Brisbane Truck Show News

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New Scania heavy-duty model to feature at Brisbane Truck Show

Prime Mover Magazine  /  April 5, 2017

In a surprise announcement, Scania has confirmed it will showcase the company’s all-new S 500 model at the Brisbane Truck Show next month.

According to Scania Australia, it will be the first time an example of the brand’s new heavy-duty range will be seen in the Southern Hemisphere following the global reveal in Paris last August.

Scania also explained that the show vehicle – a UK-spec right-hand drive example in 6x2/2 configuration with a pusher axle with single wheels and rear drive axle with dual wheels – would be “indicative” of the truck that famously won the 1,000-point test in Europe (see video), organised by a number of cooperating European truck publications last November.

“We are bringing out for the Brisbane Truck Show an example of the New Truck Generation Scania prime mover that won the 1,000-point test undertaken by a number of highly respected heavy vehicle publications in Europe last year,” said Roger McCarthy, Managing Director of Scania Australia, also hinting at Scania's win of the prestigious International Truck of the Year award at last year's IAA Show in Hanover, Germany.

“The Scania S 500 won the recent 1,000-point test beating off three rival Europeans, underlining its strength across many categories under scrutiny, such as high performance, economy, excellent driving characteristics, ease of operation, safety and driver comfort.”

He added, “As a result of this impressive vote of confidence in the new all-new Scania, we took the decision to fast-track the delivery of an example of the S 500 to Australia, even though the commercial launch of the New Truck Generation Scania range is still some considerable way off.”

According to McCarthy, the Brisbane Truck Show Scania S 500 display vehicle will be brought out specifically for the show and will return to Europe immediately after it concludes.

“The truck on display is representative of a specification that could be offered to the Australian market once the New Truck Generation Scania is launched here.

“The Brisbane Truck Show will be the only place this vehicle can be inspected … prior to its return to Europe.”

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Hino to unveil new model at Brisbane Truck Show

Prime Mover Magazine  /  April 5, 2017

Hino Motor Sales Australia will showcase a larger stand and a brand new truck model at the 2017 edition of the Brisbane Truck Show.

“The Brisbane Truck Show is the perfect place for Hino to reveal this new vehicle – it is one that our customers have been demanding for a long time,” said Hino National Marketing Manager, Sarah Rosales.

“Last month, we launched the 500 Series Wide Cab to excellent reviews from the trucking media and strong feedback from customers– the Brisbane Truck Show will be the first public display of the range.”

The Japanese truck manufacturer will also be showcasing its Hino Advantage customer care program. “The Hino Advantage suite of business solutions includes the Hino Traq telematics system, which provides real-time vehicle tracking and operational information for drivers and business owners through an online portal,” Rosales added.

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Australia's top trucks on display in Brisbane

Steve Brooks, Trade Trucks AU  /  April 4, 2017

It is the biggest, brightest and best attended truck show in the southern hemisphere and 2017 will continue the tradition as Australia’s top truck, trailer and ancillary suppliers showcase their latest and greatest equipment. Here are just a few highlights of the bold new products on show, all dressed to impress

There’s no doubt 2016 was a bumper year for new truck releases, particularly in the second half when several of the biggest names in the business launched some of the most exciting new models seen in the Australian trucking industry for decades.

All the big players will all be on show during the Brisbane Truck Show next month and sure to be inundated by show-goers will be heavy-duty market leader Kenworth with its all-new T610 and T610 SAR models.

KENWORTH

The new Kenworths are the most dramatic developments to come out of Paccar’s Bayswater facility in 30 years.

In fact, there has been nothing as radically different as these new trucks since the release in 1986 of the inspiring T600 Anteater which influenced the design of conventional trucks for decades to come.

Kenworth openly states that the $20 million and more it invested in the design, engineering and testing of the new models is by far the largest amount the company has ever spent on development of trucks specifically for the Australian market.

The key to the new model is unquestionably the new cab and Kenworth makes no secret of the fact that there is nothing in the brand’s Australian history to even remotely match the investment made in the T610 with a cab that is 2.1 metres wide and provides major gains in operational and driver appeal.

While the T610 evolved from the conceptual possibilities provided by current Kenworth and Peterbilt models in the US, senior Kenworth executives emphasise that the end result is an entirely new conventional truck engineered and built to the specific requirements of Australia and surrounding regions.

"This is our truck," says Paccar Australia director of sales and marketing, Brad May.

"We basically took what we could from Paccar’s global platform, but no one should be in any doubt, none whatsoever, that the engineering and design of the finished product are all ours, all done in Bayswater.

"We certainly utilised Paccar’s facilities in the US in the durability validation process, but the engineering design is totally ours.

"This is a truck engineered in Australia, for Australia. Absolutely!"

Under the T610 hood is the 15-litre Cummins X15 engine which also has its own updates, specifically a new software package to enhance performance and fuel efficiency when coupled to Eaton’s Ultrashift-Plus automated transmission.

DAF

Yet while the T610 will be unquestionably the big attraction, stablemate DAF has news of its own with a beefed-up version of the versatile CF85 model.

Previously topping out at 460hp and 1700lbft, the CF85 is now available with a higher rated version of Paccar’s 12.9-litre MX engine, pushing out peak power of 510hp (375kW) from 1500 to 1900rpm and a much healthier torque peak of 1850lbft (2500Nm) between 1000 and 1410rpm.

Coupled to the engine is the 16-speed version of ZF’s AS-Tronic automated transmission; while on the options list is Eaton’s RTLO-20918 18-speed overdrive manual.

MERCEDES-BENZ

Just across the aisle from Kenworth is staunch competitor Daimler Trucks which, among a swathe of models bearing Freightliner and Fuso badges, will showcase the exceptional new range of Mercedes-Benz trucks.

The Brisbane Truck Show will also have the first public appearance of an entirely new range of Mercedes-Benz rigid models based on the same design platform as the hugely impressive prime mover range.

The new Benz models have won rave reviews and have every potential to reignite the German giant’s reputation with Australian truck buyers and deliver serious competition to cab-over brands of all nationalities.

There is a lot to like about these new trucks, not least the extent of testing that went into their development for the Australian market, and a model range which seemingly covers every base in the cab-over prime mover market.

Confidence inside the Mercedes-Benz team is justifiably high and a quick look at the model line-up tells why, kicking off with a group of single-drive models powered by engines from 354hp to 455hp, through to 6x2 and 6x4 prime movers for single trailer work with power ratings from 428 to 510hp.

Moving up the scale, dedicated B-double units range from 530hp up to a potent 625hp, while at the top of the tree are specialist road-train and heavy-duty models with outputs of 578 or 625hp to cope with gross combination mass ratings from 106 to 160 tonnes.

Powering the range are four new six-cylinder engines, from the 7.7-litre OM936, the sprightly 10.7-litre OM470, the hugely versatile OM471 at 12.8 litres, and the gutsy OM473 at 15.6 litres.

Even at a casual glance, Mercedes-Benz appears to have covered all bases with a broad power offering ideally suited to a wide cross-section of applications and configurations.

