UD Trucks has launched a new Eaton AutoShift equipped version of its heavy-duty GW range, a nine-speed ESCOT automated manual 4x2 GK as well as a new Allison Automatic version of its PK medium duty line up, to complete its Fully Auto offerings.
The three new automatic and automated manual variants join the MK6 Automatic which was launched in July last year.
According to UD Trucks general manager, John Bushell, the new automatic and automated manual models give UD an advantage over its market competitors by offering buyers the best spread of self shifting models available on the Australian market.
"These new self shifters like the rest of the UD line up deliver exceptionally high levels of standard equipment and value for money as well as strong active and passive safety, fuel efficiency and clean engine technology," said John Bushell. "UD has carved a solid and highly respected reputation for trucks that perform and return strongly on the investment and our auto options are very impressive trucks which will help UD further build its market share in Australia," said Mr Bushell.
"The automatic and automated transmission models add enormously to the appeal and versatility of the UD range," he added.
GW is the number one selling heavy-duty prime mover in its home market of Japan and has a reputation for performance, reliability and fuel efficiency in the Australian market as well as being amongst the cleanest and most environmentally friendly trucks available.
The GW470 Automated is arguably the best example of mating the18 speed Eaton AutoShift to a heavy-duty truck thanks largely to the advanced information and protocols used in the GW's ECU.
UD offers more options in chassis length than its opponents, with two chassis length options for PK9 models and three for PK10.
The Automatic PK and MK models utilse the latest technology Allison transmissions, which make them the most advanced medium-duty, models available on the Australian market.
The new UD's utilise either SCR or EGR technology to deliver environmentally friendly emission requirements on certain models.
The heavy-duty GW variants utilise a combination of the latest SCR and EGR emission reduction technology while theMK6, PK9 and PK10 models use EGR technology.
At the heart of the MK, PK, GK and GW models are the latest generation high efficiency multi-valve overhead cam, ultra high pressure unit injection engines with VNT turbocharger and intercooler, which deliver more power and torque as well as improved fuel economy and lower emissions.
The GW and GK utilise 13-litre powerplants with the GK 400 delivering maximum power of 390hp (287kW) as well as 1716Nm of torque, while the flagship GW470 produces 460hp (340KW) and 2255Nm of torque.
The MK6 and PK models use a 7.6-litre multi-valve overhead cam, common rail fuel injected engines with variable nozzle turbochargers and intercoolers and maximum power of 260hp and 794Nm of torque.
The entire range now boasts ABS anti lock brakes as standard equipment, delivering higher levels of safety and security, while standard cruise control across all models adds to the already impressive equipment levels.