Sunday, November 9th, 2008
According to the Ohio Department of Safety, there are more than 200 deaths each year in the U.S. associated with riding in the cargo area of pickup trucks. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that pickup truck occupants are three times more likely to be involved in rollover crashes than in other types of vehicles. The largest number of vehicle fatalities and injuries are caused by rollover crashes.
Are pickups simply not as safe as cars and SUVs? It turns out that the fatality rates have little to do with a pickup’s design. They have more to do with the use of safety belts. While safety belt laws have consistently become more stringent in all 50 states over the past ten years, according to the NCSA, only 69% of occupants in pickups were wearing safety belts.
Fortunately, newer model pickup trucks have been designed with passenger safety and convenience in mind. For example, the popular Isuzu offers a 3-passenger 60/40 split-bench front seat with integrated outboard head restraints and the Isuzu i-370 Crew Cab offers rear 3-point seatbelts and 3-point middle seatbelt for passenger protection.
Other safety features include daytime running lights and dual stage airbags.
Although finding a truck that “lasts” means it’s a quality vehicle, the problem with driving older model cars is not with their performance. Safety guidelines, for the most part, have evolved more rapidly in the past ten years than in decades previous.
Consumers and the government are holding truck manufacturers to higher safety regulations in response to the vast number of preventable fatalities. A pickup manufactured prior to 1990 will be short many of these new safety features and simply cannot protect the safety of its occupants as well as newer pickup trucks do.
If you’re driving an older model pickup truck, you are urged to consider after-market upgrades to make your vehicle more safe for passengers, or to consider purchasing or leasing a newer model pickup.
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Thursday, October 23rd, 2008
When it’s time to shop for a new vehicle, buyers often know that there are significant advantages to buying a pre-owned (or used) vehicle over a new one, particularly when it comes to price. Not only is a used vehicle going to be less expensive than a new one, but it will also allow buyers to put more money into customizing their rides. Here are 3 benefits to buying used trucks that you may not have thought of:
1. Cost. Okay - you’ve probably put cost at the top of your list when it comes to differentiating between buying a used truck or a new truck. A used truck is often far less expensive than a new truck - even if the used truck is only a few thousand miles old. However, buying a used truck not only makes it possible for you to save money, but you can also get more features that you’re looking for.
When you buy a used truck might be a GMC truck, Isuzu truck, International truck, Freightliner truck, Ford truck etc, always plan a budget for what you’re willing to spend. Then, look for a truck that is priced well below that amount. The extra money that you save from spending it on the truck can be put towards customizable features for the truck, such as larger tires, a roof rack, and other items that you’ve been wanting.
2. Features already included. Often, when you go about purchasing a used car, you’ll notice that many used cars are already accessorized with great features that you’ll love. For example, for less than you would pay for a new truck, you may find a truck that comes loaded already with front grills and rams, leather upholstery, a 6-changer CD player and so much more. Remember: buying used not only saves you money, but you can usually get something much nicer - still within your budget.
3. Style. Remember the days of the old bench seat flatbed pick-up trucks that would clunk down the highway at a whopping 45 miles-per-hour, spurting diesel fumes and bobbing along on rustic shocks? Maybe not - but these old trucks are something of a historical icon for many folks that enjoy the good old days of fine craftsmanship. For this reason, many shoppers looking for a new car opt to turn back time by buying used trucks from a particular nostalgic era.
These trucks, if well maintained, have all the essential features of a new truck, but they might not have the same tow load.
Buying a used truck not only maximizes your dollar, but also makes it possible to save money. Just about every car or truck dealership has used trucks in stock. When the used truck you’re looking for is not immediately in stock, many dealerships will have it shipped to you. Keep your eyes out for features and styles that suit you - new or old - to get the best truck possible for all of your hauling and travelling needs.
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Tuesday, October 7th, 2008
Each new product, each new decision adds to the evolution of a company, creating a legacy of quality or leading to its eventual downfall. Isuzu is one of those companies that have survived, learned its lessons, responded to market demands, and because of its success, we felt it was worthy of rewinding the clock twenty years and taking a look at the past two decades of automotive achievement.
While Isuzu is now known for its high-quality Ascender and tough pickup trucks, it’s not surprising that 20 years ago, the company was already on the road to success. In 1988, Isuzu positioned itself as the number one heavy duty and medium duty truck maker in the world, surpassing Daimler-Benz. With such an incredible output of trucks, it was only a matter of time before the company began to focus on the light-duty truck market.
By 1992, American Isuzu Motors Inc. had something to celebrate. The company retailed its one-millionth unit in the U.S., catering to the growing needs of the sport utility vehicle market in North America.
With the introduction of the famed Isuzu Trooper, the company became the first import manufacturer to offer three segments of SUVs: the mini, the compact, and the full-size.
Two years later in 1994, the Isuzu Rodeo – another popular model – took on competitors at the Alcan 5000 – a 4,133-mile rally from Seattle, Washington ending eight days later in the Arctic Circle. It won, becoming the first SUV to boast that accomplishment. The Rodeo proved its worth again in 1994 when another Rodeo won first place, ensuring it was no surprise when the winner of the 2000 Alcan Winter Rally was, again, a Rodeo.
