AUSTRALIA’S TOP SELLING TRUCK BRAND SINCE 1989 - T-mark 2015

EDITION 3 2016

A CENTURY ON AND STILL TRUCKINGSTRENGTH-TO-STRENGTH WITH ALL NEW N SERIESAUSTRALIA’S TWO-PEDAL LETHARGYISUZU THE ‘WHOLE PACKAGE’ FOR CONSTRUCTION SPECIALISTS

THE WHOLE PACKAGE

A s a Melbournite, I’m probably a tad more excited than most at the long-awaited arrival of spring. The warmer weather is finally upon us, spirits are up and it’s certainly an exciting time to be involved with Isuzu Trucks!

As we move deeper into the second half of 2016, we have all new product on showroom floors in the shape of the new 2016 N Series with its Third Generation Torque Convertor AMT (TC-AMT) and a ‘P’ for park shifter.

It’s the latest embodiment of a light-duty offering that’s constantly improving and evolving to meet the needs of our customers.

In fact, the addition of enhanced transmission technology is in lock-step with a global trend towards two-pedal operation in both the passenger car and truck markets. When you consider too, some of the seismic shifts underway in global logistics and freight movement, the new Isuzu N Series comes sharply into focus as Australia’s premiere light-duty offering.

To explore the reasons why, we recently hosted Australia’s truck media in Melbourne for an all-inclusive test in operational conditions. Truck Power was along for the ride and you can catch all the action in this edition’s comprehensive print and video program coverage. I’d like to take this opportunity to congratulate Isuzu’s Andrew Harbison and Les Spaltman, who have both been promoted within the business. You can catch the full story on page 8.

In further exploring the global two-pedal trend, Isuzu’s Director and Chief Operating Officer, Phil Taylor, weighs-in with an interesting take on the correlation between two-pedal transmissions and Australia’s transport industry labour shortage.

And as always, this edition takes in a range of thought-provoking Isuzu application features from across Australia.

Our cover story looks at an Australian business that has been leading the way in building and construction machinery and materials for more than 75 years. Having expanded right across the country, Tutt Bryant’s Isuzu fleet are now a common sight on worksites and loading yards all over Australia.

In a Truck Power exclusive, we also ride shotgun with the crew at DownerMouchel who deliver asset management and network operations across a great swathe of WA’s road network.

We’ve also prepared a feature story on our Truck of the Year Grand Prize winners from 2015, Gold Coast-based Goss Brothers Transport. Goss Bros, as they’re known, were selected as the overall winners of our popular competition and sport an impressive fleet of Isuzus from across the weight ranges.

As you can see, there’s a huge amount to get through in this latest edition, so happy reading and wishing you all a safe and enjoyable festive season!

Jeff Birdseye Advertising Manager

3 News 6 New Product11 Comment25 Parts26 Truck of the Year28 Dealer Network

A CENTURY ON AND STILL TRUCKINGIsuzu Motors Japan celebrates a staggering 100 years of operation in 2016. Truck Power takes a look at the history of one of the world’s most celebrated automotive brands.

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STRENGTH-TO-STRENGTH WITH ALL NEW N SERIESAustralia’s most popular light-duty truck just got even better with an all-new transmission option in the shape of Isuzu’s Third Generation Torque Convertor Automated Manual Transmission (TC-AMT).

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AUSTRALIA’S TWO-PEDAL LETHARGYDespite an illusion of relative calm, Australia’s road transport industry is undergoing a seismic operational shift, one it’s been underprepared for, according to Isuzu Australia Limited’s Director and Chief Operating Officer, Phil Taylor.

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ISUZU THE ‘WHOLE PACKAGE’ FOR CONSTRUCTION SPECIALISTSWith close to 80 years of experience supplying construction equipment to Australian worksites, it’s fair to say Tutt Bryant is pretty well-versed on their capital equipment.

Connect with us on:Facebook https://www.facebook.com/IsuzuAustralia

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Editor: Jeff Birdseye – Advertising Manager, Isuzu Australia Limited. Hiroshi Nishizaka – Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Isuzu Australia Limited. Phil Taylor – Director and Chief Operating Officer, Isuzu Australia Limited.

Editorial and Design: Arkajon.

Contact Truck Power: Arkajon Communications Pty Ltd, PO Box 7242, Melbourne, Victoria, 3004. Phone: 03 9867 5611 Fax: 03 9867 5711 Email: truckpower@arkajon.com.au

Disclaimer: All material in this magazine is copyright and may not be reproduced in any format without the written permission of the editor. No responsibility is accepted for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or transparencies. All statements made, although based on information believed to be reliable and accurate cannot be guaranteed and no fault or liability can be accepted for error or omission. Articles in this magazine are published as a service to Isuzu owners and should not be substituted for specific advice. Products featured in Truck Power are for reference only and are not, in any way, explicitly or implicitly, endorsed by Isuzu Australia Limited.

Welcome to another edition of Truck Power!

NEWS

In the hyper-competitive world of automotive manufacturing, longevity and dependability are becoming increasingly rare commodities. Bucking that trend, Isuzu Motors Japan celebrates a staggering 100 years of operation in 2016. Truck Power takes a look at the history of one of the world’s most celebrated automotive brands.

A CENTURY ON AND STILL TRUCKING

“The model shapes and names may have changed but Isuzu’s

commitment to quality has endured.”

Isuzu Japan marks 100 years in business this year and Isuzu Australia Limited (IAL) has toasted the occasion by posting some of its best sales figures since 2008.

Isuzu was founded in 1916, when a Tokyo shipbuilding company and an energy producer came together with the shared vision of building quality Japanese vehicles.

In 1924, this company – then known as Ishikawajima – completed the first Japanese-built Wolseley CP 1.5-tonne payload truck, which was eventually commissioned as an official military truck by the Japanese government.

The 1930s saw a huge upswing in domestic demand for automobiles and in 1933 Ishikawajima responded by launching the ‘Isuzu’, a government standard model car, which derived its name from a sacred river that flows through Mie Prefecture.

In 1936 the company took the first of many bold steps in engineering innovation, developing two air-cooled diesel engine models, the DA6 and the DA4.

Isuzu trucks played a major role in Japan’s post-World War II reconstruction, hauling materials, products and foodstuffs to meet the fevered industrial uptake of the time.

It was during this boom period that Isikawajima became Isuzu Motors Limited, taking the name from its successful car model and in the same act creating a new synonym for automotive reliability.

THE ELF IS BORNIn 1959, Isuzu introduced the ELF, a light-duty

truck that was an instant market leader in Japan and would be the first incarnation of the ever-popular N Series which continues to dominate the Australian market today.

Isuzu has gone on to supply trucks and diesel engines all around the globe – even supplying engines to both Australian and Japanese South Pole research facilities in Antarctica.

In 2015, the company passed the incredible landmark of 25 million diesel engines manufactured worldwide.

The model shapes and names may have changed but Isuzu’s commitment to quality has endured.

As Isuzu Japan chalks up 100 years, Isuzu Australia reflects on the milestones that have led to the brand’s preeminent position in the local truck market and 28 years of consecutive market leadership.

“For almost three decades, IAL has led the market through balancing innovation with a steadfast commitment to develop the best possible products for the Australian environment,” said Phil Taylor, IAL Director and Chief Operating Officer.

Isuzu trucks were first imported into Australia by General Motors Holden in 1972.

THE LEGENDARY SBR 422The reputation for quality translated well and the SBR 422 model – a light-duty, hard-wearing workhorse – proved a particular favourite following its entry to market in 1979.

“The SBR was diesel powered – while many other trucks were still using petrol – and it was

renowned for starting up at every turn of the key, regardless of what extreme conditions it was up against,” Mr Taylor said.

This industriousness was reinforced by subsequent models with the launch of the N Series in 1984 and the F series two years later.

IAL bolstered its heavy-duty offering in 2000, with the launch of the Giga, then broadened this position by releasing the game-changing twin-steer FY Series in 2012.

Throughout this period, IAL has followed the roadmap to success first drafted by Isuzu Japan, tailoring the products where needed to suit the unique demands of tough Australian industries.

2016 has proved an auspicious year for the brand, with IAL posting some of its best sales figures since 2008.

“These results validate the hard work of the entire Isuzu team and provide a great incentive as we strive to continue to enhance and provide the most comprehensive road-transport solutions for our customers.”

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NEWS

NEW N SERIES ON-POINT IN MELBOURNE TEST

WATCH THE VIDEO! Scan the QR code with your smart phone or tablet to find out more.

