimate version will come with cameras front and rear, and the latest suite of electronic safety aids including 360 degree around-view monitoring.

Musso in its original form was one of the few utes with a live rear axle featuring coil sprung rear suspension set-up, and, with a history of association with Mercedes-Benz for its engine range, albeit superseded power units, it brought instant street credibility to the brand.

The Musso in its earlier incarnation experienced very few problems, and the intervening years have resulted in the end of the joint venture with Mercedes-Benz and a new partnership in the form of Indian giant conglomerate Mahindra, which holds 73 percent ownership.

Gross combination mass for the new Musso is 6.75 tonnes and it offers a 3.0-tonne tow rating from the factory. Tim Smith is aware that the current norm for towing weights of utes is around the 3.5 tonnes mark and has stated the company is already working with suppliers to homologate for a 3.5-tonne rating.

The 2.2-litre four-cylinder, turbocharged in-line diesel is fully compliant with Euro 6 emissions legislation, ahead of the pack when compared with many of its competitors.

Maximum power of 133 kW is produced at 4000 rpm, with peak torque of 400 Nm rated at 1400-2800 rpm.

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It comes standard with AEB/FCW, fabric seats, Bluetooth connectivity, a limited slip differential and full-size spare wheel.

Australian launch, with payloads listed at 1.0-tonne and with towing capacity increased to 3.5 tonnes. Factory support also resulted in a seven-year/150,000-mile warranty.

Transmission-wise the choice is between a six-speed manual gearbox and a six-speed Aisin automatic transmission. With a kerb weight of 2080-2192 kg, dependent on model, the automatic offers maximum weight towing of 3000 kg, but buyers of the six-speed manual will be limited to 2800 kg. Maximum payload comes in at 688800 kg, the fuel tank capacity is 75 litres, and expected fuel economy on the combined circuit is 7.9 l/100 km for the manual and 8.6 l/100 km for the six-speed auto version.

At over 5.0 metres (5095 mm), the new Musso is larger than its predecessor in every dimension, and gives one of the largest cabin interiors in its class. The load bed is also longer (1300 mm), wider (1570 mm) and considerably deeper (570 mm) that its forerunner, and easily takes a Euro pallet.

When launched in the UK earlier this year, the specification of the new Musso ute differed from that released prior to the

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“We will also be launching a long-wheelbase version of Musso, with an extra 400 mm in the length of the load bed for tradesmen and farmers wanting the extra space, without sacrificing the towing performance or creature comforts,” said Mr. Smith.

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MUSEUM OF FIRE MOF - STACKED LOGO

Fun and t! excitemen Plus much more!

Museum of Fire

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r Brad Butche

Sunday 31st March 2019

8am - 4pm Presentations 4pm – 5pm

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MOF - STACKED LOGO CAPS & LOWER CASE

• Direct access from Penrith Station • Unlimited FREE amusement rides all day (22 rides) • Concert sound & full stage • Specialist trade stalls & displays $35 Adults hildren C • Entertaining games & competitions up to 3 EgEadult • Free Balloons & Fairy Floss FR in y with paession $25 • Free face painting c Coningle person entry) (s r 16, • BBQ, drinks & beer tents n unde (Childret ID required n e Stud er 13 years) • Major prizes & trophies if ov • Price includes entry to Museum

Museum of Fire

9th Annual Sydney Classic & Antique Truckshow on 2nd June, 2019 (See website for more details)

MOF - LANDSCAPE LOGO CAPS & LOWER CASE

Ph: 4731 5809 Held at Museum of Fire, 1 Museum Drive, Penrith. Phone: (02) 4731 3000 The Museum is a registered charity and all funds raised are directed towards saving our families from the dangers of fire while preserving the heritage of our communities bravest.

Follow us on:

www.pwts.com.au

FEATURE

SUPER SLIDER EarthCruiser, one of the leading global suppliers for off-road adventure camper vehicles, has increased its product range to include the highly versatile Express XPS slide-on camper unit for utes and pickups.

T

he Express XPS slide-on camper unit brings all the well-proven go-anywhere characteristics of the ultimate EarthCruiser camper design to vehicle owners looking for the versatility of using their own base vehicle to experience the ultimate travel experience.

Spearheading the product range, the Express XPS unit has been designed to fit most utes and pickups available in Australia, whether fitted with a ute tub or tray body. Models are available to suit single-cab, space-cab and dual-cab 4x2 and 4x4 host vehicles, bringing the affordability of the EarthCruiser design to the average recreational family.

The one-piece, fully moulded, slide-on camper body construction weighs in from just 280 kg, and features fully-insulated, thermal foam wall construction for strength and protection from whatever weather conditions may be encountered.

The versatility and efficiency of the Express XPS design enables the camper body to be transported over any terrain, with ability only dictated by the host vehicle.

On arrival it can then be demounted to form the centre of the campsite, while the vehicle can then be used for daily exploration.

The interior specification is limited only by the vehicle configuration, with larger Express XPS models soon to become available for the latest North American remanufactured pickup trucks from ASV and HSV now available in Australia.

Interior height dimensions of up to 1980 mm with the elevating roof complement integrated awnings to extend the hospitality area, linking the interior comfort and practicality with the outside adventure.

Home comforts include an internal shower and toilet, plus a supplementary external shower unit for those moments of travel solitude. A stainless-steel sink and diesel-fuelled cooker, 70-litre fridge with freezer, mains electricity inverter, diesel-fuelled interior heater, fresh water tanks and solar panels all contribute to luxury and independence on a grand scale, even in the middle of nowhere.

Sleeping accommodation for up to four (dependent on model), with a 1350 x 2000 mm double bed plus a dinette that also converts to a second double bed or two individual berths, means an end to sleeping rough on the ground.

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With the release of the Express XPS slide-on camper, EarthCruiser has redefined this segment of the camping/caravan market through its innovative and versatile designs. It’s the first truly universal option for those already owning their vehicle to experience luxury and reliability when off-road, without the hassle of towing a trailer.

With exceptional storage areas and clever design, the EarthCruiser team has once again shown its unique ability to create luxury and comfort for remote area travel. Prices start from $79,800 for the Express XPS, with a selection of specifications to suit all budgets and requirements.

For those adventurers that want to seek greater solitude, and still enjoy their creature comforts in the most remote areas, EarthCruiser has some additional very impressive alternatives.

Based on the Mercedes-Benz Unimog U430, the EarthCruiser Explorer is a purpose-built 4x4 all-terrain expedition motorhome, with chassismounted tank capacity for 860 litres of water and 800 litres of fuel.

Able to combat extremes of heat and cold, and with a fuel range of up to 3500 km, the Unimog EarthCruiser is available with manual or automated manual transmissions and in two versions, the XPR440 with its overall length of 4.4 metres, and the XPR380, which at an overall length of 3.8 metres, provides sufficient space to rear mount a motor cycle.

Systems control of up to 140 functions are managed via an iPad touchscreen to oversee run-flat tyres, central tyre inflation and deflation systems, tyre pressure monitoring systems and a four-point hydraulic jacking system that raises a tyre and rim assembly off the ground when a change is required, Standard safety and performance features include four-wheel coil spring suspension with disc brakes, ultra-low off-road gear ratio selection, heated tanks, batteries, pumps and water supply, a 212-litre capacity fridge/freezer plus secondary 68-litre fridge freezer, front and

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rear-mounted 24-volt electric winches, each rated at 20,000 lb, seating for five (including the driver), queensized bed or twin-bed options, two sky-beds, a 240-volt exterior mounted BBQ, together with chainsaw and axe.

Lithium battery technology powers all requirements and recharges the electrical systems through solar panels when stationary, or via the 120-amp vehicle alternator system when mobile.

In addition to the standard inclusion of telematics with satellite tracking and monitoring, vision from five externallymounted cameras provide 45 days recording in real time, which may be viewed globally.

Home comforts include air conditioning, an internal shower and toilet, plus a supplementary external shower. A double bed, plus a sky bed option that sleeps three, means an end to sleeping rough on the ground. Catering requirements are solved by a diesel-fuelled cooker.

Reducing in size, but not in ability, the G-Pro Escape model is based on the Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon.

With maximum power of 135 kW and with peak torque rated at 400 Nm mated to a five-speed automatic transmission, the G-Pro Escape features front, centre and rear differential locks with uprated shock absorbers, an onboard air compressor, individual 250-litre tanks for fuel and water, and an upright 122-litre capacity fridge/freezer.

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The G-Pro Escape includes the same telematics with satellite tracking and monitoring system as its big brother, and, when you choose to communicate, the options include an 80-channel UHF radio, with a DVR/GPS/4G solid-state cellular hot spot (through its 6-dba gain antenna). Charting your progress is also made easy, with the onboard navigation system preloaded with Hema mapping, Bluetooth and iPhone connectivity.

Let us know who deserves recognition in your industry!

The AfMA Fleet Awards are set to return to Melbourne next year as a feature of the 2019 Fleet Conference & Exhibition Networking Dinner.

This is a chance for the automotive and fleet industries to come together and celebrate the achievements and innovations of organisations from right around Australasia.

Category Criteria Fleet Manager of the Year Award

Fleet Environment Award

Fleet Safety Award

An individual who has demonstrated best-in-class excellence; leading and innovating in the profession of Fleet Management.

An organisation going above and beyond to put their people first and demonstrate best practice in the Fleet Safety and OH&S space.

An organisation who has demonstrated significant reductions in emissions by supporting EV’s and other sustainable solutions.

2017 Award Winners

Life Without Barriers Fleet Manager of the Year Peter Armour

Tourism Holdings Limited Fleet Safety Award Nicky Bree

Churches of Christ in Queensland Fleet Environment Award Richard Schuster

How can I nominate?

AfMA Fleet Awards 2019

Simply call the AfMA office on 03 9866 6056 or email us at info@afma.net.au for more information.

Thursday May 23 6:30pm Plaza Ballroom 191 Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000

Nominations are entirely free and open to all organisations or individuals who meet the above criteria.

2019 Fleet Conference & Exhibition May 23-24 | Melbourne

FEATURE

CLOSE ENCOUNTERS Two weeks in the new RAM 1500 confirms this American is one for serious consideration – words by Warren Caves, images by Torque it Up Photography

“The Laramie is the flagship top-of-the-line RAM 1500 model, and it comes equipped with all the fruit you’d expect” 38

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RAM REPORT

D

elivery recently reported on its first test drive of the RAM 1500 dual-cab ute held over a single day in Bathurst, NSW.

A few hours of driving is a great introduction to a new vehicle, but a longer real-world test is even better to get a broader feel and insight into a vehicle’s ability and performance. So, when an opportunity to grab the keys to a RAM 1500 Laramie for a couple of weeks came up, I jumped at the chance.

Picking up the 1500 Laramie from just outside the centre of Sydney, in Alexandria, the pouring rain resulting with local flooding was not the leisurely experience I had envisaged. However, the combination of a large vehicle with its accompanying weight and full-time four-wheeldrive option provided a secure environment to tackle such a meteorological event.

My previous drive had already given a sense of familiarity with the vehicle, but the first impression of the vast interior space in this vehicle remained. There are buckets of room inside the cabin space, large comfortable heated and ventilated leather seating, and, with a large centre console/ armrest, the driver is provided with a really relaxed driving position, perfect for highway touring.

The Laramie is the flagship top-of-the-line RAM 1500 model, and it comes equipped with all the fruit you’d expect from a vehicle targeted at the higher equipment level sector of the Australian ute market.

In addition to the leather seats, there is a leather steering wheel, which is also heated. The steering column is tilt adjustable but not telescopic, although the brake and accelerator pedals have electronic height adjustment, which may compensate for that omission. I had no trouble finding a comfortable seating position, with ample electronic adjustments available, although the lumbar support seemed a little too minimal for this old worn-out back, I prefer a deeper arch position.

Within the steering wheel are the controls for the main instrument dash panel, offering menus to view trip meters, digital speedo, cruise control settings, ambient temperatures, engine and oil temps and pressures, and more, all conveniently located on the left steering-wheel spoke, along with Bluetooth phone function buttons.

The opposing spoke contains the buttons for cruise control functions along with plus and minus buttons for manual gear selection. On the underside of the steering wheel are buttons for audio volume and station seek operation.

Initially I thought this was bad positioning, as they are operated by feel alone; however, the minimal functions allocated to the buttons made it really easy to use once orientated with the functions.

The 8.4-inch UCONNECT system located in the centre panel is responsible for controlling audio functions for the premium Alpine sound system and its accompanying 10 speakers (I only found eight, but I’m sure they are there somewhere).

The UCONNECT system can also be used for controlling the climate control system and satellite navigation.

The generous centre console provided ample space for personal items, while cup holders and small storage vestibules can be found within the interior and in the doors.

As the rain continued for my journey home, the rain-sensing wipers did their bit to keep vision unobstructed, and the automatic projector headlights kept me visible to others.

On the motorway the RAM 1500 cruised leisurely at 110 km/h, registering an engine speed of about 1600 rpm, thanks to the 3.21:1 diff ratio. This is clearly aimed to provide the best possible fuel economy over the higher numerical 3.92:1 ratio available, but this comes at a cost of rated towing capacity, dropping from 4.5 tonnes to 3.5 tonnes for the 3.21:1 ratio vehicle.

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FEATURE At cruising speed, the ride is smooth and firm, and noise levels are well subdued. V8 fans will, however, enjoy the experience of there being just enough engine noise available to demonstrate the 5.7-litre Hemi V8 engine rumble when pressed into service, although for the most part the RAM just loped along unstrained.

During the test period, I subjected the 1500 RAM to Hume Highway running, driving on local rural roads of dubious quality, shopping duties with the wife, and a tow evaluation.

This provided a broad cross-section of driving conditions.

At 5.8 metres long and just over 2.0 metres wide, this is no small ute and is clearly designed for the big jobs. While not overly daunting to drive, some environments don’t lend themselves well to the RAM. Shopping centre car parks for example don’t cater well for a vehicle of such generous proportions, but, in saying that, it’s not that you can’t take it there, it’s just the parking spots are a bit tight and some preplanning should be employed when parking, like reversing into spots that allow a straight line drive out.

If I had a choice of a different car at home for this task, I’d certainly take that one instead. However, I did manage to pack a weekly shop of groceries into the two optional 240-litre RamBoxes, and locked them securely away, so it’s not all bad at the shops.

Being designed for heavy-duty towing, with a full boxed chassis the RAM 1500 handled quite well empty, although on several occasions the rear end seemed a little too firm in the dampeners to absorb some off-set bumps and corrugations on dirt road corners, resulting in a bit of axle tramp under power and tail whip, some weight in the back and revised or adjustable dampeners may improve this.

With fuel efficiency so high on vehicle manufacturers’ check lists, and rising world petrol prices, some may think it bold to introduce a V8 petrol-powered large ute into current markets, and I was one of those people.

I wondered if consumers would accept such an option when the competition was generally downsizing diesel engines while increasing output to achieve good fuel economy returns.

This was obviously on the minds of RAM Trucks Australia as well. With such a large engine capacity of 5.7 litres producing 291 kW of power and 556 Mm of torque at 3950 rpm, the engineers at RAM Trucks have put a great deal of development into clever ways to reduce fuel consumption without sacrificing performance when it’s needed.

Perhaps the most significant contributor to increased fuel economy is the use of RAM’s multi-displacement system (MDS), by which the engine management system shuts off two cylinders on each bank when conditions of low load are sensed. This system does not shut off the same cylinders all the time, rather alternating the off cylinders to equalise engine block temperatures. The only way to know when this is happening is by the green ECO indicator light in the dash, and the transition between all eight cylinders firing and shutting off four is practically unnoticeable from the driver’s seat.

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RAM REPORT Also aiding fuel economy is the use of grille shutters, which maintain optimal thermal temperatures within the engine for more complete combustion and fuel efficiency. When the grille shutters are closed, the airflow is directed up over the bonnet, further enhancing aerodynamics and aiding better economy.

The 1500 is equipped with electronic steering, and, by removing the need for the engine to drive a power steering pump, the official word from RAM Trucks is that this move alone has reduced fuel usage by 1.8 percent and returns five horsepower to the engine.

Transmission drive is via an eight-speed automatic transmission and transfer case. There are four drive mode options selectable: change to 2WD; 4WD auto, which is basically all-wheel-drive mode without the centre diff lock; 4WD high with centre diff lock; and 4WD low. Park, reverse, neutral and drive are selectable via the dash-mounted rotary knob.

The eight-speed TorqueFlite transmission is a double overdrive transmission with 7th and 8th gear ratios being 0.84 and 0.67 respectively.

For towing purposes there is a tow/haul button on the dash, which modifies the throttle and transmission behaviour when towing to sharpen up the throttle response, more readily initiate downshifts, and hold gears a bit longer before upshifting. When activated this feature seemed to restrict the transmission from selecting 8th gear.

Over my two weeks with the RAM 1500 Laramie I covered a total of 1056 kilometres, recording a total combined fuel consumption figure of 12.3 l/100 km. This included city traffic, the mandatory “let’s give it a stomp and see how she goes” (more often than I should have), 110 km/h freeway driving (empty), and a 155 km tow test towing a 2.6-tonne gross mass trailer from Picton, NSW, to Marulan, and return, which is quite a hilly test route. Fuel consumption rose to 16.3 l/100 km for the tow test section.

The fuel-saving features really seem to work, and there are some diesel-powered utes in the market that would not be too far behind these figures.

For those that may still rate these figures a bit too high, there’s always the upcoming 3.0-litre V6 diesel option for the 1500, which is scheduled for release before the end of the first quarter of 2019.