There is, it seems, something for everyone and in all cases the engines drive through super-smooth PowerShift automated transmissions in eight, 12 and 16-speed versions, depending on the model of course.

There are four cabs in the range, each designed to suit the various roles of the different models.

The tallest and widest of them all is what Mercedes-Benz calls the L-cab StreamSpace measuring 2.5 metres wide and almost four metres high with a roof-mounted air deflector.

We’ve actually slept in this, the biggest of the Benz bunks, and can vouch for Mercedes-Benz’s claim that it has the best sleeper of all the European cab-overs currently on the market.

Still, not all jobs require such a big cab and again as we found on a recent road test of a short-haul specialist called the 2643, the narrower 2.3-metre wide structure still provides ample space for a multitude of roles requiring either a slimline or sleeper cab.

Mercedes-Benz executives know there’s a lot at stake with these new trucks and more importantly, know this new line-up has the distinct potential to put the famous three-pointed star squarely back on the map with Australia’s heavy-duty truck buyers.

Daimler Trucks will no doubt have plenty to show in Brisbane, but it shouldn’t surprise anyone if pride of place goes to this new Benz breed.

UD

Still in the cab-over class, Volvo Group’s UD will be making its presence felt in no uncertain terms with its new Condor PW24 280 6x4 model.

Launched late last year, UD insiders describe the PW as the pointy end of a ‘wave of expansion’ into the heavy-duty sectors on which UD was founded in this country.

Joining its 4x2 and 6x2 siblings, the PW is a dedicated tandem-drive rigid model capable of satisfying a wide range of niche applications and in the process, achieving higher sales volumes in the lighter end of the heavy-duty class.

Vitally, UD’s local leaders are quick to point out that Japan’s production processes are now far more attuned to the needs of markets such as Australia.

Meantime, even a quick glance at the spec sheet suggests the PW is both a smart and surprisingly simple design, backed by the brand’s solid reputation for durability.

It all starts with two wheelbase lengths – 5.3 and 6.71 metres – built on a reinforced chassis to support a gross vehicle mass of 23.5 tonnes and gross combination mass of 28 tonnes.

And it won’t be too much of a surprise if UD uses the Brisbane show to reveal a version with a 32-tonne gross combination rating for relatively light-duty truck and trailer combinations.

Providing the power is UD’s well-proven, turbocharged and intercooled GH 7.7-litre engine, using high-pressure common-rail fuel injection to dispense peak outputs of 206kW (280hp) at 2500rpm and 883Nm (651lb ft) of torque at 1400rpm.

In a wise move given the model’s target markets in metro areas, the only transmission offering is Allison’s exceptional 3500 series six-speed automatic.

The Allison feeds into a Meritor drive tandem equipped with power divider and diff lock operating on the forward drive axle.

One of few variations in an otherwise straightforward driveline specification is the rear suspension where the shorter of the two wheelbase spreads uses UD’s well-mannered six-rod mechanical suspension while the longer version has Hendrickson’s HAS460 airbag layout.

Our tests have shown that UD’s new PW is thrifty on fuel and is an uncomplicated, comfortable and extremely smooth model in metro roles.

Still, the PW 24 280 may not be UD’s only new model on show in Brisbane. There’s the distinct possibility of a significantly updated version of UD’s flagship Quon also appearing at Australia’s premier truck show.

The current 420hp Quon is widely acknowledged as the best Japanese prime mover in the market for single trailer work but if rumours are right, Brisbane will see the model’s Volvo-derived GH11 engine boosted to a new peak of 460hp.

HINO

Also from the land of the Rising Sun comes a bold new line-up of models from Japanese powerhouse Hino.

It’s only a few months since the covers came off this vastly rejuvenated range of Hino 500-series wide cab models and executives at Hino Motor Sales Australia make no secret of the company’s competitive need for trucks of this calibre.

Needless to say, the new models will be front and centre on the Hino stand in Brisbane.

Hino admits it’s been a long time coming but the wait has brought a brace of new and highly functional features which include enhanced eight- and nine-litre engines, expanded manual and automatic transmission options, numerous drivetrain developments, and safety advances headed by the standard fitment of a Wabco vehicle stability control (VSC) system in all models.

In fact, the standard inclusion of VSC across the new range is an "Australian-first" for trucks in this class, according to Hino product strategy manager, Daniel Petrovski.

Available in two- and three-axle configurations, the new trucks offer gross vehicle mass (GVM) ranging from 16 to 18 and 26 tonnes, and gross combination mass (GCM) ratings from 32 to 45 tonnes.

"These trucks are a game-changer for us," says Steve Lotter, Hino Motor Sales Australia chairman and chief executive officer.

The new trucks are easily distinguished from the previous wide cab models with the most notable external change being a bold, dark grille.

However, it’s underneath where the greatest changes have been made, led by further development of Hino’s 7.7-litre J08E engine and its 8.9-litre stablemate, the A09C.

In the case of the six-cylinder J08E, maximum governed engine speed and compression ratio have been raised to deliver peak outputs of 206kW (280hp) at 2500rpm and top torque of 883Nm (651lbft) at 1500rpm.

Depending on the model, transmission choices are an Allison six-speed auto, Hino six-speed manual or an Eaton nine-speed direct-drive manual.

As for the A09C, also a six-cylinder layout, Hino says there’s a new turbocharger, revised water pump and cooling fan, and a swap from Bosch to Denso common-rail fuel injection.

This engine offers two performance ratings starting with 235kW (320hp) and 1275Nm (940lbft) coupled to an Allison automatic transmission, and a lively 257kW (350hp) unit supported by a potent 1422Nm (1049lbft) of torque stirring through a Hino nine-speed overdrive synchromesh transmission.

Critically, says Hino, both engines greatly benefit from the adoption of an SCR emissions system instead of the previous EGR and diesel particulate filter combination to achieve Euro 5 emissions compliance.

INTERNATIONAL

Then there’s International, the iconic brand that stirred so much excitement and interest at the 2015 Brisbane Truck Show, even picking up the Truck of the Show Award with the sleek ProStar.

The excitement, of course, was all about the pending return of International to the Australian market and after a protracted process, Iveco has now gained distribution rights for the brand in Australia and will again be a prominent part of the Brisbane show.

The obvious spearhead of International’s return is the versatile ProStar, a truck with considerable potential for a wide range of roles in both sleeper and slimline configurations.

ProStar is powered by the market-leading Cummins ISXe5 engine with ratings from 475 to 550hp and up to 1850lbft of torque, feeding into an industry-standard Eaton 18-speed overdrive transmission available in manual or automated UltraShift-Plus form.

The foundation of ProStar is a strong yet light-weight chassis frame with Meritor axles fitted front and rear.

At the rear is the popular RT46-160GP drive tandem rated at 20,900kg (46,000lb) and equipped with power divider, cross diff locks on front and rear drive axles, and the choice of alloy or steel hubs.

Ride quality is virtually assured with a front axle riding on taper-leaf parabolic spring packs and a drive tandem mounted on Hendrickson’s durable Primaax-EX air suspension.