HOW TO SCAN Use the QR barcode reader on your device to scan and learn more. Your device may already have a reader app installed, if not, visit your app store. If you don’t have a smart phone or tablet, got to youtube.com/isuzuaustralia

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NEWS

The latest incarnation of Australia’s most popular light-duty truck was taken through its paces across Melbourne recently, with the media pack full of praise for Isuzu’s new torque convertor AMT.

The most respected names in Australian truck journalism recently took part in the first media test drive of the newly updated 2016 N Series line-up.

Isuzu Australia Limited (IAL) have brought the latest in Japanese technology to the Australian light-duty truck market, with a suite of updates to the nation’s most popular truck range.

Those updates were headlined by the introduction of Isuzu’s new Third Generation TC-AMT with a parking pawl under the skin and a ‘P’ for park shifter inside the cab.

Departing from IAL head office in Port Melbourne, a seven-stage test route was carefully selected to demonstrate the car-like feel and improved drive performance of the updated Isuzu N Series range in real-world working conditions.

Nine journalists from across the country had an opportunity to test a total of seven new N Series models throughout Melbourne’s bustling CBD and scenic Port Phillip Bay. The variety of environments, from inner-city to open highway driving, allowed for a balanced review of the vehicles and their capabilities under load.

The updated models on the drive program included variants of the NNR, NPR, NPS ranges and the award winning NLR Servicepack, with each model loaded to 80 per cent GVM, simulating a real-world application, pick-up and delivery scenario.

IAL Chief Operating Officer and Director, Phil Taylor, said the media drive programs were an essential fixture in the Isuzu calendar to solicit an expert independent perspective on Isuzu product.

“We’re incredibly proud of the updates to the N Series, and felt that the changes to the transmission in particular, were extremely important to communicate to the media,” he said.

“It’s these media reviews that potential and return customers will take into consideration when buying a new truck or replacing an ageing one, so we want to be safe in the knowledge we’ve provided the best possible opportunity for the features and benefits of these trucks to be properly showcased.

“Being able to point customers to these glowing independent reviews is a genuine benefit to dealers across the network, and one of the reasons these drive programs have long been a staple in the IAL calendar.”

According to Director, Sales and Marketing, Andrew Harbison, as technology continues to develop and evolve, Isuzu products must harness and capitalise on the outcomes of this process.

“We’ve reviewed the market carefully and put together a raft of updates to better suit our customers and their local application needs, ensuring the N Series is a top priority on any potential buyer’s hit list.”

THE TRUCKS

MODEL BODY GVM | POWER | TORQUE

NLR 45-150 AMT MWB PANTECH/ TAILGATE 4.5 T | 150 PS | 375/1,600-2,800

NLR 45-150 MWB PANTECH/ TAILGATE 4.5 T | 150 PS | 375/1,600-2,800

NNR 45-150 MWB PANTECH/ TAILGATE 4.5 T | 150 PS | 375/1,600-2,800

NNR 45-150 AMT MWB PANTECH/ TAILGATE 4.5 T | 150 PS | 375/1,600-2,800

NNR 65-150 AMT MWB PANTECH/ TAILGATE 6.5 T | 150 PS | 375/1,600

NQR 80-190 TRAY 8.0 T | 190 PS | 513/1,600-2,600

NLS 45-150 AWD CREW SERVICEPACK 4.5 T | 150 PS | 375/1,600-2,800

NEW N SERIES ON-POINT IN MELBOURNE TEST

“We’ve reviewed the market carefully and put together a raft of updates to better suit

our customers and their local application needs…”

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Australia’s most popular light-duty truck just got even better with an all-new transmission option in the shape of Isuzu’s Third Generation Torque Convertor Automated Manual Transmission (TC-AMT).

STRENGTH-TO-STRENGTH WITH ALL NEW N SERIES

Australia has earned its “lucky country” moniker once again – selected among the first markets in the world to benefit from a suite of updates to the nation’s

favourite light-duty truck range, the Isuzu N Series.

The updates include the introduction of superior technology in the form of the 3rd generation Torque Converter Automated Manual Transmission, and the broader availability of the AMT across the range.

There are also six new model variants joining the ranks of the intelligent light-duty range, including the NNR 65-150 MWB and the NNR 65-150 AMT MWB.

UNDER THE SKINThe latest Isuzu N Series embraces the broader industry trend towards high performance, low displacement engines, with the three litre (150 PS) 4JJ1 now powering models up to 6.5 tonnes GVM.

It concludes the adoption of Isuzu Electronic Stability Control (IESC) across the 4x2 light-duty range, with the NQR now boasting this proven safety technology, making it the first Isuzu NQR in the world to receive the IESC specification.

IESC is now standard across the on-road N Series range, accompanying a swathe of complementary preventative safety aids such as: Anti-lock braking, Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Anti-Slip Regulator and Hill Assist (non-AMT models).

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NEW PRODUCT

NEXT GENERATION TRUCKINGThe N Series continues Isuzu’s tradition of bringing the best in Japanese technology to the Australian market, through the introduction of the TC-AMT to all models with the 4JJ1 engine.

The transmission’s balance of torque and its user-friendly operation means it truly offers the best of both worlds.

“With the new TC-AMT, customers will benefit from the shift quality and launch feeling of a full auto, with the added fuel economy benefits of a well-driven manual,” Isuzu Australia Limited Chief Engineer, Product Strategy, Simon Humphries said.

“This transmission is the result of benchmark testing in Australia, with shift timing and logic designed to suit Australian driving conditions and styles, including roundabouts.”

The TC-AMT provides a torque multiplication factor of 1.55 times, leading to improved response from a standing start and a smoother overall drive.

And the gear ratio gap between 2nd and 3rd gear has been reduced from previous models, resulting in improved fuel economy as high engine speeds are not required between these gears, while the speed range for 3rd gear has been expanded.

Mr Humphries said the TC-AMT also offers better acceleration at lower speeds, making it ideal for drivers who regularly deal with stop-start traffic or high idle time.

TWO PEDALS RISINGThe introduction of Isuzu’s greatest ever AMT comes at the perfect time, coinciding with a watershed moment in Australian trucking.

Latest figures from IAL show that sales of two pedal trucks have finally surpassed their three pedal counterparts’ traditional dominance of Australia’s light and medium-duty markets.

“Advanced markets in the U.S. and Europe are

already streets ahead in their adoption of two-pedal trucks, but Australia is catching up as market demand steers towards a more car-like drive in commercial vehicles,” said Phil Taylor, IAL Director and Chief Operating Officer.

Trucks up to 4.5 tonnes Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) can be driven on a car licence and, as such, have been a popular choice for rental companies, owner operators, seasonal organisations and other employers seeking to widen their employee pool.

“Australia has overwhelmingly embraced two pedal transmissions in cars, and the reasons our customers choose two pedals for their private vehicles – ease of use, comfort and fuel economy – become even more compelling when applied to their business and their trucks,” Mr Taylor said.

MADE FOR AUSTRALIAThe N Series updates include modifications developed specifically for Australian conditions and requirements, such as a kick-down feature that comes into play when the accelerator is pressed beyond a detent, allowing for swifter and safer roundabout entry and exiting.

The detent allows the driver to push down on the accelerator pedal beyond a set threshold. The mechanism then allows the driver to decide whether to press down on the accelerator pedal beyond that threshold, engaging a gear change and achieving full stroke and increased speed.

The TC-AMT also features a P-position shift lever, which engages a new, substantial park pawl and gear at the rear of the transmission with the capacity to hold a fully laden truck when parked on a reasonable slope.

Mr Taylor and Mr Humphries believe these developments – and the N Series’ overall comfort, responsiveness and user-friendliness – provide the “car-like” drive that customers are now demanding in a light-duty truck.

“With the new TC-AMT, customers will benefit

from the shift quality and launch feeling of a full

auto, with the added fuel economy benefits of a well-driven manual.”

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NEW PRODUCT

Isuzu Australia Limited (IAL) was proud to again be naming and major sponsor in conjunction with Brisbane Isuzu, of the Isuzu Queensland Open golf tournament for the fourth consecutive year.

The 91st annual Isuzu Queensland Open was played out from October 20-23, at the iconic Brisbane Golf Club, one of the most historic venues on the PGA Tour of Australasia.

Victorian amateur, Brett Coletta, was all class on and off the course as he became the first amateur since Stuart Appleby in 1991 to win the Isuzu Queensland Open.