There were some minor aspects of the RAM 1500 I didn’t like, such as the park brake activation. It’s foot activated, and, with the pedal set down alongside the front RH kick panel, I found that on application I was continually kicking the door speaker with my muddy boots. I also felt the lumbar support seemed a little insignificant and the rear dampeners seemed too firm.

In conclusion, the RAM 1500 proved quite the performer, as expected power supply was ample and plentiful, with the real surprise being the commendable fuel economy.

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POWERPLAY When it comes to manufacturing compact stationary engines and powering small plant and equipment, the first name that comes to mind has to be Briggs & Stratton, with familiarity amongst consumers as a result of its 100 years history.

I

n addition to finding the Briggs & Stratton logo on the top of most lawn mowers in Australia, it’s now likely that you’ll be seeing the name reproduced on small, portable, petrol-powered generators.

Into a market that has been dominated by the 2.0 kVA Honda and Yamaha gensets, Briggs & Stratton has introduced three new models – the P2200 and P3000 PowerSmart Series™ Inverter gensets, plus the higher capacity Q6500 QuietPower™ Series Inverter Generator.

Inverter technology makes it safer for sensitive electronics and computer-controlled technology, and supplies smooth, steady power, adjusting engine speed accordingly to suit your power needs and save fuel.

Portable gensets are now easy to start and quiet while running, easily capable of powering items such as lights, 42

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fans, coffee makers, laptops or TVs. That’s where the P2200 and P3000 find their niche, both with 2x240-volt outlets, 1x12-volt accessory socket and a USB charging socket. The P2000 can be easily lifted with a weight of 24 kg, while the P3000, with a weight of 44 kg, comes with a set of wheels for ease of handling.

When operating at 50 percent load, the P2200 will run for three and a quarter hours, and this increases for the P3000 to five hours, pumping out 2200 and 3000 running watts, and a continuous output of 1700 and 2600 watts respectively. Pricing is $1299 for the P2200 and $1799 for the P3000, and their respective weights are 24 kg and 44 kg.

For those needing a higher electrical output, such as when covering the demand created by a power outage, Briggs & Stratton have the Q6500 QuietPower™ Series Inverter Generator.

GENSET The Q6500 is claimed to be more than 60 percent quieter than standard generators while delivering consistent power for essential appliances and sensitive electronics, an all-steel frame enclosed in a protective shell minimises noise and protects internal components.

The integrated engine/alternator provides up to 14 hours of run time at 25 percent load, and the Q6500 can deliver 6500 starting watts of backup power, and 5000 watts of continuous power.

With a design that’s 45 percent more compact and 30 percent lighter than standard generators, it weighs in at 58 kg and is easily moved around on its integral wheels by using a suitcase-style telescoping handle.

The latest feature to the Q6500 is the Bluetooth® capability available through the InfoHub™ app. The app allows you to monitor total power used, hours until empty, total unit hours and maintenance reminders. Its recommended retail price is $2999. (Starting watts is the maximum current that can be supplied momentarily when starting a motor, multiplied by the generator’s rated voltage).

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FEATURE

I LOAD, I LEAVE, I DELIVER Stuart Martin takes the semi-bonneted van option for transport with the latest upgrade to the Hyundai iLoad.

W

hile the dual-cab ute market has taken the spotlight from passenger cars in sales terms, the LCV van market quietly rumbles along in the background … but that segment is changing. Still led by the long-serving HiAce, the Toyota segment leader is under siege from Ford, Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen, as well as French and Chinese combatants.

But it is the Hyundai iLoad that has most eroded the HiAce domination, and it has been revamped to give it more ammunition in its fight to unseat the monarch.

A new more bullish snout immediately identifies this van as the new iLoad, a nose more aggressive in its style than its predecessor but perhaps not to all tastes – that said, it certainly stands out more in the traffic.

We’re sampling the liftback automatic version, which has dual sliding side doors and a three-seat bench as standard fare for its $41,790 asking price. There’s a six-speed manual on the pricelist as well, which sneaks in under $40K, as well as a twin-swing rear door set-up, which ups the price of the auto we’re in to $42,430, but would be money well spent if a forklift-loading scenario is a regular part of life.

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The lift back rules out such a loading method and it also doesn’t rise far enough to put it out of the way for taller folks when loading the rear. The benefit here comes from being able to sort through the contents in the cargo area from the rear when the rain gods are busy showing off their ability. For those that do need forklift access, the side doors offer plenty of additional loading options and the locking mechanism keeps the doors open and in place when parked on hills.

The test vehicle had the rubber floor with ten load restraint hooks along the sides of the cargo area, but there’s the option of a wooden floor if that better suits the likely duties.

The cabin is still dominated by grey plastic trim, including on the steering wheel, which feels a little cheap for the driver, but at least that is now reach and rake adjustable.

Combining with the manual seat height adjustment for the driver, it results in a good - if still upright - driving position.

There’s new cloth trim and a revamped instrument panel to greet the driver, which includes a trip computer between the easy-to-read dials, but no average fuel economy readout – either it’s too well hidden or not there – with range and average speed among the readouts offered.

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Also updated is the sound system, which hasn’t grown any more speakers but has Bluetooth and now gets Apple CarPlay/Android Auto (connected via USB) within its touchscreen control, which in turn offers up satellite navigation.

The features list also includes manual air conditioning, a three-seat bench (but with a lap-only centre seatbelt), or seating for two and a fold-down centre section with cup holders and document area. This centre shelf option sits low on the bench and works well for drinks and paperwork, but is too low to be a viable armrest. There’s no overhead storage, but it’s offset to some extent by the two gloveboxes directly ahead of the passenger’s seat.

Also offering decent oddment storage are the cubbyholes in the doors and a second set of cupholders popping out of the centre stack. The features list also has battery-saving automatic dusksensing headlights, but not automatic rain-sensing windscreen wipers.

On the safety side, the iLoad has dual front and front side airbags (two more than the HiAce), pretensioners and load-limiters on the front lap-sash seat belts, stability and traction control, all of which is enough to maintain the four-star ANCAP safety rating earned when it was tested back in 2011 – the iLoad also has the advantage of a snout, which is beneficial from a crumple zone perspective.

There’s no separation from the cargo bay as standard – there is a cargo barrier option available, as well as an air-conditioning curtain – but the noise level from the rear isn’t obtrusive, with only a little bit of booming through into the cabin when the back is empty.

The three-seater bench doesn’t allow for a walk-through either, although members of the young and nimbler brigade might be able to clamber through without pulling a groin muscle. The exterior mirrors are power-adjustable – although not power-folding – and of a decent size, offering a reasonable view that is augmented by a reversing camera, but no standard rear sensors.

Unchanged is the drivetrain, which means the 2.0-tonne iLoad van is rear-drive with a five-speed auto, powered by a Euro-5-compliant, 2.5-litre, common-rail, direct-injection, 16-valve, four-cylinder turbodiesel. It has a variable-geometry turbo to help it produce 125 kW at 3600 rpm, with 441 Nm of torque between 2000 and 2250 rpm, putting it well ahead of the 100-kW/300-Nm four-speed auto HiAce on outputs.

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The fuel economy claim under the ADR fuel economy laboratory test is 8.8 litres per 100 km from the 75-litre tank, and the iLoad is capable of returning high single digit fuel use.

The test vehicle had less than 1000 km on the odometer so it was far from loose, but covered over 230 km on a quarter of a tank, with much of that laden and running on metropolitan roads.

The powerplant isn’t overly noisy by LCV standards and offers plenty of in-gear flexibility, as well as decent punch off the line, which would be useful if the 1500 kg braked towing was being utilised. Once laden, with up to something approaching its 1.0-tonne payload capacity, the MacPherson strut front and heavy-duty leaf-sprung rear

HYUNDAI iLOAD

settle down to a more comfortable demeanour, but even when empty it’s well within the realm of bearable thanks in part to 16-inch steel wheels wrapped in 215/70 profile tyres to take the edge off smaller road blemishes.

Longer, lower and wider than the HiAce, the iLoad is 5150 mm long, 1920 mm wide, 1935 mm tall, and sits on a 3200 mm wheelbase. The cargo area is 2375 mm long, 1620 mm wide, 1340 mm tall and measures 1272 mm between the wheel arches, all of which adds up to a 4426-litre load area volume. A turning circle of 11.22 metres is listed in the specs, with three and a half turns lock-to-lock, but it feels more nimble than that figure suggests.

The Hyundai also wins out over its Toyota opposition when it comes to regular maintenance, offering capped-price

servicing at intervals of every 12 months or 15,000 km (the HiAce is still 6 months or 10,000 km). For those servicing at factory dealerships, the roadside assistance is extended for an additional 12 months up to 10 years. The fiveyear 160,000 km warranty also surpasses the three-year 100,000 km coverage from Toyota.

As has been the case in other LCV segments, the dominance of Toyota has been eroded but not erased by opposition. Where Ford has taken on the HiLux in the ute segment, Hyundai has taken a swing at the HiAce. The Japanese model still has the wood on its competition from across the Sea of Japan, in terms of wheelbase and size choices, but the Hyundai iLoad has the foundations in place to become a far more regular sight on Australian roads.

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47

LIGHT FEATURE

As Isuzu Trucks approaches its 30th consecutive year as the overall market leader in commercial vehicles, Ed Higginson evaluates the appeal of the N-Series

T

he N-Series enters the new year with a broad range of updates and improvements, matching the timing of the company’s move into new corporate head office at Truganina, in south western Melbourne.

Delivery Magazine was on hand to evaluate 13 of the new models, during a test drive opportunity that followed on from presentations by the marketing team, keen to show off the new upgrades and improvements.

Starting with the smallest of the range, the NLR 45-150 with a GVM of 4500 kg, which can be driven on a standard car licence, the models available to drive extended up to the NQR 87-190 crew-cab with seating for six, a GVM of 8700 kg and GCM to 11,000 kg.

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This varied range of some 48 combinations, plus four new models for 2019, has seen the Isuzu N-Series in a variety of sectors from fire appliances to food vans and from service trucks to tippers.

“Our 2019 N-Series model range provides more of what Australian truck customers are looking for from the market leader,” commented director and chief operating officer, Andrew Harbison.

Now with several updates, the new N-Series just got a whole lot better. “Our range once again represents an ongoing evolution of this best-selling light truck platform,” said Simon Humphries, the IAL chief engineer.

RELIEF ISUZU N-SERIES

“With many fleets facing the challenge that a standard ute is easily overloaded, the N-Series offers a real alternative”

“Many of the updates are in direct response to customer feedback, while we’ve introduced elements such as independent front suspension (IFS) to most of our NNR models to provide an even more car-like driving experience,” added Simon.

IAL has two engines with three ratings to offer across the range depending on your application, weights and the terrain you need to tackle.

Starting with the well-proven 3.0-litre 4JJ1 turbocharged fourcylinder, 16-valve DOHC diesel engine, this produces 110 kW of power at 2800 rpm and 375 Nm of torque between 1600 and 2800 rpm. It’s this engine that features as standard in the lightest models such as the NLR 45-150, with a GVM of 4500 kg, up to the NNR 65-150 with a GVM of 6500 kg.

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FEATURE

For operators that need a bit more oomph, the next option up the power range is the 5.2-litre 4HK1 turbocharged four-cylinder, 16-valve diesel engine in the NPR and NQR models. Here you get 114 kW of power @ 2600 rpm and 419 Nm of torque between 1,600 and 2,600 rpm in the 4500-5500 kg GVM plated NPR 45/55-155 models.

The same unit can also be uprated to 140 kW of power @ 2600 rpm and 513 Nm of torque between 1600 and 2600 rpm in the 6500 kg NPR 65/45-190, the 7500 kg GVM NPR 75-190 and the 8700 kg GVM NQR 87-190 models.

The big improvement for the 2019 update has been the move to a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) exhaust system to meet Euro V in the bigger 4HK1 engine. DOC technology is a maintenance-free system ideal for trucks that have high idle times. It also means that the N-Series doesn’t need a particulate filter that requires regenerations, or AdBlue. The move to Euro 6 would require AdBlue but that is still a few years away in Australia.

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One of the main improvements to the N-Series is the addition of independent front suspension (IFS) to key models in the range. As a consequence of this design change the ride is considerably improved on Isuzu’s NNR 45-150 crew, the single-cab NNR 55-150 and NNR 65-150 models.

“With most of the NNR line-up, we’ve moved away from a more rigid leaf spring set-up over to an independent coil spring assembly, which is designed to improve ride quality and handling, while still able to support a decent payload,” Simon Humphries explained.

During our evaluation, alternating between models with and without IFS really showed how much improvement it gave over the usual leaf suspension. The steering was also sharper with the addition of a new rack and pinion steering box, giving the new truck a real car-like feel, which is ideal for the drivers who are only used to driving a car or ute.

ISUZU N SERIES By choosing Isuzu, buyers in this light truck segment will certainly notice how comfortable it is to spend a day behind the wheel, even in heavy traffic congestion. With a mechanically suspended driver’s seat, fully adjustable steering wheel and plenty of room for all heights, shapes and sizes, the initial assessment was full of compliments, rather than complaints.

Isuzu has established a strong reputation amongst fire services and first responders for its go-anywhere, allwheel-drive versions, and this high acceptance has flowed through to the private sector with the landscape gardening segment. Five of the models available for evaluation were all-wheel-drive versions, and where better to try out their ability and put them through their paces than the Lerderderg State Park. As an old quarry, it’s an ideal 4x4 playground to the north of Melbourne.

Isuzu’s NPS 4x4 range has been a favourite within the emergency services, nining and field services as a tough go-anywhere light truck. But with the 2019 model launch, Isuzu has now also added the automated manual transmission (AMT) option.

“Because the NPS with AMT is the only factory-built two-pedal 4x4 light truck available on the market today, we invested the time and resources into taking a literal ground-up approach to developing a superior product for all operators looking for a 4x4 light truck that’s easier than ever to drive,” said Simon Humphries.

“Isuzu’s MYY5T five-speed automated manual transmission has been calibrated for off-road conditions, so when, 4x4 low range is selected, the AMT reverts to clutchless manual control mode, which is ideal in steep terrain,” he added.

During the off-road driving tests, Delivery drove a selection of the 4x4 NPS models, both in day-cab and crew-cab configurations across typical fire tracks, steep hills and through water traps. With the five demo units all loaded, they all managed to handle whatever situation to which they were subjected with ease.

The manual NPS performed just as well, but the AMT meant that you could concentrate more on which track to take to ensure the best progress, plus it reduces the risk of drivers less familiar with uneven or slippery terrain from abusing the driveline.

Isuzu, along with some of the other Japanese brands, has had some of the best infotainment systems of any trucks on the market, but, with the new updates, the N-Series’ system, known as DAVE, is now better than a lot of the standard fitments on offer in cars.

DAVE features a 6.2-inch touchscreen, runs Android Automotive system, USB 3.0 connectivity, Bluetooth V4, voice-control, split screen and AM/FM/DAB+ radio options.

And if you still can’t find the music to get you going, the new system can link to your phone’s data to search the Internet’s infinite range of radio stations across the world.

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51

FEATURE It also gets a truck programmable sat/nav system that allows drivers to set specific truck limits, such as weight, length, and heights, so you aren’t sent down the wrong road by accident, particularly useful for one-time users.

An interesting change for the new model is that the SD card is now hidden behind the dash to prevent theft. By responding to customer feedback, it shows that Isuzu

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listens and reacts to the views of its buyers when making product upgrades. The multimedia system also enables several useful accessories, such as four separate cameras, rear parking sensors and tyre monitoring using Bluetoothconnected valve caps.

As well as having an impressive light truck, Isuzu has also put a lot of effort into sourcing quality bodies that let dealers pre-build trucks that are ready to work.

ISUZU N-SERIES Realising that many customers cannot wait weeks or months for their service body, refrigerated pan, tray back or three-way tipper, the pre-build options on offer have most industries covered with N-Series trucks and are available across the country.

With many fleets facing the challenge that a standard ute is easily overloaded, and with authorities starting to target companies that continue to turn a blind eye, or have not yet realised the significance of Chain of Responsibility legislation, the N-Series offers a real alternative.

For 2019, Isuzu has also added more options such as VanPack, TrayPack, ServicePack-X, and the Blue or Black TradePack cab colour options. There are also additional accessory options, such as an alloy steel bumper, LED spotlights, plus much, much more.

For buyers requiring a carrying capacity well over 1000 kg, a decent tray bed area, three or six seats, plus towing up to 4500 kg, there aren’t many competitors that can match the Isuzu N-Series range.

The new updates have given the range car-like drivability with the improved AMT, comfortable ride on the new independent front suspension, and probably the best multimedia system in the industry.

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53

FEATURE

HORSE SENSE ZF demonstrates its strengths in a brave new world of electronic autonomous control systems.

I

n Australia we tend to think of ZF in terms of making transmissions, which is something of an understatement. This German giant operates in some 230 different locations, employing a workforce of 146,000 personnel and is one of the world’s largest automotive suppliers. Its research and development programmes extend into rail as well as road transport, plus power generation using wind turbines and electronics.

At the IAA Expo, Wolf-Henning Scheider, CEO of ZF Friedrichshafen AG, announced the company would invest 12 billion Euro over the next five years in the future technologies e-mobility and autonomous driving, alone.

With the headline “Smart Logistics” at IAA 2018, the company has bundled its technologies and – through automation, networking and electrification – has created what it believes are attractive solutions for the complete logistics chain. It’s a firm believer that autonomous driving

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will prevail more quickly in the commercial vehicle sector due to reduced vehicle operating costs, while also helping to improve safety and efficiency.

“We are revolutionising the ‘last mile’ so that packages can be delivered more cleanly, safely and on time. For this reason, we are working together with partners and customers to

DELIVERY INNOVATION VAN further develop our concept ready for series production within the next two years,” said Wolf-Henning Scheider.

