Gentlemen, start your engines
June 1st 2009 Nissan has just launched the GX range: eight models with capacities from 3.5 tonne to 5
tonne available with Nissan's own diesel and super-quiet, ultra-low emission LPG engines
The trucks have been built specifically
for use in tough demanding
applications: delivering the power
and performance demanded by the
operator while keeping them safe and
comfortable. A model series that will
deliver the goods in timber yards, block and
brick yards, by the dockside or within
foundries where diesel engines are
needed, or within logistics operations
where the ultra low emissions of the LPG
engine means the minimum of
environmental impact for use inside.
These trucks have a wide range of appeal
for the operator with excellent visibility,
easy access from either side, a comfortable
seat and driving position with light and
easy to use controls. Once the operator is
in the seat and has adjusted the machine to
suit his requirement it's time for the engine,
where Nissan's six cylinder engines can
leave new drivers stumped: it's running but
they can't feel any vibrations and they
aren't sure they can hear it! The diesel
TD42 with a 4.2 litre power house (61 kW)
or the LPGas TB45 with 4.5 litres (63.9kW)
ensure there is plenty of power, yet the
floating mounts ensure that the already low
vibrations are smoothed even further.
Once released, the over centre parking
brake, with its safety lock to prevent
inadvertent operation, enables the
automotive controls to be put to use. For
high speed operation where long distances
can be covered in the shortest time there is
a two speed transmission giving a top
speed of 22km/hr. The transmission,
whether the single or two speed, is
independently mounted to the engine
through a prop shaft to further minimise
vibration.
While it is important to have a truck that
is a high performer it's even more
important that it does this safely for both
the operator and the others in the
work area. The design needs
to be right to get proper
stability, low centre of
gravity, good weight
distribution and optimum
dimensions. Nissan has
achieved this, as is confirmed
by the 5 metre lift height
before deration.
Nissan's 'Risk Reduction
System' – which includes
return to neutral
transmission and mast
lock when the
operator leaves the
seat – prevents
accidental operation,
even mast lowering.
Other standard
features include the
PIN code access
system and warning buzzers and lights for
seat belt use, operator absence and
reversing. Complimenting these features is
the standard light package including
indicators and brake lights, and rear view
mirrors.
Low cost of ownership has been
ensured for maximum economy
from Nissan's renowned
reliability, power train protection
system, low fuel consumption,
long service intervals to the onboard
diagnosis system. The
dash mounted meter panel
enables a wide range of
parameters to be set
including travel
speed (LPG only)
and provides a
reminder when the
next service is due
as well as key
indications and
warnings. For the
service technician a
full diagnostic
menu can be accessed ensuring maximum
truck up time.
As part of the Nissan Green Programme
these trucks exceed in all environmental
areas. From recycling (more than 95% of
the truck can be recycled) to the low use of
fossil fuels. Exhaust emissions of the diesel
engine improve on the requirements of
stage 3A European standards while the LPG
emissions are believed to be the lowest in
class. Since there is no regulation standard
within the EU for LP Gas Nissan has
adopted the USA standard of EPA
(Environmental Protection Agency) Tier 2
which includes compliance even after
5,000 operating hours. These ultra low
emissions mean the trucks can be safely
used in areas where LPG trucks would
previously been deemed unsuitable.
Nissan has achieved this by including as
standard a closed-loop 3-way catalytic
convertor, and applying its automotive
know how in single point fuel injection.
The GX range can be tailored to suit a
wide range of applications with anti-dust
specification for use in yards, anti-rust
specification to protect against corrosion
and a wide range of options including fork
levelling, single lever or individual lever
control of hydraulics, finger-tip control of
hydraulics, ground speed control, steering
synchroniser, seat options and full cabin
with options for heater, air conditioning
and sound system. More articles from Nissan Motor (GB) Limited: | 
