Mitsubishi Fuso Launches Enhanced
Canter Eco Hybrid Light-Duty Truck in Japan

Kawasaki - Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation (MFTBC), one of Asia’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturers, today launched an enhanced version of the Canter Eco Hybrid light-duty truck. The latest version provides fuel economy of about 11.0 km/liter, depending on operating conditions. This is on the top level of performance for this kind of truck in Japan. Mitsubishi Fuso has also improved drivability by optimizing the hybrid system and added new variations like a long wheel base model.

First released in July 2006, the Canter Eco Hybrid with its parallel hybrid system significantly reduces fuel consumption and emissions while providing easy operation on the job. Sales of the Canter Eco Hybrid have exceeded 600 units since launch.

Key features of the newly enhanced Canter Eco Hybrid include:

Enhanced Engine Output
The vehicle’s engine has been changed from 4M42(T2) (92kW/125ps) to the newly developed VG turbo engine 4M42(T3) (96kW/130ps) with enhanced output. Drivability has improved with INOMAT-II mechanical automated transmission and optimized tuning of the hybrid system.

Improved Fuel Efficiency
By optimizing the hybrid control program, the fuel economy has improved to about 11.0km/liter, on the top level in 2.0 ton trucks. For 3.0 ton versions, the fuel economy level is about 10.0km/liter. Fuel economy depends on operating conditions. The new Canter Eco Hybrid’s fuel efficient performance contributes to vehicle economy and environmental protection.

Model Variations Expanded
A G-long wheel base vehicle with a wide cab has been added to the current model. Also 2-ton and 3-ton payload types are set for all the already-set B-long and E-long wheel base vehicles. Also a DX vehicle and vehicle that meets Japan’s new driver’s license regulation (GVW below 5 ton) has been newly added.

Compliance to Regulations
The new Canter Eco Hybrid complies with Japan’s “Safety Standard for Passenger Protection from High Voltage” in advance that will be applicable to vehicles to be manufactured from July 1, 2012. In addition, the shape of the side-turn lamp has been changed to comply with the Japan’s new lamp/lighting equipment regulations.

Availability

Most models of the enhanced Canter Eco Hybrid are now available in Japan through Mitsubishi Fuso’s extensive dealer network, with all models available later this quarter.

“Shaping Future Transportation”

Mitsubishi Fuso’s continuing efforts in hybrid development are part of the “Shaping Future Transportation” initiative of Daimler Trucks and Daimler Buses. This initiative is aimed at redoubling ongoing efforts to achieve a major reduction in the fuel consumption and exhaust emissions of commercial vehicles. “Shaping Future Transportation” encompasses alternative drive system initiatives across various commercial vehicle brands. Hybrid technology plays a key role in these vehicles, as it can reduce diesel consumption by up to 30 percent, depending on the application.

Based in Kawasaki, Japan, Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation (MFTBC) is one of Asia's leading commercial vehicle manufacturers. In 2008, the company sold a total of about 197,700 vehicles including light-, medium- and heavy-duty trucks and buses. Daimler AG owns 85% of MFTBC shares. The remaining 15% of shares are held by various Mitsubishi group companies. MFTBC is an integral part of the Daimler Trucks Division of Daimler AG.