ZF’s attention to restructuring the ‘last mile’ in parcel logistics brings into play ZF’s Innovation Van to demonstrate how intelligent networking, autonomous driving and an all-electric drive parcel delivery service can come together to improve efficiencies while reducing emissions and noise pollution in cities.

By 2021, the number of parcels delivered each year is expected to surpass the four billion mark – in Germany alone. In completing this delivery task consumers prefer to determine when and where they receive their parcels. The electrically driven Innovation Van utilises ZF’s comprehensive expertise in automated driving to the requirements of the logistics sector – using a smart algorithm that considers customer requests in real time and calculating the most efficient delivery route.

According to estimates by the German Association for Package and Express Logistics, significantly more than 3.3 billion parcels and packages were delivered throughout Germany in 2017 alone, with a continuing upward trend, and a daily ratio of 200 parcels being nothing unusual for couriers. On average, they have two and a half to three minutes to make each delivery. This includes time for parking

the vehicle, walking to the front door and waiting for the door to be answered before physically delivering the parcel – every additional action counts.

The all-electric delivery van is equipped with level four autonomous driving functions and is designed to independently manoeuvre through city centres, stay in its lane even if without road markings, recognise both traffic lights and road signs and react to sudden hazardous situations.

It’s clever enough to detect and drive around obstacles such as double-parked vehicles. It can be controlled via a “FollowMe” tablet-based, remote control link that enables it to follow along behind the driver if two deliveries are close enough to warrant the driver staying on foot. If there is no parking available at a certain address, the driver can send the vehicle ahead to the next stop where it will look for a parking space on its own. This will also help to avoid traffic jams in future caused by delivery trucks that are often double-parked.

The entire ZF sensor set, consisting of camera, radar and lidar sensors, helps to ensure that the delivery van or light truck is completely aware of its surroundings at all times.

The ZF ProAI central computer is capable of assuming control, processing the data generated by the sensors and enabling the vehicle to react appropriately to complex situations. In addition, intelligent mechatronic systems, such as the electric power steering and the integrated brake control (IBC) can reliably carry out the central computer’s instructions. The electric axle drive system for passenger cars and light commercial vehicles is responsible for the purely electric and locally emissionfree drive.

In order to find the most efficient delivery route at any time, the Innovation Van accesses a cloud-based support system. Data for each package on board the vehicle is stored, such as destination and preferred time of delivery, along with other information, such as the shelf life of perishable goods.

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FEATURE “The algorithm takes this information, adds parameters such as traffic conditions or energy consumption and calculates the ideal delivery sequence in real time,” explained project manager Georg Mihatsch.

“Basically, the parcel itself finds the best way to get to the customer – and the vehicle follows. The parcel courier receives this information via mixed reality smartglasses, which allows them to review all relevant data,” he added.

The consumer also benefits from the support system in the Cloud. The app not only enables them to track the parcel’s route, but also to change delivery data at short notice. This allows consumers to easily redirect parcels to a particular neighbour at any time, or to push delivery time back if they are delayed by something unexpected. This also benefits the courier who can react to the change of delivery details immediately without having to consider returning the next day.

This might seem quite revolutionary, but the same objective was handled easily back in the day, when milk was delivered by horse and cart and the horse followed the milkman up the road while he delivered produce to each

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house in the street. The horse managed to work out on its own where it was needed, without the benefit of telemetry.

Admittedly, there were surprise emissions from time to time, but these usually benefited the roses growing in a neighbour’s garden.

The smart logistics approach from ZF also covers zero local emission drives for all vehicle classes. Air pollution in city centres should be reduced. As a response to international requests for quotations for electrically powered buses, ZF – as European market leader – has received orders for more than 1000 of its AxTrax AVE electric portal axles. These will soon be contributing to 60 million zero-emission passenger kilometres each year in cities like Los Angeles, London or Stuttgart.

ZF is also accelerating the electrification of the drive in other commercial vehicle segments. The electric axle drive system for light commercial vehicles will go into volume production in mid-2019.

Technology supporters need to redefine the role of a courier from simply being “one who drives”. The skill set

DELIVERY INNOVATION VAN necessary to be an experienced transport operator covers loading and unloading requirements, safety, continuous evaluation of other road users and the ability to predict in advance whatever is likely to occur in the vehicle vicinity.

A remote tyre pressure monitoring system will alert the operators back at base that a tyre has delaminated or punctured, but it’s not going to make decisions about how to jack up the axle and replace the offending rubber.

The idea of electric drive systems for delivery vehicles or buses operating in inner urban areas is of course full of merit.

The electric drive axle can be combined with hybrid as well as fuel cell configurations or be powered by a battery.

The importance of reduced or zero emissions, plus the limitation of noise pollution, are common-sense solutions for inner city transport. But they will only be implemented by governments that recognised climate change and act to benefit the environment. The current political environment in Australia, with a refusal to implement tighter emissions controls or recognise the need for action, simply defies logic.

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FEATURE

URBANETIC Mercedes-Benz dabbles in the future with some weird results – Words by Chris Mullett

T

here’s innovation, futuristic designs, the interpretation of market trends, bold styling, and then there’s weird, followed by ‘what the?’

In the van and truck world, perhaps we are generally too conservative when it comes to experimenting with styling themes that take the futuristic path to extremes. While pick-up and delivery fleets (PUD) globally are preparing to embrace electric vehicles, we tend to expect the batterypowered rechargeable result to at least look like something we recognise as a van, not something that resembles a space shuttle from the Starship Enterprise.

Despite our expectations, albeit featuring concrete foundations in conservatism, Mercedes-Benz has shared its vision for future PUD work in the form of the adVANce initiative.

If you’ve got your head around adVANce as the heading for the key to autonomy in the world of MB head office in Stuttgart, then you’ll easily take on the acronym of CASE, standing for Connected, Autonomous, Shared and Services, and Electric. We’re not too sure how CASE New Holland views this latest announcement, or whether MB cleared the acronym for consent with the maker of farm equipment and IVECO Trucks, but, given the size of the German conglomerate, the Italians were probably never consulted on the subject.

Since 2015, MB has been sending out exploratory missions under the guise of the Intelligent World Drive programme, with an S-Class equipped for deep learning around the world to gather information from real traffic situations. Also boldly going where no truck has gone before was the MercedesBenz and Freightliner experiment in partial autonomy. In the meantime, our team at Delivery is left wondering why actual people didn’t just stop and watch the traffic go by in order to learn about trends and traffic flow. We also struggle with the removal of the driver in any commercial vehicle application where the load has to be secured and safe, as this basic level of autonomy could lead to all sorts of drama.

But enough cynicism on our part, let’s dive into the adVANce Initiative and see what the fuss is about.

The latest buzzword (or two) is “holistic mobility”. Defined as an organic infrastructure that organises our everyday lives, the phrase immediately had us thinking back to the story of Jack and the Beanstalk, where the plant created an organic variation to life as Jack knew it.

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MB URBANETIC

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59

FEATURE

The next new phrase to learn is “city morphology”. This is a field of science (apparently), that analyses urban areas in biological terms – as a living and growing organism, where the layout is a kind of genetic code, and the cells are permanently changing and regenerating themselves.

In this view, MB executives expect onlookers to view the company’s vans as molecules that keep a city metabolism alive. Enzymes with cooling units, antibodies with blue lights, or electrically-powered messengers with plenty of space for important goods.

Having come into forced contact with advertising agency personnel through several decades, it’s been a long-held theory that some ad campaigns have resulted from the ingestion of hallucinating substances, given that the creative team would enthuse about a campaign that nobody else could understand, least alone the intended customer.

On the basis of “what goes around, comes around”, that seems to be where some of the thinkers employed by the vehicle makers are heading once again, ironically at a time when the drivers at the end of the food chain have reduced their exposure to mind-altering chemicals in favour of a good night’s sleep.

Returning to things understandable for a moment, MercedesBenz states that its new Sprinter van range will be fully electric by 2019. Apparently, by losing the driver from the vehicle, the prophecy is that we can multiply transport efficiency many times over. This theory of course worked so 60

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well when Telstra and the high street banks reduced staffing levels, claiming that less staff enables greater efficiency. This premise was undoubtedly also a contributing factor to NBN and Telstra connecting, disconnecting and reconnecting our office internet service three times within two weeks, in an amazing display of enthusiasm.

MB URBANETIC

Meanwhile, back at the coalface, Mercedes-Benz has developed VISION URBANETIC, a system that combines urban mobility, battery electric motive power and full autonomy. The platform can be used to transport both goods and people, presumably in different modules, hopefully preventing the case where a robot hangs up bus passengers on a meat hook in the back of a fridge pan module, while placing a pack of bricks neatly on a velour covered seat in a passenger transport module. Just a word of warning when you reach your destination – as you exit your autonomous module, look left, look right and then look up to ensure you are not struck by a passing drone completing the last kilometre to the barcode on the parcel.

As part of a holistic system solution, Vision URBANETIC is claimed to address future urban challenges and offer innovative solutions. The visionary concept is based on a selfdriving, electrically-powered chassis that can take different switchable bodies for people-moving or goods transport.

As a ride-sharing vehicle, Vision URBANETIC can accommodate interchangeable bodies for up to twelve passengers, or ten EPAL pallets in the cargo module that is 3700 mm long and fits into a total vehicle length of 5140 mm.

The modules are switched either automatically or manually, with the automated process taking just a few minutes. The concept also incorporates an IT infrastructure that analyses in real time the supply and demand within a defined area. The result is a self-driving fleet, with routes planned flexibly and efficiently on the basis of current transportation needs. All of this is claimed to make Vision URBANETIC a groundbreaking concept for future urban mobility.

Alternatively, you might choose to take the train.

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4X2 SMALL CAB / CHASSIS & UTES Variants

FORD

Price $

Engine Fuel Power Fuel/Cyl/Cap Econ kW – rpm

SPECIFICATIONS Torque Nm – rpm

Trans- Seats Payload ANCAP mission Safety

RANGER XL Single Cab Cab Chassis Cab Chassis Hi-Rider Utility

27,690 33,190 29,190

Dsl/4T/2.2L Dsl/4T/2.2L Dsl/4T/2.2L

6.5 7.8 6.5

118 @ 3200 118 @ 3200 118 @ 3200

385 @ 1600-2500 385 @ 1600-2500 385 @ 1600-2500

6am 6a 6m

2 2 2

1265 kg 1480 kg 1115 kg

5H 5H 5H

XL Super Cab Cab Chassis Hi-Rider

36,190

Dsl/4T/2.2L

7.8

118 @ 3200

385 @ 1600-2500

6a

4

1420 kg

5H

XL Double Cab Cab Chassis Hi Rider Utility Hi Rider

38,190 39,690

Dsl/4T/2.2L Dsl/4T/2.2L

7.8 7.8

118 @ 3200 118 @ 3200

385 @ 1600-2500 385 @ 1600-2500

6a 6a

5 5

1360 kg 1235 kg

5H 5H

XLT Super Cab Utility Hi Rider

47,790

Dsl/5T/3.2L

8.2

147 @ 3000

470 @ 1750-2500

6a

5

1145 kg

5H

XLT Double Cab Utility Hi Rider

47,590

Dsl/5T/3.2L

8.1

147 @ 3000

470 @ 1750-2500

6m/6a

5

1095 kg

5H

Ranger is a class leader and certainly up for a good tow vehicle. with the 3.2 litre engine. Those buying the 2.2 litre 4-cyl get an honest engine that performs well.

Service Inter: 15,000 km Warranty: 5yrs-Unlimited km Max Tow: 2500 kg - 3500 kg depending on model.

FOTON

TUNLAND TK Dual Cab Utility

26,990

Dsl/4T/2.8L

8.7

130 @ 3600

365 @ 1600-3000

5m

5

1025 kg

N/A

Foton is worth considering with its tough Cummins diesel engine and aggressive drive-away pricing. Factory distribution is under-performing against competition, raising serious doubts about the future of Foton in the Australian market.

Service Inter: 10,000 km Warranty: 3yrs-100,000 km

GREAT WALL

Max Tow: 2500 kg

STEED K2 Single Cab Chassis

18,990

Ptrl/4T/2.0L

8.2

110 @ 4000

310 @ 1800-2800

6m

2

1198 kg

2H

NBP Dual Cab Utility Dual Cab Utility

25,990 27,990

Ptrl/4T/2.4L Dsl/4T/2.0L

12.7 9

100 @ 5250 110 @ 4000

205 @ 2500 310 @ 1800-2800

5m 6m

2 2

1010 kg 1022 kg

2H 2H

Another Chinese offering but dubious credentials in terms of product support and resale value, making purchase currently a dubious project.

Warranty: 3yrs-100,000 km Max Tow: 1700 / 2000 kg

HOLDEN

COLORADO LS Single Cab Chassis Crew Cab Chassis Crew Cab Pick-Up

29,490 34,490 35,990

Dsl/4T/2.8L Dsl/4T/2.8L Dsl/4T/2.8L

7.9 7.9 7.9

147 @ 3600 147 @ 3600 147 @ 3600

440 @ 2000 440 @ 2000 440 @ 2000

6m/6a 6m/6a 6m/6a

2 5 5

1477 kg 1316 kg 1172 kg

5H 5H 5H

LT Crew Cab Pick-Up

38,990

Dsl/4T/2.8L

7.9

147 @ 3600

440 @ 2000

6m/6a

5

1135 kg

5H

LTZ Crew Cab Pick-Up

42,490

Dsl/4T/2.8L

7.9

147 @ 3600

440 @ 2000

6m/6a

5

1116 kg

5H

Hugely improved, Colorado is now a strong competitor against Ranger and should be on the shopping list for comparison. Pricing is at the high end with Ranger.

Service Inter: 15,000 km Warranty: 3yrs-100,000 km Max Tow: 3500 kg

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Renault VANS

4X2 SMALL CAB / CHASSIS & UTES

Always deliver.

Variants

ISUZU

Price $

Engine Fuel Power Fuel/Cyl/Cap Econ kW – rpm

Torque Nm – rpm

Trans- Seats Payload ANCAP mission Safety

D-MAX SX Single Cab Chassis

28,600

Dsl/4T/3.0L

7.2

130 @ 3600

430 @ 2000-2200

6m

2

1349 kg

4H

SX Hi Ride Cab Chassis Crew Cab Ute Space Cab Ute Crew Cab Chassis

31,900 38,700 36,300 37,500

Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L

7.5 7.7 7.5 7.7

130 @ 3600 130 @ 3600 130 @ 3600 130 @ 3600

430 @ 2000-2200 430 @ 2000-2200 430 @ 2000-2200 430 @ 2000-2200

6a 6a 6a 6a

2 5 4 4

1294 kg 1029 kg 1084 kg 1144 kg

4H 5H 4H 5H

LS-T Hi Ride Crew Cab Ute

46,900

Dsl/4T/3.0L

7.7

130 @ 3600

430 @ 2000-2200

6a

5

1014 kg

5H

LS-U High Ride Duel Cab Ute

44,100

Dsl/4T/3.0L

7.7

130 @ 3600

430 @ 2000-2200

6a

5

1024 kg

5H

D-MAX is the strong, solid worker that never takes a day off. Now with more torque and higher comfort specs, it remains highly competitive.

Service Inter: 15,000

Warranty: 5yrs- 130,000 roadside assistance

Max Tow: 2500 kg

MAHINDRA Pik-Up CRDe Single Cab Chassis Utility

21,990 25,990

Dsl/4T/2.2L Dsl/4T/2.2L

8.4

103 @ 4000 103 @ 3750

330 @ 1600-2800 330 @ 2800

6m 6m

2 2

1360 kg N/A

N/A N/A

Genio Single Cab

21,990

Dsl/4T/2.2L

8.6

88 @ 4000

280 @ 1800-2800

5m

2

1260 kg

N/A

The Pik-Up is the worker bee while the Genio adds more appeal. Plenty of space in the cab and a surprisingly good package.

Service Inter: 10,000 km

Warranty: 5yrs-100,000 km

Max Tow: Pik-Up 2500 kg Genio 1800 kg

BT-50

MAZDA

XT Single Cab Chassis Hi-Rider Cab Chassis Hi-Rider Cab Chassis Hi-Rider Freestyle CC* Hi-Rider Dual CC* Hi-Rider Dual Cab Ute

27,490 30,690 30,690 32,745 35,690 36,545

Dsl/4T/2.2L Dsl/4T/2.2L Dsl/5T/3.2L Dsl/5T/3.2L Dsl/5T/3.2L Dsl/5T/3.2L

8.0 8.6 8.9 8.9 8.9 8.9

110 @ 3700 110 @ 3700 147 @ 3000 147 @ 3000 147 @ 3000 147 @ 3000

375 @ 1500-2500 375 @ 1500-2500 470 @ 1750-2500 470 @ 1750-2500 470 @ 1750-2500 470 @ 1750-2500

6m 6a 6m 6m/6a 6m 6m/6a

2/3 2 2 4 5 5

1303 kg 1533 kg 1505 kg 1427 kg 1368 kg 1278 kg

5H 5H 5H 5H 5H 5H

XTR Hi-Rider Cab Chassis

44,290

Dsl/5T/3.2L

8.9

147 @ 3000

470 @ 1750-2500

6m/6a

5

1212 kg

5H

Never quite the bride, rather the bridesmaid, BT-50 lacks the tough presence of Ranger but the basics are all well presented in a strong overall package.