He closed with an even-par 70 at The Brisbane Golf Club to finish at seven-under and prevailed by three strokes over rookie pro Lucas Herbert (69) who staged a spirited challenge to move within a stroke of Coletta late in the final round.

“It’s fantastic to see the stature of the competition growing year to year, and continuing as a genuine career pathway for the sport’s rising stars,” IAL’s Jeff Birdseye said.

See more at: http://www.qldopen.com.au/

2016 ISUZU OPEN A SUCCESS

A ustralia’s truck market leader is excited to announce the appointment of Andrew Harbison (pictured top right) to the position of Isuzu Australia Limited (IAL) Director, Sales and Marketing.

Andrew takes a well-earned step-up within the organisation following 11 years of service. For the last three years Andrew has been the National Sales Manager.

As Isuzu Trucks marches toward 28 consecutive years of market leadership here in Australia, it’s been Andrew’s business experience and knowledge that has contributed heavily to maintaining that mantle in recent times.

As a result of the restructure, former National Fleet Manager, Les Spaltman (top left), has been appointed to the role of National Sales Manager.

IAL Director and Chief Operating Officer, Phil Taylor, said the management change represented an exciting time for the organisation, and was symbolic of a shifting business landscape.

“This change in management approach is strategic, and one we’ve been working toward for some time,” he said.

“Whilst Isuzu enjoys market leader status, and has done for many years, competition is increasing, not only in terms of the numbers of manufacturers

vying for Australian business, but also in respect to the level of sales and marketing sophistication.

“Andrew’s appointment represents IAL’s response to some of those challenges, and he comes to the role with the right mix of qualifications, experience and business savvy to continue to grow our operations.”

Andrew Harbison began at IAL in early 2005 in the role of Queensland Zone Manager, and before joining Isuzu, held the position of District Sales Manager for Holden in Queensland.

He has also worked with Auto One Australia and has over a decade’s experience with Beaurepaires and Dunlop in both the retail and wholesale operations.

Mr Harbison said he looked forward to meeting the challenges the new position would hold.

“I’m extremely excited about the opportunities this appointment presents, not only at an organisational level, but on a personal level too.

“This role exposes me to some fascinating aspects of IAL’s operations, so I’m genuinely thrilled to be able to build on and maximise opportunities for the brand.

“A huge focus for me will be continuing to provide our customers with the very best ownership experience possible, and of course, our dealer network will play a vital role in achieving this.”

Australia’s most trusted truck brand has undergone a management restructure in a bid to continue evolving in-step with an ultra-competitive business environment.

IAL ANNOUNCES NEW MANAGEMENT DIRECTION

“This change in management approach is strategic, and one we’ve been working

towards for some time…”

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NEWS

Craig Marquis, Customer Care Specialist at South Australia’s North East Isuzu, has won the prestigious Isuzu Care Award announced recently.

The award recognises the Customer Care Specialists (CCS) at Isuzu Truck dealerships Australia-wide who deliver benchmark service and demonstrate the unwavering reliability that has become synonymous with the Isuzu name.

Isuzu Australia Limited (IAL) Director, Sales and Marketing, Andrew Harbison, said Craig’s ‘can-do’ attitude and leadership skills have made him an indispensable member of the Adelaide-based North East Isuzu dealership team.

“In the short time that Craig has been in the CCS role he has received plenty of praise from both IAL (Isuzu Australia Limited) staff and his dealership peers,” Mr Harbison said.

“Craig sets high standards for himself and the team, and continually puts his customers first.”

The Isuzu Care program has been running for over 10 years, providing an after sales service that offers everything from 24-hour roadside assist through to stress-free servicing agreements.

For more information visit: www.isuzu.com.au/care-support/about-isuzu-care/

AFTERSALES GONG HEADS SOUTH

IAL has wrapped-up another strong showing at the 2016 Australasian Fire and Emergency Services Authorities Council (AFAC) conference and exhibition.

This year’s event in Brisbane saw Isuzu Trucks join forces with the Isuzu Engines team to deliver the largest and most comprehensive exhibit to date.

Taking pride of place on the Brisbane stand this year was Isuzu’s landmark prototype FTS 139-260 4x4, armed with a four cylinder, direct injection 4LE2PW10 water-cooled ancillary engine and coupled with a GAAM MK 300 pump-set.

Generating plenty of interest in Brisbane, the prototype is the outcome of a unique collaboration with industry leaders, Bell Environmental, which specialise in emergency services safety equipment and custom engineered solutions.

IAL’s Engines Manager, Dean Whitford, said working with Bell on the FTS project was an excellent learning experience and continues to position Isuzu’s off-highway offering favourably within the emergency sector.

“Our association with Bell Environmental on this project is the result of a lot of hard work behind the scenes in continuing to shine a light on exactly

what our product range is capable of,” Mr Whitford said.

“The annual AFAC event and exhibit is arguably the most important date on our calendar in terms of showcasing the range, and we’ve seen a solid take-up across this sector in recent times. It’s been really encouraging to see.”

Isuzu’s FTS 139-260 4x4 Crew has enjoyed an illustrious history as a proven firefighting platform, but the prototype vehicle took on a slightly different shape at AFAC, sporting a custom-built safety cabin with rear access that’s able to withstand a roll or burn-over.

The AFAC display FTS 4x4 was also equipped with a compressed air foam system (CAFs), the second Isuzu prototype vehicle to feature this cutting-edge fire suppression technology.

ISUZU FIRE PROTOTYPE WOWS AFAC CROWD

“Our association with Bell Environmental on this project is the result of a lot of hard work

behind the scenes in continuing to shine a light on exactly what

our product range is capable of.”

It’s the largest gathering of emergency services personnel, suppliers and stakeholders in the country, and Isuzu’s presence at this year’s AFAC event in Brisbane was bigger and better than ever.

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NEWS

The Isuzu Australia Limited (IAL) team finished in second place at the 2016 Isuzu World Technical Competition held last night in Tokyo, Japan.

Now in its eleventh year, the annual competition – fondly referred to as the ‘I-1 Grand Prix’ – sees Isuzu truck technicians from around the world compete head-to-head in a series of challenges including measurement accuracy, vehicle inspection standards, fault identification, repair ability and theoretical understanding.

The Australian team overcame teams from eight other Isuzu distributor nations to take out second place behind favourites Japan, with Hong Kong coming in third.

Coached by IAL Service Manager, Victoria and Tasmania, Mr Jason Leckie, the Aussie line-up included Gold Coast Isuzu’s Matthew Kempnich and Victorian-based Ty Jenkins from Westar Trucks in Campbellfield.

IAL National Training Manager, David Smith, said this year’s team was selected from a gifted pool of technicians within Australia’s market-leading Isuzu Truck Dealer Network.

“IAL has enjoyed a lot of success over the past few years, winning the ‘I-1’ in 2011 and finishing second in both 2013 and 2014, and these boys worked hard to get back onto the winners’ podium this year.”

SILVER MEDAL FOR ISUZU TECHNICIANS

WEBSTER TRUCKS BRINGS OPERATIONS UNDER ONE ROOF

Webster Trucks in Hobart have dominated trucks sales across the Apple Isle for some time, and now their hugely impressive sales team have an equally impressive, dedicated sales space.

The customer experience at Webster Trucks in Tasmania just got a whole lot better with the opening of their new purpose-built, stand-alone Isuzu sales facility.

The new showroom located at Derwent Park, Hobart took 18 months to complete from concept to commission and has been designed with the customer firmly in mind.

Bruce Davey, Dealer Principal of Webster Trucks said the goal of the new venue was to provide the best possible service at every stage of the sales cycle.

“From its official opening in July, feedback has been extremely positive.

“In the previous facility the sales management and administration sections were shared with the passenger car service department, which made business management a bit awkward for us.

Further, the sales operations also operated from a separate location – a less than ideal set-up for sales staff.

“Bringing all Isuzu Truck sales functions together under the one roof was the key motivation for the change,” he said.

“The new showroom conveys a more positive and professional image, but it’s ultimately the staff and business culture that influence whether a customer returns,” Bruce said.

The current site at Derwent Park is a multi-franchise dealership site providing sales and service capabilities for Isuzu and a number of other major truck brands.

Cameron Smith, Webster Trucks State Sales Manager for Isuzu Trucks says the improved brand presence cannot be underestimated.

“Not only is this new facility a great advertisement for Isuzu Trucks, it is a great morale booster for the entire Isuzu sales team.”

“The new showroom conveys a more positive and professional image, but it’s ultimately the staff and business

culture that influence whether a customer returns.”

