Isuzu Makes a Difference with the Salvos

M8540DCN (narrow) Tractor at Work

Kubota Tractor Australia has come a long way since introducing compact tractors to the Australian market in 1977, enjoying an exponential growth in presence over the last 35 years. Now firmly entrenched in the marketplace, Kubota brand has acquired a reputation for producing equipment of outstanding quality.

Until 30 June 2012, we’re offering 0% interest on Kubota tractors and mowers*, which makes owning your very own brand new Kubota even easier.

With the approach of the dry season, there’s no better time than the present to look at a new Kubota tractor for slashing fire breaks or prepping paddocks for the fruit and veggie season. Of the many tractor brands available in Australia, few can match Kubota’s premium quality range.

 The compact B Series are perfect for the smaller block, and prove their worth in applications such as market garden shade houses. The next step up is the L Series, with base models that deliver between 32 and 45HP and premium options available to suit the large block owner or mango or vegetable grower. Kubota’s largest tractors, the M Series, is brilliant for heavy duty tasks such as fruit and vegetable farming as well as station-based slashing, spraying and hay work, ranging in incredibly powerful options ranging from 51 – 135 HP.

 Safety has been taken into consideration when designing the range, with Roll Over Protection Systems (ROPS) available on all tractors up to 95 HP. Cabin options are available in most Kubota tractor models, offering air-conditioned comfort (or heating for the Alice Springs winter or those cold dry season mornings), features such as radio/CD player add to the comfort of a Kubota tractor.

 Kubota is also one of the biggest names in mowers, offering a range of ride-on, front mounted and zero-turn options to suit the urban gardener or professional landscaper.

 Their lawn tractor range has recently been upgraded with the introduction of the GR2120 series, packed with features such as a 21 HP diesel engine and a tough but easy to operate all wheel drive hydrostatic transmission.

 If you’re mowing on hilly, rolling terrain, require a manicured look or are navigating a combination of open spaces and tight areas, you should look to the F Series front mounted Kubota mowers. Including 28 and 36 HP models, the F Series tackle the toughest of Territory terrain with 4WD transmission, ultra-deep mower decks and large tyres with wide tread.

 Available in petrol and diesel models, the Z Series range of zero-turn mowers can take on any residential or commercial mowing challenge, ranging from the compact ZG200 mowers through to powerful ZD300 models. Featuring high performance shaft driven integral type twin hydrostatic transmissions and hydraulic PTO clutches, as well as hands-free operations of both the hydraulic deck lift and parking brake, Kubota zero turn mowers are designed and built to handle a wide range of mowing tasks.

 Across the range, Kubota’s mowers feature deep decks for exceptional cutting performance, while reliable hydrostatic transmission ensures ultra-smooth performance and durability. The fuel efficient heavy duty diesel mowers feature a large fuel tank and supersized radiator, perfect for working long days in the Territory heat. The Kubota mower range has been built with comfort in mind, and features such as ample leg room, and uncluttered floor area means the operator can be in the seat for longer and experiences less fatigue.

 Drop in to see Sean at Airpower Darwin or have a chat with Deane at Airpower Alice Springs about tailoring a finance deal to suit your needs, and see why Aussies love their Kubota.

*Subject to 30% deposit, 36 monthly repayments with the GST paid back into the loan in month 4 as an additional payment. Available to ABN holders only. Offer ends 30 June 2012. Based on full retail pricing. Offer valid only on products priced over $10,000. Excludes T Series mowers. Cannot be claimed in conjunction with any other offer. Terms, fees and conditions apply.

By purchasing Isuzu Extended Care, customers can extend the standard three-year factory warranty by a further two years (to a total of five years), covering their vehicle for up to 400,000 kilometres or 6,000 hours (depending on the model).

In addition to the package, customers will also receive five years of cover under the Extended Isuzu Assist feature. This provides 24-hour roadside assistance in situations like emergency breakdowns, flat batteries, glass repairs and lost keys as well as the standard benefits of Isuzu’s Comprehensive Care program.

The Isuzu Extended Care package is available from Airpower NT.

According to IAL National Service Manager, Lee Poulton, the new program further adds to the company’s growing suite of aftersales service offerings.

“While Isuzu already provides generous standard factory warranties and roadside assistance package, we acknowledge that some customers may be looking for that little bit extra,” Mr Poulton said.