Service Inter: 15,000 km

Warranty: 5 yrs - Unlimited km

Max Tow: 2500-3350 kg depending on model

*CC: Cab/Chassis

TRITON

MITSUBISHI

GLX Single Cab Chassis Single Cab Chassis Double Cab Ute

22,490 25,990 35,990

Ptrl/4/2.4L Dsl/4/2.4L Dsl/4/2.4L

10.9 7.0 7.5

94 @ 5250 133 @ 3500 133 @ 3500

194 @ 4000 430 @ 2500 430 @ 2500

5m 6m/5a 5a

2 2 5

1300 kg 1165 kg 975 kg

5H 5H 5H

One of the best suspension choices in the segment, the engine is a willing diesel and the overall comfort package is good, with low interior noise.

Service Inter: 15,000 km

MERCEDES BENZ

Warranty: 5yrs-100,000 km

Max Tow: 1800-3000 kg depending on model

X-CLASS X220d Pure Ute Pure Cab Chassis

46,400 45,450

Dsl/4T/2.3L Dsl/4T/2.3L

7.6 7.6

120 @ 3750 120 @ 3750

403 @ 2500 403 @ 2500

6m 6m

5 5

1086 kg 1223 kg

DELIVERY ISSUE 81

5H 5H 63

4X2 SMALL CAB / CHASSIS & UTES Variants

NISSAN

Price $

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine Fuel Power Fuel/Cyl/Cap Econ kW – rpm

Torque Nm – rpm

Trans- Seats Payload ANCAP mission Safety

NAVARA RX Single Cab Chassis King Cab Chassis Dual Cab Ute

25,990 28,490 33,490

Dsl/4T/2.3L Dsl/4T/2.3L Dsl/4T/2.3L

6.4 6.4 6.4

120 @ 3750 120 @ 3750 120 @ 3750

403 @ 1500-2500 403 @ 1500-2500 403 @ 1500-2500

6m 6m 6m/7a

2 4 5

1356 kg 1256 kg 1100 kg

5H 5H 5H

ST Dual Cab Ute

40,190

Dsl/4T/2.3L

6.3

140 @ 3750

450 @ 1500-2500

6m/7a

5

1056 kg

5H

ST-X Dual Cab Ute

44,990

Dsl/4T/2.3L

6.3

140 @ 3750

450 @ 1500-2500

6m/7a

5

1019 kg

5H

After a new model launch we now have some significant upgrades to suspension compliance, steering and overall appeal. Well worthy of consideration on any customer list.

Service Inter: 20,000 km Warranty: 3yrs-100,000 km Max Tow: DX 1588 kg - RX, ST & ST-X 3500 kg XENON

TATA

Dual Cab Pick-Up

26,990

Dsl/4T/2.2L

7.4

110 @ 4000

320 @ 1500-3000

5m/6a

5

1090 kg

4H

A new Euro 5 engine is now teamed with a six-speed auto or five-speed manual with drive-away pricing.

Service Inter: 15,000 km Warranty: 4yrs-100,000 km Max Tow: 2500 kg

TOYOTA

HILUX Workmate Single Cab Chassis Single Cab Chassis Double Cab Utility Double Cab Utility

20,990 24,990 33,990 30,690

Ptrl/4/2.7L Dsl/4T/2.4L Dsl/4T/2.4L Ptrl/4T/2.7L

11.1 7.7 7.1 10.7

122 @ 5200 110 @ 3400 110 @ 3400 122 @ 5200

245 @ 4000 343 @ 1400-2800 343 @ 1400-2800 245 @ 4000

5m/6a 5m 5m 5m/6a

2 2 4 5

1225 kg 1240 kg 1020 kg 1035 kg

5H 5H 5H 5H

SR Extra Cab Ute Hi-Rider Dual Cab Ute Hi-Rider

40,910 39,910

Dsl/4T/2.8L Dsl/4T/2.8L

8.0 7.3

130 @ 3400 130 @ 3400

450 @ 2400 420 @ 2600

6a 6m/6a

4 5

1090 kg 1000 kg

5H 5H

SR5 Dual Cab Ute Hi-Rider

49,940

Dsl/4T/2.8L

8.1

130 @ 3400

450 @ 1600-2400

6m

5

1000 kg

5H

The new HiLux has failed to live up to the high expectations earned by its predecessor and although selling strongly that is more due to the efficiency of the Toyota dealerships than its own ability. With tougher competition it may not stay the course as number one much longer.

Service Inter: 10,000 km Warranty: 3yrs-100,000 km Max Tow: 2500 kg

VOLKSWAGEN Amarok TDI420 Cab Chassis Dual Cab Dual Cab Utility

38,490 39,990

Dsl/4T/2.0L Dsl/4T/2.0L

8.4 8.4

132 @ 4000 132 @ 4000

420 @ 1750 420 @ 1750

8a 8a

5 5

1139 kg 1139 kg

N/A N/A

Transporter Single Cab Chassis Dual Cab Chassis

46,390 50,090

Dsl/4T/2.0L Dsl/4T/2.0L

8.5 8.4

103 @ 3500 132 @ 4000

340 @ 1750-2500 400 @ 1500-2000

7DSG 7DSG

2 5

1416 kg 1262 kg

N/A N/A

Undoubtedly excellent products and after Dieselgate the brand has now returned to create record sales levels.

Service Inter: 15,000 km Warranty: 3yrs-unlimited km Max Tow: 2000 kg

64

DELIVERY ISSUE 81

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4X4 VEHICLES Variants

FORD

SPECIFICATIONS Price $

Engine Fuel Power Fuel/Cyl/Cap Econ kW – rpm

Torque Nm – rpm

Trans- Seats Payload ANCAP mission Safety

RANGER XL Single Cab Chassis

41,890

Dsl/4T/3.2L

8.3

147 @ 3000

470 @ 1600-2500

6m/6a

2

1340 kg

5H

XL Super Cab Chassis Pick-up

44,390 48,090

Dsl/5T/3.2L Dsl/5T/3.2L

8.3 8.7

147 @ 3000 147 @ 3000

470 @ 1750-2500 470 @1750-2500

6m/6a 6a

4 4

1270 kg 1160 kg

5H 5H

XL Double Cab Cab Chassis Cab Chassis Pick-Up Pick-Up

46,090 46,390 47,590 47,890

Dsl/4T/2.2L Dsl/5T/3.2L Dsl/4T/2.2L Dsl/5T/3.2L

8.0 8.3 8.0 8.3

118 @ 3200 147 @ 3000 118 @ 3200 147 @ 3000

385 @ 1600-2500 470 @ 1750-2500 385 @ 1600-2500 470 @ 1750-2500

6a 6m/6a 6a 6m/6a

5 5 5 5

1265 kg 1215 kg 1140 kg 1040 kg

5H 5H 5H 5H

XL Plus Cab Chassis Double Cab Chassis Double Cab Pick-Up

46,790 52,290 53,290

Dsl/5T/3.2L Dsl/5T/3.2L Dsl/5T/3.2L

10 10 10

147 @ 3000 147 @ 3000 147 @ 3000

470 @ 1750-2500 470 @ 1750-2500 470 @ 1750-2500

6a 6a 6a

5 5 5

1250 kg 1110 kg 990 kg

5H 5H 5H

XLT Super Cab Pick-Up Pick-Up

57,390 56,190

Dsl/4TT/3.2L Dsl/5T/3.2L

7.4 8.7

157 @ 3750 147 @ 3000

500 @ 2000 470 @ 1750-2500

10a 6m/6a

4 4

1045 kg 1029 kg

5H 5H

XLT Double Cab Pick-Up Pick-Up

55,990 59,390

Dsl/5T/3.2L Dsl/4TT/3.2L

8.4 7.4

147 @ 3000 157 @ 3750

470 @ 1750-2500 500 @ 2000

6m/6a 10a

4 4

995 kg 1010 kg

5H 5H

XLS Double Cab Pick Up

49,190

Dsl/5T/3.2L

8.3

147 @ 3000

470 @ 1750-2500

6m/6a

5

1085 kg

5H

Wildtrak Pick Up

59,590

Dsl/5T/3.2L

8.4

147 @ 3000

470 @ 1750-2500

6m/6a

5

950 kg

5H

FX4 Double Cab Pick Up

58,915

Dsl/5T/3.2L

8.3

147 @ 3000

470 @ 1750-2500

6m/6a

5

995 kg

5H

Raptor Pick Up

74,990

Dsl/4TT/2.0L

8.2

157 @ 3750

500 @ 1750-2000

10a

5

N/A

N/A

Clever electronics enable the all-wheel-drive system to perform well, even with a novice at the wheel. The current choice for a tow vehicle but strongly chased

by Colorado and D-MAX. The Raptor version with a 2.0 litre twin-turbo diesel and 10-speed auto currently lacks a reputation.

Service Interval: 15,000 km Warranty: 5yrs-Unlimited km Max Tow: 2500-3500 kg

FOTON

TUNLAND Dual Cab Utility

29,990

Dsl/4T/2.8L

8.3

130 @ 3600

360 @ 1800-3000

5m/6a

5

1025 kg

N/A

5 5

1198 kg 1020 kg

2H 2H

Foton is underperforming and lacks serious backing from the manufacturer to make it worthwhile considering. Warranty: 5yrs-Unlimited km

GREAT WALL

STEED NBP Single Cab Chassis Dual Cab Utility

20,990 30,990

Dsl/4T/2.0L Dsl/4T/2.0L

8.6 9

110 @ 4000 110 @ 4000

310 @ 1800-2800 310 @ 1800-2800

6m 6m

Completely unknown in our market in terms of durability and resale value, Great Wall damaged its reputation in its original incarnation and has to prove that the Mark II version is better than its predecessor.

Service Inter: N/A Warranty: 3yrs-100,000 km Max Tow: 2000 kg 66

DELIVERY ISSUE 81

Renault VANS

4X4 VEHICLES

Always deliver.

Variants

HOLDEN

Price $

Engine Fuel Power Fuel/Cyl/Cap Econ kW – rpm

Trans- Seats Payload ANCAP mission Safety

COLORADO LS Single Cab Chassis Space Cab Chassis Crew Cab Chassis Crew Cab Pick-Up

37,490 40,990 43,490 44,990

Dsl/4T/2.8L Dsl/4T/2.8L Dsl/4T/2.8L Dsl/4T/2.8L

7.9 7.9 7.9 7.9

147 @ 3600 147 @ 3600 147 @ 3600 147 @ 3600

440 @ 1600-2000 440 @ 1600-2000 440 @ 1600-2000 440 @ 1600-2000

6m/6a 6m/6a 6m/6a 6m/6a

2 2 5 5

1380 kg 1287 kg 1223 kg 1078 kg

5H 5H 5H 5H

LT Crew Cab Pick-Up

46,990

Dsl/4T/2.8L

7.9

147 @ 3600

440 @ 1600-2000

6m/6a

5

1041 kg

5H

LTZ Space Cab Pick-Up Crew Cab Pick-Up

48,990 50,490

Dsl/4T/2.8L Dsl/4T/2.8L

7.9 7.9

147 @ 3600 147 @ 3600

440 @ 1600-2000 440 @ 1600-2000

6m/6a 6m/6a

5 5

1079 kg 1022 kg

5H 5H

Z71 Pick-Up Crew Cab

54,990

Dsl/4T/2.8L

7.9

147 @ 3600

440 @ 1600-2000

6m/6a

5

1000 kg

5H

Latest Colorado is well worth considering and the best it has ever been. Service Inter: 15,000 km

ISUZU D-MAX

Torque Nm – rpm

Warranty: 5yr / Unlimited km

Max Tow: 3500 kg

EX Single Cab Chassis

35,000

Dsl/4T/3L

7.8

130 @ 3600

430@2000-2200

6m

5

1319 kg

4H

SX Single Cab Chassis Space Cab Chassis Crew Cab Chassis Crew Cab Ute

38,200 41,000 43,400 44,600

Dsl/4T/3L Dsl/4T/3L Dsl/4T/3L Dsl/4T/3L

7.8 7.8 7.8 8.1

130 @ 3600 130 @ 3600 130 @ 3600 130 @ 3600

430@2000-2200 430@2000-2200 430@2000-2200 430@2000-2200

6m/6a 6m/6a 6m/6a 6m/6a

5 5 5 5

1314 kg 1224 kg 1064 kg 1034 kg

4H 4H 5H 5H

LS-M Crew Cab Ute Hi-Ride

46,900

Dsl/4T/3L

7.8

130 @ 3600

430@2000-2200

6m/6a

5

1049 kg

5H

LS-U Space Ute Hi-Ride Crew Cab Ute Hi-Ride

46,600 48,800

Dsl/4T/3L Dsl/4T/3L

7.8 8.1

130 @ 3600 130 @ 3600

430@2000-2200 430@2000-2200

6m/6a 6m/6a

4 5

1074 kg 1029 kg

4H 5H

LS - Terrain Dual Cab Utility

54,200

Dsl/4T/3L

7.9

130 @ 3600

430@2000-2200

5a

5

1005 kg

5H

A new engine upgrade brings more torque but the same expectation of solid reliability. Now with a six-speed manual or automatic transmission it remains a firm favourite.

Service Inter: 10,000 km Warranty: 5yrs-130,000 km Max Tow: 3000-3500 kg depending on model

LDV

T60 Pro Cab Chassis Dual Cab Utility

28,411 30,516

Dsl/4T/2.8L Dsl/4T/2.8L

8.8 8.8

110@3400 110@3400

360@1600-2800 360@1600-2800

6m 6m/6a

2 5

1225 kg 1025 kg

5H 5H

34,726

Dsl/4T/2.8L

8.8

110@3400

360@1600-2800

6m/6a

5

875 kg

5H

T60 Luxe Dual Cab Utility

The T60 has a really high spec and great value, making it a surprise performer.

MAHINDRA

Pik-Up CRDe Single Cab Chass - S6 Dual Cab Chassis - S6 Dual Cab Ute - S6 Single Cab - S10 Dual Cab Chassis Dual Cab Ute

26,990 29,490 29,990 28,990 31,500 31,990

Dsl/4T/2.2L Dsl/4T/2.2L Dsl/4T/2.2L Dsl/4T/2.2L Dsl/4T/2.2L Dsl/4T/2.2L

8.6 8.8 8.8 8.6 8.8 8.8

103 @ 4000 103 @ 4000 103 @ 4000 103 @ 3750 103 @ 3750 103 @ 3750

330 @ 2800 330 @ 2800 330 @ 2800 330 @ 2800 330 @ 2800 330 @ 2800

5m 6m 5m 6m 6m 6m

2 2 5 2 5 5

1780 kg 1940 kg 1170 kg 1370 kg 1940 kg 2080 kg

N/A N/A N/A N/A

Genio Single Cab Chassis

21,990

Dsl/4T/2.2L

8.6

88 @ 4000

280 @ 1800-2800

5m

2

1260 kg

N/A

This Indian ute offers excellent interior space and headroom and drives well either laden or unladen. It is a surprise package and if you have a local dealer it may be worth considering.

Service Inter: 10,000 km Warranty: 3yrs-100,000 km DELIVERY ISSUE 81

67

4X4 VEHICLES Variants

MAZDA

SPECIFICATIONS

Price $

Engine Fuel Power Fuel/Cyl/Cap Econ kW – rpm

Torque Nm – rpm

Trans- Seats Payload ANCAP mission Safety

BT-50 XT Single Cab Chassis Freestyle CC* Dual Cab Chassis Dual Cab Utility

38,490 42,590 44,390 46,190

Dsl/5T/3.2L Dsl/5T/3.2L Dsl/5T/3.2L Dsl/5T/3.2L

9.7 9.7 9.7 9.7

147 @ 3000 147 @ 3000 147 @ 3000 147 @ 3000

470 @ 1750-2500 470 @ 1750-2500 470 @ 1750-2500 470 @ 1750-2500

6m/6a 6m/6a 6m 6m/6a

3/2 4 5 5

1408 kg 1340 kg 1268 kg 1178 kg

5H 5H 5H 5H

XTR Freestyle Utility Dual Cab Utility

49,390 51,190

Dsl/5T/3.2L Dsl/5T/3.2L

9.7 9.7

147 @ 3000 147 @ 3000

470 @ 1750-2500 470 @ 1750-2500

6m/6a 6m/6a

4 5

1158 kg 1109 kg

5H 5H

GT Dual Cab Utility

54,990

Dsl/5T/3.2L

9.7

147 @ 3000

470 @ 1750-2500

6m/6a

5

1096 kg

5H

A good strong performer looking for a macho image to make it look as tough as it actually is.