With a standard gross combination mass (GCM) rating of 90 tonnes, ProStar will be aimed at everything from truck-and-dog combinations to local and regional distribution in single trailer or B-double configurations, as well as line-haul duties in single, B-double and road-train doubles roles.

Critically, the bumper-to-back-of-cab (BBC) dimension is just 2845mm, or 112 inches, in non-sleeper day cab form.

There are, however, also two sleeper cab variants; an integrated extended cab and a plush 40-inch (1016 mm) high-rise sleeper. Roof and side fairings are optionally available on all models.

Stopping power comes from a dual circuit S-cam braking system featuring ABS anti-lock, automatic traction control and air dryer as standard equipment.

Twin polished aluminium fuel tanks in capacities of 680 and 980 litres are accompanied by a 90-litre AdBlue tank sited behind the left-hand side fuel tank.

Mounted on a three-point suspension layout, ProStar’s cab comes with an established reputation for aerodynamic efficiency due to a patented roof design, curved single-piece windscreen matched to a rounded sloping hood, and a sealed seam between the lower front edge of the hood and bumper. 

Vitally, in the two years since its appearance at the 2015 Brisbane Truck Show, ProStar has undergone significant testing and from all appearances will provide a solid start to this latest chapter in the annals of International trucks in this country.

Specifications:

KENWORTH

Model: T610

Engine: Cummins X15 Euro V (standard) with Advanced Dynamic Efficient Powertrain Technology (ADEPT)

Performance: 485hp (363kW), 1650 lb-ft (2237Nm)

Transmission: Eaton RTLO16918B (manual); Ultrashift (automatic option)

Suspension: Airglide 400

Brakes and safety: Drums (discs optional), electronic brake safety systems, antilock braking system, automatic traction control, drag torque control

 

DAF

Model: CF85

Engine: Paccar 12.9-litre MX

Performance: 510hp (375kW), 1850lbft (2500Nm)

Transmission: 16-speed ZF AS-Tronic automated transmission (standard); Eaton RTLO-20918 18-speed overdrive manual (optional)

 

MERCEDES-BENZ

Model: 2658

Engine: 15.6-litre Mercedes-Benz OM473

Performance: 578hp (425 kW), 2065 lb-ft (2800 Nm)

Transmission: 12-speed Mercedes-Benz G281 PowerShift automated

Rear axles: Hypoid drive tandem

Brakes: Disc brakes on all wheels. ABS anti-lock and ASR skid control.

Fuel capacity: 1050 litres diesel, 110 litres AdBlue

GCM: 90 tonnes

 

UD

Model: PW 24 280 6x4

Engine: GH7 7.0-litre overhead cam in-line 6-cylinder

Performance: 280hp (206Kw); 651lb-ft (883Nm)

Transmission: Allison fully automatic 3500 series 6-speed

Rear Axle: Meritor MT 44-144GP tandem drive

Suspension: Front – Three-leaf taper leaf; Rear – P wheelbase: UD multi-leaf six-rod. W wheelbase: Hendrickson HAS 460 airbag

Wheelbase:  5300mm P version; 6710mm W version.

Weights: Gross vehicle mass 23,500kg; gross combination mass 28,000kg

 

HINO

FG 1628 4x2: 280hp; six-speed manual or six-speed Allison auto; GVM 16 tonnes; GCM 32 tonnes

FL 2628 6x2: 280hp; six-speed Allison auto; GVM 26 tonnes; GCM 38 tonnes

FM 2628 6x4: 280hp; Eaton nine-speed manual or six-speed Allison auto; GVM 26 tonnes; GCM 33 tonnes (auto), 38 tonnes (manual)

FM 2632 6x4: 320hp; six-speed Allison auto; GVM 26 tonnes; GCM 36.5 tonnes

FM 2635 6x4: 350hp; Hino nine-speed manual; GVM 26 tonnes; GCM 45 tonnes

GH 1828 4x2: 280hp; Eaton nine-speed manual or six-speed Allison auto; GVM 16 tonnes (std), 18 tonnes (opt); GCM 38 tonnes.

GH 1832 4x2: 320hp; six-speed Allison auto; GVM 16 tonnes (std), 18 tonnes (opt); GCM 38 tonnes

GH 1835 4x2: 350hp; Hino nine-speed manual; GVM 16 tonnes (std), 18 tonnes (opt); GCM 38 tonnes.

Click here to find out more about the 2017 Brisbane Truck Show.

Photo gallery - https://www.tradetrucks.com.au/product-news/1704/australias-top-trucks-on-display-in-brisbane

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Scania to showcase S500 in Brisbane

Trade Trucks AU  /  April 4, 2017

The UK-specification prime mover will be the highlight of Scania's display at the Truck Show

Even though the commercial launch of Scania’s S 500 series in Australia is "way off", the company is bringing an example of its New Truck Generation range for display at the 2017 Brisbane Truck Show.

The Scania S 500 prime mover was launched in Paris last year and has won two accolades in Europe so far – the International Truck of the Year 2017, and 1,000-point European heavy vehicle comparison test.

The UK-specification truck will be brought out only for the Truck Show and will return to Europe immediately after the show.

Scania says it will conduct local market evaluation before launching the the New Truck Generation range in Australia.

Scania Australia MD Roger McCarthy says the company decided to "fast-track the delivery of an example of the S 500 to Australia, even though the commercial launch of the New Truck Generation Scania range is still some considerable way off".

"The truck on display is representative of a specification that could be offered to the Australian market once the New Truck Generation Scania is launched here," he says.

The Scania S 500 on display will be shown in 6x2/2 configuration with a pusher axle (with single wheels) and rear drive axle with dual wheels.

It has a 13.0-litre SCR Euro 6-compliant six-cylinder in-line engine, producing 500 hp (373 kW) at 1900 rpm, and 2550 Nm (1882 lb/ft) of torque between 1000 and 1300 rpm.

The 500 hp engine drives through the Scania GRS905R direct drive gearbox, controlled by Scania Opticruise automation, which provides three performance modes (economy, standard and power).

The Opticruise gear-changing is up to 45 per cent quicker than before owing to the adoption of a new layshaft brake.

It is fitted with the latest high output R 4100D Scania Retarder, plus an exhaust brake, offering seamless deceleration while preserving the service brakes.

The rear driven axle uses a 2.59:1 final drive ratio, reflecting the lower European speed limit for heavy goods vehicles of 85 km/h, and is equipped with a differential lock.

The Highline model on display also offers additional headroom inside thanks to the cab’s completely flat floor.

Scania S 500 also features ABS/EBS safety systems with advanced emergency braking, electronic stability control, adaptive cruise control, Scania lane departure warning, and the "world-first" driver’s side window curtain airbag.

Other features include: climate control, electric roof hatch, a 1000mm wide expandable lower bunk, a 700mm upper bunk, Scania Communicator, LED head and tail lamps, LED daytime running lamps, and LED fog lamps.

The Brisbane Truck Show will also feature a selection of the current generation of Scania prime movers including the current flagship, the R 730 V8, a G 480 prime mover and a P 310 8x2 rigid.