“We recognise that trucks are a business tool and that an unforeseen vehicle expense may affect an operator’s bottom line; Isuzu Extended Care will go some way to addressing this situation in the unlikely event of a mechanical breakdown.”         

For further information, please contact Airpower NT’s helpful Service Department teams in either Darwin on 8939 0240 or Alice Springs on 8952 5155.

* NPS, FSS and FTS models on application only.

Isuzu Australia’s New Managing Director & CEO, Mr Koichi Yoda

Isuzu Australia Limited (IAL) has announced the appointment of Mr Koichi Yoda as Managing Director and CEO, replacing Mr Masayuki (Yuki) Murata who held the position for eight years.

Mr Yoda, who officially took over the role on 1 April, has an extensive background with Isuzu Motors Limited, including several senior postings.

He began his career at Isuzu in 1980 after finishing university with a law degree; he spent nine years at Isuzu Motors, Japan, before transferring to American Isuzu Motors Inc. in 1989.

Mr Yoda spent seven years in total working in North America where he held several senior positions including CFO of American Isuzu Motors Inc.

Upon returning to Japan, he was assigned to other senior roles including General Manager for the GM Project Department and later, the North American Operations Department.

In 2008 Mr Yoda was appointed CEO of GM Isuzu Camiones Andinos (Colombia & Ecuador) before again returning to Japan in 2011 to take on the responsibility of Associate Division Executive for Export Sales Division No.1.

Mr Yoda cites his time in South America as one of the most interesting and rewarding experiences in his career.

“The venture represented Isuzu’s first foray into South America and as such there were many challenges to overcome in setting up these operations,” he said.

“We worked closely with General Motors in a joint venture and achieved some excellent sales results as well as increasing brand awareness.”

Mr Yoda said he looked forward to the opportunities and challenges the Australian role would bring.

“The Australian market is an extremely important one for Isuzu Motors,” he said.

“With 23 years of consecutive truck market leadership here, the Isuzu brand has a tremendous presence and history in this country.  Our strong performance in Australia over many years is certainly held in the highest regard by Isuzu Motors, Japan.”

According to Mr Yoda, the Australian market is unique and although IAL enjoys a strong position here, there are future challenges to overcome.

 “Australia is a sophisticated and mature market,” he said.  “Regulatory requirements are strict and many manufacturers compete here.  A few years ago the bulk of Isuzu’s direct competition came from Japanese manufactures, but more recently Korean companies have entered the market along with some Chinese competitors.

“With the increasing competitive pressure it’s important that Isuzu continues to provide customers with a total offering – it’s not just about the product itself but the support services we can provide our customers.

“From what I’ve seen, IAL is very customer-centric and a leader in customer care – it’s important that this continues for our ongoing market success.  I’ll be working hard for IAL in any way possible to maintain and increase our position in the market into the future.”

Yuki Murata – European assignment

Outgoing Managing Director and CEO, Yuki Murata, has been assigned to Europe to take on the role of Chairman, Isuzu Motors Europe Ltd.

Mr Murata said he had very much enjoyed his eight years at the helm of IAL and the friendships and associations he’d made over this time.  He also expressed confidence that Mr Yoda would provide a very positive impact on IAL.

“I’ve been fortunate to have worked with IAL for eight years and will have many fond memories of my time here,” he said. 

“I have no doubt that IAL’s success will continue under Yoda-san and I look forward to hearing of Isuzu Trucks achieving 25 years and more as No.1.”

Nerves of Steel Super Challenge

Are you the master of dig and the guru of stick?

Here’s your chance to show the world your remarkable hand eye coordination behind the controls of a mini excavator in the Kubota Nerves of Steel Super Challenge!

Complete the challenging tasks without any spills, tears or fears in the fastest time, and be rewarded with generous cash prizes on the day. State winners will enjoy a fantastic footy finals experience in Melbourne and participate in the ultimate Nerves of Steel showdown!

Airpower NT will be hosting both Northern Territory heats of the Kubota Nerves of Steel Challenge, with the North NT event taking place at Airpower Darwin on 15 June and the South NT event being held at Airpower Alice Springs on 22 June. Enjoy a delicious BBQ and refreshments, grab some fantastic giveaways and check out the new Kubota Compact Track Loader, which will be displayed exclusively on the day!

Go to www.kubotanervesofsteel.com.au to register now, but hurry as places are limited! 