Service Inter: 10,000 km Warranty: 2yrs-Unlimited km Max Tow: 3500 kg

MERCEDES BENZ

X-CLASS X220 Pure Ute

50,400

Dsl/4T/2.3L

7.8

120 @ 3750

403 @ 2500

6m

5

1056 kg

5H

X250 Pure Cab Chassis Pure Ute Progressive Cab Chassis Progressive Ute Power Ute

51,450 52,400 53,950 54,900 61,600

Dsl/4T/2.3L Dsl/4T/2.3L Dsl/4T/2.3L Dsl/4T/2.3L Dsl/4T/2.3L

7.7 7.7 7.7 7.7 7.7

140 @ 3750 140 @ 3750 140 @ 3750 140 @ 3750 140 @ 3750

450 @ 2500 450 @ 2500 450 @ 2500 450 @ 2500 450 @ 2500

6m/7a 6m/7a 6m/7a 6m/7a 6m/7a

5 5 5 5 5

1172 kg 1042 kg 1052 kg 1052 kg 1027 kg

5H 5H 5H 5H 5H

X350

73,270

Dsl/4T/3.0L

N/A

190 @ 3400

550 @ 3200

7a

5

965 kg

N/A

G WAGON G300

119,900

Dsl/6T/3.0L

N/A

135 @ 3800

400 @ 1600-2600

5a

2

2085kg

N/A

316 CDI Mwb Mwb HR* Lwb HR* Lwb SHR* Ex Long HR* EX Long SHR*

78,595 80,645 82,230 85,330 84,805 87,905

Dsl/4T/2.1L Dsl/4T/2.1L Dsl/4T/2.1L Dsl/4T/2.1L Dsl/4T/2.1L Dsl/4T/2.1L

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

120 @ 3800 120 @ 3800 120 @ 3800 120 @ 3800 120 @ 3800 120 @ 3800

360 @ 1400-2400 360 @ 1400-2400 360 @ 1400-2400 360 @ 1400-2400 360 @ 1400-2400 360 @ 1400-2400

6m/5a 6m/5a 6m/5a 6m/5a 6m/5a 6m/5a

2-3 opt 2-3 opt 2-3 opt 2-3 opt 2-3 opt 2-3 opt

1265 kg 1245 kg 1070 kg 1050 kg 1020 kg 1000 kg

9.0 10.5 14 15.5 15.5 17

319 CDI Mwb Mwb HR* Lwb HR* Lwb SHR*

85,160 87,210 88,795 91,895

Dsl/V6/3.0L Dsl/V6/3.0L Dsl/V6/3.0L Dsl/V6/3.0L

N/A N/A N/A N/A

140 @ 3800 140 @ 3800 140 @ 3800 140 @ 3800

440 @ 1600-2600 440 @ 1600-2600 440 @ 1600-2600 440 @ 1600-2600

5a 5a 5a 5a

2-3 opt 2-3 opt 2-3 opt 2-3 opt

1215 kg 1195 kg 1020 kg 2210 kg

9 10.5 14 15.5

513 CDI Lwb HR* 4.49t* Lwb SHR* 4.49t* Lwb HR* 5.0t* Lwb SHR* 5.0t*

84,960 88,060 84,960 88,060

Dsl/4T/2.1L Dsl/4T/2.1L Dsl/4T/2.1L Dsl/4T/2.1L

N/A N/A N/A N/A

95 @ 3800 95 @ 3800 95 @ 3800 95 @ 3800

305 @ 1200-2400 305 @ 1200-2400 305 @ 1200-2400 305 @ 1200-2400

6m/5a 6m/5a 6m/5a 6m/5a

2-3 opt 2-3 opt 2-3 opt 2-3 opt

1720 kg 1745 kg 2275 kg 2255 kg

14 15.5 14 15.5

516 CDI Lwb HR* 4.49t* Lwb SHR* 4.49t* Lwb HR* 5.0t* Lwb SHR* 5.0t* Ex Long HR* Ex Long SHR*

88,290 91,390 88,290 91,390 90,865 93,965

Dsl/4T/2.1L Dsl/4T/2.1L Dsl/4T/2.1L Dsl/4T/2.1L Dsl/4T/2.1L Dsl/4T/2.1L

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

120 @ 3800 120 @ 3800 120 @ 3800 120 @ 3800 120 @ 3800 120 @ 3800

360 @ 1400-2400 360 @ 1400-2400 360 @ 1400-2400 360 @ 1400-2400 360 @ 1400-2400 360 @ 1400-2400

6m/5a 6m/5a 6m/5a 6m/5a 6m/5a 6m/5a

2-3 opt 2-3 opt 2-3 opt 2-3 opt 2-3 opt 2-3 opt

1765 kg 1745 kg 2275 kg 2255 kg 2220 kg 2180 kg

14 15.5 14 15.5 15.5 17

SPRINTER VAN

68

DELIVERY ISSUE 81

Renault VANS

4X4 VEHICLES

Always deliver.

Variants

MERCEDES BENZ

519 CDI Lwb HR* 4.49t* Lwb SHR* 4.49t* Lwb HR* 5.0t* Lwb SHR* 5.0t*

Price $

Engine Fuel Power Fuel/Cyl/Cap Econ kW – rpm

Torque Nm – rpm

Trans- Seats Payload ANCAP mission Safety

94,855 97,955 94,855 97,955

Dsl/V6/3.0L Dsl/V6/3.0L Dsl/V6/3.0L Dsl/V6/3.0L

N/A N/A N/A N/A

140 @ 3800 140 @ 3800 140 @ 3800 140 @ 3800

440 @ 1600-2600 440 @ 1600-2600 440 @ 1600-2600 440 @ 1600-2600

5a 5a 5a 5a

2-3 opt 2-3 opt 2-3 opt 2-3 opt

1710 kg 1690 kg 2220 kg 2220 kg

14 15.5 14 15.5

70,180

Dsl/4T/2.2L

N/A

120 @ 3800

360 @ 1400-2400

6m/5a

3

N/A

N/A

74,680 76,180

Dsl/4T/2.2L Dsl/4T/2.2L

N/A N/A

120 @ 3800 120 @ 3800

360 @ 1400-2400 360 @ 1400-2400

6m /5a 6m/5a

3 3

N/A N/A

N/A N/A

82,470

Dsl/V6/3.0L

N/A

140 @ 3800

440 @ 1600-2600

5a

3

N/A

N/A

74,680

Dsl/4T/2.2L

N/A

120 @ 3800

360 @ 1400-2400

6m/5a

6/7opt

N/A

N/A

79,180 80,680

Dsl/4T/2.2L Dsl/4T/2.2L

N/A N/A

110 @ 3800 110 @ 3800

330 @ 1200-2400 330 @ 1200-2400

6m/5a 6m/5a

6/7opt 6/7opt

N/A N/A

N/A N/A

86,970

Dsl/V6/3.0L

N/A

140 @ 3800

440 @ 1600-2600

5a

3

N/A

N/A

SPRINTER SC 316 CDI Mwb CC* 516 CDI Mwb CC* 4.49t/5.0t Lwb CC* 4.49t/5.0t 519 CDI Lwb CC* 4.49t/5.0t SPRINTER DC 316 CDI Mwb Dual CC* 516 CDI Mwb CC* 4.49t/5.0t Lwb CC* 4.49t/5.0t 519 CDI Lwb CC* 4.49t/5.0t

Spacious cabin interior, comfortable and with a good engine and transmission match.

Service Inter For Sprinter Van: 22,500 km Warranty: 3yrs-200,000 km/3yrs roadside assist *HR: High Roof *SHR: Super High Roof Service Inter For Sprinter Single Cab & Sprinter Dual Cab: 30,000 km Warranty: 3yrs-200,000 km/3yrs roadside assist *CC: Cab/Chassis

MITSUBISHI

TRITON GLX Single Cab Chassis Club Cab Chassis Double Cab Chassis Double Cab Pick-Up GLS Double Cab Pick-Up GLX+ Double Cab Pick-Up Exceed Double Cab Pick-Up Blackline Double Cab

32,990 35,290 36,240 36,990

Dsl/4/2.4L Dsl/4/2.4L Dsl/4/2.4L Dsl/4/2.4L

7.1 7.2 7.2 7.2

133 @ 3500 133 @ 3500 133 @ 3500 133 @ 3500

430 @ 2500 430 @ 2500 430 @ 2500 430 @ 2500

6m/5a 6m/5a 6m/5a 6m/5a

2 4 5 5

1235 kg 1115 kg 1085 kg 960 kg

5H 5H 5H 5H

42,490

Dsl/4/2.4L

7.2

133 @ 3500

430 @ 2500

6m/5a

5

950 kg

5H

38,490

Dsl/4/2.4L

7.2

133 @ 3500

430 @ 2500

6m/5a

5

985 kg

5H

48,990

Dsl/4/2.4L

7.6

133 @ 3500

430 @ 2500

5a

5

945 kg

5H

45,490

Dsl/4/2.4L

7.2

133 @ 3500

430 @ 2500

6m/5a

5

950 kg

5H

Triton needs a promotional campaign to make it stand out from the crowd. When compared directly to its peers it stands out well for good levels of comfort and drivability.

Service Inter: 15,000 km Warranty: 5yrs-100,000 km Max Tow: 2700 kg Utility Max Tow: 3100 kg Cab Chassis

NISSAN

NAVARA DX Single Cab Chassis

31,990

Dsl/4T/2.3L

6.6

120 @ 3750

403 @ 1500-2500

6m

2

1193 kg

5H

RX Single Cab Chassis King Cab Chassis Dual Cab Chassis King Cab Utility Dual Cab Utility

32,990 35,490 38,490 37,290 42,990

Dsl/4T/2.3L Dsl/4T/2.3L Dsl/4T/2.3L Dsl/4T/2.3L Dsl/4T/2.3L

6.6 6.6 6.6 6.6 7.1

120 @ 3750 120 @ 3750 120 @ 3750 120 @ 3750 120 @ 3750

403 @ 1500-2500 403 @ 1500-2500 403 @ 1500-2500 403 @ 1500-2500 403 @ 1500-2500

6m/7a 6m 6m/7a 6m 7a

2 4 5 4 5

1278 kg 1178 kg 1144 kg 1037 kg 1015 kg

5H 5H 5H 5H 5H

ST King Cab Utility Dual Cab Utility

43,990 46,990

Dsl/4T/2.3L Dsl/4T/2.3L

6.5 6.5

140 @ 3750 140 @ 3750

450 @ 1500-2500 450 @ 1500-2500

6m/7a 6m/7a

4 5

990 kg 990 kg

5H 5H

ST-X King Cab Utility Dual Cab Utility

49,990 51,990

Dsl/4T/2.3L Dsl/4T/2.3L

6.5 6.5

140 @ 3750 140 @ 3750

450 @ 1500-2500 450 @ 1500-2500

6m/7a 6m/7a

5 4

965 kg 937 kg

5H 5H

A seven speed transmission and the latest upgrades have produced a much more appealing product. New Series 3 upgrades should make it much more competitive.

Service Inter: 10,000 km Warranty: 3yrs-100,000 km Max Tow: 3500 kg DELIVERY ISSUE 81

69

4X4 VEHICLES Variants

TATA

SPECIFICATIONS Price $

Engine Fuel Power Fuel/Cyl/Cap Econ kW – rpm

Torque Nm – rpm

Trans- Seats Payload ANCAP mission Safety

XENON Dual Cab Pick-up

29,990

Dsl/4T/2.2L

8.3

110 @ 4000

320 @ 1500-3000

6m

5

1050 kg

4H

A new Euro 5 engine with optional 6-speed auto offered with drive-away pricing. Service Inter: 15,000 km Warranty: 3yrs-100,000 km Max Tow: 2500 kg

TOYOTA

HILUX Workmate Single Cab Chassis Extra Cab Chassis Double Cab Ute

36,990 44,490 43,990

Dsl/4T/2.4L Dsl/4T/2.4L Dsl/4T/2.4L

7.7 7.7 7.3

110 @ 3400 110 @ 3400 110 @ 3400

400 @ 1600-2000 400 @ 1600-2000 400 @ 1600-2000

6m 6a 6a/6m

2 4 5

1225 kg 1120 kg 955 kg

5H 5H 5H

SR Single Cab Chassis Extra Cab Pick-Up Dual Cab Pick-Up Dual Cab Chassis

39,410 42,990 46,640 45,140

Dsl/4T/2.8L Dsl/4T/2.8L Dsl/4T/2.8L Dsl/4T/2.8L

8.1 8.1 7.7 8.1

130 @ 3400 130 @ 3400 130 @ 3400 130 @ 3400

420 @ 1400-2600 420 @ 1400-2600 420 @ 1400-2600 420 @ 1400-2600

6m/6a 6m/6a 6m/6a 6m/6a

3 4 5 5

1205 kg 1110 kg 950 kg 1045 kg

5H 5H 5H 5H

SR5 Extra Cab Pick-Up Dual Cab Pick-Up

54,440 54,440

Dsl/4T/2.8L Dsl/4T/2.8L

7.6 7.7

130 @ 3400 130 @ 3400

450 @ 2400 450 @ 2400

6a 6m/6a

4 5

1005 kg 960 kg

4H 5H

Performing well in the overall scheme of things, HiLux is not as far out front as it once was, now simply similar to the others in the market.

Service Inter: 10,000 km Warranty: 3yrs-100,000 km Max Tow: 2250 kg *CC: Cab Chassis Max Tow: 2500 kg

TOYOTA

LANDCRUISER Workmate Cab Chassis Double Cab

65,240 67,740

Dsl/V8T/4.5L Dsl/V8T/4.5L

10.7 10.7

151 @ 3400 151 @ 3400

430 @ 1200-3200 430 @ 1200-3200

5m 5m

2 5

1220 kg 1110 kg

5H N/A

GX Cab Chassis

67,240

Dsl/V8T/4.5L

10.7

151 @ 3400

430 @ 1200-3200

5m

3

1235 kg

5H

GXL Cab Chassis Double Cab Chassis

69,240 71,740

Dsl/V8T/4.5L Dsl/V8T/4.5L

10.7 10.7

151 @ 3400 151 @ 3400

430 @ 1200-3200 430 @ 1200-3200

5m 5m

3 5

1225 kg 1125 kg

5H N/A

The V8 is impressive, but the different track dimensions front to rear are not the best solution for serious off roaders. Tough as old boots but now rather pricey.

Service Inter: 10,000 km Warranty : 3yrs-100,000 km Max Tow: 3500 kg

VOLKSWAGEN

AMAROK TDI400 Core Dual Cab Chassis Core Dual Cab Utility Core Plus Dual Cab Utility

42,490 43,990 47,990

Dsl/4TT/2.0L Dsl/4TT/2.0L Dsl/4TT/2.0L

8.0 8.0 8.0

132 @ 4000 132 @ 4000 132 @ 4000

400 @ 1500-2250 400 @ 1500-2250 400 @ 1500-2250

6m 6m 6m

5 5 5

1018 kg 1018 kg 988 kg

N/A N/A N/A

TDI420 Core Cab Dual Chassis Core Dual Cab Utility Core Plus Dual Cab Utility

45,490 46,990 50,990

Dsl/4TT/2.0L Dsl/4TT/2.0L Dsl/4TT/2.0L

8.5 8.5 8.5

132 @ 4000 132 @ 4000 132 @ 4000

420 @ 1750 420 @ 1750 420 @ 1750

8a 8a 8a

5 5 5

1018 kg 1018 kg 998 kg

N/A N/A N/A

TDI550 Core Dual Cab Ute Sportline Dual Cab Ute Dark Label Dual Cab Ute Highline Dual Cab Ute Ultimate Dual cab Ute

51,990 55,990 62,990 60,490 68,490

Dsl/V6/3.0L Dsl/V6/3.0L Dsl/V6/3.0L Dsl/V6/3.0L Dsl/V6/3.0L

9 9 9 9 9

165 @ 4500 165 @ 4500 165 @ 4500 165 @ 4500 165 @ 4500

550 @ 2500 550 @ 2500 550 @ 2500 550 @ 2500 550 @ 2500

8a 8a 8a 8a 8a

5 5 5 5 5

989 kg 951 kg 909 kg 909 kg 868 kg

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

TDI580 Ultimate Dual Cab Ute

71,990

Dsl/V6/3.0L

8.9

190 @ 4500

580 @ 3000

8a

5

884 kg

N/A

Volkswagen has a big job ahead of it to restore public confidence in its ethics as a corporation after the Dieselgate scandal. Dropping its prices has brought it into a more competitive market but as public memory fades so too will the lower pricing structure.

Service Inter: 15,000 km Warranty: 5yrs-130,000 km Max Tow: 2700 kg Utility Max Tow: 3000 kg Cab Chassis Transporter 2000 kg *DCC: Dual Cab Chassis *DCU: Dual Cab Utility *CC: Cab Chassis 70

DELIVERY ISSUE 81

PEOPLE MOVERS

SPECIFICATIONS

Variants

FUSO

Price Engine Fuel Power $ Fuel/Cyl/Cap Econ kW – rpm

Torque Nm – rpm

Trans- Seats Payload ANCAP mission Safety

ROSA Standard-BE64DJRMBFAE Deluxe-BE64DJRMDFAE Deluxe-BE64DGRMDFAE

POA POA POA

Dsl/4T/4.9L Dsl/4T/4.9L Dsl/4T/4.9L

N/A N/A N/A

110 @ 2700 110 @ 2700 110 @ 2700

441 @ 1600 441 @ 1600 441 @ 1600

6m/6a 6m/6a 6m/6a

25 25 22

2160 kg 2160 kg 1705 kg

N/A N/A N/A

Rosa looks better than its flat fronted competitors and you need to shop around to get the best price. Still short on luggage space unless you lose the rear row of seats.

Service Inter: 10,000 km Warranty basic: 3yrs-100,000 km

HYUNDAI

iMax Active Elite

43,990 48,490

Dsl/4T/2.5L Dsl/4T/2.5L

8.8 8.8

125 @ 3600 125 @ 3600

441 @ 2250 441 @ 2250

5a 5a

8 8

800 kg 800 kg

4H 4H

8a 8a 8a 8a 8a 8a 8a 8a

8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8

684 kg 684 kg 684 kg 684 kg 684 kg 684 kg 684 kg 684 kg

5H 5H 5H 5H 5H 5H 5H 5H

Excellent value and a strong overall package that is pleasant to drive and has established a good reputation for relaibility.