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AUSTRALIA’S TWO-PEDAL LETHARGYThe road transport fraternity has long battled a shortage in the labour market here in Australia, with the contributing factors being both complex and sometimes emotive. One part of the solution originating from manufacturers like Isuzu is ensuring their end products are ‘accessible’ in every way. From drivability to licencing, truck makers have a role to play.

Despite an illusion of relative calm, Australia’s road transport industry is undergoing a seismic operational shift, one it’s been underprepared for,

according to Isuzu Australia Limited’s Director and Chief Operating Officer, Phil Taylor.

Mr Taylor believes the historic lethargy in Australia’s take-up of two-pedal operated trucks has contributed to a stifling labour shortfall within the industry. And the statistics are as surprising as they are daunting.

NEEDS AND SOLUTIONSAustralia’s freight task is set to triple by 2050, a prediction that is generating a voracious thirst for a stable and flexible driver workforce.

“I get the same shocked reaction every time I talk to people outside the transport industry about Australia’s freight task projections, and to be honest, their reactions are warranted,” Mr Taylor said.

“Short-haul metro freight is showing a particularly dramatic increase. It already stands at 28 per cent of the total national freight task, so it’s not over-stating things to suggest that we, as manufacturers and as an industry, have a genuine battle on our hands to meet growing demand.”

Mr Taylor suggests that we must continue to match needs with solutions, and one simple option is the phase-out of the clutch pedal at the lighter end of the market – an adjustment which will drastically lengthen the list of potential employees for Australian businesses.

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COMM

ENT

“We must ensure that driving trucks is a genuine and secure job path for prospective employees and employers…part of that journey starts

with the product and its applicability to the end user.”

“We’ve witnessed, and indeed reacted to, the two-pedal trend as it’s swept across Australia’s automotive markets, but unlike the Americans and Europeans, it’s taken far too long for Australia to adjust.” Mr Taylor said.

STATE OF PLAYWhilst there’s a clear need to adapt to growth, statistics nonetheless lend weight to the buoyant state of the broader industry, with annual employment growth recorded at over 14 per cent in late 2015. Total employment in road transport stands at over 185,000 people and the industry generated just under $52 billion dollars over 2014-15.

CONTRIBUTING FACTORSThere are numerous factors feeding into the growth of the light-duty, two-pedal market, one example being the ever-developing online shopping sector.

A recent NAB Sales Index Report reveals year-on-year growth in the burgeoning online shopping sector of 13.5 per cent, with a current value of $20.1 billion dollars per annum.

“Consumers are highly informed and they demand immediacy in their transactions. The simple fact is, this shift in consumer behaviour brings with it a critical need for easy to operate light trucks and more drivers to operate them,” Mr Taylor said.

Mr Taylor said it was figures like these that reinforce the need for a re-think of what type of vehicles and labour force are undertaking that ‘last mile’ urban delivery task. In reflecting on the state of the light-duty segment, the numbers prove there’s been some response to demand.

“There’s been very strong growth in the light truck segment in recent times. The segment has shown the strongest growth in the last couple of years, jumping to over 12,000 registrations in 2015.”

Drilling deeper into the stats, Mr Taylor said Truck Industry Council (TIC) figures reveal that just over 55 per cent of light-duty trucks sales year to date have been of the two pedal variety.

“This is up over seven per cent of last year’s figure and up 16 per cent on 2013 two pedal sales,” he said.

“These TIC numbers prove we’re on the right track, but whilst the numbers are good, there’s a raft of other factors, Mr Taylor suggests, that highlight the need for even more two-pedal light trucks, and more drivers to operate them.”

THE TASKWhilst the segment is developing well, research shows it is light trucks that are performing the key role in moving freight in our urban environments.

A recent AustRoads survey found that light commercial vehicles (including vans, utes and light trucks) made up 20 per cent of all vehicle types on our roads. And, of that 20 per cent, light trucks accounted for only three per cent in the four Australian cities surveyed.

Strikingly, for such a modest percentage of the total road traffic, the survey demonstrated that light trucks are almost singlehandedly performing the lion’s share (77.3 per cent) of the urban freight task.

“This demonstrates very clearly the task at hand, and the need for a sharper focus for manufacturers on ‘ease of use’ and overall ‘accessibility’ when it comes to product development,” Mr Taylor said.

“Whilst Australia has slowly cottoned-on to the two-pedal trend, we have a way to go before we see the sort of take-up rate that we need to ensure industry labour demands are met.

“We must ensure that driving trucks is a genuine and secure career path for prospective employees and employers, and part of that journey starts with the product and its applicability to the end user.

“There’s a patchwork of other issues feeding into Australia’s driver shortage, but without some considered thought at this base level, we’re doomed to be forever reactionary.”

AT A GLANCEAustralia’s freight task set to triple by 2050

Short-haul metro freight 28 per cent of total national freight

Road transport total employment: 185,000 and the industry generated just under

$52 billion dollars over 2014-15

55 per cent of light-duty trucks sales year-to-date

have been two-pedal

Light commercial vehicles make up 20 per cent of vehicles

on our roads – 3 per cent are light trucks

Light trucks performing a huge 77.3 per cent of the

domestic urban freight task

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ENT

ISUZU THE ‘WHOLE PACKAGE’ FOR CONSTRUCTION ICONSWith close to 80 years of experience supplying construction equipment to Australian worksites, it’s fair to say Tutt Bryant is pretty well-versed on their capital equipment. And that goes a long way to explaining why the iconic Isuzu badge features so heavily in Tutt Bryant loading depots and docks across the country.

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Construction work takes its toll on everything – from the equipment, to the tradies themselves – and only the industry’s best stand the test of time.

For over 75 years, Tutt Bryant has weathered the trials and made a real contribution to the growth of Australia’s construction industry.

From humble beginnings back in 1938, they’ve risen to become one of Australia’s largest crane, construction equipment hire and equipment distribution companies, with over 400 staff operating Australia-wide.

Tutt Bryant’s general hire division provides some of the nation’s biggest contractors with plant and equipment hire for earthmoving, civil construction, rail maintenance, and mining.

Tutt Bryant Fleet Maintenance Manager, Mick Collier, oversees all purchasing for the hire fleet in the southern region, and says Isuzu has been his number one choice since he joined the company in 2001.

“Part of my role is to select the best possible

equipment for the job, and to maintain it through its whole working life, right up to resale.

“The last company I worked for had a wide range of trucks, including Isuzu and their competitors. We found the total cost of the truck life was better with Isuzu – they came out on top with servicing, reliability and re-sale value.

“Some of the other states will shop around a little bit, but for us the service network and the whole package Isuzu provides is second to none, and with my previous knowledge, it’s a no-brainer.

“In the hire division alone we have 25 Isuzus,” Mick said.

Mick’s most recent purchases span Isuzu’s light and medium-duty ranges, including two FSRs for water cartage, three of the new award-wining ready to work N Series Servicepack models, two F Series Tippers and an FRR for crane hire.

And none of these vehicles gets a cushy lifestyle.

“Our transport trucks can do 80,000 kilometres a year and the service vehicles do around 50 to 60,000.

“The water cartage trucks don’t travel as far but

they do a lot of idle-time work, constantly stopping and starting, so that needs to be taken into consideration too,” Mick said.

Stop-start work is ‘child’s play’ for Mick’s FSRs, as their Allison Auto 6 speed automatic transmission makes for a quick take off, every time, providing real fuel savings.

“We have a mixture of automatic and manual transmissions in the fleet, but we’re starting to lean towards more automatics now for driver comfort and efficiencies.

“We find an auto makes it a lot easier for our hire customers – they jump in the vehicle and drive away without having to think about different shift patterns in gearboxes.

“And our drivers seem to really like the Isuzus’ reliability and comfort.

“On one of the last trucks we purchased, the drivers in our Geelong branch had a lot of input into the buying process and the specialised body, and they’re all very happy with the outcome,” Mick said.

Cab comfort is covered in the new trucks by an

“Some of the other states will shop around a little bit, but for us the service network and the whole

package Isuzu provides are simply second to none.”

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ISRI air suspension driver’s seat, ensuring Mick’s team are kept comfortable on the longer runs, while the Digital Audio Visual Equipment (DAVE) unit with its 6.2” LCD touch screen, DAB+ digital radio and fully integrated Bluetooth, offers crystal clear sound and fingertip control.

Mick also opted to add Isuzu Telematics to all of his new vehicles.

