Isuzu trucks are known for their reliability, broad specification choice and low cost of operation. The N-Series range of utility and distribution trucks is designed to continue in this tradition and further improve upon the qualities of the original brand.

Three years ago, Isuzu Trucks was the first OEM to introduce a automated manual transmission (AMT), which it included on selected N-Series models such as the NPR 300, NPR 400, NPR 400 Crew Cab and the NQR 500.AMT is a “groundbreaking” technology development for medium trucks with gross vehicle mass (GVM) of3.5 to 8.5 t.

According to the company, conservative value estimates show a cost saving of more than R40 000 in parts and labour for lifetime clutch replacements over a 500 000 km duty cycle in stop-go metro distribution operations, compared to its competitors. This cost saving doesn’t include lost opportunity costs for vehicle downtime, which is estimated at 10 days over the total distance, or the costs of towing and providing a replacement truck during the downtime. This means that the potential savings over a 4to 5 year period could easily exceed R60 000, a significant advantage for any logistics operator to exploit.

To date, the AMT offering has been a great success, with many fleets now standardising on the technology. The resulting sales speak for Isuzu Trucks – in models where the AMT and manual option are both available – 50% of these models are sold with the AMT option.

The technology is now available in selected F-Series models as well, which will give the fleet owner the same advantages and benefits that have been experienced with the N-Series range over the past few years.

With an AMT-equipped truck, the driver does not use a clutch pedal when pulling away, changing gears or stopping;only the gearshift lever, accelerator pedal and brake pedal are used. Based on a conventional manual transmission, technologies such as a wet-type multiple disc clutch and fluid coupling were developed to achieve an affordable easy-drive system suitable for commercial vehicles.

In addition, use of an electromagnetic solenoid valve-type gear shift unit enables both computer-controlled automatic transmission and manual transmission operating modes. This feature allows the truck to be driven in the automated mode or in the manual mode without the clutch, eliminating the risk of abuse.

According to the company, AMT allows Isuzu Trucks to offer “trucks which retain the performance, durability and fuel economy usually associated with a manual transmission. In addition, this truck is so easy to drive that the driver is able to completely focus on the road.”

The F-Series AMT has a 6-speed transmission, with features such as hillside assist that aids pull-off on a steep gradient, even when the truck is at full GVM. In the F-Series, AMT is available in the FTR850, FSR 800 and the FSR 750 AMT Crew Cab, and will be introduced on the FRR 500 in the third quarter of 2012.

The Isuzu F-Series heavy truck range is engineered with electronically managed, fuel-efficient, common rail diesel engines. ABS braking systems are standard, with the sole exception of the 4×4 model.

Specialist F-Series models include full-time 4×4 and 6×2 freight carriers, a 6×4 refuse compactor and truck-tractors.