"We will also be demonstrating the advantages of Scania Maintenance with Flexible Plans, which combined with Scania Optimise, provides fleets and owners with a deep and user-friendly insights into the most cost-effective and efficient way to maximise the profitability of their Scania assets," McCarthy says.

"The Scania stand at the Brisbane Truck Show will provide all truck operators with the perfect opportunity to gain a clear understanding of efficient, sustainable, safe and driver-friendly trucking.

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Iveco gears up for Brisbane Truck Show

Owner/Driver  /  April 10, 2017

Iveco Australia is all set for the Brisbane Truck Show and will step things up with a large stand showcasing up to 10 vehicles from across the Iveco and INTERNATIONAL product line-ups.

Showgoers will get to take in a wide selection of Iveco trucks and vans spanning the light, medium and heavy duty weight categories including several new models on public display for the first time.

Among the new vehicles will be the Euro6-rated Daily 7 tone van which not only boasts an extremely clean-running engine, but also introduces even greater safety features such as a Lane Departure Warning (LDW) system to the Daily’s already impressive standard offerings.

Another model making its show debut is the recently-launched E6 Eurocargo. Having been awarded International Truck of the Year-2016, the new Eurocargo provides the premium levels of comfort, safety and efficiency befitting one of Europe’s best-selling medium duty trucks.

Also representing the Iveco medium duty range is an ACCO. Manufactured in Australia using 85 per cent local content, the ACCO is a trucking industry icon and provides buyers the chance to customise its specifications along the assembly line, potentially saving owners thousands of dollars during the body build process.

Iveco will have a Powerstar 6400 HD, Stralis ATi and Stralis AS-L Series II at the Brisbane show, covering the heavy range and both the Powerstar and Stralis AS-L models are manufactured locally.

With Iveco’s recent appointment as the exclusive distributor of INTERNATIONAL Trucks in Australia, the stand will also be bolstered with three new ProStar models in day, sleeper and extended cab variants.

Showgoers with an interest in off-road applications will be able to get up close to the popular Daily 4x4. The Brisbane Truck Show display truck is a dual cab model and features a range of modifications including bull bar, snorkel and auxiliary lighting.

Additionally, the stand will feature a merchandise area and also play host to the star drivers from the Red Bull Holden Racing Team.

Iveco Marketing Manager, Darren Swenson, says attendees at this year’s show won't leave the Iveco stand disappointed.

"From the passenger car licence Daily models through to road train prime movers, Iveco has one of the broadest truck ranges available in the Australian commercial vehicle market, and the Brisbane Truck Show stand provides an excellent representation of this expansive product line-up," Mr Swenson said. 

"This year we’re also excited to launch the much anticipated INTERNATIONAL ProStar range. We see the ProStar as complementing the Iveco line-up and providing our customers and prospects with an even greater choice.

"It’s also pleasing to re-embed the INTERNATIONAL brand at its traditional Melbourne home, a site that Iveco has occupied since 1992." 

Please visit the Iveco Trucks at stand 49 at this year’s Brisbane Truck Show.

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Specialisation pays off for Holmwood Highgate

Trade Trucks AU  /  April 7, 2017

A focus on road tankers has paid off for the Loganholme-based tanker manufacturer

From humble beginnings, Holmwood Highgate now lays claims to the title of Australia’s No. 1 road tanker manufacturer.

Founded by the current owner’s father in the 1950’s, the company initially focused on repairing US aluminium fuel tankers used in the Korean War before being sold off for use in Australia.

Today, Holmwood Highgate specialise in the manufacture of aluminium petroleum and chemical tankers; mild steel bitumen tankers; stainless steel chemical and food-grade tankers; and aviation refuellers and hydrant carts.

The company will display its tankers at the next month's Brisbane Truck Show.

Tankers are built to a client’s requirements, ranging from on-site refuellers to latest PBS-approved multi-combinations.

Its production and workshop facilities at Loganholme, south of Brisbane, are now manned by qualified aluminium welders, boiler makers, fitter welders, spray painters mechanics and auto electricians.

Holmwood Highgate also has a separate facility in Derrimut, Melbourne, enabling it to service Australia and the Pacific.

Click here to find out more about the the 2017 Brisbane Truck Show.

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Iveco to showcase extensive range at 2017 Brisbane Truck Show

Iveco Australia Press Release  /  April 10, 2017

Iveco Australia is looking forward to the Brisbane Truck Show and will participate with a large stand showcasing up to 10 vehicles from across the Iveco and INTERNATIONAL product line-ups.

Showgoers will have access to a wide selection of trucks and vans spanning the light, medium and heavy duty weight categories including several new models on public display for the first time.

Among the new vehicles will be the Euro6-rated Daily 7 tone van which not only boasts an extremely clean-running engine, but also introduces even greater safety features such as a Lane Departure Warning (LDW) system to the Daily’s already impressive standard offerings.

Another model making its show debut is the recently-launched E6 Eurocargo. Having been awarded International Truck of the Year-2016, the new Eurocargo provides the premium levels of comfort, safety and efficiency befitting one of Europe’s best-selling medium duty trucks.

Also representing the Iveco medium duty range is an ACCO. Manufactured in Australia using 85 per cent local content, the ACCO is a trucking industry icon and provides buyers the chance to customise its specifications along the assembly line, potentially saving owners thousands of dollars during the body build process.

In the heavy market, on show will be a Powerstar 6400 HD, Stralis ATi and Stralis AS-L Series II. Both the Powerstar and Stralis AS-L models are manufactured locally using 60 and 55 per cent local content respectively.

With Iveco’s recent appointment as the exclusive distributor of INTERNATIONAL Trucks in Australia, the stand will also be bolstered with three new ProStar models in day, sleeper and extended cab variants.

Showgoers with an interest in off-road applications will be able to get up close to the popular Daily 4x4. The Brisbane Truck Show display truck is a dual cab model and features a range of modifications including bull bar, snorkel and auxiliary lighting.

Additionally, the stand will feature a merchandise area and also play host to the star drivers from the Red Bull Holden Racing Team.

Iveco Marketing Manager, Darren Swenson, said attendees at this year’s show would not leave the Iveco stand disappointed.

“From the passenger car licence Daily models through to road train prime movers, Iveco has one of the broadest truck ranges available in the Australian commercial vehicle market, and the Brisbane Truck Show stand provides an excellent representation of this expansive product line-up,” Mr Swenson said. 

“This year we’re also excited to launch the much anticipated INTERNATIONAL ProStar range. We see the ProStar as complementing the Iveco line-up and providing our customers and prospects with an even greater choice.

“It’s also pleasing to re-embed the INTERNATIONAL brand at its traditional Melbourne home, a site that Iveco has occupied since 1992.”  

Please visit the Iveco Trucks at stand 49 at this year’s Brisbane Truck Show.

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ZF to display new transmission at Brisbane Truck Show 2017

Prime Mover Magazine  /  April 16, 2017

Transport component specialist, ZF Australia, will officially launch its new TraXon commercial vehicle transmission at this year’s Brisbane Truck Show in May.

Celebrating its 30th anniversary in Australia in 2017, the German brand’s newest transmission – TraXon – will be specifically aimed at modern trucks.

