Foden launches 17-tonne range
Page 12
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
• Foden Trucks has finally unveiled its first production 17tonner, designated the 2000 Series.
"The 2000 Series represents a major investment for Foden Trucks and confidence in our future," says managing director Rod Heather. "This all-new 17tonner is the most thoroughly tested and quality checked product we have ever introduced to the UK market."
Growing trend
The new model follows a welltrodden path by offering the classic Cummins-EatonRockwell driveline used by ERF and Iveco Ford among others, with a 134kW (180hp) Cummins B Series chargecooled engine, producing 617Nm (4551bft) of torque at 1,500rpm, the popular Eaton 4106 six-speed gearbox as standard, and an R144 Rockwell axle rated at 10.5 tonnes.
With the growing trend towards higher-powered 17tonners, with over 150kW (200hp) being common, more powerful engines are inevitable in the Foden, and the company confirms that they feature in future product plans. The Cummins C Series seems a likely choice.
An indication of Foden's commitment to the new vehicle is its price. At .U8,950 the basic chassis undercuts the bulk of the established opposition, with the notable exception of ERF's E6.18 and ES6.18.
The 2000 is unusual in using composite materials for its cab, and while a rather plain design, it undoubtedly contributes to the light unladen weight of 4,702kg for the 4,000mmwheelbase version. Foden claims it matches anything in the class for body/payload allowance.
Foden's newcomer also scores for a respectable range of chassis and body options, with the most significant being the availability of not only a ZF six-speed box, but also the nine-speed Eaton 6109.
The cab is only 2240mm wide and gives good access to the powertrain via its 60° hydraulic cab tilt, and a deep hinged front-of-cab grille. It carries a five-year warranty, has been tested over the equivalent of 350,000km in rig shake tests, and conforms to EC frontal impact regulations.
The front axle has a 7,100kg rating, providing a loading tolerance of up to 600kg. Taper-leaf springs are used on both front and rear axles, and a rear anti-roll bar is fitted as standard. Air suspension will become available for the drive axle by mid-summer.
Five different wheelbase options are on offer:
O 4,000mm, for tipper and skip loader applications Li 4,550nun, for rigid tanker and balker applications
O 5,850mm, for rigid bodies which are fitted with tail-lifts O 6,000mm, for rigid bodies which are fitted with tail-lifts 0 6,200mm, for longer rigid bodies with no tail-lift.
Foden claims a class-leading kerb-to-kerb turning circle of 21m for the new truck.
Power steering is fitted as standard, and the steering column is adjustable for rake and height. Foden offers the 2000 Series with a tinted and Laminated windscreen and lowered front quarter-light windows.
The new Foden will also be offered with the free FodenSure 12-month unlimited distance warranty which includes roadside rescue and recovery.
The company is taking orders for the 2000 Series chassis-cabs now; deliveries will start in April.