Isuzu Commercial Truck of America, Inc. announced the availability of the industry's first gas-powered, low cab forward crew cab truck. The new model features a Vortec 6.0L V8 engine with 325 horsepower and a Hydra-Matic 4-speed automatic transmission with lockup torque converter and overdrive for increased performance and efficiency.
Carrying seven workers, the crew cabs are available with 150-inch and 176-inch wheelbases to accommodate 12-foot and 16-foot bodies. GVW ratings are 12,000 pounds and 14,500 pounds, with payload allowances ranging from 6,251 to 8,821 pounds.
The Isuzu gas-powered crew cab and standard cab trucks are assembled in Janesville, WI. They are distributed through 205 Isuzu truck dealers and 350 GM W-Series dealers nationwide. Current sales volume of the gas-powered trucks is 6,000 units annually and is expected to grow significantly with their price advantage over emissions-compliant diesel models.
"The gas crew cab is the perfect solution for landscape, construction and delivery companies that need to haul a team of workers and equipment in one trip" said Joe Totaro, executive vice president and general manager, Isuzu Commercial Truck of America. "Plus they get the added horsepower and convenience of a gas engine combined with the maneuverability of a low cab forward truck."
Storage abounds in the driver seat back, dashboard, glove box and overhead storage shelves. Map pockets are built into the new, fully trimmed front door panels. To further aid driver convenience, Isuzu crew cab trucks also features a new dashboard with a full complement of easy-to-see gauges and warning lamps. A 5-DIN opening can accommodate such optional equipment as radios, GPS systems and rear view cameras.
Additional safety items include low-cut side windows, a large windshield and 17-inch by 8-inch side mirrors with integrated convex sections for improved visibility.
The cab offers rust and corrosion protection with galvanized steel panels, electro deposit paint primer and high quality enamel paint topcoat. A close-section construction and large gussets improve the durability, as well as enhancing the safety of the driver and passengers.