Until stocks last, tradesmen will be able to enjoy the ease-of-use of a car-licence truck while at the same time enjoying benefits such as greater load space and towing capacity that a 4.5 tonne GVM truck offers compared to most standard utilities or vans.

Hassle-free Tradepacks ready for work

The NPR 200 Tradepack is available in two versions: Standard and Premium.

In the Standard guise, the Tradepack is fitted with a heavy duty aluminum tray body measuring 4,500 mm x 2,122 mm with two-piece 303 mm high drop sides. For added practicality, the body features a three-piece ladder rack, incorporating a zinc-coated headboard.  The two galvanised coated rear racks are removable should the full tray load space be required. 

Towing is catered for with a genuine Isuzu 3,500 kg tow bar incorporating a 24 V, 7 pin flat plug trailer wiring harness and chrome tow ball.

For protection, the truck is fitted with a genuine airbag-compatible Isuzu polished aluminum bullbar.  The package is completed with special Tradepack decals and mudflaps.

Power for both models comes courtesy of the four-cylinder turbocharged and air-to-air intercooled SiTEC Series III 155 engine, producing 114 kW of power at 2,600RPMand 419 Nm of torque between 1,600 – 2,600RPM.

In the Standard model, the SiTEC 155 is mated to Isuzu’s smooth-shifting 5-speed syncromesh transmission.

And for even greater value and convenience, genuine Isuzu satellite navigation by Navteq is also included in the Standard model, with special features such as truck routes, and mapping data supplied on an SD card.

The Premium version provides all the features of the Standard Tradepack along with factory-painted silver cab and a black powder coated, lockable steel toolbox (600 mm x 450 mm x 450 mm), located under the passenger side of the tray.

Other Premium inclusions are the 6-speed Automated Manual Transmission (AMT), instrument panel multi-information display, cruise control, chrome grille, auto control for air conditioning, front fog lamps and a driver suspension seat.

Isuzu Australia Limited (IAL) Marketing Manager, Jeff Birdseye says the ready-to-work Tradepack is perfect for those who want to upgrade from a one tonne utility or van.

“The Tradepack is ideal for busy tradespeople who want to make a purchase and have the vehicle on the job site shortly afterwards*,” Mr Birdseye said.

“Customers don’t have to wait for a body to be built and fitted, and there are also cost savings to be had by purchasing a fully specified cab chassis and body rather than adding components such as tray and bullbar individually.

“It’s also versatile with seating for three, greater payload and towing capacity – the Tradepack is a real workhorse.

“Environmentally-conscious buyers will also be pleased to know that the Tradepack not only adheres to Euro V emission standards, but meets the considerably more stringent EEV measure.”

Isuzu pioneered its ready-to-work concept several years ago and now offers a range of light and medium duty models including the Tradepack and a selection of factory Tippers.

*Once registered and insured.

*Terms, fees and conditions apply.

Isuzu FTR 900 Dreamtime Truck

With the recent acquisition of the ‘Purple Truck’, The Western Desert Nganampa Walytja Palyantjaku Tjutaku Aboriginal Corporation (WDNWPT) is one step closer to returning dialysis patients home in the Western Desert region.

The Purple Truck, an Isuzu FTR 900, was purchased as a mobile renal dialysis unit to treat remote dialysis patients across Western Australia, Northern Territory and South Australia.

Funded by Medicines Australia as a part of a social responsibility initiative in indigenous health, the mobile dialysis facility was launched on 12 December 2011 by the Minister for Indigenous Health, Warren Snowdon MP in Alice Springs.

WDNWPT Manager, Sarah Brown, says the Purple truck has made an important contribution to improving indigenous health in the Western Desert region.

“This truck will bring great hope to people who have not visited their homes for a long time. The design and engineering of the vehicle is exactly what we need to help dialysis patients,” Sarah said.

The truck body was specifically engineered and built by GSV Special Vehicles located in Adelaide, to include a dialysis machine and treatment area and took 12 months to construct. Isuzu was then approached by GSV Vehicles as the FTR 900 cab chassis was the perfect fit for the eight metre body.

With comfort and convenience in mind, the body also boasts an inbuilt kitchen, bathroom, and disabled access for those extra-long drives across the desert. There is even an iPod dock so that traditional and gospel music can be played while the patients are treated.

Driven by dialysis nurses who have taken special truck driving courses, Sarah says the Purple Truck features an automated manual transmission (AMT) to make the drive easier and has fared well on the sometimes severely corrugated outback dirt roads.

