The Freeman

Blue Energy Euro 4 engine makes debut

-

As the Philippine economy steadily grows, so does the demand for light-duty trucks, a true indicator of vibrancy. According to consolidat­ed figures of the Chamber of Automotive Manufactur­ers of the Philippine­s, Inc. (CAMPI) and the Associatio­n of Vehicle Importers and Distributo­rs, Inc. (AVID), more than 500,000 vehicles were sold locally in 2017 – a 17.5-percent spike over 2016's figure. Double-digitperce­ntage growth has been recorded since 2012. The commercial-vehicle segment alone grew by an incredible 26.4 percent in 2017.

Today's trucks are a far cry from the loud, smoke-belching clunkers of the past. FOTON Motor Philippine­s, a major player in the fast-moving segment, is now set to further up the ante in light trucks with a gamechangi­ng contender – the FOTON Tornado M4.2C.

EURO 4 - COMPLIANT

ENGINE

It starts with a highly advanced ISF 3.8 FOTON Cummins Blue Energy Euro 4 Engine – a product of the FOTON's joint venture with iconic diesel power plant expert Cummins. Founded in Columbus Indiana in 1919, the pioneering manufactur­er of engines signed an agreement with FOTON Motor in 2006 to form the Beijing FOTON Cummins Engine Co., Ltd. (BFCEC). Its highly advanced plant in China makes more than 400,000 engines a year.

Passing the more stringent Euro 4 emission standard, the turbocharg­ed (with intercoole­r) power plant generates an impressive 600Nm of torque – ideally suited for confidentl­y moving the 14-footer and its payload. Featuring a computer-controlled Bosch common rail direct injection system, the engine also boasts exhaust gas recirculat­ion technology, DOC (diesel oxidizing catalyst) and POC (particle oxidizing catalyst) for enhanced fuel efficiency and

lower emission.

SAFETY FEATURES

Unlike many other trucks, the FOTON Tornado M4.2C boasts a full complement of safety technologi­es and features. WABCO braking technology (anti-lock braking and electronic brake distributi­on ), plus a full air-brake function ensures secure and stable stopping force at all times. A reverse sensor and camera come standard for enhanced aft awareness. Up front is a redesigned panoramic windshield that provides increased visibility, plus an additional passenger-side under mirror for blindspot coverage. The height of the truck's headlights can also be adjusted. Threepoint ELR seatbelts come standard.

UTILITY WITHIN

The driver and occupant are welcomed with a slew of features that make each journey comfortabl­e, safe, and convenient - while assuring owners of a multifunct­ional workhorse that is also friendly to those driving it. An advanced LED touchscree­n is at the heart of the vehicle's entertainm­ent system. This accommodat­es the imaging when reversing, and makes Bluetooth connectivi­ty for hands-free calling and music possible. The system is also features an MP5 and SD card slot. Steering wheel buttons for cruise control, and radio and call functions are also available. The multi info dashboard display is elegant ly executed, and a powerful air-conditioni­ng system is a standard feature.

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from Philippines