KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is the first country in South East Asia, and only the third country globally after Japan and China to be getting Isuzu's new Giga trucks.
Isuzu Malaysia Sdn Bhd chief operating officer Atsunori Murata said the move to bring in a range that presents several firsts in design concept (such as improved efficiency, safety and comfort) is a testament to the Japanese brand's commitment and appreciation to its customers in Malaysia.
He added that the aim was to also establish a firmer footprint in the heavy-duty and prime mover segment, where the company believes the new trucks will not just widen Isuzu's heavy-duty range but will also heighten the brand's benchmarks and those in the industry as well.
"We are very enthusiastic about launching the new next generation Isuzu Giga heavy-duty and prime mover trucks in Malaysia where we have achieved notable successes in. It is thanks to the great support from all our customers that we are recognized as the top truck brand for many consecutive years.
"This market leading position has been significantly contributed by our light-duty Elf range. We are confident the new next generation Isuzu Giga range will also be a strong business contributor that will challenge the boundaries and thrust the brand further forward," he added.
The new Giga trucks are the first full model change since Isuzu launched the first generation in 1994 in Japan. The new design is inspired by the Japanese concept of 'Meri Hari' which means creating and achieving balance and harmony.
The product line-up consists of five new models for the heavy-duty and prime mover segment that includes the C series model CYZ420 rigid truck with 7-speed manual transmission, and the E series' EXR420 4x2 and EXZ460 6x4 prime mover that comes in two model options - a 16-speed on manual transmission or automated manual transmission (AMT).
Its higher power, performance, and stature is said to be ideal for demanding operations such as construction, heavy haulage, and bulk delivery industries. Power and performance are produced through the Euro 3 standard of 15.6-litre 6WG1 engine with 420 and 460 horsepower.
Cab shape is said to have been optimized to a cubic form to achieve the best-in-class aerodynamics which significantly reduces the coefficient of drag for better cooling performance, safer journey, and lesser fuel usage.
The interior features European standards ergonomic design centred on spaciousness, driver-friendly features, better operability, and increased comfort.
On the dashboard is a 4-inch LCD multi-information display meter which displays various important information for the driver which includes of driver assistance, transmission, utility, and always-on display areas.
This multi-information display meter and cruise control can also be operated via dedicated switches on the steering wheel - a new feature in Isuzu trucks said to significantly improve operability and safety while driving.
One of the key features for the prime mover is the high-performance seat with an integrated seat belt produced by German company Isringhausen.
The comfort-focus seat is equipped with various features including seat warmer and cooling ventilation, and various adjustments such as tilt structure, reclining angle, shoulder adjustment, lumbar support and more to better fit different body shapes and preferences.
Lastly, the trucks are also equipped with the Isuzu Safety Plus platform which offer key safety features including anti-lock braking system (ABS), SRS airbag for driver and brakes override accelerator (BOA).
"In addition to power and performance which are crucial to the industries the trucks are made for, the new Isuzu Giga trucks also offer greater efficiency and serviceability to ensure maximum uptime and productivity for our customers," said Murata.
"Our motivation for introducing the new Isuzu Giga trucks is driven by our commitment to offer wider and improved truck options for our customers who are increasingly demanding more efficiency in a highly competitive landscape.
"We have a large network in Malaysia and trust that the brand has a steady future in becoming a specialist in all commercial vehicle segments with the right products and pricing," he added.