The first two 13.5 tonners, F135.240(E) rigids, have gone into service: both have 4,990mm Isuzu Hexapod day cabs with Easyshift automatic transmission. The trucks have also been specified with G&A refrigerated bodies and Carrier Supra 750 refrigeration systems.
The 25 N75.190 7.5-tonners also feature the Easyshift automatic gearbox and G&A refrigerated bodies, but are equipped with Carrier Xarios refrigeration systems.
“Isuzu trucks now account for a significant proportion of our distribution fleet, especially at 7.5 tonnes, as we have found that their on-the-road reliability is fantastic,” says Steve White, head of fleet at Reynolds Catering.
“The recent introduction of Isuzu’s new model at 13 tonnes coincided with our need to replace some incumbent older trucks from our fleet. On the back of our experience of the Isuzu 7.5 tonne performance over many years, we decided to move up the gvw category with Isuzu this time.”
The new Isuzu Forward F135.240(E) Euro VI 4x2 rigid is the latest addition to the manufacturer’s 2018 product range.
At 13.5 tonnes gvw, the F135.240(E) is powered by Isuzu’s 4HK1TCH four-cylinder OHC turbo intercooled Euro VI diesel engine matched to the Isuzu six-speed MZW6P automated transmission, generating 237bhp at 2,600rpm.
The twin rear-wheeled chassis features Isuzu’s Hexapod all-white steel day cab, with all-round vision and a host of safety features.
All 37 vehicles are expected to be in operation for seven years, covering 60,000-80,000 miles a year on average.