ISUZU IMPROVES SAFETY WITH NEW FUPD AND AIR DEFLECTOR
Isuzu Trucks has released an optional Front Underrun Protection Device (FUPD) for FV and FX Series models, improving safety for other road users while enhancing the models' load carrying ability.
In other product news, Giga Series owners now have access to a new air deflector kit for improved fuel efficiency and aerodynamics.
Front Underrun Protection Device – FV and FX models
Available from Isuzu Truck dealers, the FUPDs meet the latest Australian UNECE Regulation 93 safety standards, enabling front axle loading of all FX models to be increased to 6.5 tonnes, and increasing operating Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) by 0.5 tonnes.
The latest FUPDs are compatible with all FV and FX model bumpers, and can be used in conjunction with a standard Isuzu bullbar, simplifying body location and compliance with VSB 6 weight distribution regulation requirements for body builders.
According to Isuzu Australia Limited (IAL) Product Planning and Engineering Support Manager, Colin White, the introduction of optional FUPDs on all new FV and FX models has several benefits.
"The FUPD is designed to be an integrated barrier that fits on the front and rear of the truck to prevent smaller vehicles from slipping underneath the truck in the unfortunate event of a collision," Mr White said.
"A FUPD ensures that crash forces are distributed evenly across the other vehicle upon impact, better activating that vehicle's safety features such as airbags.
"As well as this, a FUPD also prevents damage to the truck's steering controls, allowing the truck to be brought to a controlled stop," Mr White added.
Air Deflector – Giga models
To improve aerodynamics, fuel efficiency and aesthetics across the entire Giga range, a series of enhancements have been made to Isuzu's Giga air deflector (available as an optional accessory).
Manufactured and designed in Australia, the recently released Giga air deflector has many advantages over its Japanese-sourced equivalent due to local improvements.
It uses straight braces rather than bent brackets to provide improved structural rigidity, and its increased surface area provides greater deflection and additional space for company livery, giving the truck a powerful presence on the road.
Constructed from lightweight fibreglass, the Isuzu Giga air deflector kit consists of a main roof fairing and two side extenders.
According to Mr White, those involved in line haul and long distance travel applications will benefit from fuel savings as well as improved safety and reduced driver fatigue.
"Through initial Isuzu Australia testing, we have found that an air deflector fitted on a Giga truck will reduce its fuel consumption by 10–15 per cent," Mr White said.
"The air deflector kits also aid in the reduction of drag, giving the truck more stability, thereby reducing driver fatigue. As a further benefit, the improved truck aerodynamics is also likely to increase tyre life due to less wind resistance and a smoother air flow over the cab and body of the truck."