Isuzu Telematics technology provides a range of operational and safety management efficiencies, such as live vehicle positioning, trip playback, geo-fencing and fleet and engine data information tools.

The system also observes driver behaviour such as harsh braking, over acceleration, over revving and fuel usage. It’s all valuable operational information fleet managers like Mick can then utilise to improve fuel economy, implement driver training and create genuine efficiencies.

“We have older, aftermarket telematics systems on our bigger trucks and earthmoving equipment that we use extensively and it’s an area we’re keen to utilise more,” he said.

“Telematics is one of the reasons we’re continuing with Isuzu trucks. We can run them all off Isuzu Telematics and keep an eye on all the trucks on the one system.”

Mick and his team are on and off commercial worksites constantly, so safety, in every sense of the word, is not only a priority, it’s a must.

Mick’s new purchases tick all the boxes on that front and include standard safety features such as driver and passenger airbags along with seatbelt pretensioners, an ECE R29 compliant cab, an ECE-R93 compliant Front Underrun Protection Device (FUPD) and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

“Safety is a key point these days and it’s a real factor in what we buy,” he said.

“The Isuzus are very safe and we’re really happy with them – we’ll definitely get more in the future.

“We’re looking to expand our tipper and excavator hire, and Isuzu will be our pick when it comes time to buy again.”

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ISUZU AT THE HEART OF ADELIADE’S GARDEN GROVE

Australians are pretty obsessed with their gardens, and South Australians are no

exception. Truck Power rode along with Adelaide-based garden supplies and nursey

business, Garden Grove, to see how this family owned business has been cultivating demand

for their products and services since 1982.

Garden Grove Supplies is a family owned and operated business, occupying no less than 10 acres in the leafy suburb of Golden Grove in Adelaide.

The site boasts a beautiful nursery and a retail range that covers everything from plants and pots to pizza ovens.

“Mum and dad started the business back in 1982,” said Managing Director Brad Carraill.

“It began with dad carting bulk landscape products for other people, and then starting to stockpile some himself.”

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“People would come onto the property and ask, ‘Is that for sale?’ and he’d say, ‘Well, yeah, I suppose,’ and it all just took off from there.”

Brad came on board in 1989 and now shares management duties with his brother-in-law, Rick Dell’Oro.

The business group is multi-faceted, offering garden supplies, bulk haulage and even a construction company.

This versatility requires them to maintain an extensive transport fleet and Isuzu Trucks, with its seemingly endless flexibility across every weight

segment, plays a starring role. “We’ve got a whole lot of them, from the big Giga, right down to the little fellas,” said Brad.

“We started with the FVZ 1400s – I think we bought the first one of them in 1999 or ’98 – and they’ve been great little trucks.”

Garden Grove’s success lies in their fantastic service and ability to cater to a diverse range of needs.

“We’re a landscape yard and a retail outlet, delivering barks, mulches and loams to everyday people,” Brad said.

“But we also wholesale a fair bit of the material, servicing all of Adelaide with the local trucks, while our haulage fleet goes as far as Kununurra, Darwin, Perth, Sydney and Melbourne.”

The Isuzus tend to do most of the retail garden supplies delivery work, operating predominantly in metro areas where their get-up-and-go is a real advantage.

They still clock up the kilometres however, with Garden Grove’s locally-based trucks adding 80,000-100,000 to the odometer per year on average.

And while most of them travel over well-maintained, urban roads, some get a real work out.

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“…There’s no room for faulty machines or lacklustre

performance.”

“I have a couple of the Isuzus in quarries and they’re working extremely hard in there,” Brad said.

“They’ll basically do eighty loads a day: loading under a hopper, taking it around to a stockpile, tip off, and then back under a hopper. It’s all on steep winding haul roads.”

Other than customising the tippers to accommodate certain materials, the trucks are factory standard.

“We extend sides and swing tail gates, and fit alloy wheels to lower the tare weights. Some of the trucks – the tandems, like the FVZ styles – have aluminium bodies fitted; but the smaller ones are just factory bodies customised slightly to suit mulches and barks,” Brad said.

Brad runs a tight ship, ensuring the trucks are constantly working and operating as efficiently as possible.

A typical day at the depot begins anytime between five and six thirty, depending on the shift, when the trucks load up and head out on their first delivery.

This might mean going five minutes down the road, or right across the other side of town, two and a half hours away. On they’ll go, in and out through dispatch all day.

“The trucks are all on a tracking system, so the despatch guys know exactly where they are, and give the drivers their next load details as they come back through gate,” Brad said.

“Or they might backload from a quarry while

they’re out on a delivery, taking five yards of mulch out and then picking up five tonne of material to be taken to a landscaper on the way back.”

Keeping a precise operation like Garden Grove running requires every piece to fulfil its duty at all times – there’s no room for faulty machines or lacklustre performance.

Isuzu’s reliability has been a big factor in Brad’s choice to return to the brand again and again.

He’s particularly happy with the new Allison automatic transmissions, which have added an even greater level of user-friendliness and driveability.

“The last four or five trucks we’ve had through here were all autos and they’re performing really well,” he said. “I’ll definitely stick with them.”

He also praises the comfort and safety.

“Our operators can be driving for two hours, hop out, unload, then drive back two hours – so sometimes they’re behind the wheel and getting in and out all day.

“With the Isuzu’s we don’t really have fatigue issues and the easy access in and out of the cab means they don’t get the back problems they might otherwise.”

Overall, Brad said he’s really happy with them.

“We’ve tried the opposition’s product over the years, but the Isuzus perform better,” he said.

“We’ve had a great run with them and the dealers are fantastic people to work with.

“That’s what keeps us coming back.”

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KEEPING COOL WITH GOSS BROS AND ISUZU

“…Goss Bros is now the largest privately

owned local refrigerated transport company in

Queensland.”

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The family owned and operated business, which employs 45 staff, is now the largest privately owned local refrigerated transport company in Queensland, offering

cold storage facilities to customers across the state.

“We are a total cold chain solution, not just a transport company,” Kamal Goss, Fleet Manager at Goss Bros, said.

“We have a large 2,000 pallet cold storage warehouse with rooms running at different temperatures, chiller rooms running at 2 degrees and freezers running at minus 20 degrees, as well as dry storage for 1,000 pallets.

“For that reason, our customers only have to deal with a single point of contact, rather than a transport company and a cold storage company, and trying to liaise with them both.”

Based in Arundel on the Gold Coast, the company services the whole of South East QLD and into northern NSW, from the Sunshine coast and major centres such as Toowoomba and Ipswich to Brisbane and down to the NSW Northern Rivers region.

Goss Bros’ customers range from boutique food producers who need one pallet moved per month, to major food wholesalers who require 50 pallets moved a day. They even look after blue chip food manufacturers with several hundred pallets that need moving daily.

To keep up with the growing demand, Goss Bros relies on a sizable fleet of trucks, 16 of which bear the iconic Isuzu badge.

With business growing steadily, and each of the company trucks covering an impressive average of 300 kilometres every day, Goss Bros recently acquired a brand new Isuzu FVL 1400 to help share the load.

The 6x2 axle configuration with airbag rear suspension, combined with the FVL 1400’s famed power and torque makes the model ideal for Rahman’s larger, more sensitive loads.

The engine is turbocharged and intercooled, developing 221 kW at 2,400 rpm and an impressive 981 Nm at 1,450 rpm.

“Reliability was the main reason we chose another Isuzu truck,” Managing Director Hussin Goss said.

“We keep our fleet on the road for a long time, and they need to be able to perform for a minimum of ten years. They also need to put up with the punishment of being loaded and unloaded with forklifts up to 30-odd times a day.

“No other truck brand can cope with the demand we place on the Isuzu product and still be there ready and waiting for another load in ten years. The engine is very powerful too and ideal for

pulling big loads up and down the M1 Motorway between Brisbane and the Gold Coast seven days a week.”

The business of refrigerated transport demands very specific equipment, so the FVL 1400 underwent a custom build as well as some modifications before putting it to work, and all done in-house at the Goss Bros Fleet Maintenance Division.

“Like our other trucks, we had it fitted with a 12-pallet FTE jumbo refrigerated body capable of minus 30 degrees. The whole unit is GPS tracked and temperature logged,” Kamal said.

“We use the latest Thermo King refrigeration units, all with microprocessor controlled data logging that’s downloadable.”

With their vehicles highly visible on Queensland’s highways and byways, Kamal likes to ensure they always look their best, and so the FVL 1400 underwent some cosmetic enhancements too.

