Nine-speed auto for Isuzu N Series and electric on the way

The new N Series light truck range is set to build on its market success with a host of new features and an expanded lineup.

“The new N Series is a winner in so many ways, from the new cab to more car drivers’ licence and tipper models, increased GVM ratings, first-in-class safety and ADR80/04 emissions compliance, it all stacks up,” said Light-Duty Product Manager, Jeff Gibson.

“We also have some pretty neat new model options including the tight-access master – the NKR, new 6500kg GVM narrow cab models and a new high-power 4J engine variant, the 4JZ1 with both 150 and 175 horsepower ratings.

“The all-new cab is comfortable, spacious and very efficiently appointed, while our new nine-speed Isuzu dual-clutch transmission will provide seamless shifts for a super smooth driving experience,” he continued.

The new nine-speed auto is a dual-clutch design which Gibson said was "like having a four-speed transmission and a five-speed transmission in the same box".

"There are two input shafts and two clutches which shift between those two transmissions. Skip-shifting is programmed into that and an adaptive start gear based on load and gradient," he said.

"The new dual-clutch design will offer millisecond changes," said Gibson. "It is very exciting and I have driven it," he added. "We feel that it is a final hole that we need to fill in our product lineup."

Upgraded safety is certain to be another highlight, with additional features including intersection autonomous emergency braking (IEB) on all models, full-speed adaptive cruise control (FACC) for all two-pedal models and traffic sign recognition (TCR) for all models.

“With pilot models due to arrive shortly for our validation trials, we’re keen to get out on the road and put this new model through its final paces,” Gibson said.

The roll-out of the all-new Isuzu truck range includes the signature N Series EV, with Australian customer trials scheduled for 2024.

"We will look at selected customers in 2025 and then expand in 2026 throughout the greater network," said Gibson. "We will only do that when we know that it's going to work. We don't have time to fix it [after it's launched]," he added.

“We also have several Japanese-spec N Series battery electric models due to arrive shortly in Australia,” continued Gibson.

"These vehicles will obviously be for Isuzu's internal testing and evaluation as well as for showing to select customers and the media.

“In line with our strategy of targeting last mile and local council and government applications, the trucks will be car and light rigid licence models, rated at 4.5 and 7.5 tonnes GVM.

“The eNLR at 4.5 tonnes GMV will feature a three-battery configuration with 60kWh capacity. The eNPR is rated at 7.5 tonnes GVM in a five-battery configuration with 100kWh capacity.

“Battery electric trucks on the ground and in trial is a major stage in this overall new model release program and it’s a remarkable experience to be a part of,” he said.