Service Inter: 15,000 km Warranty: 5yrs-unlimited km/12 months roadside assist

KIA

CARNIVAL S Si SLi Platinum Diesel S Diesel Si Diesel SLi Diesel Platinum

42,490 47,990 52,490 60,290 44,990 50,490 54,990 62,790

Ptrl/V6/3.3L Ptrl/V6/3.3L Ptrl/V6/3.3L Ptrl/V6/3.3L Dsl/4T/2.2L Dsl/4T/2.2L Dsl/4T/2.2L Dsl/4T/2.2L

10.8 10.8 10.8 10.8 7.6 7.6 7.6 7.6

206 @ 6000 206 @ 6000 206 @ 6000 206 @ 6000 147 @ 3800 147 @ 3800 147 @ 3800 147 @ 3800

336 @ 5200 336 @ 5200 336 @ 5200 336 @ 5200 400 @ 2750 400 @ 2750 400 @ 2750 400 @ 2750

Amazingly agile, this is a quick little Mum Bus that even handles far better than expected. Some clever interior seat moves but not as easy to access as a proper minibus. Service Inter: 15,000 km Warranty: 5yrs-unlimited km

MERCEDES BENZ

Sprinter 313 CDI Mwb 3.88t Mwb HR* 3.88t Sprinter 316 CDI Mwb 3.88t Mwb HR* 3.88t

64,990 67,040 79,990 82,040

Dsl/4T/2.1L Dsl/4T/2.1L Dsl/4T/2.1L Dsl/4T/2.1L

N/A N/A N/A N/A

95 @ 3800 95 @ 3800 120 @ 3800 120 @ 3800

305 @ 2400 305 @2400 360 @ 2400 360 @ 2400

7a 7a 7a 7a

12(11 opt) 12(11 opt) 12(11 opt) 12(11 opt)

1400 kg 1380 kg 1400 kg 1380 kg

N/A N/A N/A N/A

V Class V250

76,300

Dsl/4TT/2.1L

6.3

120 @ 3800

380 @ 2400

7a

7

630 kg

5H

Valente 639

58,100

Dsl/4T/2.2L

6.3

120 @ 3800

380 @ 1400-2400

7a

8

790 kg

5H

The best of everything in this category, with Valente the practical one, V-Class the high spec impressive one and Sprinter the get them there comfortably one.

Service Inter: 25,000 km Warranty: 3yrs-200,000 km

RENAULT Master Bus LWB

60,990

Dsl/4/2.3L

N/A

110 @ 3500

350 @ 1500

6a

12

1252 kg

N/A

Highly cost competitive and with a very high spec it is not quite as big as the Sprinter but nonetheless holds its own. Service Inter: 30,000 km Warranty: 3yrs-200,000 km

TOYOTA

HiAce Commuter bus

59,460 60,480

Ptrl/4/2.7L Dsl/4/3.0L

10.9 8.9

118 @ 5200 100 @ 3400

243 @ 3800 300 @ 1200-2400

6a 5m/6a

Horrible in all ways and not much fun to drive. It does the job like all Toyotas without fuss and bother. Service Inter: 10,000 km

VOLKSWAGEN

14 14

1055 kg 1045 kg

N/A N/A

Warranty: 3yrs-100,000 km

CARAVELLE Lwb

51,990

Dsl/4T/2.0L

8.2

103 @ 3500

340 @ 1750-2500

Capable and comfortable, the Caravelle loses out by not having a fluid auto to replace the DSG. Service Inter: 30,000 km

7a

9

3000 kg

N/A

Warranty: 3yrs-Unlimitedkm

DELIVERY ISSUE 81

71

SMALL - MEDIUM - LARGE VANS Variants

CITROEN

SPECIFICATIONS

Price Engine Fuel Power $ Fuel/Cyl/Cap Econ kW – rpm

Torque Nm – rpm

22,990 25,990

152 @ 3500 215 @ 1750

Trans- Seats mission

Payload

ANCAP Safety

BERLINGO L1 Short Body L2 Long body

Ptrl/4T/1.6L Dsl/4T/1.6L

7.1 5.0

72 @ 6000 66 @ 4000

5m 5m/6a

2 2

850 kg 3.3 cu.m 4H 800 kg 3.7 cu.m 4H

A good little van with strong appeal but not quite in the same league as some of the competition. Soon to be joined by an expanding range of vans.

Service Inter: 15,000 km

Warranty: 3yrs-100,000 km

Max Tow: 800-1000 kg depending of model.

FIAT DOBLO Swb Van Swb Van Lwb Van

22,000 27,000 31,000

Ptrl/4/1.4L Dsl/4/1.6L Dsl/4T/2.0L

7.3 5.4 5.9

70 @ 6000 77 @ 4000 99 @ 3500

127 @ 1500 290 @ 1500 320 @ 1500

5m 6m/5a 6m

2 2 2

659 kg 3.4 cu.m N/A 663 kg 3.4 cu.m N/A 938 kg 4.2 cu.m N/A

DUCATO MAXI Swb Low Roof Mwb Low Roof Mwb Mid Roof Lwb Mid Roof Xlwb Mid Roof

38,990 42,990 44,990 46,990 53,990

Dsl/4T/2.3L Dsl/4T/2.3L Dsl/4T/2.3L Dsl/4T/2.3L Dsl/4T/2.3L

6.1 6.7 6.7 6.7 N/A

110 @ 3600 130 @ 3500 130 @ 3500 130 @ 3500 130 @ 3500

380 @ 1500 400 @ 1500 400 @ 1500 400 @ 1500 400 @ 1500

6m/6a 6m/6a 6m/6a 6m/6a 6a

3 3 3 3 3

1605 kg 8 cu.m 1525 kg 10 cu.m 1950 kg 11.5 cu.m 2145 kg 13 cu.m 2026 kg 15 cu.m

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

Doblo is a good option for those looking for compact dimensions and good load carrying ability. Ducato is almost unknown but when you find one locally you will appreciate it.

Service: Doblo 30,000 km Ducato: 24,000 km Warranty: 3yrs-200,000 km Max Tow: Doblo 1000-1500 kg, Ducato: 2500 kg

FORD

TRANSIT VO 350L Lwb MR* 49,490 350E Lwb Jumbo HR* 52,990 470E Jumbo 55,990 Dual Wheel CUSTOM SWB 290S SWB 300S LWB 340L

39,690 40,990 42,990

Dsl/4T/2.0L Dsl/4T/2.0L Dsl/4T/2.0L

N/A N/A N/A

125 @ 3500 125 @ 3500 125 @ 3500

405 @ 1750-2500 405 @ 1750-2500 405 @ 1750-2500

6m/6a 6m 6m

3 3 3

1170 kg 11.0 cu.m N/A 1020 kg 15.1 cu.m N/A 1818kg 15.1 cu.m N/A

Dsl/4T/2.0L Dsl/4T/2.0L Dsl/4T/2.0L

6.4 6.5 6.6

96 @ 3500 96 @ 3500 96 @ 3500

385 @ 1450-2000 385 @ 1450-2000 385 @ 1450-2000

6m/6a 6m/6a 6m/6a

3 3 3

1088 kg 5.95 cu.m N/A 1006 kg N/A 1301 kg 6.83 cu.m N/A

6m/5a 6m/5a

3 6

1113 kg 3.07 cu.m 4H 1111 kg 3.07 cu.m 4H

A new engine and a six-speed auto has set Transit Custom up for a major growth in sales.

Service Inter: 15,000 km

Warranty: 3yrs-100,000 km

Max Tow: Transit 2750-3500 kg Custom 2000-2800 kg

*LR: Low Roof *MR: Mid Roof *HR: High Roof *JVHR: Jumbo Van High Roof

HYUNDAI

I-LOAD Van CRDi Crew van CRDi

38,790 40,790

Dsl/4T/2.5L Dsl/4T/2.5L

7.6 7.6

100 @ 3800 100 @ 3800

343 @ 1500-2500 343 @ 1500-2500

Great value and good manners make iLoad highly appealing. Sensible small improvements through the years have kept pace with expectations.

Service Inter: 15,000 km

72

Warranty: 5yrs-160,000 km/12 months roadside assist

DELIVERY ISSUE 81

Max Tow: 1500-2000 kg

Renault VANS

SMALL - MEDIUM - LARGE VANS

Always deliver.

Variants

IVECO

Price Engine Fuel Power $ Fuel/Cyl/Cap Econ kW – rpm

Torque Nm – rpm

Trans- Seats mission

Payload

ANCAP Safety

DAILY 35S13V H1 Swb LR*7.3m H2 Mwb MR*9m H2 Lwb MR*10.8m

50,710 52,690 55,330

Dsl/4T/2.3L Dsl/4T/2.3L Dsl/4T/2.3L

7.1 7.1 7.1

93 @ 3000 93 @ 3000 93 @ 3000

320 @ 1800-2500 320 @ 1800-2500 320 @ 1800-2500

6m/8a 6m/8a 6m/8a

3 3 3

1669 kg 7.3cu.m N/A 1630 kg 9.0cu.m N/A 1590 kg 10.8cu.m N/A

50C17V H2 Mwb MR*9m H2 Lwb MR*10.8m H3 XLwb HR*12m H3 XLwb HR*16m H3 XLwb HR*18m H3 XLwb HR*20m

60,610 63,250 65,010 68,970 72,270 76,670

Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L

7.5 7.5 7.5 7.5 N/A N/A

125 @ 2900 125 @ 2900 125 @ 2900 125 @ 2900 125 @ 2900 125 @ 2900

430 @ 1500-2600 430 @ 1500-2600 430 @ 1500-2600 430 @ 1500-2600 430 @ 1500-2600 430 @ 1500-2600

6m/8a 6m/8a 6m/8a 6m/8a 6m/8a 6m/8a

3 3 3 3 3 3

2087 kg 9.0 cu.m 2081 kg 10.8cu.m 2062 kg 12.0cu.m 1954 kg 16.0cu.m 1855 kg 18.0cu.m 1804 kg 20.0cu.m

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

70C18V Lwb HR*16m Lwb HR*18m Lwb HR*20m

76,010 79,310 83,710

Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L

7.5 7.5 7.5

125 @ 2900 125 @ 2900 125 @ 2900

430 @ 1500-2600 430 @ 1500-2600 430 @ 1500-2600

6m/8a 6m/8a 6m/8a

3 3 3

4180 kg 16.0cu.m 4140 kg 18.0cu.m 3974 kg 20.0cu.m

N/A N/A N/A

IVECO has matched great engines with a superb 8-speed automatic from ZF. Optional 3.0-litre engine with 150 kW @ 3100-3500 rpm / 470 Nm @1400-3000.

Service Inter: 40,000 km

Warranty: 3yrs-200,000 km

*LR: Low Roof

*MR: Mid Roof

*HR: High Roof

LDV V80 SWB Low Roof Lwb Mid Roof Lwb High Roof G10 SV7C

32,621 37,884 39,989

Dsl/4T/2.5L Dsl/4T/2.5L Dsl/4T/2.5L

8.9 8.9 8.9

100 @ 3800 100 @ 3800 100 @ 3800

27,358 30,516 29,990

Ptrl/4/2.4L Dsl/4/1.9L Ptrl/4T/2.0L

11.5 105 @ 5250 8.3 106.5 @ 4000 11.7 165

330 @ 1800-2600 330 @ 1800-2600 330 @ 1800-2600

6m/6a 6m/6a 6m/6a

3 3 3

1204 kg 6.4 cu.m 3H 1419 kg 10.4 cu.m N/A 1389 kg 11.6 cu.m N/A

200 350 @ 2600 330

5m/6a 6a/6m 6a

2 2 2

1093 kg 5.2 cu.m 1030 kg 5.2 cu.m 743 kg 5.2 cu.m

N/A N/A N/A

V80 is an old design but G10 is a big leap forwards for this Chinese importer. Resale value is highly questionable so don’t expect high returns after three years.

Service Inter: 15,000 km Warranty: 3yrs-100,000 km Towing : G10-1500kg

DELIVERY ISSUE 81

73

SMALL - MEDIUM - LARGE VANS Variants

MERCEDES BENZ

Price Engine Fuel Power $ Fuel/Cyl/Cap Econ kW – rpm

SPECIFICATIONS Torque Nm – rpm

Trans- Seats mission

Payload

ANCAP Safety

VITO 111 CDI Swb CDI Lwb

37,320 40,720

Dsl/4T/1.6L Dsl/4T/1.6L

6.2 6.2

84 @ 3800 84 @ 3800

270 @ 1500-2500 270 @ 1500-2500

6m 6m

2 2

1285 kg 5.8 cu.m 1235 kg 6.9 cu.m

5H 5H

114 BlueTec Van SWB BlueTec Van LWB BlueTec Crew Cab BlueTec Crew Cab

43,000 46,400 52,720 54,420

Dsl/4T/2.1L Dsl/4T/2.1L Dsl/4T/2.1L Dsl/4T/2.1L

6.4 6.4 6.4 6.4

100 @ 3800 100 @ 3800 100 @ 3800 100 @ 3800

330 @ 1200-2400 330 @ 1200-2400 330 @ 1200-2400 330 @ 1200-2400

6m/7a 6m/7a 7a 7a

2 2 5 5

1180 kg 5.8 cu.m 1130 kg 6.9 cu.m 905 kg 3.6 cu.m TBC kg 4.1 cu.m

5H 5H 5H

116 BlueTec Van SWB BlueTec Van LWB

48,570 51,970

Dsl/4T/2.1L Dsl/4T/2.1L

6.0 6.0

120 @ 3800 120 @ 3800

380 @ 1400-2400 380 @ 1400-2400

7a 7a

2 2

1155 kg 5.8 cu.m 1110 kg 6.9 cu.m

5H 5H

119 BlueTec SWB BlueTec LWB BlueTec Crew Van BlueTec Crew Van LWB

51,700 55,100 58,670 60,370

Dsl/4T/2.1L Dsl/4T/2.1L Dsl/4T/2.1L Dsl/4T/2.1L

6 6 6.3 6.3

140 @ 3800 140 @ 3800 140 @ 3800 140 @ 3800

440 @ 1400-2400 440 @ 1400-2400 440 @ 1400-2400 440 @ 1400-2400

7a 7a 7a 7a

2 2 5 5

1145 kg 5.8 cu.m 1100 kg 6.9 cu.m 895 kg 3.6 cu.m TBC kg 4.1 cu.m

5H 5H 5H 5H

311 CDI Swb FWD Mwb FWD Mwb RWD

46,008 48,109 50,719

Dsl/4TT/2.1L Dsl/4TT/2.1L Dsl/4TT/2.1L

N/A N/A N/A

84 @ 3800 84 @ 3800 84 @ 3800

300 @ 2200 300 @ 2200 300 @ 2400

6m/9a 6m/9a 6m/7a

2 2 2

1521kg 1454kg 1409kg

N/A N/A N?A

314 CDI Swb FWD Mwb FWD Mwb RWD LWB RWD

51,763 53,864 56,474 60,110

Dsl/4TT/2.1L Dsl/4TT/2.1L Dsl/4TT/2.1L Dsl/4TT/2.1L

N/A N/A N/A N/A

105 @ 3800 105 @ 3800 105 @ 3800 105 @ 3800

330 @ 2400 330 @ 2400 330 @ 2400 330 @ 2400

6m/9a 6m/9a 6m/7a 6m/7a

2 2 2 2

1521 kg 1454 kg 1409 kg 1229 kg

N/A N/A N/A N/A

316 CDI Mwb Lwb Ex Long

59,809 63,445 66,020

Dsl/4T/2.1L Dsl/4T/2.2L Dsl/4T/2.1L

N/A N/A N/A

95 @ 3800 95 @ 3800 95 @ 3800

305 @ 2400 305 @ 2400 305 @ 2400

6m/7a 6m/7a 6m/7a

319 CDI Mwb RWD Lwb HR*

66,374 70,010

Dsl/V6/3.0L Dsl/V6/3.0L

N/A N/A

140 @ 3800 140 @ 3800

440 @ 2400 440 @ 2400

7a 7a

411 CDI Mwb FWD

52,080

Dsl/4TT/2.1L

N/A

84 @ 3800

300 @ 2200

6m/9a

2

1983 kg

N/A

414 CDI Mwb FWD Mwb RWD Lwb RWD

57,835 58,344 61,980

Dsl/4TT/2.1L Dsl/4TT/2.1L Dsl/4TT/2.1L

N/A N/A N/A

105 @ 3800 105 @ 3800 105 @ 3800

330 @ 2400 330 @ 2400 330 @ 2400

6m/9a 6m/7a 6m/7a

2 2 2

1983 kg 1931 kg 1751 kg

N/A N/A N/A

416 CDI Mwb Cab Chassis RWD Lwb Cab Chassis RWD Mwb Double Cab RWD Lwb Double Cab RWD

54,809 56,414 58,422 60,027

Dsl/4T/2.1L Dsl/4T/2.1L Dsl/4T/2.1L Dsl/4T/2.1L

N/A N/A N/A N/A

120 @ 3800 120 @ 3800 120 @ 3800 120 @ 3800

360 @ 2400 360 @ 2400 360 @ 2400 360 @ 2400

6m/7a 6m/7a 6m/7a 6m/7a

3 3 5 5

4100 kg 4100 kg 4100 kg 4100 kg

N/A N/A N/A N/A

419 CDI Lwb HR* 4.49t Lwb SHR* 4.49t

70,450 72,740

Dsl/V6/3.0L Dsl/V6/3.0L

N/A N/A

140 @ 3800 140 @ 3800

440 @ 1600-2600 440 @ 1600-2600

7a 7a

516 CDI Mwb RWD Lwb RWD Ex Long

65,869 69,505 68,215

Dsl/4T/2.1L Dsl/4T/2.1L Dsl/4T/2.1L

N/A N/A N/A

120 @ 3800 120 @ 3800 120 @ 3800

360 @ 2400 360 @ 2400 360 @ 2400

6m/7a 6m/7a 6m/7a

SPRINTER

2-3 opt 1409 kg 9.0 cu.m N/A 2-3 opt 1129 kg 14 cu.m N/A 2-3 opt 1191 kg 15.5 cu.m N/A 2-3 opt 1353 kg 9 cu.m 2-3 opt 1169 kg 14 cu.m

N/A N/A

2-3 opt 1945 kg 14 cu.m N/A 2-3 opt 1910 kg 15.5 cu.m N/A 2-3 opt 2-3 opt 2-3 opt

2136 kg 1944 kg 2417 kg

N/A N/A N/A

Mercedes-Benz has the strongest overall line-up throughout the LCV arena. Model complexity makes it difficult to choose but knowledgeble sales staff make it easier.