“We like to have our vehicles looking ‘schmick’, so in addition to polished Alcoa alloy wheels the FVL 1400 has all the chrome we could possibly get on it,” he said.

“We also have custom livery scrolls up and down the body as well as polished propeller plate guards to finish it all off.”

With the fleet running every day of the week and covering over two million kilometres a year, the comfort factor was a major consideration when time came to purchase a new truck.

“Driving the FVL is like riding on a cloud, especially with the ISRI air suspension driver’s seats they are fitted with,” Kamal says.

“The dash is also very ergonomic with handy spots for driver paperwork and so on.”

With so much time spent on the road, Isuzu’s Digital Audio Visual Equipment (DAVE) is also going down well with Kamal and his team of drivers.

“When you’re on the road for several hours a day, you really appreciate a bit of entertainment and the fact that the DAVE is touchscreen and so easy to use, makes it really handy.”

Having deployed Isuzu trucks for the past three decades, Kamal plans to continue the partnership for many years to come within his expanding business.

“Last year, we sold an FVL 1400 that we purchased brand new in 2001. It had 1.25 million kilometres on the clock with the original motor, not even rebuilt.

“When it was sold, the buyer asked me, ‘is that 250,000 or 1,250,000 km?’ because the truck was in such good condition. It’s a true testament to the longevity of the Isuzu truck brand as well as our own maintenance regime.”

Originally a small refrigerated transport company, Goss Bros has come a long way since it began over thirty years ago. Now employing 45 staff and running a large fleet of refrigerated trucks, Goss Bros also took out the Truck Power 2015 Truck of the Year award!

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THE BEST IN THE WEST:

ISUZU & DOWNERMOUCHEL

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With a genuinely mammoth task at their feet, road infrastructure experts, DownerMouchel are a serious outfit that settles for nothing but the absolute best.

Maintaining Western Australia’s road network is no easy feat. At three and a half times the size of Texas, the road kilometres appear never-ending

and the conditions for man and machine alike are as brutal as it gets.

When you consider the soaring temperatures and the relentless hammering of heavy haulage vehicles, the wear and tear on the state’s road infrastructure is substantial too.

Thankfully, DownerMouchel is working across every sealed kilometre to keep the thoroughfares safe amidst some of Australia’s most beautifully

rugged landscape.

DownerMouchel (DM) operates as a joint venture between Downer EDI Limited, with its origins in New Zealand, and UK-based Mouchel, who in 2008 won a tender to deliver asset management and maintenance services under the Main Roads Western Australia Integrated Services Arrangements (ISAs).

The company have three contracts with the WA State Government, in the Kimberley, the Midwest Gascoyne region and Perth metro.

A 300-plus team of electricians, construction workers and road crew operators spends their

working day managing hazards, resurfacing, drainage systems and every defect that appears on WA’s sprawling road network.

David Cooke, DM Plant Manager, says it’s essential the trucks charged with maintaining the roads have enough clout to withstand the elements without compromising on power or safety, and his all-Isuzu fleet is doing just that – delivering excellent service with minimal downtime.

“As I’m heavily involved in procurement and specification, I have to find fit-for-purpose equipment for the wide range of work we do,” he said.

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“Isuzu make my life easy, that’s why I keep

coming back.”

“Our business has been using Isuzu for over 10 years and the brand was originally chosen before I was in the role, but we did a couple of tenders and Isuzu always came out on top for pricing, service, and model range.

“In regards to the type of the vehicles we require, competitors just can’t supply the configurations we need.

“We wouldn’t buy anything else at this stage. Our entire fleet is Isuzu as they just make life easier for us,” David said.

The DM fleet boasts Isuzu models from across the weight ranges, with 46 F Series and 5 N Series models in the line-up. Their applications span the full remit of DM’s Integrated Service Agreement with WA Roads, where just about every task imaginable is demanded of them.

“We’ve got a road maintenance fleet with purpose-built bodies that deal with erecting road signs, emergency response or installing street lights respectively.

“Most of the F Series are designed per application, whether it’s fixing pot holes, resurfacing the road, or traffic light installation.

“38 of the F Series trucks have vehicle loading cranes, and we’ve fitted two with elevated work platforms to maintain the 18 metre street lights.

At the smaller end of fleet the ‘go-anywhere’ Isuzu N Series is applied to great effect in and around the built-up urban sprawl of Perth and its satellite centres, as David explains.

“The smaller N Series models are used for litter pick up from road ways and parking bay bins, as they’re nimble enough to get in and around city car parks and tight spaces.

“The urban routes have a lot of stopping and starting, so they’ll drive to a defect, fix it and drive to another one, maybe 10 minutes apart, with the rural routes it can be a lot longer, so we need trucks that we can rely on to handle both the urban city routes and longer interstate runs with no hassle.”

Most of the DM fleet are specified with automatic transmissions for effortless stop-start driving in traffic and congested areas.

“The Perth metro trucks run about 20 to 30,000 km a year but the rural route trucks that head up to the Kimberly and the Gascoyne are racking-up a lot more kilometres.

“The harshest conditions are up around the Kimberley. We open the Gibb River Road after the wet season and maintain it throughout the year –as it’s one of the most iconic gravel outback drives in Australia.

“It’s really harsh terrain. The heat, the road conditions, the dust. The general environment is very, very rough, but the Isuzus get up it just fine.”

In-cab comfort and entertainment is taken care of with Isuzu’s Digital Audio Visual Equipment (DAVE) unit. Sporting a huge 6.2” LCD touch screen with DAB+ digital radio and fully integrated Bluetooth with

voice recognition; ‘DAVE’ makes sure the longer hauls up the highway aren’t too much of a grind.

“In terms of vehicle management, we don’t have a lot of down-time, as the trucks handle the work well,” David said.

“Safety is paramount for DownerMouchel – it’s our number one goal to make sure everyone has the best possible training and equipment. We try and build and procure the safest possible trucks for our team, and Isuzu provides that.”

Safety is a top priority for Isuzu too. The FXZ 1500 6x4 provides driver and passenger airbags with seatbelt pretensioners, an ECE-R29 compliant cab with sleeper and an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), all working towards making sure David’s team have the safest work space possible.

“With Isuzu, it all comes down to the service. I know when I phone our dealer, Richard Morosini at Major Motors Forrestfield, for anything at all, he’s always there to help.

“If he doesn’t have a solution on the spot, he’ll go and find out – I don’t have to call 10 specific people. Isuzu makes my life easy, that’s why I keep coming back.”

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PARTS SMARTS: KEEPING AHEAD OF THE GREY MARKET

In past editions of Truck Power we’ve reported on the rise of the global automotive parts grey market. In this edition, we take a look at a huge bust relating to Toyota parts destined for Australian vehicles.

The global counterfeit parts market is showing no signs of slowing down after a recent raid in Guangzhou, China uncovered thousands of counterfeit Toyota

car parts destined for trade in Australia.

A tip-off from Australian authorities led to the discovery of some 33,000 replica Toyota car parts in a manufacturing facility, including brake components and airbags.

While there are many ‘non-genuine’ car parts, these counterfeit items claimed to be the real deal – sold in Toyota packaging and even labelled with fake part serial numbers.

“What is very scary is that so many of the parts are safety related. Had the raid not taken place, those parts could have found their way to Australia, putting many innocent and unknowing Australians’ safety at risk,” said Toyota in a statement.

It’s not just Toyota that has fallen victim to forgery. Ford Australia has also intercepted Ford Ranger truck grilles and alloy wheels, while General Motors/Holden has captured fake alloy rims, grilles, tail-lights and radiators.

It’s estimated that counterfeiting costs the global motor vehicle parts industry around $12 billion per year – according to the World Customs Organisation in Interpol – and the problem is not going away.

Figures show that 83 per cent of counterfeit parts hail from China, where lax enforcement of intellectual property laws has seen their production flourish.

The recent events in China offer Australian truck and car consumers an acute reminder that not all products that come with a branded box or label are genuine.

“The way to avoid safety concerns posed by fake parts is to ensure you or your repairer sources genuine replacement parts from the vehicle maker’s authorised supply chain,” said Isuzu’s National Parts Manager, John Plunkett.

Mr Plunkett added that while the recent happenings in China were deplorable, the event is not uncommon. He stressed that purchasing counterfeit car or truck parts, whether the customer is aware of it or not, means taking “a major risk.”

These risks extend, not only to those on the receiving end of fake or counterfeit parts, but also to fleet or servicing managers authorising the purchasing of these parts, knowingly or otherwise.

