Mitsubishi Fuso unveils all-new 2012 Canter FE/FG Series trucks
Mitsubishi Fuso Truck of America Inc. (MFTA) introduced its new Canter FE/FG Series trucks. The company said bringing the Canter name to the North American models for the first time applies its long-standing global branding to the trucks it believes represent the future of transport technology in North America.
The truck maker said five models, covering weight ratings from Class 3 through Class 5, address virtually every vocational need from dry freight, refrigerated delivery, landscaping and delicate cargo transport to auto recovery, municipal roadwork and snow plowing.
The line includes standard chassis designs for Class 3 through Class 5—the Canter FE125, Canter FE160 and Canter FE180—but also extends to a 7-passenger crew cab model, the Canter FE160CC, and the only 4-wheel-drive medium-duty cabover in the industry, the FG4X4, the truck maker said.
The new 4P10 dual-overhead-cam, dual-balance-shaft, turbocharged, intercooled 4-cylinder diesel engine is coupled to an advanced Mitsubishi Fuso Duonic 6-speed, dual-clutch automated manual transmission, which the company said is the only dual-clutch transmission available in a commercial truck. The combination helps contribute to the Canter’s higher fuel economy, as well as its easy operation.
Adoption of Daimler Commercial Truck’s BlueTec SCR emissions technology has brought the new drivetrain into EPA 2010 compliance, the truck maker noted. Yet because the BlueTec system treats emissions in the downstream exhaust rather than in the engine, the engine can be tuned exclusively for optimum performance and fuel economy.
For 2012, the standard-width 33.5-in. straight ladder frame has been designed with patterned holes at regular intervals along its length and height to make body mounting easier and to save weight without loss of strength. Made with 56,565 psi-yield-strength steel, this new frame provides comparable chassis stiffness and body-fitting ease as the previous FE models, at a substantially lighter weight.
According to the truck maker, the new models feature styling that goes hand-in-hand with improved function—for example, the improved aesthetic profile of the 2012 models reduces aerodynamic drag and improves stability. Compact halogen headlamps allow sculpted corner profiles, which enhance aesthetic appeal while the lamps themselves improve nighttime visibility and boost potential for improved driver safety. Smooth frontal surfaces, combined with faired character lines around the doors, help to reduce wind noise, so the cabin is quieter.
The new 2012 Fuso Canters feature roomy, fully-trimmed cabs that provide ample space for the driver and two passengers to ride in comfort. The transmission shifter is mounted on the dash with a simple, well-defined shift pattern label, and the FG4X4’s transfer case range-selector lever is mounted at dashboard height, to the left of the steering wheel, so the floor area is clear of obstructions, the truck maker said.
Turning diameter for Canter FE models with 110.2-in. wheelbase is 34.1 ft., so maneuvering through a crowded job site or navigating tight urban streets is no problem for these new Canter FEs, according to the company. The trucks also feature dual-caliper hydraulic disc service brakes with vacuum servo assist and ABS on all four wheels, while the FG4X4 uses hydraulic drum service brakes with ABS all around. All models include an electronic brake override system for added safety.
All Canter FEs and FGs include a 3-year/unlimited mileage bumper-to-bumper warranty, a 4-year/unlimited mileage rust-through warranty, and an exclusive 5-year/175,000-mile powertrain limited warranty. And the 5-year warranty includes most bolt-on components, as well as wetted driveline components, the truck maker added. 
Hino Trucks introduces new Class 4 and 5 COE with hybrid option
Hino Trucks unveiled four models of its newly designed Class 4 and Class 5 cab over engine (COE) trucks.
According to the company, in the Class 4 market, Hino will offer the 155 diesel model and the first U.S. Class 4 diesel-electric hybrid model, the 155h. The 155 and 155h models will carry a 14,500-lb. GVW rating. In the Class 5 market, Hino will offer the 195 diesel model and the first U.S. Class 5 diesel-electric hybrid model, the 195h. The 195 and 195h models will carry a 19,500-lb. GVW rating. All models are powered by the Hino J05E Series engine, the truck maker said. The 5-liter engine is rated at 210 HP and 440 ft./lbs. of torque. Utilizing Aisin’s A465, 6-speed automatic transmission, the Hino hybrid is the first to be packaged with an automatic transmission, according to the company.