“The nurses have been happily surprised by the truck’s comfort, especially the driver’s suspension seat and the ease of driving and manoeuvring the truck,” she said.

The dialysis machine in the back removes waste and excess water from the blood, and is used primarily to provide an artificial replacement for lost kidney function in people with renal failure.

Sarah says the truck allows dialysis patients who are forced to live away from their traditional homes to better access permanent dialysis machines in larger cities, to return to their communities and families and pass on important cultural knowledge and to participate in community life.

“Not only does the Purple Truck demystify renal disease through education, it also encourages the local community to engage with health services early and help slow down the progression to dialysis. This in turn motivates them to take preventative actions to avoid being dependent on the dialysis machine for the rest of their life,” she said.

“The dialysis equipment was donated by Fresenius Medical Care and is adorned with the most spectacular Western Desert paintings courtesy of Papunya Tula Artists. It’s a real show-stopper and has already attracted significant attention on its drive up from Adelaide.”

“Besides its noticeable purple cabin, the truck features reproductions of paintings by leading Papunya Tula artists undergoing dialysis. The paintings depict scenes of the dream time and visions of home – known as Ngurra to the Pintupi people.”

WDNWPT began after Papunya Tula artists raised in excess of one million dollars at an auction of paintings at the Art Gallery of New South Wales in 2000. Since then the organisation has grown into a strong community controlled health service at the forefront of holistic models of care for people with end stage renal failure.

After its launch, the truck went to Papunya, north-west from Alice Springs, to treat its first patients. Next stop is the Warburton community where it will set up camp for two months providing dialysis treatment for people who have been forced to move to Alice Springs or Kalgoorie for treatment. The Purple Truck treats four people a week as each patient needs treatment every second day.

With the truck’s success, Sarah says the WDNWPT will be looking to raise extra funds to keep the truck on the road and establish more access to dialysis treatment in remote communities.

“We are very happy with the Purple Truck and we are looking forward to getting many more people home to their families in the coming years,” Sarah said.

New ISUZU F Series Agitator Model

Isuzu will feature one of the largest exhibits at the 2012 International Truck Trailer and Equipment Show (ITTES) from 15 – 17 March with a 17 vehicle display that will include a highly anticipated F Series Agitator model on public view for the first time.

The new FVY 1400 6×4 Agitator features a cab chassis specification that lends itself to the concrete mixer vocation.  The model also boasts a very competitive tare weight for superior payload.

The Australian truck market leader’s ITTES display is designed to showcase the manufacturer’s enormous range, and will offer a selection of light, medium and heavy duty truck models from the N, F, FX and Giga Series ranges.

In addition to cab chassis vehicles, Isuzu will exhibit a selection of its ready-to-work models including the latest edition of its popular car licence NPR 200 Tradepack.

The Tradepack is ideal for busy tradespeople who want to make a purchase and have the vehicle on the job site shortly afterwards – there’s no waiting for fitment of a tray at the body builders.  The model is available in both standard and Premium guise, both of which offer excellent value for money.

A leader in alternative fuels, Isuzu will showcase two of its Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) – powered trucks, the NLR 200 CNG and the FSR 700/850 CNG.  The Toll Group will also display one of its FSR 700 CNG trucks in full corporate livery. These vehicles offer lower running costs and notable environmental benefits compared to traditional diesel-engined trucks including zero particulate matter emissions. 

The extensive truck range will be complemented with a selection of parts and accessories displays covering Isuzu Genuine Parts and Best Value Parts (BVP) and even an Isuzu industrial engine.

Those visiting the show can find the Isuzu stand at: BH91 in the Boulevard Hoecker at the Melbourne Showgrounds.

Feedback at and following the event has been incredibly positive, with our guests commenting on how valuable it was to get together with the Airpower managers to have a chin-wag about what’s on the horizon and how Airpower can assist in developing their business further.

Here are some photos of our guests and managers enjoying the location and each other’s company from the night.

Airpower’s management team has a renewed focus on customer service, and with an active open door policy, our customers are welcome to drop into our Darwin and Alice Springs branches to meet with our staff to discuss their truck and machinery requirements. So if you’re looking to purchase new Kubota agricultural or construction equipment or need to expand your fleet with the addition of a new or used ISUZU or IVEO truck, drop in to see us today. Plus, we handle all your maintenance, repairs and spare parts needs; we’re the ultimate one-stop-shop and we want to give you the best service in town.