New range on the horizon

We are currently road-testing a number of these trucks – imported from Daimler’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in India – with businesses across New Zealand. This is part of a six-month evaluation process to ensure these units meet the exacting demands of Kiwi operators.

The range will perfectly complement our existing Canter, Fighter and HD line-up. With the emphasis on toughness and durability at excellent value, these utilitarian units are built for no frills hard graft in largely short-haul applications – think construction suppliers, cement mixers, tow trucks.

No frills doesn’t mean zero comfort or sub-standard performance, all cabs are ergonomically designed and well-fitted out, while engines, transmissions and drivetrains are the product of proven Fuso and Daimler engineering.

The range will also boast full air brakes with a spring park brake on the rear axle, ABS, power windows, central locking and radios with USB and auxiliary inputs.

“This is about plugging some of the gaps in our existing line-up, attracting new customers to our brand and maybe giving a few of our existing customers further options to complement their existing Fuso fleets,” says Fuso NZ managing director Kurtis Andrews.

“We are undertaking an extensive six-month evaluation programme to ensure all those trucks are up to the particular conditions faced by Kiwi operators every day.”

The new range will sit across the middle of the weight spectrum – currently undergoing testing and evaluation in New Zealand are 10-tonne and 12-tonne units that use technology and drivetrains derived from Fuso Canter; and 16-tonne, 25-tonne, 31-tonne, and 40-tonne units derived from Mercedes-Benz Axor.

All units from the new range will be manufactured at Daimler India Commercial Vehicles’ (DICV) 162ha world-class manufacturing and testing facility in Oragadam, near the city of Chennai, India.

DICV is a wholly owned subsidiary of Daimler AG. Manufacturing standards at the DICV plant are right up in line with Daimler’s global standard of excellence.

“We are really excited about this latest development to our line-up,” said Kurtis. “This is all about broadening our offering and delivering great value, backed by a trusted Fuso warranty.”