Both models feature an ergonomically-friendly wide cab with a North American standard 33-in. frame rail width, a 56,900-PSI frame, and a standard center-mounted rear fuel tank. The cab’s styling emphasizes aerodynamics and visibility with an angled windshield, narrow pillars and rounded-radius curves. Inside, the new cab uses its increased width to provide room for drivers up to 6 ft. 6 in. tall, seating for three and a versatile mobile workspace with a variety of organizational storage options. A crew cab version also will be available, Hino added.
The Hino 155h and 195h Diesel-Electric Hybrid cab over trucks are Hino’s sixth generation of hybrid technology.
The diesel models will be available in August of 2011 across the U.S. The hybrid models will follow a “roll out” approach and will be available in December 2011 in New York, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Chicago, Atlanta, Dallas, Houston and California.
In addition to a diesel-electric hybrid option, both models meet or exceed EPA 2012 emission regulations by utilizing an optimized SCR system, Hino said.
All-new Class 8 Western Star 4700 introduced
Western Star Truck Sales Inc. introduced its all-new Class 8 vocational truck—the Western Star 4700, which the company said combines with the Western Star 4900 and 6900 truck models to provide a full range of premium options. Available in a set-forward and set-back configuration, the 4700 features a 110-in. BBC and is the ideal solution to meet the needs of dump, mixer, crane, roll-off, sewer-vac and plow applications, according to the company.
The Western Star 4700 is available with a broad range of powertrain options in a single truck model, including the Detroit Diesel DD13 engine and the Cummins ISC and ISL engines. The DD13 features a six-cylinder, in-line configuration, 350 to 450 HP and 1,250 to 1,650 ft./lbs. of torque. Combined with Daimler’s BlueTec Selective Catalytic Reduction emissions technology and Amplified Common Rail System (ACRS), the DD13 can save vocational customers up to 5% in fuel economy, the truck maker noted.
For vocational customers who do not require 13-liter power, the Cummins ISC and ISL are ideal for applications that include the light plow and mixer market, according to Western Star. Also, utilizing proven SCR technology, the ISC features 260 to 350 HP and 1,000 ft./lbs. of torque, and the ISL features 345 to 380 HP, and 1,100 to 1,300 ft./lbs. of torque.
A broad range of transmissions also is available for the 4700, including the latest Eaton Ultrashift Plus transmission, and Allison 3000 and 4000-series transmissions.
The Western Star 4700 is equipped with a cab designed to withstand the rigors of vocational applications—the cab is precision welded, then dipped and protected with a proprietary 17-stage e-coat process for long-lasting corrosion resistance and superior paint finish. Its newly designed, sloped hood offers outstanding site lines for optimal visibility. Plus, the short BBC, combined with a 55º wheel cut, provides better maneuverability on tight job sites, the company said.
The 4700’s interior includes updated materials that are easier to clean, as well as lighter headliner colors that make the 72-in. wide cab a little brighter. Customizable, marine-grade switches and a hinged dash with exposed fasteners for easy serviceability and accessibility are also included, according to Western Star. The redesigned door maximizes storage and improves fit, finish and durability. The truck also features point-to-point wiring—ideal for field serviceability in remote locations. An add-on multiplex option also is available.
Navistar debuts International TerraStar 4X4
Navistar has unveiled the International TerraStar 4×4 commercial truck. Launched last year with a 4×2 powertrain standard, the new 4×4 option is poised to win over an even broader range of customers with more severe demands, according to the company.
The TerraStar 4×4 variant will deliver additional commercial duty capability for a wide range of customer needs, including construction, utility, landscape and other off-highway applications, the company said.
Since its introduction in March 2010 and production launch in October 2010, the International TerraStar has generated significant interest from work truck buyers. To date, the company has received more than 2,000 orders, the truck maker noted.
