The F Series models currently on sale in Australia are based on a platform which originally appeared in 2007, but there’s a major complete renewal due from Isuzu, for these models, in the next couple of years. For now, we are looking at the brand bringing its current models up to date with the kind of gizmos which are becoming essential parts of a modern truck.
At first sight, the new models are difficult to recognise as any different. On the outside the only change will be a more modern headlight module with some LED lights, there will also be a radar unit in the front bumper and a camera inside the windscreen.
“The dealers will point the customer to these models fitted with all of the safety features for urban customers, whereas the 260 hp six cylinder models is much better suited for longer distance operation,” says Simon Humphries, Isuzu Chief Engineer, Product Strategy.. “The reality is these models do not get stability control or the ADAS package, but that’s got pro and cons, and it will not be that way forever. At the moment it’s a lot easier to change a wheelbase or set a truck up for towing without the ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) package.”
Backing up the product
The strength of the Isuzu brand has not always relied on having the latest technology first or the most powerful engine. The brand has relied upon the build quality of the trucks and their reliability, coupled with a well organised and effective dealership group. That back up from a strong dealership group has built a reputation for the kind of product support which operators appreciate and brings them back to the brand on a regular basis.
Isuzu are upping the ante this time around, in terms of product support with the introduction of a six year factory warranty on most trucks, or 300,000-600,000km (depending on model) with no engine hours limit (there is on FV, FX and FY models). This is being coupled with six years of 24/7 Roadside Assist. On top of this, there’s three years (unlimited km) on truck bodies in the Ready-to-Work range and three years (unlimited km) on genuine Isuzu parts and accessories.
Looking Ahead with Isuzu
The Isuzu brand is heading into an interesting period in its development. It still retains a strong hold on the truck market leadership in Australia, but this will be coming under pressure in the coming years when the combined research and development, as well as the investment power, of the major global groups pushes the limits of innovation.
As a smaller entity, globally, Isuzu has relied on smart innovation of its own and developing strong partnerships with the likes of GM. As the cost of technological development rises the ability to keep ahead gets harder to maintain.
The deal struck between Isuzu and the Volvo Group is going to be the key for the brand going forward. As well as purchasing UD Trucks from the Group, the deal also included the ability of Isuzu to leverage off the technology in the Volvo catalogue for inclusion in Isuzu product.
The ongoing strength of the Isuzu organisation, globally, is going to depend on how soon and how much of the top-end new technology coming out of Volvo makes it into the Isuzus and UDs of the future. This launch illustrates the issue for the operation already, with most, but not all, of the models getting the latest ADAS equipment now. The rest will arrive with the new product, which will presumably include some of that smart Volvo tech at its core, as well.
