Story & photos by Randy S. Peregrino
FOR over a decade, Isuzu Philippines Corp. (IPC) has always been keen on showcasing its full truck lineup to the public. But, this year, it went beyond expectations by presenting movers, which are deemed as the future of hauling and transport.
The recently concluded 2017 Isuzu Truck Fest held in SMX Convention Center in Pasay City further attested the company’s core values when it comes to its product’s dependability, durability and reliability. Exhibited were myriad of body applications—collaborating with its longtime body builder partners—designed to promote better safety features with ease of operation and an interesting alternative to an aging means of public transport.
“In this year’s Isuzu Truck Fest, we will not only showcase our top-quality trucks in their various body applications, we will go a step further by featuring their many uses through our creative display,” IPC President Hajime Koso said. Retaining the top spot in terms of unit sales for the last 17 years, IPC sustained its sales growth by 13 percent from both trucks and buses over the recent years. From 2016 alone, sales even soared up to 36 percent with 6,079 total units sold (combined trucks and buses). “The key to our success is not on the sale of our trucks, it’s on the full service that comes with every purchase. With every truck purchase, we provide product orientations, driver’s training and even a professional analysis on fuel consumption and actual vehicle operation,” Koso explained. “A truck is probably one of the most valued investments for a company, which is why, aside from providing quality products, Isuzu guarantees availability of parts and reliable service,” he added.
The new Vario Pro Flexi-truck
It may be the smallest in the lineup but it offers big in terms of versatility. The presented NHR55 Flexi-truck 10×10 is now fitted with rear body, which can accommodate up to 10 passengers. Its long bench-type seats are not only there to provide enough room for occupants but can also transform into a huge cargo bay when folded. One of IPC’s trusted body builders, Kyoei Kogyo Philippines Corp. (KPC), utilized an open-baked primer process and Electro Deposition painting, which works better on steel surface by way of even layers of paint coating for ultimate sealing. This promotes durability and, likewise, ensures the frame’s integrity in the long run. Powering this truck is the ever-reliable 4JB1-TC 2.8-liter, four-cylinder, turbocharged and intercooled, diesel mill. It delivers 90 hp at 3,400 rpm with 196 N-m of maximum torque at 2,000 rpm.
The future of mass transport
Considered as one of the most remarkable previews was the NHR55 Centro Jeepney Concept prototype unit. Isuzu Philippine Corp. (IPC), together with its long-time partner and body builder, Centro Manufacturing Corporation, came up with this interesting project design to serve as an alternative to the widely utilized mass transit system. Since the current administration is determined to phase out public transports of 15 years and older, IPC is looking at this as a preparation to address the substantial requirements. “When the time comes, we have to be ready with the alternative. So, we are also working with several body builders on this project,” said IPC Division Manager Joseph Bautista.
Utilizing a van-type frame, the benches are similarly configured as with the present Jeepney. The ingress/egress section, however, was positioned to the left flank like a bus. And with wider dimensions and a higher roofline, the concept design guarantees absolute convenience for commuters. Aside from the reliable safety elements, the standard 4JB1-TC powertrain also complies with the EURO4 emission standard. This means that it’s a potent, fuel-efficient and environment-friendly turbodiesel engine.
The groundbreaking G-Cargo
Putting the hauling business to a whole new level is IPC’s latest FVM34 with Fruehaf wing-type container. The aluminum drop-down sides along with the automatic and vertically lifted roof/side covers provide a huge platform with a wide opening, which makes loading and unloading of cargo stress-free. And to make it even more secured, those wing-type covers are also equipped with an ignition safety switch. When opened and during hauling, it prevents the engine from firing up. In fact, to demonstrate its wide-ranging functionalities, IPC commissioned the same unit, which served as the main stage during the event. Propelled by the powerful 6HK1-TCN engine (7.8 liter, six-cylinder, turbocharged and intercooled, diesel fed), it generates 237 hp at 2,400 with 706 N-m of maximum torque beginning at 1,450 rpm and coupled to a six-speed manual gearbox.
Meanwhile other attractions were the two NPR with aluminum container and drop side, NHR iVAN body, NQR Garbage Compactor. As for the medium- to heavy-duty segment, the FVM with crane greeted the guest at the entrance while the two heavyweights—CYZ51 dump truck and EXZ51 tractor head—were setup near the stage. Other body builders present during the event were Almazora, KPC, Multilift, Transbilt, Versatemp, Red Dragon, CoolAire and JVF Commercial. Registered customers were also treated with a free dashboard camera and P10,000 worth of fuel card for every closed transaction until June 30, 2017.
“For Isuzu, there is nothing more valuable than the trust we get from our customers, it is for this reason, that we continue to provide excellent products and service that best suit the demands of the market” Koso concluded.
Image credits: Randy S. Peregrino