ZF described the Traxon’s modular, automatic transmission design as a “world first” and enables the basic transmission to be combined with various setting-off and shift modules, making it more economical in practice, while giving manufacturers and operators the best possible flexibility for every application as well as increasing driver comfort.

“Its compact, robust design and the highest transmission efficiency in its category make TraXon the new standard in terms of cost-effectiveness,” ZF said in a statement.

“Thanks to this robustness, the new TraXon transmission system not only keeps operating costs down, it also keeps service costs over its entire lifetime particularly low.

“Furthermore, it features ZF’s innovative electronics, including software, combining the predictive shifting strategy, PreVision GPS, as well as a rolling and rock-the-vehicle-free function.”

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Brighter days for DAF in Australia

Trade Trucks AU  /  April 25, 2017

Paccar is officially launching its new DAF 510hp CF85 model at the 2017 Brisbane Truck Show

The anticipated introduction of a 510 horsepower version of DAF’s versatile CF85 model has the potential to create an entirely new era for the brand, according to DAF Trucks Australia general manager, Rob Griffin.

The 510hp CF85 will be officially launched at the upcoming Brisbane Truck Show.

DAF’s sales figures for the first quarter of 2017 were notably improved over previous years and the imminent introduction of the uprated CF85 is expected to provide significant impetus to plans for substantial growth of Paccar’s continental cab-over.

Yet despite its established position as one of Europe’s most powerful players and arguably Paccar’s greatest success story, Rob Griffin concedes DAF has long struggled for recognition on the Australian market.

Formerly national sales manager at Kenworth, he says there are many factors behind DAF’s modest acceptance by Australian truck operators, including a reputation forged long before Kenworth and Peterbilt parent Paccar took control of the Dutch truck and engine maker.

"No doubt about it, the brand got off to an ordinary start in this country," he says, recalling pre-Paccar days when DAF’s Dutch principals largely took the Australian market for granted.

"They were putting the truck into applications that just weren’t right for it, and they brought it here without any real testing, obviously thinking it could do anything other trucks were doing.

"It wasn’t a bad truck," Rob Griffin insists. "In most cases it was just badly applied."

DAF first came to Australia in 1984 when the brand was still a Dutch company. After a poor experience, the Dutch ultimately took their truck home.

Then in 1996 Paccar paid US$540 million for the beleaguered brand and followed that in 1998 by taking control of Leyland operations in the UK where all right-hand-drive DAF trucks are now made.

Despite the sceptics – and there were plenty of them – the acquisitions were an inspired move by Paccar. Applying its renowned management skills and economic acumen, Paccar turned the otherwise defeated DAF into a European powerhouse where it is today market leader in a number of countries including the highly competitive UK market. Last year alone DAF registered almost 47,000 trucks in Europe.

Critically, it’s also a brand with a solid reputation for fuel efficiency from its own MX11 and MX13 engines, endorsing again the long-term reasoning behind Paccar’s decision to buy a truck brand that made its own engines. At the end of last year there were more than 135,000 MX engines powering Kenworth and Peterbilt models across the length and breadth of North America.

Declaring a firm faith in DAF’s prospects for a stronger place on the Australian market, Rob Griffin asserts that much of the brand’s reputation and sales mediocrity in this country are based on aged perceptions rather than modern realities.

"We’ve done a lot of work behind the scenes and the way DAF was in the past, belongs to the past," he comments.

As for the suggestion that DAF in this country is often viewed as a poor cousin to big brother Kenworth, Rob doesn’t mince his words. "That’s how some others may see it, but they’re wrong.

"We take the Kenworth association as a bonus. We’re setting up this business to complement what Kenworth brings to the market, not to take anything away from either brand.

"The simple truth is that there are some applications best suited to a European cab-over and that’s where we’re aiming with DAF.

"In fact, when you bring something new into the product range like this CF85 with an MX13 engine at 510hp, it creates an entirely new focus for the brand and opens us up to sections of the market we haven’t had before.

"It will be enormous for us," he contends, "particularly with fleets. Price-wise it will be very competitive."

Rob says the new model will be a spearhead in DAF’s re-emergence. "The 510 horsepower CF is a really important truck to our growth," he emphasises. "As it stands at the moment, the CF at its 460 horsepower rating is DAF’s best seller but for local and regional B-doubles, the industry has a psyche around 500 horsepower and that’s where the 510 rating under the CF cab opens up new market segments to DAF."

However, the 510hp CF85 will not be aimed at linehaul work, Rob remarks. "The CF 510 is our suburban and intrastate model for either single trailers or B-doubles up to 70 tonnes.

"We’ve specced it that way," he continues, "with a 16-speed automated (ZF AS-Tronic) transmission for the flexibility to flow with suburban traffic and provide the right balance between performance and fuel."

The 510hp CF85 will be offered in 4x2, 6x4 and 8x4 configurations, and a confident Rob Griffin cites fuel economy, tare weight, cab entry and exit, vision and manoeuvrability as inherent assets of the model.

"This truck will definitely surprise people but it’ll be critical to get people into it, to drive it and assess the truck on merit rather than mindset," he emphasises.

"We have very few problems with our trucks in the field and we’re in no doubt the product is the best it has ever been.

"We have all the right systems and packages in place so now we just have to keep getting people behind the wheel.

"The truck will do the rest," a confident Rob Griffin concludes.

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All new Mercedes rigids ready to launch

Big Rigs  /  May 4, 2017

Mercedes-Benz will launch an all-new on-highway rigid range at this month's Brisbane Truck Show.  

The company will also present its newly introduced prime mover models to the public for the first time at the event that runs from May 25 to 28.  

Mercedes-Benz successfully launched its new generation Actros family of trucks in October last year and is now ready to launch the rigid versions, which bring with them the same suite of benefits customers of the new prime mover have already been enjoying.  

The new rigid model was part of a comprehensive local testing program that has now included more than 35 customers, 20 trucks and more than 1.8 million km.   

All the details of the new rigid stable will be revealed at the show, but Mercedes has confirmed the line-up will include a mix of versatile drive combinations all the way from 4x2 through to 8x4.  

Standard engine options include 8-litre and 11-litre units, with up to 350hp and 460hp respectively, while 13-litre and 16-litre engines are available for individual builds.  

The new Euro 6 engines feature the latest technology including the X-Pulse high pressure injection system and simple and robust asymmetric turbocharger technology, which helps deliver more torque at lower engine speeds. 

Several measures have driven down fuel consumption, while also delivering AdBlue consumption reductions.  

The new rigid range will also feature a host of standard and optional advanced safety systems from stability control and safer cab structure to an Active Brake Assist 4 function (for 18-tonne and above models) that automatically performs emergency braking for most obstacles and can now even initiate partial braking for pedestrians.  

Mercedes-Benz will release specialist and construction-oriented rigid models later this year.  

The Brisbane rigid launch comes as more and more customers are taking delivery of new Mercedes-Benz prime mover models.  

Flooring specialist GMK Logistics has been surprised by the fuel savings it is realizing after adding one new generation Mercedes-Benz Actros to its fleet, which is part of the vast CTI fleet.  

