The N-Series range now comprises 13 models with gross vehicle mass (GVM) ranging from 3 500 kg to 8 500 kg. The range includes a number of “niche” models such as crew cabs, a specialised 4 X 4 unit and three models equipped with the all new ‘Smoother’ automated manualshift transmission (AMT). 

It must be emphasised that the latest N-Series trucks are not upgrades of the existing models but are, as Isuzu reiterates, “all new” with new cabs, suspensions and engine and driveline technology. 

For instance, two common rail, electronically-managed, turbointercooled Isuzu diesel engine derivatives lie at the heart of the driveline. 

These engines are the latest generation of SiTEC (Selected Isuzu Technology) engines. One comprises a 3,0 litre capacity producing 96 kW and 330 Nm torque and the other a 5,2 litre producing 110kW and 404Nm torque. 

Speaking at the launch, product planning and engineering manager Anton du Plessis explains that both engines are designed to optimise fuel consumption and reduce exhaust emissions. 

This is achieved in part through ultra-high pressure common rail fuel delivery technology that allows multiple fuel injection control. 

This means that a pilot injection injects fuel slightly advanced from the main injection resulting in low Nitrous Oxides (NOx) emissions and reduced noise levels. The main injection follows the pilot injection for normal combustion to provide high torque. 

Large capacity, cooled Exhaust Gas Re-circulation (EGR) is installed to lower exhaust gas temperature and further reduce NOx emissions. Cooled EGR is a system that cools the unburnt exhaust gas in the cooler and then mixes it with air for more combustion. This avoids injection timing delays and reduces NOx without combustion losses. 

Adding to this, a variable geometry (VGS) turbocharger allows maximum boost at low rpm to avoid ‘turbo lag’ during acceleration. Using a VGS turbo to boost the turbocharged ratio, in combination with common rail ultra-high injection pressure and large-capacity cooled EGR to increase the EGR ratio, has raised in-cylinder pressure as much as possible to improve combustion. 

Isuzu Trucks' proprietary control technology is embedded in the engine control software to optimise control over the fuel injection system and VGS turbocharger. 

Isuzu Trucks claim these engines are ahead of local emission legislation. In terms of exhaust emissions both engines are Euro III compliant. South Africa will be applying Euro II from 2010 for all new trucks sold into the local market. 

Still with engines, under normal operating conditions, engine oil drain intervals have been extended to 15 000 kms on the 3 litre engine and 20 000 kms on the 5,2 litre engine. An oil level switch has been included as standard equipment to assist in detecting any level of engine oil under-fill. 

New box for old 

There is some debate among truck operators and manufacturers concerning the use of automatic and semi-automatic transmissions. 

On the one hand, there is the argument that South African drivers and the local operating conditions do not suit the latest technologies. 

Electronic engine management systems and automatic, computer controlled gearboxes are considered “too soft” to handle the extreme operating conditions. 

Contrary to this there are those who say that, in the right operating conditions, the latest technology offers advantages that should not be passed by. 

Three models in the latest N-Series range have been fitted with the Isuzu AMT systems as standard equipment in line with customer demands. This is the first time automatic shift gearboxes have been fitted into Japanese medium commercial trucks in this country. 

The use of an electro-magnetic, solenoid valve-type gear-shift unit enables both computer-controlled automatic transmission and a “manual” gearbox albeit with a torque convertor in place of a clutch. 

Because the AMT operates without a clutch it means reduced driver fatigue resulting from constant clutch operation in slow-moving traffic. 

Further to this, Isuzu Trucks claim the AMT turns an average driver into a good driver which, given the fact that the HIV/AIDS pandemic has decimated the local driver population resulting in less experienced drivers coming into the field, is a positive development. Eliminating clutch replacement also reduces downtime and total lifetime ownership costs. 

Driver comfort 

A lot of effort has been made on the part of Isuzu to improve the working environment for the driver. The cab dimensions have been extended providing more space and comfort for the driver and crew while the cab doors open up a full 90° thereby improving access. 

Improvements have been made to the aerodynamics while overall tare has been reduced through optimised panel thickness. This means highstrength materials are used in strategic areas where they are most needed and light-weight materials in other areas. 

Safety first 

The new N-Series is well-equipped with multiple active and passive safety features to minimise both the chance of being involved in a road incident and the effects of an accident. From the advanced braking system incorporating ABS and EBD to the crashtested cab, the new N-Series is claimed to be South Africa’s safest medium class truck. 

SEE

Isuzu’s new trucks are designed and manufactured according to the company’s SEE philosophy. SEE is an acronym for safety, economy and environment which represent the three pillars of Isuzu’s technological developments. According to Isuzu, the vehicles’ Safety features are globally advanced. Economy means the vehicles are able to cost-effectively deliver the goods while environmentally the vehicles are reliable, clean running and efficient. 

An example of Isuzu’s commitment to environmental protection has resulted in the interior panels being manufactured from recycled plastic. These parts include the dashboard, door panels, interior trim panels, centre console and exterior trimmings. 

Isuzu Trucks says it is striving towards its parent company’s global vision which states: “As global citizens, we will work to protect the environment through business activities while also actively promoting the community and regional environment protection.” 

It’s all the right stuff and it is FleetWatch’s opinion that in combination with the recent actions to extend its dealer network focussing them purely on trucks, this new range will place Isuzu Trucks on a new platform of growth and success in South Africa. They are doing a lot of things just so right.