Isuzu Australia Limited (IAL) invited Fleet HV News to a media briefing in Melbourne this week, where the company outlined details of its new N and F Series models – but pricing and engine details remain a mystery…for now.
The new models will be launched at Brisbane Truck Show in April next year, scoring a visual redesign, more technology, improved safety and of course Euro 6 credentials as Australia approaches the ADR 80/04 emissions cut-off in November of 2025.
IAL did not provide a rundown of engine variants or specifications, but the truckmaker did reveal that N Series models will score a new nine-speed dual-clutch transmission that gives it an edge over five- and six-speed automatic-equipped models currently in the market.
Isuzu will build the new trucks on its new Modular Architecture and Component Standard (I-MACS) platform, which allows parts to be standardised and interchanged across models.
According to IAL, the platform will allow key components like ICE powertrains, hydrogen fuel cells and batteries to be interchanged depending on the specification of a specific truck. The key benefit of the platform, aside from being powertrain agnostic, is that it will improve production efficiencies.
While the current N and F Series models are already well-equipped with active and passive safety technology, the new models add a range of new features like full-speed adaptive cruise control, misacceleration mitigation, LED headlights with DRLs and traffic sign recognition.
IAL is also aiming to address the driver shortage by making its new trucks more comfortable and user-friendly for operators, with a redesigned cabin that promises more space and improved ergonomics.
“Challenges relating to driver attraction and retention is a global road transport issue, and one experienced by numerous countries around the world,” said IAL Chief of Product, Matt Sakhaie.
“One critical aspect that Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) like Isuzu can influence is the continued development of safe, comfortable and professional workspaces for drivers to ply their trade.”
The next-generation models feature high-end seats and various onboard systems that make the life of an operator easier and safer, with a redesigned steering wheel at the centre of the upgrades.
Isuzu’s new wheel has been further enhanced using electric actuators for advanced driver support functions, integrating with on-board safety systems as well as offering handsfree infotainment functions.
Isuzu also opted for an updated glass specification that reduces ultraviolet (UV) and infra-red (IR) light by 99 and 59 percent respectively, reducing sunburn, retina damage and of course keeping the cabin cool.
“It’s this granular attention to detail, however small it may appear, that goes a long way to getting more people into the truck driving profession and hopefully keeping those already there behind the wheel of an Isuzu truck for many years to come,” Mr Sakhaie said.
The truckmaker also provided an update on its local electric N Series testing, sharing that a number of fleets are now eager to trial the NLR EV and heavier NPR EV trucks. No timeline was given for the rollout of the electric models, but IAL Director and Chief Operating Officer Andrew Harbison said he doesn’t think it will be “too far down the path.”
IAL told Fleet HV News it will provide more details about its incoming ranges in March next year, which will include an on-road test drive, before launching the models to the public at the Brisbane Truck Show. We will share pricing and powertrain details when we hear more.
