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TOP TRUCK: JURY'S OUT
Page 50
Page 51
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As you read this the votes are being counted for the International
Truck of the Year 2004 awards. Andy Salter, CM editor and UK
jury member, assesses the runners and riders.
The International Truck of the Year award is the most prestigious prize in the truck industry's calendar and this year the trophy is contested by five nominations, some with more chance of success than others:Mercedes-Benz Actros:lveco Eurocargo;Volvo FH16;Stralis AT/AD:and MAN TGA TS.
In next week's CM we'll be announcing the winner of this highly prized award, though with so many trucks in the running for the top spot a careful review of the products is required before making the final decision. Here's our guide... Iveco Eurocargo Iveco. which took the award last year, returns with a renewed bid for glory in 2004 with its new Eurocargo lightweight range. Cargo has the form to take gold this time, having won in 1992 and before that in the mid-eighties. The latest incarnation is equally impressive with an enhanced cabin environment, improved ride and handling and a brand new look. Furthermore, lveco has all but eliminated the unwanted vibration from the engine that was prevalent on the outgoing model.
The Eurocargo has only just entered the UK market so sales are still relatively low. However, the operators of the new model we've spoken to report good service. Eurocargo has the credentials to give the Actros a run for its money this time round, but as we reported last week (CM 9 October) the changes, while welcome, do little to promote the more efficient carriage of goods. Looks booked for silver.
Volvo FH16 High-power trucks don't have an outstanding record in the IToY award, and the new FH16 has to be rated an outsider in this company.
The company is the first to push through the 600hp barrier for a non-specialist truck, which in itself arguably makes a big contribution to the efficient carriage of goods by road. Furthermore, the new engine brake employed with the big 16-litre engine gives colossal retardation. But while we're big fans of the Volvo FH, the FH16 makes little change apart from some chrome trim here and there and the introduction of the new engine.
It's hard to see it winning the trophy, but it could push Iveco for the minor honours.
MAN TGA TS
The TGA was a worthy winner in 2001 and the new lightweight TS is a worthy addition to the range, answering many of the payload concerns of the original model. However, innovations are largely restricted to Michelin's new wide-single tyres on the drive-axle, so it's difficult to see how the TS can make the frame.
In fact it has no chance of scooping gold this year— MAN's chance will come, possibly in 2005, but it will be lucky to avoid ending up as tail-end Charlie in this company.