Let's talk about trucks today. Specifically the newly launched UD Quester by UD Trucks. The UD Quester is a truck designed for a global market with local conditions in mind. Designed by specialists from the Volvo Group (of which UD Trucks is a part of) the Quester is versatile and it has an extensive range of wheelbases and a chassis that is easy to build on – a fact very important to Malaysian truck owners and coach, or bodybuilders which customize a truck's chassis to suit local needs.
Using class leading systems and
processes coupled with Japanese build quality the Quester has over
1.5million engineering hours and 65000 hours of road testing during
its 3.5 year span from the start of development to its launch. The
focus on the vehicle's uptime and fuel efficiency are key ingredients
during its development.
On the fuel economy front, the Quester
offers first rate technology that, if coupled with driver know-how
will show fuel savings of between 5 to 30% compared to a vehicle
without such technology. The UD Quester has something that is unlike
a video game – a real time Fuel Coach that basically shows and
guides the driver to improved driving efficiency. The display shows
real-time driving tips for the best fuel economy. It shows the driver
when to shift, brake or accelerate in order to reach the engines most
fuel-efficient rev range. Two thumbs up signals that you are running
perfect. Actually this is unlike what those who are familiar with
energy efficient cars like the Honda Hybrids and Mercedes Benz
BlueEfficiency vehicles who have efficiency meters that actually help
the driver drive as economically as possible. Now we have the same
technology in trucks. And truck drivers can be entertained a little more on those long haul trips. Now how much fun is that?
The second important ingredient that
most truck owners look at is a vehicle's uptime. Transportation
companies face rising fuel prices and increasing customer demands.
The successful companies are the ones who keep on running.
Consistently and reliably, mile after mile, year after year. Uptime
has become a key for successful companies and is something that the
UD Quester excels at. UD Trucks offers features and service
agreements that give you peace of mind. The owners can focus on their
core business without worrying about when to service, how to service,
what to service – and most importantly how much it will costs. And
a 58degree cab tilt offers an easy reach for the mechanics. Important
for ease of maintenance.
For those into specification the UD
Quester has a chassis made from cold-formed steel with extended
strength and flexibility, providing steadiness when rolling and
pitching happen together. For instance on uneven road surfaces, loads
with high center of gravity or unevenly distributed loads. If the
driver needs extra power for hills and rough roads the UD Quester has
6x4T, 6x4R and 8x4R configurations (out of 7 configurations) have optional hub reduction, where
the stresses are split between the hub and the axle, giving better
grip and traction.
The 11-liter engine is available with
the optional UD Extra Engine Brake (see, truck drivers get to play
with 11,000cc worth of engine). This provides powerful braking that
is quick to engage. Improved braking safety gives you higher average
speeds especially in hilly landscapes. The 13000Kg load capacity
comes out of have loads of torque. This engine comes with various HP
ratings depending on specification – 370/390/420HP running through
a 9 or 12 speed gearbox. There is also a base 8.0liter engine with
220/250/280/330HP running through a 6, 9 or 12 speed gearbox. Torque
figures aren't stated. But would be massive. Obviously.
In this small trucker's mind, he'll
have 11,000cc, 420bhp and 12 gears please.
More information available at UD Trucks.
This post has been sponsored by VOLVO TRUCKS
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