"The fuel economy figures they are getting represent a 25 per cent improvement in fuel economy over the old truck," says CTI Logistics Commercial Manager, Glenn Brown. "That is significant."   

The results are so good that CTI has placed an order for more Actros models.  

Transtex is another happy Actros customer and its Managing Director, Shane Blakeborough, has taken delivery of four prime movers, with many more on the way.  

Initially hesitant to drive a Mercedes-Benz truck due to a preference for American metal, Mr Blakeborough is now a convert, describing the model as a "game changer".  

He decided to place an order after spending time in an evaluation vehicle.

"With the savings we saw, it was a no brainer," Shane says. "The fuel economy figures are incredible," he adds.  

Blakeborough says of the new-generation Mercedes-Benz Actros: "It does everything you need a truck to do; it is extremely efficient, has the performance, it is refined and is very comfortable."  

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Freightliner to celebrate 75th anniversary at the Brisbane Truck Show

Power Torque Magazine  /  April 27, 2017

Freightliner is celebrating its 75th Anniversary with something old and something new at this year’s Brisbane Truck Show from May 25 to 28.

It will be presenting a range of exciting new models including a tough Coronado 122 stock-hauling special, which can pull up to 140-tonnes with ease and also draw a crowd thanks to its muscular design and Bar Up bullbar and new twin exhausts stacks.

There will also be an Argosy cab-over with a 110-inch sleeper and just-introduced X15 Cummins engine featuring ADEPT technology that fully integrates the Eaton UltraShift Plus transmission to maximise performance and efficiency.

Freightliner will also present the CL112 tool of trade, which boasts a light tare weight, ideal axle positioning and proven reliability as well as the popular Coronado 114.

A rare A64-800 1950 ‘Bubblenose’ has also been shipped from the United States to help celebrate Freightliner’s rich heritage.

This was one of 116 trucks built that year for Consolidated Freightways, the freight company established by Leland James.

He had approached truck companies with an idea of using lightweight aluminum for truck components instead of regular steel. They weren’t interested, so James hired a team of engineers and built the vehicles himself.

Freightways Manufacturing Company was established in Salt Lake City, Utah, in 1940 before changing its name to Freightliner Corporation in 1942.

It soon became North America’s leading heavy-duty vehicle manufacturer and after serving the war effort, resumed truck manufacturing at a new facility in Portland, Oregon, in 1947.

The ‘Bubblenose’ model on the Freightliner stand was initially used as part of the CF on-highway fleet, but appears to have also been worked hard as a logging truck and as the basis for some sort of crane. It was found, in a rather dilapidated state, sitting in the woods near Mt Hood and was lovingly restored by the Freightliner manufacturing team at Portland, Oregon.

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Isuzu ready to launch new models at Brisbane show

Prime Mover Magazine  /  May 2, 2017

Isuzu Australia has confirmed two new truck models from its ‘Ready to Work’ range will be unveiled when the 2017 Brisbane Truck Show gets under way on 25-28 May.

According to the truck brand, the Isuzu NNR 45-150 AMT Vanpack and the Isuzu NLR 55-150 Tri-Tipper will headline its display. The new models, purpose-built for Australian demands and conditions, will mark the latest evolution of its popular Ready to Work range.

The NLR 55-150 is fitted with a tipper body that can tilt its two cubic metre volume to the left, right or rear; while the NNR 45-150 Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) Vanpack is also sure to turn heads with its ready to work 18.2 cubic metre, pre-built van body.

Isuzu Trucks’ Brisbane Truck Show stand will also feature the NLR 45-150 AMT short wheelbase Ready to Work Servicepack, along with several more truck models from its medium- and heavy-duty categories.

“The versatility of the eleven vehicles on our stand will demonstrate the foundations of Isuzu Australia’s success,” said Jeff Birdseye, Isuzu Australia Advertising Manager. “It’s a selection of trucks that represent a comprehensive range of models with the right fusion of performance and reliability, supported by products from the pioneering aftersales service suite, Isuzu Care.

“We’re looking forward to providing everyone, including tradespeople and truck enthusiasts, with a greater insight into the capability of Isuzu’s range at the 2017 Brisbane Truck Show.”

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PACCAR keen to show off DAF and Kenworth ranges

Big Rigs  /  May 17, 2017

ATTENDEES at this year's Brisbane Truck Show will find an exciting selection of 11 world-class DAF and Kenworth trucks on the 'PACCAR World' stand.

The stand is designed to provide patrons with an all-access experience to PACCAR Australia's class-leading range of brands and trucking solutions.  

PACCAR Australia's Director Sales and Marketing, Brad May, says the Brisbane Truck show offers those in transportation the ideal forum to congregate and experience the best developments and innovation the industry has to offer.  

"PACCAR World will have on display a range of advances, including from DAF the official launch of the DAF CF85 with 510Hp and the display of the new FAP LF 280, touted for release later in 2017," Mr May said. "For Kenworth, the show is all about the revolutionary T610 and T610SAR. Launched little more than five months ago, the new model is certainly living up to its billing as, 'Our Best Truck Yet'. We are delighted with the market's response due to its versatility, space and safety features, and the T610 and two T610SARs on display are certain to draw in everyone to have a look."   

"Complementing our two truck brands will be the full range of PACCAR Australia products and services. We will have professionals from most areas of our business, including production, engineering and sales, as well as dealer representatives from across Australia on hand to explain how PACCAR Australia offers the complete solution for fleets, operators and drivers," May said.   

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Volvo Group Australia launches new service offensive

Prime Mover Magazine  /  May 25, 2017

Volvo Group Australia has set the pace for the 2017 Brisbane Truck Show with the launch of an ambitious new uptime promise for both Volvo and Mack, a new UD model and a group-wide Driver Academy.

According to Peter Voorhoeve, President and CEO of Volvo Group Australia, both Volvo and Mack will be introducing a new ‘uptime guarantee’ tomorrow whereby the brands pledge to get a truck back on the road within eight hours in case of an unscheduled workshop visit – otherwise they will pay a $500 ‘fine’ to the transport business for every day the truck is out of action.

“We’re so confident in our product that we promise to have you back on the road within eight hours anywhere in Australia,” he said. “It’s the next step in service for the Australian market.”

Voorhoeve also launched a group-wide Driver Academy as a follow-up to Volvo Group Australia’s in-depth research into driver development and recruitment, which it conducted in early 2016.

“Our research program showed that something had to be done, so we’ve developed the Driver Academy in response to it,” he explained.

The Academy will see Volvo Group Australia continue supporting Heather Jones’ Pilbara Heavy Haulage Girls, launch an all-new safety standards training initiative in collaboration with Tafe NSW, and set up a driver trainer training program. As a fourth pillar, the project will also see the launch of a new campaign aiming at providing a new pathway into the industry for young and inexperienced drivers, which Jones said are the industry's best bet to tackle a looming driver shortage.

“As an industry, we should focus on taking on new-to-the-industry talent rather than retraining drivers with bad habits,” she explained. By taking the training process seriously from day one, she said industry will be able to tackle a wealth of issues that go beyond the mere driving task, most notably service attitude and professionalism.