“Australia has extremely robust chain of responsibility (COR) legislation which acknowledges that multiple parties in any supply chain can be responsible for breaches to road transport law,” Mr Plunkett said.

“This includes the procurement and provision of vehicle parts and components. The consequences can be hefty, regardless of your position or responsibilities within the chain.

“Beyond the reaches of COR legislation there’s also a broader duty of care in a legal sense. We all have an obligation to ensure our actions, however innocuous they may seem, are not foreseeably harming others in the future.

“Counterfeit products are not put through the same demanding testing as genuine parts, for example, genuine airbags are required to undergo crash testing to ensure they work correctly. Disturbingly, counterfeit parts may not go through any testing at all.”

To find your nearest Isuzu dealer, go to: www.isuzu.com.au/contact/find-a-dealer

“The way to avoid safety concerns posed by fake parts is to ensure you

or your repairer source genuine replacement parts from the vehicle maker’s authorised supply chain.”

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TRUCK OF THE YEARTRUCK OF THE YEAR

DATS ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICESDATS Environmental Services is a Melbourne based waste management business with a fleet of owner-drivers who continue to invest in Isuzu.

This new FVZ is the third Isuzu truck to join the DATS fleet and owners say that the sticker price, paired with Isuzu’s famed reliability, means they can provide the highest quality services for their customers.

SOUTH COAST FOOD SERVICESPeter Swann from South Coast Food Services has been servicing the south east coast of WA with an Isuzu FRR 500 Medium for the past 20 years.

South Coast Food Services deliver food (and cleaning products) daily to a diverse range of food providers including pubs and clubs, hotels, motels, cafes and restaurants.

Two new Isuzu N Series trucks now bolster Peter’s fleet. Peter is pictured here with his new NPR 75-190 with a six pallet freezer body.

NORTH EAST STAIRSThe team at North East Stairs cover plenty of territory in their Isuzu NPR 300, traversing Victoria’s picturesque alpine region, including Mansfield, Bright, Wodonga and Yarrawonga.

Owner, Brendan Matthews and his crew supply custom-built staircases and hardwood timber windows and doors to the growing Victorian high country population.

EVERTREK ENTERPRISESThis subcontractor business in Perth works for Need A Bin Rubbish Removal and Skip Bins, and has entered their fourth Isuzu vehicle into Truck of the Year in 16 years.

This NQR 450 is only two years old, and owner Brett O’Malley says it’s “one of the best trucks on the road.”

EVOLUTION BUILDING COBased in Kellyville NSW, Evolution Building Co has entered their “unbeatable” 2015 NLR Tipper into the Truck of Year competition. Owner, Andrew Cagnacci, says the truck provides the best of both worlds.

“It functions first and foremost as a tipper, to haul rubbish, soils and materials, but still has plenty of storage for the day-to-day tools.”

IAN AND SUE HARRISONIan and Sue Harrison use their FXD 1000 primarily as a freight truck to transport horses and cattle from paddocks to saleyards and abattoirs throughout Southeast Queensland.

Sue says they “love driving the truck” and use it most weekends to transport their beloved horse team to camp drafts around the state and into NSW.

“We love getting behind the wheel and even after very long drives the horses, cattle, and people, arrive fresh as a daisy.”

CASH-IN BIG WITH OUR 2016 GRAND PRIZE!

WINNER

WINNER

Whether you plan to spend it on holidays or hardware, our monster $6,000 prepaid cash card grand prize for the 2016 Isuzu Truck of the Year is certain to come in handy.

If you think your Isuzu deserves its time in the sun, then send a photograph (at least 1MB in size) and a brief description to truckpower@arkajon.com.au.

In each edition of Truck Power we’ll announce the quarterly winners who’ll receive an Isuzu jacket, polo shirt and baseball cap. Plus, all entries receive an Isuzu coffee mug for that morning hit of caffeine.

We’ll announce the 2016 grand prize winner in the next edition of Truck Power.

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TRUCK OF THE YEAR

GENERAL FREIGHT EXPRESSBased in Tamworth NSW, General Freight Express (GFE) has provided express freight and general freight services, warehousing and inventory control to the region for over 25 years.

GFE currently has six Isuzu trucks in their fleet varying in size and age, and all of which have never let the business down.

Owner, Brock Lockwood, said their new Isuzu Giga “gives the American trucks which we also have in our fleet a good run for their money on comfort, price, fuel efficiency and driver vision.”

RANGER INDUSTRIALRanger Industrial is a lifting, rigging and safety specialist outfit based in western Sydney, NSW.

Their Isuzu NPR 200 is used as a mobile workshop, servicing major projects throughout the state.

The company has fitted a mobile test bed and added storage and work bench facilities to carry out all their tasks on-site, saving their customers’ time and money with minimal downtime.

RIDE RITE TOWING Ride Rite Towing, based in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne is a family business specialising in everything from auto breakdowns and roadside assistance, to towing machinery, caravans and even boats.

With over 25 years’ experience in the heavy salvage and transport industry, owner, Andrew, says his Isuzu FRD 600 is the, “perfect workhorse for towing vehicles.”

MELBOURNE FINE TURFMelbourne Fine Turf is Melbourne’s premier lawn care company, specialising in manicured turf maintenance, mowing and cutting, instant turf supply and installation, lawn treatments and irrigation services.

They use their tough 2013 Isuzu NNR 200 for carrying equipment, turf and supplies to jobs around one of the world’s most liveable cities.

C J GRANTJames Grant says his Isuzu FSD 800 receives plenty of praise from other tradies on the job.

“It holds all my tools and fittings plus a 2.5 tonne excavator and an airman compressor. I receive a lot of compliments when I pull up on work sites.”

James’ business, C. J. Grant Pty Ltd, is subcontracted to Linbeck Gas Water Civil, which installs new natural gas pipe lines and services to homes throughout Sydney and NSW.

JOCK’S CARPET EXPRESS Operating throughout the Gold Coast, this family business has their Isuzu FTR 150-260 carry floor coverings and materials interstate.

So impressed were Deon and Rex Keep, they just ordered another identical model to keep pace with business demand.

“The truck was bought from Warren at Gold Coast Isuzu and, as with our previous Isuzu trucks, the guys at Gold Coast Isuzu are friendly, knowledgeable and always helpful,” said Deon.

LANGS BUILDING SUPPLIESFrom supplying timber and hardware, to fabricating roof trusses, pre-nailed wall frames and joinery, Langs Building Services operates throughout Brisbane, Caloundra and the rest of South East Queensland.

Glenn Millar has entered his Isuzu FYJ 2000 which he says leaves competitor models in the dust.

“I’ve driven a few trucks in my time, but this is easily the best,” he said.

“For such a long wheel base it’s great to drive in. It’s quiet and comfortable and I’m loving the Bluetooth stereo. It’s great to get up in the morning and head to work knowing I’m in my mobile office for the day.”

WINNER

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LOCATION NAME ADDRESS TELEPHONE AFTER HRS PH WEB ADDRESSQUEENSLAND

NEW SOUTH WALES / ACT

VICTORIA

TASMANIA

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

NORTHERN TERRITORY

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

ISUZU TRUCK NETWORK* DENOTES ISUZU SERVICE & PARTS ONLY DENOTES INDUSTRIAL ENGINES • DENOTES LOCATIONS WHICH HAVE A MOBILE SERVICE UNIT

