Why Isuzu is number one, five years in a row
For the past five years, Isuzu has remained the country’s leading retailer of cab-over, forward-control, mediumand heavy-duty vehicles.
One of the reasons for its success is the company’s policy of making ongoing improvements to its product range.
The latest improvements have been designed to ensure that the brand remains popular amongst all transport sectors, said Robert Bezuidenhout, Managing Director of the Provincial Motors Group.
‘Our customers expect payload productivity and superior cost-per-kilometre (CPK).
‘To this end, we’ve engineered our latest trucks to carry a little more weight than their predecessors, while remaining within the appropriate weight classes (GVM) and without compromising safety,’ Bezuidenhout noted.
Improved capacities
The latest FTR850, for example, now offers an increase on GVM from 15 tons to 15.5 tons.
Other models, such as the FVM, have increased GVM from 22 to 24 tons, while FVZ models have been boosted from 24 to 25.1 tons.
The increases mean improved efficiencies for transporters when it comes to carrying capacity – especially on trucks with custom bodies and accessories.
‘Every ton counts and we ensure that our customers are getting the best capacities from trucks regardless of the models they prefer,’ said Bezuidenhout.
The improvements in carrying capacity haven’t resulted in a compromise in safety.
‘All of our trucks sold in SA are fitted with class-leading ABS break systems. Our trucks are so superior when it comes to braking that they remain very popular in road-legal bus form,’ added Bezuidenhout.
In keeping with local legislation, all trucks are also fitted with electronic speed limiters. Isuzu SA is also working on many other improvements, which should increase comfort, reliability and efficiency.
Tailor-made trucks
These improvements go hand-in-hand with the fact that Isuzu can now offer its clients tailor-made trucks.
‘We recently acquired Kanu and ACT,’ said Bezuidenhout, ‘and both companies are leaders in body and chassis customizing.
‘Accordingly, we can completely tailormake a truck for the client’s precise logistical requirements,’ Bezuidenhout explained.
Naturally Isuzu SA also provides clients with comprehensive service plans, maintenance plans, best value parts and Isuzu truck drive trains.
Looking to the future
Isuzu in SA is satisfied that its current range meets and exceeds clients’ requirements.
But that doesn’t mean Isuzu is resting on its laurels.
‘We are testing a CNG truck as well as a diesel-hybrid electric model for the SA market.
‘The aim is to assess the suitability and viability of these products,’ Bezuidenhout revealed.
He concluded by saying that Isuzu clients expect quality and reliability from their vehicles.
‘They also expect a solid return on their investment, which means that the improvements we make are to ensure a reduced CPK and improve the lifecycle of the truck.
‘We are confident that our latest range is solidly built for success.’