Mitsubishi Fuso Unveils Latest Medium-Duty Trucks
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| New FK and FM Models Enhance Interior Comfort, Ergonomics and Efficiency |
| U.S. and Canada Sales Increased 15% in 2006, Up 6% in Q1 2007 |
Kawasaki – Mitsubishi Truck and Bus Corporation (MFTBC), part of DaimlerChrysler’s Truck Group, unveiled its new generation medium-duty trucks for the U.S. and Canada. Known as the FK and FM models in these markets, the trucks incorporate significant enhancements in interior comfort, ergonomics and efficiency, while featuring distinctive new styling. They were introduced at a press conference and test drive event in Amelia, Island, Florida. On the strength of an updated product line, strong distribution network and positive market conditions, Mitsubishi Fuso has been expanding sales in the U.S. and Canada. In 2006, total sales in these markets rose 15% to 6,855 units. In the first quarter of 2007, sales increased 6% (year over year) to 1,924 units. (Numbers are MFTBC wholesales). Bert van Dijk, MFTBC Board Member and responsible for International Sales & Service, said: “Mitsubishi Fuso is very pleased to bring the new FK and FM medium-duty trucks to our customers in the U.S. and Canada. These updated vehicles feature significant enhancements designed to meet customer needs for safety, low operating costs, high functionality and driver comfort. They represent a strong enhancement to our North American product line.”Product Benefits |
| Spacious and quiet interior, with comfort features like driver’s air suspension seat. |
| Ergonomic improvements including entry-and-exit, easy-to-reach controls, increased adjustment range of seats/steering column. |
| More visibility through panoramic windshield and low side mirrors. |
| Improved aerodynamics for greater fuel economy. |
| Self-assured styling with a low-profile fascia and flush side panel surfaces |
| Safety features including highly rigid cab and new, impact-absorbing steering wheel. |
| Powerful, 7.5-liter, inline 6-cylinder diesel engine (243 hp) meeting U.S. EPA 07 regulations. |
| Higher payload capacities. |
| Model range from 9.0 to 14.9 tonnes. |
The trucks were engineered and designed using the Fuso Product Development (FPD), a comprehensive process based on the global standards of DaimlerChrysler. FPD requires that products must pass through specific quality “gates” before moving on to the next stage of development. The system assures that products meet defined customer requirements and are launched with the maximum assurance of quality. The trucks are built at MFTBC’s Kawasaki, Japan, manufacturing plant and imported as completely-built-up units to the U.S. and Canada. Mitsubishi Fuso in the U.S. and Canada |