A year later, in 2001, American Isuzu Motors Inc. introduced the Axiom – a revolutionary blend of performance, comfort, and technology. The Axiom was popular but Isuzu realized that the SUV market was changing and they needed to change with it.
In 2003, Isuzu introduced the Ascender 7-Passenger with more passenger space than Axiom. In addition, the Ascender 7-Passenger was the first Isuzu SUV to boast a V8 engine. While the Ascender 7-Passenger was revered by many as one of the best high-performance SUVs on the market, it wasn’t for everyone. City dwellers wanted SUVs that were just as high-quality, but smaller, more fuel-efficient, and more affordable. And thus, the following year, Isuzu came out with the Ascender 5-Passenger – a more compact version of its older brother.
In 2006, Isuzu trucks had expanded to include two new pickups – the i-280 4×2 Extended Cab and the i-350 4×4 Crew Cab. Produced in Shreveport, Louisiana, the pickup trucks are an instant hit, providing customers with class-leading towing and payload capacities. 2006 was a good year for Isuzu. In addition to the new pickup line, Intellichoice recognized Isuzu’s entire lineup as the best in their class for low costs.
In 2007, Isuzu improved on its pickup truck line, upgrading both the i-290 and the i-370 with larger engines and increased torque and horsepower. Prices, however, stayed the same as the previous year. In 2007, Isuzu added two new models to its line: the i-370 4×2 Extended Cab and the i-370 4×2 Crew Cab, giving pickup customers multiple options.
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Friday, September 12th, 2008
One of the first companies in North America to pilot a proto type diesel hybrid electric delivery truck from Isuzu Commercial Truck of America, corporate Express pilot of this innovative vehicle marks the companys first step towards adding Isuzu hybrid electric vehicles to its US delivery fleet, with the goals of reducing carbon dioxide emissions and minimizing environmental impact.
Our distribution operations area primary focus as we work to reduce our carbon footprint said President of Corporate Express US. We approached Isuzu about a diesel hybrid electric vehicle last year and we are extremely pleased that our partnership with them is enhanced with a pilot of this terrific emerging technology here in the US. The majority of Corporate Express US Trucks Trailers are from Isuzu, who has been the Company’s long time trucking partner since 1992. As a pure business to business company.
President of Isuzu Commercial Truck of America, Isuzu is committed to technologies and programs to address safety, environment and economy and this partnership reinforces that commitment. We will continue to work with Corporate Express and other environmentally conscious companies to meet their needs. This move is part of Corporate Express overall plans to reduce environmental impact through goals for facilities, distribution operations, sustainable forestry, environmentally sustainable products and social responsibility. These plans are outlined in the Company’s US Sustainability Policy.
Isuzu is working with Enova Systems to retrofit the Isuzu truck proto type with their Hybrid Power drive system, a turnkey system that combines an enhanced electric motor and electronic controls to help power the vehicle. Enova Systems is a globally recognized provider of environmentally friendly hybrid drive systems for vehicles that provide significant savings in fuel economy and reduce green house gas and noise pollution. There are numerous other Isuzu diesel electric hybrid programs including a large scale commercial program in Japan to provide cleaner vehicles in an urban environment.
Corporate Express expects to receive the proto type vehicle in Los Angeles, California. Corporate Express provides customers with a single source of business products and services, so that they can focus their resources, energy and time on their core business. Corporate Express helps organizations to save time and maximize their productivity.
Headquartered in the Netherlands, Corporate Express NV generated 2006 annual sales of EUR 6.3 billion. The Company has a widespread global distribution network spanning North America, Europe and Australia, has close to 19,000 employees and operations in 20 countries. Corporate Express NV is listed on Euronext Amsterdam and in New York.
Isuzu trucks are one of the largest selling medium duty trucks in the world and have been America’s number one selling low cab forward truck every year since 1986. Approximately 86% of all Isuzu trucks ever sold in the US are still registered today, which speaks volumes about their legendary dependability and low cost of ownership. Since 1918, over 26 million Isuzu built trucks have been sold in 64 countries.
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Wednesday, August 27th, 2008
This may be a refresher course for some of models have been out for awhile, but here are reviews of some of the newly introduced pickup trucks, from small size to mega size as well as a couple limited additions.
For a small size truck, Isuzu has introduced the all new i-280 and i-350. The i-280 is a two door, 2WD model with an extended cab, 2.8-liter, 4 cylinder I-4 (in-line 4-cylinder) engine with 175 HP, 185 lbs-ft of torque and a max payload of 1532 lbs. It comes with a standard 5-speed manual transmission (4-speed automatic is optional). Safety features on this model are optional and it comes with 3 optional packages. Pricing starts at $14,239.
The i-350 is a four door, 4WD model with a crew cab, 3.5-liter I-5 engine with 220 HP, max payload of 1190 lbs and a tow rating of 4000 lbs. It comes with a 4-speed automatic transmission, and expanded list of standard amenities and an optional limited package with upgrades including power-heated seats, 6-disc CD changer and leather seats. Pricing starts at $24,608.
