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NEWS
Isuzu cracks the ton
This year marks a century in business for Isuzu JapanIsuzu Japan marks 100 years in business this year and Isuzu Australia Limited (IAL) says it has celebrated by posting its best sales performance since 2008.
Isuzu was founded in 1916, when a Tokyo shipbuilding company and an energy producer came together with the shared vision of building quality Japanese vehicles.
In 1924, this company – then known as Ishikawajima – completed the first Japanese-built Wolseley CP 1.5-tonne payload truck, which was qualified as an official military truck by the Japanese government.
The 1930s saw a huge upswing in domestic demand for automobiles and in 1933 Ishikawajima responded by launching the 'Isuzu', a government standard model car, which derived its name from a sacred river that flows through the Mie Prefecture.
In 1936 the company took the first of many bold steps in engineering innovation, developing two air-cooled diesel engine models, the DA6 and the DA4.
Isuzu trucks played a major role in Japan’s post-World War II reconstruction, hauling materials, products and food to meet the fevered industrial uptake of the time.
It was during this boom period that Isikawajima became Isuzu Motors Limited, taking the name from its successful car model.
In 1959, Isuzu introduced the ELF, a light-duty truck that was an instant market leader in Japan and would be the first incarnation of the ever-popular N Series which continues in the Australian market today.
Isuzu has gone on to supply trucks and diesel engines all around the globe – even supplying engines to Japan’s South Pole Research Facility in Antarctica.
In 2015, the company passed the landmark of 25 million diesel engines manufactured worldwide.
As Isuzu Japan chalks up 100 years, Isuzu Australia reflects on the milestones that have led to the brand’s 28 years of consecutive market leadership.
"For almost three decades, IAL has led the market through balancing innovation with a steadfast commitment to develop the best possible products for the Australian environment," said Phil Taylor, IAL Director and Chief Operating Officer.
"It’s a philosophy we’ve prided ourselves on and one we plan to continue well into the future."
Isuzu trucks were first imported into Australia by General Motors Holden in 1972.
The reputation for quality translated well and the SBR 422 model – a light-duty, hard-wearing workhorse – proved a particular favourite following its entry to market in 1979.
"The SBR was diesel powered – while many other trucks were still using petrol – and it was renowned for starting up at every turn of the key, regardless of what extreme conditions it was up against," Mr Taylor said.
This reputation was reinforced by subsequent models with the launch of the N Series in 1984 and the F series two years later.
The N and F have grown much over the years, introducing the first turbocharged models in 1996, Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) in 2005 and Digital Audio Visual Equipment (DAVE) in 2013.
2016 has proved an auspicious year for the brand, with IAL posting its best sales performance since 2008.
Total sales stand at 3,964 units year to date for a volume increase of 19 per cent for a 25 per cent market share.
The light duty segment has been particularly strong, achieving almost 40 per cent segment share and a 25 per cent rise in volume. The medium and heavy duty markets have also shown outstanding gains.
"These results validate the hard work of the entire Isuzu team and provide a great incentive as we strive to give our customers the best possible service," Mr Taylor concluded.
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Written byTrucksales Staff
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