Mark Stambi, Acting Vice President of UD Trucks, also used the opportunity to give industry a sneak peek at the all new Quon product, which is expected to be launched in Australia in November 2017.

After lifting the UD brand’s market share from 1.6 per cent at the end of April 2016 to 3.4 per cent in the same month 2017, all based on the current product line-up, Stambi said he was confident the Quon’s first full re-design in 13 years could bring even more momentum to the up-and-coming brand.

As part of the pre-Show presentation, Voorhoeve also shared a personal analysis of the Australian truck market, stating 2017 may finally see the industry bounce back, with sales reaching the 10,000-unit mark again.

“Australia is a strong market, and it’s arguably in a much better state now than it’s been in a long time,” he said. “The two-speed economy is gone, we’re back in a normal economy now, and that is good for trucking.

“It’s not for no reason that there’s 17 OEMs in this country, and I think 2017 has the potential to show just how strong the market really is.”

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Global reveal for Hino at Brisbane Truck Show

Prime Mover Magazine  /  May 25, 2017

Hino Australia has used the opening day of the Brisbane Truck Show to celebrate the world premiere of the new 300 Series 4x4 model.

While Hino dealers have had a chance to examine the new model earlier this year, today’s unveiling marks the first time that the 300 4x4 has been publicly displayed anywhere in the world.

According to Hino, the new addition to the 300 Series line up has been specifically developed for the Australian market and prototypes have been undergoing extensive local testing since 2014.

In designing it, Hino has reportedly drawn upon the success of the FT and GT 4x4 models in its larger 500 Series as well as competition versions that have had success in off-road events such as the gruelling Dakar Rally.

“The 300 Series 4x4 test vehicles have operated flawlessly across various types of terrain from the deserts of Australia’s interior to the rainforests of far northern Queensland’s Cape York,” said Daniel Petrovsky, Hino Australia’s Manager for Product Strategy.

“It’s a model customers and dealers have been asking us for and it is particularly significant as it will allow Hino to enter into new segments of the market that we have not had access to before.”

As with the rest of the Hino 300 Series that was launched in Australia back in 2014, the 4x4 will feature Vehicle Stability Control and a reversing camera as standard.

Petrovsky said the mining, utilities and fire-fighting categories will be a natural fit for the lighter version of Hino’s 4x4, as will the rapidly expanding recreational vehicle market.

Designated the 817 4x4, the new model is set to become available from Hino dealers later this year, the company announced. Final specifications will be announced closer to the launch date.

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UD Quon premieres in Australia

Prime Mover Magazine  /  May 26, 2017

UD Trucks has lifted the cover on its all-new UD Quon heavy-duty truck on the first day of the 2017 Brisbane Truck Show.

According to UD Trucks, the Quon will be offered in prime mover and rigid configurations locally,with its 11-litre engine to be available with 460hp. UD has also confirmed that the Quon will address five key areas of improvement, including drivability, fuel efficiency, safety, productive and uptime.

“The new Quon is a huge step for UD Trucks, but also for Japanese heavy-duty trucks in general. The world-class technology available in [across] the range has never been seen before on Japanese trucks in Australia,” commented Mark Strambi, Acting Vice President of Sales for UD Trucks Australia.

“The new Quon gives us access to models not previously offered in Australia, which will significantly enhance our ability to offer our customers a comprehensive offering, backed up by the largest dealer network in Australia and New Zealand.”

The UD Quon is currently on display at Stand 72 at the Brisbane Exhibition & Convention Centre.

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Mercedes-Benz stars on day one of Brisbane Truck Show

Prime Mover Magazine  /  May 26, 2017

Mercedes-Benz has launched its new range of Actros rigid truck models at the 2017 edition of the Brisbane Truck Show.

Revealed in October last year, the new generation Actros trucks will now boast new rigid versions from 4x2 through to 8x4 models. Standard engine options will also include 8-litre and 11-litre units, with up to 350hp and 460hp respectively, while 13-litre and 16-litre engines are available for individual builds.

The launch of the Actros rigid range – as well as a new smart telematics system – rounded out an eventful first day for the Daimler brand, with the Actros also voted the ‘Best Heavy Duty Truck’ at the Brisbane Truck Show Awards, which took place overnight.

The new Mercedes-Benz model beat out other finalists, the Kenworth T610 and T610SAR and Iveco Eurocargo Euro 6, which was judged on a range of criterias from technical innovation, service/maintenance support to safety.

“It is a great honour for the Mercedes-Benz truck to be voted the Best Heavy Duty Truck by some of Australia’s most respected commercial vehicle journalists,” said Daniel Whitehead, Daimler Truck and Bus Managing Director. “The feedback from our customers around our new generation range has been exceptional, better than even we expected.”

The Mercedes-Benz Actros range is currently on display at Stand 88.

The Brisbane Truck Show runs through until this Sunday at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre.

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Scania introduces new S-series truck

Prime Mover Magazine  /  May 26, 2017

Scania Australia has given visitors at this year’s Brisbane Truck Show an up close look of its new generation S-series range.

Introduced on day one of the Show by Scania Australia CEO, Roger McCarthy (pictured), the S-500 on display is a right-hand drive UK-specification vehicle, shown in 6x2/2 configuration with a pusher axle (with single wheels) and rear drive axle with dual wheels.

According to Scania, the S 500 model provides additional headroom inside, allowing drivers up to 207cm tall to stand upright. Inside the cab includes a completely flat cab floor with the Scania 13-litre SCR-only Euro VI situated underneath. The engine is said to produce 500hp (373kW) at 1,900rpm, and 2,550Nm (1880 ft lb) of torque between 1,000 and 1,300rpm.

The truck’s 500hp engine is controlled by Scania Opticruise GRS905R direct drive gearbox that includes a new layshaft brake, bringing the gear-changing interval down to around 0.4 of a second, around 45 per cent quicker than the current box. It is also fitted with the latest R 4100D Scania Retarder, plus an exhaust brake.

Scania’s S-500 truck, along with models from its G and R-series range, are located at Stand 51.

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Brisbane Truck Show 2017

Owner//Driver  /  May 26, 2017

Owner//Driver techncial editor Steve Brooks takes a tour around the truck stands at this year's Brisbane Truck Show.

With all the latest models and a few sensational surprises, the 2017 show is shaping as being the most successful in the event's 50 year history.

Video - https://www.ownerdriver.com.au/events-news/1705/brisbane-truck-show-2017

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Kenworth unveils Legend 900 at Brisbane Truck Show

Owner/Driver  /  May 26, 2017

The Legend 900 combines modern technology with limited edition features and a uniquely Kenworth heritage feel, leaving fans of the brand in awe.

Modelled on the legendary W-model and introduced in 1991, the T900 with its classic look and style was designed with the versatility to operate in almost any application, and tough enough to stand up to the harsh Australian conditions.

"Not only does the Legend 900 symbolise the Kenworth spirit, it celebrates the long history of manufacturing in Australia and some of the legends that have been along for the ride," Director of Sales and Marketing at PACCAR Australia Brad May said.