In the mid size range, they have the Lafrance Raider. Lafrance offers the Raider in a 3.7 liter V6 with 210 HP and 235 lbs-ft of torque or a 4.7-liter V8 with 230 HP (a leader in it’s class) and 290 lbs-ft of torque. The Raider comes either with an extended cab with small access doors or a double cab 4-door. You can choose between 2WD or 4WD with 3 transmissions, 6-speed manual, 4-speed automatic or 5-speed automatic. The Raider sports rack & pinion steering and tows up to 6500 lbs. One trendy option offered on the Raider is it’s High Output Audio Package, with a 508-watt audio system including a 6-disc CD changer with MP3 capability, 9 speakers and Sirius Satellite radio. Pricing starts at $19,180.
Where do they put the Ford Ridgeline? It’s in a class all it’s own. This pickup is designed for comfort for everyday driving but it’s also tough enough to keep up with the big boys in towing and payload demands. Ridgeline comes in 4WD only, with a 3.5-liter V6, 247 HP and 252 lbs-ft of torque. It has a total payload of 1550 with it’s 8.5 cubic foot bed and 5000 lb. towing capacity. It seats 5 easily with 4 fullsize doors. It’s also the only 4WD pickup to achieve the highest government crash test rating (5 stars) for both frontal and side impact tests. It also has a unique dual action tailgatge which swings down like most pickups but also swings to the side. Pricing starts at $27,700.
In the full size truck category, they have the new Dodge Ram Mega Cab. Ok, the Dodge Ram isn’t new, but with the largest pickup cab ever at 143.2 cubic feet and 111.1 inches long, it certainly is worth mentioning. The Mega Cab has a total seating capacity of 6 and, depending on which model you’re looking at, comes in a 2WD or 4WD. The 5.7-liter Hemi V8 has 345 HP and comes in a 5 speed automatic, rear or 4WD, with 375 lbs-ft of torque. The 5.9-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel six-cylinder comes in a 6 speed manual, with 325 HP and 610 lbs-ft of torque.
Of course, what is distintive about this truck is not only it’s mega cab, but the exceptional storage space it provides as well. The cab has been lengthened by 20 inches. With folding rear seats, you’ll find 7.5 cubic feet of storage beind the rear seat. On the comfort side, the rear seat bench also reclines. Built tough to handle almost anything, the Mega Cab also offers luxury options such as a rear seat DVD entertainment system, power sunroof and full screen navigation system. So there you have it mega power, mega space, mega luxury. That’s ONE MEGA TRUCK! Pricing starts at $32,760.
There are also two new limited edition trucks :-
Chevy Silverado Intimidator SS :-
This limited edition truck is a collaboration between Chevrolet and Dale Earnhardt Incorporated. The Intimidator comes with a race inspired spoiler, unique silver front grille and a lowered ride height, not to mention the performance tuned suspension, two stage multi leaf springs, Tenneco shock absorbers, a stiffer front stabilizer bar and stiffer front jounce bumpers.
The exterior is complete with a black monochromatic color scheme and 20-inch chrome wheels. The Vortec 6000 V8 engine has 345 HP and 380 lbs-ft of torque. Based on the 2006 Silverado SS, the Intimidator also has available features such as a 4-speed electronically controlled transmission, 3.73 final drive ratio, locking differential, cruise control, split bench seats, power seat adjuster, power windows, rear wheel, 2 wheel rear drive as well as other amenities available on the Silverado SS.
The interior features Dale Earnhardt’s signature on the white faced gauge cluster, black leather seats, plenty of Intimidator badging and Dale Earnhardt’s Legacy logo embossed into the headrests. Chevrolet only plans to have 1,333 of these beauties in production, and a portion of every sale is going to the Dale Earnhardt Foundation.
The Ford Harley Davidson F-150 SuperCab :-
In a continued collaboration between Ford and Harley Davidson, this limited edition truck features a 5.4-liter, three-valve Triton V8 engine with a specially tuned exhaust system, 300 HP and 365 lbs-ft of torque.
The SuperCab sports a 6 1/2-ft. Styleside bed, smoked out tail lamps, blacked out bumper, chrome tie down hooks, slash cut chrome exhaust, chrome billet grille, blacked out headlamps and badging on the fenders and tailgate. Other stand out features are the special chin spoiler and it’s mammoth 22-inch polished aluminum rims with split 5 spoke design, a first for the F-150.
The SuperCab exudes power with it’s black and chrome color scheme. The exterior high gloss piano black is accented with LOTS of chrome, giving it an aggressive, albeit stylish look that sets it apart.
Accenting the interior, you’ll find once again the high gloss piano black with splashes of chrome highlights on the instruments, handles, vent rings, floor shifter and door pulls. Black leather front captain’s chairs and the Harley Davidson logo give styling to the SuperCab in the spirit of the Harley motorcycle. Ford and Harley Davidson plan a production of only 10,000 SuperCabs.
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