Service intervals: for all Vitos, Valente & V-Class 25,000 km Warranty for all Vitos, Valente & V-Class: 3yrs/200,000 km Max Tow: 2000 kg *HR: High Roof 74

*SHR: Super High Roof

DELIVERY ISSUE 81

*LHR: Long High Roof

*CC: Cab/Chassis

ANCAP Safety: N/A

Renault VANS

SMALL - MEDIUM - LARGE VANS

Always deliver.

Variants

RENAULT

Price Engine Fuel Power $ Fuel/Cyl/Cap Econ kW – rpm

Torque Nm – rpm

23,990 27,490 29,990

Trans- Seats mission

Payload

ANCAP Safety

KANGOO Swb Maxi Crew

Ptrl/4/1.2L Dsl/4/1.5L Dsl/4/1.5L

6.2 4.7 4.7

84 @ 4500 81 @ 4000 81 @ 4000

190 @ 2000 240 @ 1750 240 @ 1750

6m/6a 6m/6a 6m

2 2 5

675 kg 3.0 cu.m 825 kg 4.0 cu.m 750 kg 1.3 cu.m

4H 4H 4H

MASTER SWB-FWD MWB-FWD LWB-FWD LWB-RWD ELWB-RWD

43,990 47,490 48,990 51,990 53,990

Dsl/4/2.3L Dsl/4/2.3L Dsl/4/2.3L Dsl/4/2.3L Dsl/4/2.3L

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

120 @ 3500 120 @ 3500 120 @ 3500 120 @ 3500 120 @ 3500

360 @ 1500 360 @ 1500 360 @ 1500 360 @ 1500 360 @ 1500

6m/6a 6m/6a 6m/6a 6m 6m

3 3 3 3 3

1663 kg 8 cu.m 1583kg 10.8 cu.m 1540 kg 13 cu.m 2207 kg 12.4 cu.m 2129 kg 17 cu.m

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

41,990 34,990 38,490 39,990 43,490 43,490 47,280

Dsl/4/1.6L Dsl/4/1.6L Dsl/4/1.6L Dsl/4/1.6L Dsl/4/1.6L Dsl/4/1.6L Dsl/4/1.6L

6.2 6.6 6.2 6.2 6.2 6.2 6.2

103 @ 3500 85 @ 3500 103 @ 3500 103 @ 3500 103 @ 3500 103 @ 3500 103 @ 3500

340 @1500 300 @ 1500 340 @ 1500 340 @ 1500 340 @ 1500 340 @ 1500 340 @ 1500

6m 6m 6m 6m 6m 6m 6m

3 3 3 3 6 3 6

1237 kg 1235 kg 5.2 cu.m 1235 kg 5.2 cu.m 1274 kg 6.0 cu.m 1118 kg 4.0 cu.m 1274 kg 1118 kg

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

TRAFIC SWB X82 SWB 85 SWB 103 LWB 103 CREW 103 LWB X82 Crew Lifestyle

Take a close look at the Kangoo Crew and Trafic Crew for clever use of space and high levels of practicality. Trafic suffers from no auto but one is coming.

Service Inter: 30,000 km Warranty: 3yrs-200,000 km

TOYOTA

Max Tow: Kangoo 1050 kg/Trafic 2000 kg/Master 3000 kg

HIACE LWB LWB LWB Crew SLWB SLWB

34,470 37,530 39,570 46,710 45,690

Ptrl/4/2.7L Dsl/4/3.0L Dsl/4/3.0L Dsl/4/3.0L Ptrl/4/2.7L

10.1 8.1 8.7 8.7 10.5

118 @ 5200 100 @ 3400 100 @ 3400 100 @ 3400 118 @ 5200

243 @ 4000 300 @ 2400 300 @ 2400 300 @ 2400 243 @ 4000

5m/6a 5m/4a 5m/4a 5m/4a 6a

3 3 5 2 2

1088 kg 6 cu.m 965 kg 6 cu.m 885 kg 6 cu.m 1195 kg 9.8 cu.m 1295 kg

4H 4H N/A 4H N/A

An uninteresting box on wheels that provides space with low cost to shift more for your money. Not something you aspire to drive but it is practical.

Service Inter: 10,000 km

VOLKSWAGEN

Warranty: 3yrs-100,000 km

Max Tow: 1400 kg

CADDY TSI220 Van TDI250 Van TSI220 Maxi Van TDI250 Maxi Van TSI220 Maxi Crewvan TDI250 Maxi Crewvan

30,390 32,590 29,590 34,790 31,090 36,290

Ptrl/4T/1.4L Dsl/4/2.0L Ptrl/4T/1.4L Dsl/4/2.0L Ptrl/4T/1.4L Dsl/4/2.0L

6.0 5.3 6.2 5.3 6.2 5.3

92 @ 4800 75 @ 4000 92 @ 4800 75 @ 4000 92 @ 4800 75 @ 4000

220 @ 3500 250 @ 2800 220 @ 3500 250 @ 2800 220 @ 3500 250 @ 2800

7DSG 7a 6m/7DSG 6DSG 6m/7DSG 6DSG

2 2 2 2 5 5

773 kg 3.2 cu.m 740 kg 3.2 cu.m 842 kg 4.2 cu.m 833 kg 4.2 cu.m 728 kg 1.65 cu.m 719 kg 1.65 cu.m

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

48,890 50,890

Dsl/4TT/2.0L Dsl/4TT/2.0L

8.3 8.3

132 @ 4000 132 @ 4000

400 @ 2000 400 @ 2000

7a 7a

2 2

1068 kg 1014 kg

N/A N/A

TRANSPORTER Swb Lwb

DELIVERY ISSUE 81

75

LIGHT TRUCKS Variants

SPECIFICATIONS Price $

Engine Fuel/Cyl/Cap

Power kW – rpm

Torque Nm – rpm

79,950 99,950 139,500 145,500

Ptrl/V8/5.7L Ptrl/V8/5.7L Dsl/6T/6.7L Dsl/6T/6.7L

291 @ 5600 291 @ 5600 276 @ 2800 276 @ 2800

556 @ 3950 556 @ 3950 1084 @ 1600 1084 @ 1600

Trans- Seats mission

GVM

RAM TRUCKS Express 1500 Laramie 1500 Laramie 2500 RAM 3500

6a 6a 6a 6a

5 5 6 6

3330 kg 3330 kg 4490 kg 5309 kg

It is so over the top in all aspects except when you need stability and safety for towing or cruising all day on the freeway, then it reigns supreme.

Service Inter: 10,000 km

FORD

Warranty: 3yrs-100,000 km

Max Tow: 6170 kg

TRANSIT 470E Single Cab Chassis 470E Double Cab Chassis

50,490 53,990

Dsl/4T/2.0L Dsl/4T/2.0L

125 @ 3500 125 @ 3500

405 @ 2500 405 @ 2500

6m 6m

3 7

4490 kg 4490 kg

5m 5m 5m 6m

2/3 2/3 2/3 2/3

4490 kg 4490 kg 4490 kg 4490 kg

Selling like hot cakes in Europe, the addition of a new 2.0-litre engine and a six-speed auto will kick start its sales progress.

Service Inter: 15,000 km

FOTON

Warranty basic: 3yrs-100,000 km

Max Tow: 750-3000 kg

45.110 SWB - Steel Tray MWB Cab Chassis LWB Steel Tray LWB Cab Chassis

34,490 33,490 39,990 38,990

Dsl/4T/2.8L Dsl/4T/2.8L Dsl/4T/2.8L Dsl/4T/2.8L

110 @ 2900 110 @ 2900 110 @ 2900 110 @ 2900

360 @ 1500-2900 360 @ 1500-2900 360 @ 1500-2900 360 @ 1500-2900

China and Cummins Diesel make a good combo with more street credit than the average Chinese copycat lookalike.

Service intervals 20,000 km

Warranty 3yrs-160,000 km Variants

Max Tow: 3000 kg

Price $

Engine Fuel/Cyl/Cap

Power kW – rpm

Torque Nm – rpm

Transmission

Seats

GVM

CANTER FG 4WD FG84DC6SRFAB Swb FG84DE6SRFAB Mwb Crew Cab

POA POA POA

Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L

110 @ 2840-3500 110 @ 2840-3500 110 @ 2840-3500

370 @ 1350-2840 370 @ 1350-2840 370 @ 1350-2840

5 x 2m 5 x 2m 5 x 2m

3 3 7

6500 kg 6500 kg 6500 kg

CANTER 413 City Cab Swb Narrow cab

POA

Dsl/4T/3.0L

96 @ 3050 - 3500

300 @ 1300 - 3050

5m/6a

3

3510 kg

CANTER 515 515 City Cab Narrow Cab SWB 515 City Cab Narrow Cab MWB 515 City Cab Narrow Cab SuperLow MWB

POA POA POA

Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L

110 @ 2840 - 3500 110 @ 2840 - 3500 110 @ 2840 - 3500

370 @ 1350 - 2840 370 @ 1350 - 2840 370 @ 1350 - 2840

5m/6a 5m/6a 5m/6a

3 3 6

4500 kg 4500 kg 4500 kg

CANTER 615 Mwb Lwb Mwb Lwb

POA POA POA POA

Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L

110 @ 2840 - 3500 110 @ 2840 - 3500 110 @ 2840 - 3500 110 @ 2840 - 3500

370 @ 1350 - 2840 370 @ 1350 - 2840 370 @ 1350 - 2840 370 @ 1350 - 2840

6 DC AMT 6 DC AMT 5m 5m

3 3 3 3

6000 kg 6000 kg 6000 kg 6000 kg

CANTER 715 Tipper Swb Tipper Swb

POA POA

Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L

110 @ 2840-3500 110 @ 2840-3500

370 @ 1350-2840 370 @ 1350-2840

6 DC AMT 5m

3 3

6500 kg 6500 kg

CANTER 815 Mwb Lwb Mwb Lwb Crew cab Mwb Crew cab Lwb Crew cab Lwb

POA POA POA POA POA POA POA

Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L

110 @ 2840-3500 110 @ 2840-3500 110 @ 2840-3500 110 @ 2840-3500 110 @ 2840-3500 110 @ 2840-3500 110 @ 2840-3500

370 @ 1350-2840 370 @ 1350-2840 370 @ 1350-2840 370 @ 1350-2840 370 @ 1350-2840 370 @ 1350-2840 370 @ 1350-2840

6 DC AMT 6 DC AMT 5m 5m 6 DC AMT 6 DC AMT 5m

3 3 3 3 7 7 7

7500 kg 7500 kg 7500 kg 7500 kg 7500 kg 7500 kg 7500 kg

FUSO

76

DELIVERY ISSUE 81

Renault VANS

Always deliver.

Variants

FUSO

Price $

Engine Fuel/Cyl/Cap

Power kW – rpm

Torque Nm – rpm

Transmission

Seats

GVM

CANTER 918 Lwb Lwb XLwb XLwb XXLwb XXLwb Crew Cab Lwb Crew Cab Lwb

POA POA POA POA POA POA POA POA

Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L

129 @ 2860-3500 129 @ 2860-3500 129 @ 2860-3500 129 @ 2860-3500 129 @ 2860-3500 129 @ 2860-3500 129 @ 2860-3500 129 @ 2860-3500

430 @ 1600-2860 430 @ 1600-2860 430 @ 1600-2860 430 @ 1600-2860 430 @ 1600-2860 430 @ 1600-2860 430 @ 1600-2860 430 @ 1600-2860

6 DC AMT 5m 6 DC AMT 5m 6 DC AMT 5m 6 DC AMT 5m

3 3 3 3 3 3 7 7

8550 kg 8550 kg 8550 kg 8550 kg 8550 kg 8550 kg 8200 kg 8200 kg

CANTER FG 4x4 4WD, Swb 4WD, Mwb 4WD Crew Cab Mwb

POA POA POA

Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L

110 @ 2840-3500 110 @ 2840-3500 110 @ 2840-3500

370 @ 1350-2840 370 @ 1350-2840 370 @ 1350-2840

5m 5m 5m

3 3 7

6500 kg 6500 kg 6500 kg

CANTER ECO HYBRID Hybrid Mwb

POA

Dsl/4T/3.0L Electric motor

110 @ 2840-3500

370 @ 1350-2840

6 DC AMT

3

7500 kg

May the Force of Daimler be with you. Strong engineering and ability make Fuso attractive at the light end of the market.

Service Inter: 30,000 km Warranty Basic: 3yrs-100,000 km Max Tow: Canter Eco-Hybrid 0 kg Max Tow: Canter 2.0 4000 kg, Canter 3.0 & Canter 3.5 5000 kg, Canter 3.5 4WD 4600 kg, Canter 4.0 5500 kg, Canter 4.5 5450 kg

HINO 616 Short IFS Trade Ace Short Auto IFS Trade Ace Short Auto IFS Auto IFS Tipper Short IFS IFS Tipper Medium IFS Medium Auto IFS Medium Auto IFS Work Ace Short Hybrid IFS ProShift 5 Medium Hybrid IFS ProShift5 Short Auto Medium Auto Medium Auto Trade Ace Medium Auto Steel Ace Long Crew Auto Medium Hybrid ProShift 5 Long Hybrid ProShift 5 Short Auto Tipper

POA POA POA POA POA POA POA POA POA POA POA POA POA POA POA POA POA POA POA POA

Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L

110 @ 2500 110 @ 2500 110 @ 2500 110 @ 2500 110 @ 2500 110 @ 2500 110 @ 2500 110 @ 2500 110 @ 2500 110 @ 2500 110 @ 2500 110 @ 2500 110 @ 2500 110 @ 2500 110 @ 2500 110 @ 2500 110 @ 2500 110 @ 2500 110 @ 2500 110 @ 2500

420 @ 1400 420 @ 1400 420 @ 1400 420 @ 1400 420 @ 1400 420 @ 1400 420 @ 1400 420 @ 1400 420 @ 1400 420 @ 1400 420 @ 1400 420 @ 1400 420 @ 1400 420 @ 1400 420 @ 1400 420 @ 1400 420 @ 1400 420 @ 1400 420 @ 1400 420 @ 1400

5m 6a 6a 6a 5m 5m 5m 6a 6a 5AMT 5AMT 6a 6a 6a 6a 6a 5AMT 5AMT 6a 6a

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 7 3 3 3 3

4495/5500 kg 4495/5500 kg 4495/5500 kg 4495/5500 kg 4495/5500 kg 4495/5500 kg 4495/5500 kg 4495/5500 kg 4495/5500 kg 4495/5500 kg 4495/5500 kg 4495/5500 kg 4495/5500 kg 4495/5500 kg 4495/5500 kg 4495/5500 kg 4495/5500 kg 4495/5500 kg 4495/5500 kg 4495/5500 kg

617 Short Cab Chassis Tipper Cab Chassis Medium Cab Chassis Medium Trade Ace Cab/Chassis Medium Steel Ace Alloy Tray Long Steel Tray Long Crew Cab/Chassis

POA POA POA POA POA POA POA

Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L

121 @ 2500 121 @ 2500 121 @ 2500 121 @ 2500 121 @ 2500 121 @ 2500 121 @ 2500

464 @ 1400 464 @ 1400 464 @ 1400 464 @ 1400 464 @ 1400 464 @ 1400 464 @ 1400

6m 6m 6m 6m 6m 6m 6m

3 3 3 3 3 3 3

4495/5500 kg 4495/5500 kg 4495/5500 kg 4495/5500 kg 4495/5500 kg 4495/5500 kg 4495/5500 kg

716 Medium AutoTrade Ace Alloy Tray Medium Auto Steel Ace Steel Tray Medium Auto Tipper Medium Auto Medium Hybrid ProShift 5 Long Hybrid ProShift 5

POA POA POA POA POA POA

Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L

110 @ 2500 110 @ 2500 110 @ 2500 110 @ 2500 110 @ 2500 110 @ 2500

420 @ 1400 420 @ 1400 420 @ 1400 420 @ 1400 420 @ 1400 420 @ 1400

6a 6a 6a 6a 5AMT 5AMT

3 3 3 3 3 3

6500/4495 kg 6500/4495 kg 6500/4495 kg 6500/4495 kg 6500/4495 kg 6500/4495 kg

717 Medium AutoTrade Ace Alloy Tray Medium Auto Steel Ace Steel Tray Medium Trade Ace Alloy Tray Medium Steel Ace Steel Tray Long Cab/Chassis X Long Crew Cab XLong Crew Tipper

POA POA POA POA POA POA POA

Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L

110 @ 2500 110 @ 2500 121 @ 2500 121 @ 2500 121 @ 2500 121 @ 2500 121 @ 2500

420 @ 1400 420 @ 1400 464 @ 1400 464 @ 1400 464 @ 1400 464 @ 1400 464 @ 1400

6a 6a 6m 6m 6m 6m 6m

3 3 3 3 3 7 7

6500/4495 kg 6500/4495 kg 6500/4495 kg 6500/4495 kg 6500/4495 kg 6500/4495 kg 6500/4495 kg

DELIVERY ISSUE 81

77

LIGHT TRUCKS

SPECIFICATIONS

Variants

Price $

Engine Fuel/Cyl/Cap

Power kW – rpm

Torque Nm – rpm

Transmission

Seats

GVM

816 Medium Auto Medium AutoTrade Ace Alloy Tray Medium Auto Steel Ace Steel Tray Long Auto X Long Crew Auto X Long Auto Crew Tipper

POA POA POA POA POA POA

Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L Dsl/4T/4.0L

110 @ 2500 110 @ 2500 110 @ 2500 110 @ 2500 110 @ 2500 110 @ 2500

420 @ 1400 420 @ 1400 420 @ 1400 420 @ 1400 420 @ 1400 420 @ 1400

6a 6a 6a 6a 6a 6a

3 3 3 3 7 3

7300/4495 kg 7300/4495 kg 7300/4495 kg 7300/4495 kg 7300/4495 kg 7300/4495 kg

920 Medium Medium Trade ace Medium Steel Ace Steel Tray Long XXLong XXLong Crew Medium Auto Medium Auto Trade Ace Medium Auto Steel Ace Steel Tray Long Auto XXLong Auto XXLong Crew

POA POA POA POA POA POA POA POA POA POA POA POA

Dsl/4T/5.1L Dsl/4T/5.1L Dsl/4T/5.1L Dsl/4T/5.1L Dsl/4T/5.1L Dsl/4T/5.1L Dsl/4T/5.1L Dsl/4T/5.1L Dsl/4T/5.1L Dsl/4T/5.1L Dsl/4T/5.1L Dsl/4T/5.1L

139 @ 2600 139 @ 2600 139 @ 2600 139 @ 2600 139 @ 2600 139 @ 2600 151 @ 2600 151 @ 2600 151 @ 2600 151 @ 2600 151 @ 2600 151 @ 2600

510 @ 1500 510 @ 1500 510 @ 1500 510 @ 1500 510 @ 1500 510 @ 1500 600 @ 1500 600 @ 1500 600 @ 1500 600 @ 1500 600 @ 1500 600 @ 1500

6m 6m 6m 6m 6m 6m 6a 6a 6a 6a 6a 6a

3 3 3 3 3 7 3 3 3 3 3 7

8500/4495 kg 8500/4495 kg 8500/4495 kg 8500/4495 kg 8500/4495 kg 8500/4495 kg 8500/4495 kg 8500/4495 kg 8500/4495 kg 8500/4495 kg 8500/4495 kg 8500/4495 kg

Hino is experiencing such an upgrade to its product line up and customer support that it is stepping into a higher level of appeal with all its products.

