Isuzu Motors and UD Trucks have announced the joint development of new GIGA and Quon heavy-duty tractor models for the Japanese market.
The new tractor models are the first jointly developed products by UD Trucks and Isuzu since UD Trucks joined the Isuzu Group in April 2021. They will go on sale on 4 April through each company’s respective sales network.
Through this joint development, Isuzu and UD Trucks have brought together technologies from both companies to realise higher load capacity primarily by downsizing the engine, through better drivability and expanded safety features.
These efforts are aimed at addressing challenges faced by the industry, such as relieving driver shortages and improving the working conditions of drivers.
Together, Isuzu and UD Trucks currently operate a commercial vehicle service network of more than 400 dealers in Japan and will continue to support customers’ operations.
In addition, the companies are continuing to strengthen collaboration initiatives, such as the shared use of domestic and overseas parts warehouses, joint delivery and purchase of spare parts, and the opening of a joint office in Singapore with the aim of strengthening the overseas business.
Shinsuke Minami, Director of the Board, and Managing Executive Officer of Isuzu, said the company was pleased to announce the jointly developed prime movers at a press conference at UD Trucks Headquarters.
“Since UD Trucks joined Isuzu Group, we have continued to foster a culture of mutual understanding with an emphasis on creating new value,” he said.
“By deepening our collaboration, we will work to address logistics challenges facing our industry and accelerate the future of transport.”
Takashi Oodaira, Isuzu Managing Executive said the business, which incorporates a broad product portfolio of small, medium, and heavy-duty vehicles as well as buses, had extensive knowledge of how its customers used its vehicles and their needs.
“We will continue to provide transport solutions to customers by maximising developmental efficiencies and leveraging the strengths of both companies,” he said.
For Douglas Nakano, Senior Vice President of Technology and Chief Technology Officer of UD Trucks, becoming a member of Isuzu Group has allowed the company to make a comeback in the 6×4 tractor segment after a 13-year absence.
“We will continue to develop heavy-duty vehicles that meet the needs of customers as a member of Isuzu Group,” he said.
Isuzu and UD Trucks saw it as a major stepping stone towards both companies deepening their collaboration as they look to accelerate the future of transport together.
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