Check out this week’s truck news, from new releases overseas, awards handed out locally, and new technology being trialled to make the roads safer.

Mitsubishi Fuso launches light-duty Canter model

The Japanese market has a new truck to look forward to, with the release of the light-duty Canter. It is the diesel model of the popular current eCanter model, which has enjoyed strong sales in the past year.

The new Canter will be available through MFTBC dealers and regional sales centres across Japan starting in February.

Mitsubishi Fuso says the new Canter model includes a redesigned interior for the first time in 14 years, with new design and functionality including a new dashboard and exit grips.

There is also a new 10-inch LCD panel, easy-to-use steering wheel switches, and a centre display that allows for operation of both navigation and radio via touch panel.

This Canter model also includes Fuso’s Active Sideguard Assist to help prevent collisions with pedestrians and cyclists, Active Brake Assist 5 and Active Attention Assist.

Its specs are as follows:

Engine: 4P10+ 96kW(130PS)
Transmission: 6-speed Duonic 2.0
Standard Cab
Wooden standard body
All low floor

German Government trials oversized truck technology

The German Government’s Autobahn GmbH is set to trial a ‘digital copilot’ on oversized and heavy haulage trucks, testing out new technology for use on the road.

With aims to make moving oversized loads safer and more efficient, it could eliminate the need for these trucks to have additional escorts on their route.

The copilot would monitor the truck and the route in real-time, providing updates to drivers in real-time along the way. This includes regulations, restrictions, and driving instructions.

It is a navigation system that could change the methods behind moving oversized trucks across the country.

After initial tests in some states, a nationwide trial is set to follow, announced by the Federal Ministry of Transport during the second roundtable on oversized and heavy haulage (GST) on February 19.

Isuzu NPR fleet offers versatility and reliability for Pirtek

Pirtek has praised the versatility and usefulness of its more than 100-strong fleet of Isuzu trucks, which provide for the continually growing needs of its customer base.

Its fleet of service trucks primarily comprised of Isuzu’s 4500-7500kg GVM N Series range helping to supply and maintain hydraulic hoses and fittings.

Brand manager Brian Watson says the models in use offer everything the company could need.

“Our vehicles have to work in a wide range of conditions and locations, so we work with each franchisee plus the engineering group at Isuzu Trucks to best cater for what is required out in the field,” he says.

“Pirtek has very high standards in terms of quality with our products and service, and that includes presentation.

“When a Pirtek technician arrives on site, the customer quickly appreciates the professional approach, including the way the service vehicles are presented and laid out.”

The Pirtek mobile units are integrated with a custom service body created by Allweld Manufacturing in Queensland, to even better suit the needs of each truck and allow them to carry a larger volume of stock.

Each of the custom-fitted Isuzus also have a high-demand electrical system on-board to provide power and tools and the hose assembly equipment they cart around.

Renault Trucks builds new spare parts warehouse

Renault Trucks has begun the construction of a new spare parts warehouse for the global market. It is planned to open in 2028, and will be located in Lyon, France.

The centre will cover an area of 46,000 square meters, and will include a flexible and scalable standard warehouse, a fully automated warehouse for small parts, and a special area for battery storage.

The roof of the warehouse will be equipped with photovoltaic modules to cover the centre’s electricity needs with a renewable resource. The generated electricity will not only meet its own requirements, but also those of neighbouring buildings.

This will allow all facilities in the building to be 100 per cent free from fossil fuels and utilise renewable electricity.

PACCAR dealers crowned best of the best

PACCAR has handed out its dealer awards for 2023. Kenworth DAF Huntingwood has been named the 2023 DAF Dealer of the Year, and Kenworth DAF Wodonga was announced as the recipient of the of the 2023 Kenworth Dealer of the Year award, while also earning the 2023 PACCAR Financial Dealer of the Year.

Zane Jamieson of Kenworth DAF Huntingwood was presented his award by PACCAR Australia’s managing director Damian Smethurst.

“Kenworth DAF Huntingwood, has been a valued member of our dealer network since 1981,” Damian says.

“It is wonderful to see Suttons Group having celebrated their 80^th anniversary in 2023 and it is a credit to everyone at Huntingwood who has ultimately contributed towards winning this award.”

“Without the entire dealership’s support this award would not be possible,” Zane said upon accepting the award.

“It means so much to everyone. Our DAF customers and their commitment and faith in us drives us to be better every day.”