Isuzu Commercial Truck of America Inc has announced that production of its all-new entry in the Class 6 medium-duty truck segment—the 2018 Isuzu FTR—began May 8, 2017.
The truck is being produced at a new 80,000-square-foot Spartan Motors facility in Charlotte MI.
“We believe that the all-new FTR is the truck of the future,” said Shaun Skinner, president of Isuzu Commercial Truck of America. “This truck’s combination of low-cab-forward design, Class 6 GVWR and four-cylinder diesel engine gives it fantastic maneuverability, the ability to carry more cargo than a conventional Class 6 truck, and outstanding fuel efficiency.
“We’re also thrilled to be working with Spartan Motors in Michigan,” said Skinner. “Much of the engineering for this truck was done at the Isuzu Technical Center of America in Plymouth MI, and many of the parts for it are US-sourced. This is a true medium-duty Class 6 truck designed and built for this market, in this market.”
The FTR is powered by Isuzu’s 4HK1-TC 5.2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine—a first in the segment. It generates 520 ft-lbs of torque and 215 horsepower and carries a B10 durability rating of 375,000 miles—meaning that 90% of engines should reach that mileage before requiring an overhaul. The truck has a gross vehicle weight rating of 25,950 lbs.
Eight wheelbase lengths, ranging from 152 to 248 inches, accommodate bodies from 14 to 30 feet, allowing for a wide variety of body applications.
The new truck assembly plant where the FTR is being produced represents a $6.5 million investment and has already brought new jobs to the Michigan workforce.
More information can be found at www.isuzucv.com and at www.spartanmotors.com.
