FUSO Trucks recently introduced its FUSO FJ 16-230 to the region. According to the manufacturer, this launch is ‘testament of FUSO Trucks’ continuous growth offensive in southern Africa’.
Built at the Daimler India Commercial Vehicles (DICV) plant in Chennai, FUSO Trucks says that it is poised to unlock the full potential of this market and, as such, the FJ 16-230 offers a wide choice for various applications.
“The FUSO FJ 16-230 is expertly built not only to be able to handle tough operating conditions…”
“The FUSO FJ 16-230 is expertly built not only to be able to handle tough operating conditions experienced in southern Africa, but also to be ergonomic, fuel-efficient and custom-tailored to meet the ever-demanding expectations of our customers,” says Naeem Hassim, Head of FUSO Trucks Southern Africa.
“Like with all the rest of the commercial vehicles produced at DICV plant in Chennai, the FUSO FJ underwent rigorous testing and was assessed under the most strenuous driving conditions to ensure maximum reliability,” continues Hassim.
“The FJ’s 6,37-litre, water cooled, direct injection and turbocharged diesel engine makes light work of any task, offering an output of 170kW at 2 200 rpm, with the torque levelling at 810N.m between 1 200rpm and 1 600rpm.
“When the dry single-plate, hydraulic actuated control with servo assistance clutch is paired with the all-conquering 6-speed manual transmission, there is no task too tough for the FJ 16-230. Unit fuel injectors and higher boost pressure on the turbocharger ensure complete burning of fuel, reducing emissions and increasing performance, while the oil-lubricated fuel pumps reduce wear and increase durability.”
On the inside, the engineers have designed a more comfortable cabin that reduces driver fatigue, using a three-way adjustable driver seat and a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, which allows the driver to choose an optimum driving position. The cabin is fitted with standard air-conditioning and rear windows that allow maximum ventilation.
Driver aids include a variable green band indicator that shows the driver the correct gear and speed required to minimise fuel consumption, and an intelligent instrument cluster ensures all vital information is always easily visible. The trip mileage indicator displays the distance travelled, average speed and fuel consumption.
On the outside, the aerodynamic design of the cab reduces wind resistance and reduces noise, resulting in a quieter, more comfortable drive. The FJ aims to be a driver’s best friend by offering a parabolic front suspension that increases comfort and drivability. The multi-leaf rear suspension has more and thicker leaves to improve longevity and carry heavier loads.
“The FUSO FJ 16-230 is set to be one of the safest trucks on the roads, as it is fitted with front standard anti-roll bars for greater safety and to improve road grip and vehicle stability, especially when cornering or changing lanes at speed,” adds Hassim.
