Holden going...Isuzu staying
ISUZU TRUCKS NEW ZEALAND – THE HOLDEN-OWNED distributor of NZ’s longtime No. 1 truck make – remains “an ongoing concern,” despite Holden’s demise.
Isuzu NZ has followed up General Motors’ February announcement that it’s all over for the Holden make, by stressing that it’s “business as usual” for its Kiwi truck business.
“It is our intention to continue our current Isuzu distribution agreement, as we believe the current Isuzu sales and aftersales operations in NZ will augment our remaining Holden aftersales network operations,” says Isuzu Trucks NZ.
In announcing the retirement of the Holden make, GM said that “Holden will establish a national aftersales network to support existing customers for at least the next 10 years.”
And in a demonstration of its “business as usual” statement, Isuzu NZ has released details of eight new N-Series light-duty truck models.
The NMR range builds on the N-Series models, which accounted for 7% of Isuzu sales in NZ last year – the Japanese make’s 20th consecutive year as the country’s best-selling truck.
The new models offer some “unique competitive advantages, by providing the right balance in specification of technology and price,” says Isuzu Trucks general manager Dave Ballantyne.
Benefits include an increase in GVM over the current NLR model – now up to 5995kg. That, says Ballantyne, “is perfect for operators in lighter applications, as the truck can still be driven on a Class 1 driver’s licence.”
The NMR’s narrow cab means it’s easier to manoeuvre in applications where access is restricted, “such as around-town delivery and tipper work.”
And there’s a new addition to the range – a three-way tipper-bodied, ready-for-work model, which customers have been requesting, he says.
Car-like features in the new models include electronic vehicle stability control, cruise-control, programmable speed limiter and discbrakes all around.
The models offer the choice of a five-speed manual or six-speed AMT transmission, with torque converter – the AMTs coming with a kickdown switch to trigger a downshift. The torque converter multiplies torque output for faster acceleration from low engine revs.
“It’s an exciting new development for Isuzu Trucks in NZ to be able to introduce a model with this high level of specification into the market.
“We’re confident these new models will further enhance our reputation as the leading supplier of new trucks in the local market…”
T&D