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1 May 09 - UD INTRODUCES NEW HEAVY-DUTY PRIME MOVER MODEL

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UD Trucks has introduced a new 4x2 single drive variant to its heavy-duty truck range, the GK400, adding to the critically acclaimed GW470 and GW400. The GK400 features four bag factory-fitted rear air suspension as standard equipment and delivers transport operators another option, particularly for metropolitan and intra state prime mover operations and in particular for low GCM semi trailer applications, i.e. car carrier or container transport logistics work. It is powered by the same unit injector, turbocharged and intercooled 13 litre engine used in the GW400, which delivers 390 horsepower at 1800rpm and 1716Nm of torque at 1100rpm. The new GK400 introduces UD's own ESCOT 3 pedal semi-automated nine-speed transmission with sequential shift pattern. The ESCOT equips the new GK400 perfectly for the cut and thrust of suburban delivery as well as on give and take country roads. The ESCOT transmission only requires the driver to use the clutch on start up with all shifts on the move being "clutchless" and handled manually by the quick touch of a lever. The convenience and ease of use will make the GK400 a favourite with operators needing to recruit inexperienced drivers while also benefiting the workplace OH&S of more seasoned drivers. In addition to the automated transmission the GK400 also boasts EHS (Easy Hill Start) for smooth and safe start-ups on hills as well as EBS (Electronic Brake System) with four channel ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) for safe and reliable braking under all conditions. With a GCM of 36 tonnes and a GVM of 16.5 tonnes the GK is no lightweight but delivers for specific tasks where a high horsepower high grossing prime mover would be overkill. A B-Double option is available to add to the GK's talents and flexibility. The GK400 features a wheelbase of 3,530mm, or almost 200mm less than its GW siblings, giving the truck added versatility and manoeuvrability in the city with a kerb to kerb turning circle 1.1 metres less than the GW's. According to UD Trucks general manager Mr John Bushell, the GK400 adds to the versatility of the UD trucks range by delivering a truck that is perfect for an array of city operations. "UD has answered the demands of a number of our customers who wanted a prime mover aimed directly at things such as container logistics and single trailer car delivery and distribution," said John Bushell. "Already one of our major customers, Australian Container Freight Services in Sydney has purchased nine GK400s specifically for the pick up and deliver of empty containers, enabling them to deploy their GW470s on fully laden container work," he said. "ACFS will be using the GK400 in B-Double configuration in metro areas and chose the trucks for the range of standard features such as the automated manual transmission, air bag suspension and manoeuvrability," he added. "The air bag suspension is answering a growing demand for road friendly suspension particularly in urban areas and in a number of states where concessions and extra freedoms can be utilised by trucks certified as road friendly. "Equally the GK400 will be just as much at home in single trailer car carrying operations in urban areas," Mr Bushell added. The GK400 features the same award winning cab as the GW models. The UD cab was recognised as a standout truck cab design by winning the Japanese Good Design Award, a factor that has helped make it the most popular prime mover on the Japanese heavy-duty market for the past three years. The cab brings together contemporary design with the highest levels of occupant and user safety, more interior space, a quieter and smoother ride, increased visibility and improved interior layout for better ergonomics and ease of use. The new cab has significantly improved aerodynamics compared with the CW model it replaces, enhancing the GW's efficiency and fuel consumption. UD's FLENDS emission reduction technology enables the new GK to meet the JPN LT05 regs, which in turn means it also exceeds the latest ADR 80/02 legislation as well as meeting the still to be introduced Euro 5 standard, not due to be introduced until January 1, 2011. FLENDS brings together both SCR and EGR technology in a high efficiency package, which takes advantage of the benefits of both systems while minimising the any drawbacks. SCR is the primary emission reduction system while the EGR is a secondary system. UD was the first truck manufacturer in the world to introduce SCR technology to its vehicles and continues to develop the system. This means that the GW/GK range maximises fuel economy, performance and PM reduction benefits afforded by SCR while utilising the secondary benefits of EGR in terms of reduction in NOx emissions and convenience.