At the heart of the new International TerraStar is its 300 HP, 6.4-liter MaxxForce 7 V-8 engine, delivering 660 ft./lbs. of torque. This engine features a compacted graphite iron (CGI) block, which offers high strength without added weight. The TerraStar features MaxxForce Advanced EGR emissions technology, ensuring customers won’t have the worry or inconvenience of finding or filling liquid urea. And, with no added aftertreatment equipment, the TerraStar provides a clean and clear chassis for easy body and equipment mounting, not to mention less added weight, the company noted.
The TerraStar features a commercial-duty truck cab, which also is available with optional extended cab or crew cab configurations. An appearance package also is available with chrome grille and headlight bezel, as well as painted modesty panel and fender extension. The TerraStar also delivers unmatched serviceability with a commercial style tilt-away hood that offers unobstructed access to the engine compartment, making routine and scheduled maintenance quick and easy.
In addition, the International TerraStar features the International Diamond Logic electrical system, which maximizes ease of body integration and helps deliver a number of smart, customizable features for added convenience and safety—such as automated pre-trip inspections, headlights on with wipers, interlocks, programmable switches and more, depending on the application, the maker said.
The MaxxForce 7 is matched with a commercial-duty Allison Optimized 1000 Series transmission to optimize its power output, according to the company. The Allison Optimized transmission package delivers a winning combination of power, performance, reliability and fuel economy, with an industry leading 5-year unlimited mile warranty. The International TerraStar’s exclusive Allison Optimized 1000 Series close ratio, fully automatic transmission features: shift energy management; load-based shift scheduling; prognostics; automatic “neutral;” specific “input/output” packages; and a 5-year unlimited mile warranty including 100% parts and labor, along with towing to the nearest authorized Allison distributor or dealer.
Spartan Motor to assemble Isuzu N-Series gasoline trucks
Isuzu Commercial Truck of America Inc. announced production of gasoline-powered Isuzu N-Series trucks would begin on April 18 at the Spartan Motors Inc. facility in Charlotte, Mich.
Gasoline-powered NPR (12,000-lb. GVWR) and NPR-HD (14,500-lb. GVWR) trucks will be available in single cab models with wheelbases of 109-, 132.5-, 150- and 176-in., and in crew cab configurations with 150- and 176-in. wheelbases. Units are expected to arrive at Isuzu dealerships beginning in early May, the truck maker said.
The vehicles will complement the popular diesel-powered Isuzu N-Series trucks already available. N-Gas models will be powered by a General Motors Vortec 6.0-liter V8 engine that produces 297 HP at 4,300 RPM and generates 372 ft./lbs. of torque at 4,000 RPM, the truck maker added.
Roush CleanTech launches Ford F-450/550 propane Autogas Fuel System
Roush CleanTech said its newest liquid propane autogas product offering, the 6.8-liter V10 propane autogas-powered Ford F-550 super duty chassis cab, is designed to suit a wide range of uses including dump, landscape, flatbed, construction, waste, utility, freight and more.
The propane autogas fuel system will be available for 2012 and later models of the Ford F-450 and F-550 truck series, and is expected to ship beginning in October 2011. The system, equipped with a 5-speed automatic transmission, will work on all cab and wheelbase configurations, as well as 4×2 or 4×4 vehicles.
The fuel system currently is in development and will be EPA- and CARB-certified at launch. The system will be available as a Ford ship-through option for installation on new vehicles, or as a retrofit option for vehicles already in service. The factory Ford warranty will be upheld after installation, according to Roush.
Ram Truck brand new for 2011
The Ram Truck division of Chrysler Group LLC added the hardest-working Ram trucks—the Ram 3500, 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cab trucks—to its truck lineup, which includes the Dakota, Ram 1500 and Ram 2500/3500 Heavy-Duty pickups.
The new chassis cab trucks provide customers with first-time innovations and features, along with new standards of strength, utility and driveability, according to Ram Truck.
Equipped with a choice of engines, including the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine or the 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel, Ram Trucks are known for their reliability. The 5.7-liter HEMI engine offers a combination of power and fuel economy with 390 HP and 20 MPG highway.