Service Inter: 20,000 km Warranty basic: 3yrs-200,000 km Max Tow: 3500 kg

ISUZU

78

N SERIES NLR 45-150 SWB MWB MWB (No IESC) Tipper SWB TradePack SWB Premium TradePack MWB TradePack MWB Premium TradePack SWB ServicePack

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L

110 @ 2800 110 @ 2800 110 @ 2800 110 @ 2800 110 @ 2800 110 @ 2800 110 @ 2800 110 @ 2800 110 @ 2800

375 @ 1600-2800 375 @ 1600-2800 375 @ 1600-2800 375 @ 1600-2800 375 @ 1600-2800 375 @ 1600-2800 375 @ 1600-2800 375 @ 1600-2800 375 @ 1600-2800

5m/6AMT 5m/6AMT 6AMT 5m/6AMT 5m/6AMT 5m/6AMT 5m/6AMT 5m/6AMT 5m/6AMT

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

4500 kg 4500 kg 4500 kg 4500 kg 4500 kg 4500 kg 4500 kg 4500 kg 4500 kg

NLS 45-150 AWD AWD AWD Crew AWD Tipper AWD Crew Service Pack

N/A N/A N/A N/A

Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L

110 @ 2800 110 @ 2800 110 @ 2800 110 @ 2800

375 @ 1600-2800 375 @ 1600-2800 375 @ 1600-2800 375 @ 1600-2800

5m 5m 5m 5m

3 6 3 6

4500 kg 4500 kg 4500 kg 4500 kg

NNR 45-150 SWB MWB CREW IFS

N/A N/A N/A

Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L

110 @ 2800 110 @ 2800 110 @ 2800

375 @ 1600-2800 375 @ 1600-2800 375 @ 1600-2800

6m/6AMT 6m/6AMT 6m/6AMT

3 3 7

4500 kg 4500 kg 4500 kg

NNR 55/45-150 SWB IFS MWB IFS

N/A N/A

Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L

110 @ 2800 110 @ 2800

375 @ 1600-2800 375 @ 1600-2800

6m/6AMT 6m/6AMT

3 3

5500/4500 kg 5500/4500 kg

NNR 65-150 MWB IFS MWB IFS (No IESC)

N/A N/A

Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L

110 @ 2800 110 @ 2800

375 @ 1600-2800 375 @ 1600-2800

6m/6AMT 6AMT

3 3

6500/4500 kg 6500/4500 kg

NLR 55/45-150 Tipper Tri-Tipper

N/A N/A

Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L

110 @ 2800 110 @ 2800

375 @ 1600-2800 375 @ 1600-2800

5m 5m

3 3

5500/4500 kg 5500/4500 kg

NPR 45/55-155 SWB MWB MWB (NO IESC) SWB TradePack SWB Premium TradePack

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

Dsl/4T/5.2L Dsl/4T/5.2L Dsl/4T/5.2L Dsl/4T/5.2L Dsl/4T/5.2L

419 @ 1600-2600 419 @ 1600-2600 419 @ 1600-2600 419 @ 1600-2600 419 @ 1600-2600

114 @ 2600 114 @ 2600 114 @ 2600 114 @ 2600 114 @ 2600

6m/6AMT 6m/6AMT 6AMT 6m/6AMT 6m/6AMT

3 3 3 3 3

4500/5500 kg 4500/5500 kg 4500/5500 kg 4500/5500 kg 4500/5500 kg

DELIVERY ISSUE 81

Renault VANS

LIGHT TRUCKS

Always deliver.

Variants

ISUZU

Price $

Engine Fuel/Cyl/Cap

Power kW – rpm

Torque Nm – rpm

Transmission

Seats

GVM

NPR 65/45-190 MWB CREW Tipper Crew Tipper

N/A N/A N/A N/A

Dsl/4T/5.2L Dsl/4T/5.2L Dsl/4T/5.2L Dsl/4T/5.2L

140 @ 2600 140 @ 2600 140 @ 2600 140 @ 2600

513 @ 1600-2600 513 @ 1600-2600 513 @ 1600-2600 513 @ 1600-2600

6m/6AMT 6m/6AMT 6m 6m

3 3 3 7

6500/4500 kg 6500/4500 kg 6500/4500 kg 6500/4500 kg

NPS 75/45-155 4x4 4x4 Crew

N/A N/A

Dsl/4T/5.2L Dsl/4T/5.2L

114 @ 2600 114 @ 2600

419 @ 1600-2600 419 @ 1600-2600

5m/5AMT 5m/5AMT

3 7

7500/4500 kg 7500/4500 kg

Market leaders for a quarter of a century, Isuzu has a perfect specification for just about any trucking application. Strong engine reputation and virtually unbreakable.

Inter: 15,000 km Warranty basic: 3yrs-100,000 km Max Tow: 3500 kg (except NLR) / NRL Max) Max Tow: 2500 kg

IVECO

DAILY 50C17 Single Cab/Chassis Lwb Dual Cab/Chassis Lwb

POA POA

Dsl/4T/3L Dsl/4T/3L

127 @ 2900-3500 430 @ 1500-2600 127 @ 2900-3500 430 @ 1500-2600

6m/8a 6m/8a

3 7

4495 kg 4495 kg

4x4 55S17 Single Cab/Chassis Dual Cab/Chassis

POA POA

Dsl/4T/3L Dsl/4T/3L

134 @ 2900-3500 430 @ 1500-2600 134 @ 2900-3500 430 @ 1500-2600

6m 6m

3 7

4495/5500 kg 4495/5500 kg

The Italian answer to the light commercial van market is strong on appeal and certainly has an excellent drivetrain. So many options you may need a phrase book to find the right spec’. Service Inter for 45C17, 50C17, 70C17D: 40,000 km Warranty: 3yrs-200,000 km

MERCEDES-BENZ

SPRINTER 316 CDI Mwb CDI Dual Cab Mwb 516 Mwb Cab Chassis RWD Mwb Dual Cab Lwb Cab Chassis RWD Lwb Dual Cab 519 Mwb Cab Chassis RWD Lwb Cab Chassis RWD Mwb Double Cab RWD Lwb Double Cab RWD

52,939 56,552

Dsl/4T/2.1L Dsl/4T/2.1L

120 @ 3800 120 @ 3800

360 @ 2400 360 @ 2400

6m/7a 6m/7a

3 5

3550 kg 3550 kg

54,425 61,162 59,154 62,767

Dsl/4T/2.1L Dsl/4T/2.1L Dsl/4T/2.1L Dsl/4T/2.1L

120 @ 3800 120 @ 3800 120 @ 3800 120 @ 3800

360 @ 2400 360 @ 2400 360 @ 2400 360 @ 2400

6m/7a 6m/7a 6m/7a 6m/7a

3 5 3 5

4490 kg 4490 kg 4490 kg 4490 kg

64,114 65,718 67,727 69,332

Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L Dsl/4T/3.0L

140 @ 3800 140 @ 3800 140 @ 3800 140 @ 3800

440 @ 2400 440 @ 2400 440 @ 2400 440 @ 2400

7a 7a 7a 7a

3 3 5 5

4490 kg 4490 kg 4490 kg 4490 kg

360 @ 1500 360 @ 1500

6m/6a 6m

3 7

4495 kg 4495 kg

Due for replacement soon but Sprinter still outclasses just about any LCV on the market.

Service Inter: 40,000 km Warranty: 3yrs-200,000 km/3yrs roadside assist Max Tow: 2000 kg

RENAULT

MASTER LWB Single Cab Chassis Rwd LWB Dual Cab Chassis Rwd

49,990 53,490

Dsl/4/2.3L Dsl/4/2.3L

120 @ 3500 120 @ 3500

The Master single and dual-cab-chassis models have gained a major upgrade and are priced very competitively. Great to drive and high on appeal.

Service Inter: 30,000 km Warranty: 3yrs-200,000 km Max Tow: 3000 kg

VOLKSWAGEN

TRANSPORTER TD1340 LWB Cab Chassis single cab FWD

46,390

Dsl/4T/2.0L

103 @ 3500

340 @ 2500

DSG

2

3000 kg

TD1400 LWB Cab Chassis Double Cab FWD

50,090

Dsl/4T/2.0L

132 @ 4000

400 @ 2000

DSG

5

3000 kg

Transporter will soon be joined by a totally new range of Crafter models. Service Inter: 30,000 km

Warranty: 3yrs-unlimited km

Max Tow: 2000 kg

DELIVERY ISSUE 81

79

FEATURE

FORK TORQUE Autonomous forklifts can see, think and act

When it comes to the linking of intelligent mechanical systems with digital solutions, German manufacturer ZF is right up there with the best of the world. One of the company’s latest developments is in the field of autonomous forklift trucks.

ZF’s Industrial Technology Division has benefited from the Group’s broad expertise in the passenger car and commercial vehicle sectors. At a global launch held in Hanover, Germany, the company presented the first ever materials-handling vehicle that can see, think and act.

The ZF Innovation Forklift is a highly automated, electrified and fully networked forklift truck. This is the first time the company has transferred the technology that supports its motto “see. think. act.” to a materials-handling application.

The result is a fully networked electric forklift truck with highly automated driving functions equipped with camera and radar systems that enable it to see its surrounding environment.

The ZF Innovation Forklift connects intelligent mechatronic systems with innovative and networked data management.

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The data that these systems generate is analysed by the ZF ProAI central computer, which is based on artificial intelligence software that has already been proven in other innovative prototype vehicles modelled on passenger cars and tractors. Intelligent actuating elements – such as the ZF electric rear axle steering for forklift trucks – and the electric ZF single-wheel-drive carry out the control unit’s given commands.

“We are already playing a leading role when it comes to highly automated and autonomous driving – and that also includes industrial technology,” said ZF CEO WolfHenning Scheider.

“The highly automated ZF Innovation Forklift embraces the main requirements of the industry: reducing costs and making materials-handling processes far more efficient,” he added.

The ZF Innovation Forklift bundles digitalisation, automation, electrification and networking and it paves the way toward autonomous materials-handling vehicles of the future.

FORK TORQUE This highly automated forklift truck completes work orders by independently going to the storage location, picking up the goods and delivering them to the customer. Equipped with an extremely powerful electric drive and featuring a lifting capacity of up to 3.5 tons, the ZF Innovation Forklift is coming well within range of the diesel-operated forklift trucks broadly used outdoors – and it generates zero emissions.

Highly automated driving functions ensure greater work safety. The ZF Innovation Forklift independently drives around obstacles and comes to a stop if people are in its path.

ZF supplies the purely electric drive as a system solution and has streamlined the forklift truck’s energy management so that it can hold a battery charge for at least one shift. This means that operators do not have to have as many replacement batteries on hand and can therefore reduce costs considerably.

Intelligent object and pedestrian detection is a major safety bonus when the vehicle is in operation. The ZF Innovation Forklift sensors record people or stationary objects such as pallet cages or simply pallets. The data interpreted in the ZF ProAI central control unit results in a corresponding command that tells the vehicle to either stop or drive around the obstacle.

Deep learning algorithms help to anticipate the great variety of potential scenarios in high speed and then trigger adequate reactions. In other words, artificial intelligence can help to prevent work accidents and injury to people, or material damage.

Fast industrial technology innovations thanks to technology transfer. ZF’s comprehensive technology portfolio enables the ZF Innovation Forklift to see, think and act.

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FEATURE The vehicle can also prioritise orders itself and thus make decisions regarding the optimal sequence and route.

An essential factor is how the ZF Innovation Forklift is networked. It can operate in a digitalised production network and there communicate both with the materials management system, infrastructure and other vehicles.

The cloud-based, dynamic fleet management allows the data from the individual forklift trucks to be efficiently managed and analysed. The system takes into account, for example, the current battery charge status during all driving operations and schedules, and the recharge time at which the forklift truck should independently head toward the charging station.

When looking at the issues of data management and data analytics, the ability to network the most diverse systems to one IoT platform is an essential cornerstone for industrial technology in the future.

The ZF Cloud is an open, scalable IoT platform that can be flexibly used across many industries. It offers the option of collecting data and analysing it in real time using the most powerful analysis tools, and also networking with a large number of individual functions and participants.

Meanwhile, over at rival fork lift manufacturer Crown Equipment, the latest news is how the company has boosted its pallet truck line-up with an economical yet strong performing new model that’s available Australia-wide.

The WP 3010 Series features all the Crown WP Series quality hallmarks in a more compact and economically priced package. Designed and manufactured by Crown Europe in Roding, Germany, the WP 3010 features an AC drive motor combined with the eGEN™ regenerative braking system for performance, reliability, long battery life and maintenance-free braking.

The WP 3010 Series’ short (500mm) head length, fork length of up to 1150mm, built-in charger and low weight (279kg without battery) make it nimble and convenient, perfect for back-of-truck work. With its load capacity of 1600kg, heavy-duty gearbox, robust helical gear set, optimised steel structure and high-tensile steel forks it’s also just as rugged as other models in the series.

The WP 3010 Series also features the same cast aluminium Crown X-10® handle with easy-to-use-ergonomic controls used on the rest of the WP Series range.

Crown Equipment director – sales and marketing – Craig Kenchington, said the WP 3010 Series’ competitive pricing will bring Crown quality to a whole new market segment.

“Crown has made a power pallet truck with compact dimensions, so it’s ideal for moving and positioning loads quickly and safely in confined storage spaces,” Mr Kenchington said.

“In doing so, it has also compacted the entry price of the Crown WP Series model line-up. It means that you no longer need to sacrifice quality, longevity and ergonomics to have an affordable power pallet truck.

“This new model is perfectly at home doing kerbside deliveries, transport on truck beds as well as retail applications and even manufacturing environments,” he said.

Moving now to Ireland brings our focus of attention onto Combilift, which earlier this year opened its new €50 million global headquarters at Monaghan, adding a further 200 new employees to its workforce of 550 people.

The new 46,500 metres square Global Headquarters and manufacturing facility will allow Combilift to double production.

Established in 1998, Combilift currently exports 98 percent of its products to 85 countries through its 250-strong international dealer network. Combilift is a privately held and fully capitalised company. It developed the world’s first multidirectional all-wheel drive IC engine powered forklift in 1998. In its first year of operation, Combilift produced 18 units, 17 of which were exported.

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FORK TORQUE

The company has more than doubled in the last 5 years and now has 40,000 units in operation in over 85 countries.

One of its latest products is the Combi-OP, the first purpose-built order picker on the worldwide market for long products.

Whereas previously operators had to modify traditional order pickers to cope with the specific demands of long loads. The Combi-OP now guarantees much more efficient and non-compromised operation for easy picking of long profiles in manufacturing areas such as steel service centres.

The Combi-OP is fitted with guide rollers to enable it to operate in existing guided narrow aisles of just 1.4m – the same width as those needed for Combilift’s GT truck. It enables operators to easily and safely hand pick orders from the elevated platform and has a capacity of 450 kg. Its overhead guard, light anti-slip floor, self-closing platform gate and guard rails guarantee utmost safety, as does the travel speed and steering angle which automatically adjusts according to lift heights.

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IT’S MY BUSINESS IT’S MY VAN

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Renault MASTER

Turbo diesel from

39,990

$

* Drive away

*Recommended drive away price for MASTER SWB manual with solid paint valid for vehicles ordered before 31/12/18. ABN buyers only.

Renault reserves the right to vary, extend or withdraw this offer. Van shown with customised features available at additional cost.