"Aside from the significance of the 900 in Australian history, the truck represents not only our heritage in this country, but also recognises the people behind the trucks, the owners, drivers, dealers and suppliers, and many others who have helped make Australian-made Kenworths an integral part of Australia’s road transport landscape."

Allan "Steady" Stead, one of Kenworth’s longest-serving employees who dedicated his working life to improving the range of trucks has had the first Legend 900 named "Steady" in his honour. 

Video - https://www.ownerdriver.com.au/product-news/1705/video-kenworth-unveils-legend-900-at-brisbane-truck-show

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New generation Quon pairs grunt with efficiency

Owner/Driver  /  May 25, 2017

UD Trucks unveiled the new generation Quon for Australia and New Zealand at Volvo Group Australia’s (VGA) annual media conference yesterday, taking the truck to the public at the Brisbane Truck Show.

The new Quon is the first heavy duty truck on the Australian market that meets Japan's next-level emission targets (pPNLT), putting it at the forefront of efficiency and safety.

As well as being more efficient, safe and driver-focused, the new Quon is now offered in a 460HP variant, more horsepower than than we’ve seen within the range since the 13-litre engine departed.

"UD Trucks has fully updated its flagship Quon heavy-duty truck for the first time since 2004," said Nobuhiko Kishi, Senior Vice President of Brand, Communication and Product, UD Trucks Global.

"The new model will continue to reflect our dedication for supporting customer businesses in every aspect.

"The new generation Quon focuses on five essential areas that drive smart logistics: drivability, fuel efficiency and respect for the environment, safety, productivity, and uptime."

Every element of the new Quon, from the dashboard to the instrument cluster, has been completely overhauled, with the aim of offering the driver the highest levels of comfort, performance and ergonomic ease-of-use.

Mark Strambi, Acting Vice President of Sales for UD Trucks Australia, says the new generation Quon will redefine how Australia perceives Japanese heavy-duty trucks in general and the Quon in particular.

"The new Quon is significant step for UD Trucks, but also for Japanese heavy-duty trucks in general," Mr Strambi said,

"The world-class technology available in the all-new Quon range has never been seen before on Japanese trucks in Australia.

"UD Trucks is the first Japanese truck manufacturer to offer pPNLT compliant heavy-duty vehicles to the Australian and New Zealand markets. Additionally, the all-new Quon gives us access to models not previously offered in Australia which will significantly enhance our ability to offer our customers a comprehensive offering, backed up by the largest dealer network in Australia and New Zealand"

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The Show Kicks Off

Diesel News Australia  /  May 25, 2017

This morning, the fiftieth Brisbane Truck Show kicked off with a series of new trucks for the industry, with a few trucks unveiled that haven’t been seen in Australia before.

For Mercedes-Benz, it was the launch of the rigid trucks in its New Generation series. On display were an 8×4 and a 6×4.

From UD, the new Quon which was only recently revealed in Japan made its Australian debut, with an official launch slated for later this year. This truck builds upon the reputation the Quon has established in the last few years and Australia’s truckies will also be interested to know that the 11-litre engine will be available with 460hp.

Standing proud in the Scania stand in the centre of the hall was the Scania S500. This truck is an example of what Scania is now selling in the UK market but will give Australia an idea of the features available on this truck and its complete redesign ahead of its launch, which is likely to happen in 2018.

It is a right-hand-drive UK-specification vehicle, 6×2/2 configuration with a pusher and rear drive axle. The Highline model provides additional headroom inside, allowing drivers up to 207cm tall to stand upright.

Inside the cab, there’s a completely flat cab floor and underneath that floor is the Scania 13-litre SCR-only Euro VI, producing 500hp (373kW) at 1,900rpm, and 2,550Nm (1880 ft lb) of torque between 1,000 and 1,300rpm.

The Opticruise GRS905R direct drive gearbox now includes a new layshaft brake, bringing the gear-changing interval down to around 0.4 of a second, around 45 per cent quicker than the current box. It is also fitted with the latest R 4100D Scania Retarder, plus an exhaust brake.

Today’s opening was also the first public showing of the new International truck range being brought over into Australia by Iveco. The three models on display demonstrated the various versions of the ProStar that will be brought to Australia.

Also on show was the Hino 300 4×4. This truck fills a gap in the Hino range with a 4×4 designed specifically for Australian conditions.

Hino also exhibited its three new 500 Series Wide Cab medium-duty trucks – the GH1835, FG1628 and FM2632 models – in the public display of the 50+ variants in the range.

The Japanese truck maker also announced new transmission options for its Wide Crew Cab FG model, plus a new automatic choice for GT 4×4 customers. Wide Crew Cab FG customers will now have the option of either a Hino six-speed manual transmission or an Allison 3000 series six-speed automatic transmission, which makes Hino the only Japanese manufacturer of a 15.5-ton GVM crew-cab truck to offer a factory-fitted Allison automatic transmission.

The Brisbane Truck Show will be the first opportunity for Australian truckies to visit a show and get up close and personal with the Kenworth T610.

Also making its first appearance was the new Tatra 8×8 off-road truck that now features a redesigned cab based off the DAF and is filled with an engine from the Paccar stable.

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Mercedes-Benz wins Best Heavy Duty Truck

Big Rigs  /  May 26, 2017

The Mercedes-Benz Actros has been voted the Best Heavy Duty Truck at the Brisbane Truck Show Awards.  

The new Mercedes-Benz model beat other finalists, the Kenworth T610 and T610SAR and Iveco Eurocargo Euro 6. 

The judging panel took into account a range of criteria including technical innovation, service/maintenance support and safety when deliberating.   

Daimler Truck and Bus Managing Director, Daniel Whitehead, says the Mercedes-Benz Truck and Bus team was thrilled to receive the award.  

"It is a great honour for the Mercedes-Benz truck to be voted the Best Heavy Duty Truck by some of Australia's most respected commercial vehicle journalists," Mr Whitehead says.  

He says the new generation range is proving popular with the industry.   

"The feedback from our customers around our new generation range has been exceptional, better than even we expected," Mr Whitehead says.  

Mercedes-Benz Truck and Bus Director, Michael May, says 'word of mouth' has boosted demand for the new model.   "We knew this was a great truck, but the demand is even stronger than we anticipated," Mr May says.  

"Word of mouth is selling this truck. Operators are telling each other how good it is, what great fuel economy they are experiencing," he says.  

The feedback for the prime mover models has been so strong Mercedes-Benz decided to feature a number of quotes on the Brisbane show stand, with the quotes displayed on the windscreens.  

These include: "We expect to see a return saving of $40,000 per truck" from Transtex director, Shane Blakeborough, and "We are seeing a 25 per cent improvement in fuel economy," from CTI Logistics Commercial Manager, Glenn Brown.

  Mr May presented the recently-introduced Actros prime mover to the public for the first time at the Brisbane Truck Show Thursday and launched the new-generation Mercedes-Benz rigid range that is focused on distribution and vocational applications.  

The Brisbane Truck Show runs through until Sunday at 4pm at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.   

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