Brisbane (Archerfield) Brisbane Isuzu 26 KERRY ROAD • 07 3373 2400 0410 484 013 www.brisbaneisuzu.com.auBrisbane (Burpengary) Brisbane Isuzu 230 EASTERN SER RD, BRUCE HWY • 07 3385 4300 0405 223 052 www.brisbaneisuzu.com.auBrisbane (Eagle Farm) Brisbane Isuzu 208 FISON AVE • 07 3866 2200 0416 241 493 www.brisbaneisuzu.com.auBundaberg Ken Landt Diesel Repairs 104 SCOTLAND STREET 07 4153 1849 0409 531 849 kenlandtdiesel.com.auCairns Ireland Isuzu 25-27 O'LEARY ST • 07 4052 3666 0448 768 732 www.irelandisuzu.com.auEmerald * David Lowery Diesel Repairs LOT 6 COTTONVIEW RD 07 4987 4444 0419 273 095Gold Coast (Nerang) Gold Coast Isuzu 107-113 SPENCER ROAD 07 5583 8850 0417 621 576 www.goldcoastisuzu.com.auGoondiwindi Kenway & Clark 7 WILSON COURT • 07 4671 2400 0428 662 706 www.kenwayandclark.com.auGympie Madill Isuzu 2 BRUCE HIGHWAY • 07 5480 5545 0407 732 686 www.madillisuzu.com.auHervey Bay (Pialba) Port City Isuzu 91 ISLANDER ROAD • 07 4194 4444 0400 944 444 www.portcityisuzu.com.auMackay (Paget) Crokers Truck Centre 2 - 10 SOUTHGATE DRIVE • 07 4952 9500 0456 529 500 www.crokerstruckcentre.com.auMaryborough Port City Isuzu 92 ADELAIDE STREET • 07 4194 4444 0400 944 444 www.portcityisuzu.com.auMt Isa* Superior Machinery Maintenance 22-24 TRADERS WAY 07 4743 0347Rockhampton (Parkhurst) Central Isuzu HANNER PTY. LTD. 07 4839 8888 0475 827 351 www.centralisuzu.com.auRoma Black Truck Sales LOT 4 & 5 LINDSAY COURT 07 4624 4800 0417 773 470 www.blacktrucksales.com.auSunshine Coast (Forest Glen) Madill Isuzu 100 SANDALWOOD LANE • 07 5352 8251 0428 940 706 www.madillisuzu.com.auToowoomba Black Truck Sales 494-498 BOUNDARY ROAD • 07 4631 4200 0429 063 130 www.blacktrucksales.com.auTownsville (Garbutt) Tony Ireland Isuzu 36 DUCKWORTH STREET 07 4726 7777 www.tonyirelandisuzu.com.au/isuzucv

Broken Hill Broken Hill Truck Centre 12 KANANDAH STREET • 08 8088 7777 0447877873Canberra (Queanbeyan) Canberra Isuzu 16 KENDALL AVE 02 6297 3862 0408 697 151 www.canberratrucks.com.auDubbo Tracserv Trucks 19 PURVIS LANE • 02 6884 2023 0418 404 260 www.tracserv.net.auGosford (West) Gilbert & Roach Isuzu CNR MANNS & YANDINA ROADS • 02 4964 0697 0438 297 234 www.gilbertandroachgosford.com.auInverell Kenway & Clark 10-12 SWANBROOK ROAD • 02 6721 6900 0428 221 452 www.kenwayandclark.com.auLismore Northern Rivers Isuzu CNR BRUXNER HWY & COOK ST 02 6627 8450 0407 754 059 www.goldcoastisuzu.com.auMacksville Midcoast Trucks 169 NURSERY RD • 02 6568 2888 02 6568 2888 www.midcoasttrucks.com.auMoree Kenway & Clark 369-379 FROME STREET • 02 6750 8300 0428 662 706 www.kenwayandclark.com.auNewcastle (Hexham) Gilbert & Roach Isuzu 320 PACIFIC HIGHWAY • 02 4964 8641 02 4964 0600 www.gilbertandroachnewcastle.com.auOrange Tracserv Trucks 9 SCOTT PLACE • 02 6360 1851 0428 638 980 www.tracserv.net.auPort Macquarie Midcoast Trucks 183 HASTINGS RIVER DRIVE 02 6583 9888 02 6583 9888 www.midcoasttrucks.com.auSydney (Arncliffe) Suttons Motors Arncliffe 93 PRINCES HIGHWAY • 02 9335 9080 0411 073 115 www.suttonstrucks.com.auSydney (Huntingwood) Gilbert & Roach 8 HUNTINGWOOD DRIVE • 02 8825 1000 02 8825 1000 www.gilbertandroachsydney.com.auSydney (Narellan)* Gilbert & Roach 7 MILLWOOD AVENUE • 02 4647 7377 0408 260 402 www.gilbertandroachnarellan.com.auTamworth Peel Valley Isuzu 2-10 DAMPIER STREET • 02 6768 3111 0428 293 439 www.peelvalleygroup.com.auWagga Wagga Wagga Motors 32 DOBNEY AVE • 02 6933 0100 0428 695 080 www.waggamotors.com.auWollongong (Coniston) Dwyers Truck Centre 2 JOHN CLEARY STREET • 02 4251 6720 0417 449 902 www.dwyerstruckcentre.com.au

Bairnsdale Gippsland Truck Centre 180 PRINCESS HIGHWAY • 03 5152 1616 0428 521 027 www.gtctruck.com.auBallarat (Wendouree) Ballarat Isuzu 356 DOWLING STREET • 03 5335 3600 0417 546 083 www.ballaratisuzu.com.auBendigo (Epsom) Poyser Trucks 119-141 MIDLAND HIGHWAY • 03 5444 4011 0419 345 100 www.poysertrucks.com.auGeelong Winter & Taylor 10 SCHOOL ROAD 03 5247 8981 0427 366 456 www.wth.com.auLeongatha* GTM Truck Centre 16 CUSACK RD 03 5662 5266 0408 517 795 www.gtmleongatha.com.auMelbourne (Campbellfield) Westar Truck Centre HUME HWY & NORTHBOURNE RD 03 9305 3155Melbourne (Dandenong) Patterson Cheney Trucks 200 CHELTENHAM ROAD • 03 9215 2300 03 9215 2391 www.pattersoncheney.com.auMelbourne (Derrimut) Westar Truck Centre 1 AUSTRALIS DRIVE • 03 9394 0000 0409 776 540 www.westartrucks.com.auMoe* Moe Diesel & Automotive Services 148 MOORE ST 03 5127 2933 0412 707 974Mildura Mildura Truck Centre 293 BENETOOK AVE • 03 5051 2800 0408 596 435 www.milduratruck.com.auShepparton Taig Bros 6 WHEELER STREET • 03 5821 9811 0417 528 919 www.taigbros.com.au Swan Hill The Truck Specialists 18 AERODROME ROAD 03 5033 1372 03 5033 1372 www.milduratruck.com.auWarrnambool* West Coast Service Centre 87 ROONEYS RD 03 5562 0665 0419 154 034Wodonga Blacklocks Isuzu 190 MELBOURNE ROAD • 02 6057 8777 0413 360 103 www.blacklocks.com.au

Burnie* Webster Trucks 17-19 RIVER ROAD 03 6431 9855 0418 574 477Devonport (East) * Webster Trucks LOT 1 6183 FRANKFORD HWY 03 6427 5444 0418 514 220Hobart (Derwent Park) Webster Trucks 8C LAMPTON AVE 03 6230 7307 0408 102 706Launceston (Kings Meadows) Webster Trucks 90 CONNECTOR PARK ROAD 03 6340 7723 0418 133 868

Adelaide (Burton) North East Isuzu 112 PORT WAKEFIELD RD • 08 8280 9899 08 8280 9899 www.neisuzu.com.auAdelaide (Hampstead Gardens) Adelaide Isuzu 253 NORTH EAST ROAD 08 8261 6006 0419 838 798 www.adelaideisuzu.com.auMt Gambier OGR Trucks 203 JUBILEE HWY WEST • 08 8725 7999 0438 241 131 www.ogrisuzu.com.auPort Augusta Port Augusta Isuzu NO 3 FOOTNER ROAD • 08 8643 6233 08 8643 6233 www.paisuzu.com.au

Alice Springs Airpower 19 KENNETT CRT 08 8952 5155 0417 021 304 www.airpower.com.auDarwin (Pinelands) Airpower LOT 1810 MCKINNON ROAD 08 8939 0200 0417 021 304 www.airpower.com.au

Albany Albany City Isuzu 92 - 98 EARL STREET 08 9842 8000 0438 535 841 www.albanycitymotors.com.au Bunbury (Picton) South West Isuzu 3 GIORGI ROAD 08 9724 8444 0400 250 181 www.southwestisuzu.com.auKalgoorlie Goldfields Truck Power 5 EPIS STREET • 08 9021 4800 0418 945 980 www.truckpower.net.auPerth (Forrestfield) Major Motors 789 ABERNETHY ROAD • 08 9365 6333 0418 954 827 www.majormotors.com.auPerth (Malaga) * Major Motors 65 CROKER DRIVE • 08 9241 7999 0419 041 899 www.majormotors.com.auPerth (Bibra Lake) Major Motors 2 SELKIS ROAD • 08 9331 9331 0413 704 011 www.majormotors.com.auPort Hedland (Wedgefield) * Major Motors Port Hedland 14 MURRENA STREET 08 9172 6900 0429 993 166 www.majormotors.com.au