Foden 5000 ready to roll
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by Brian Weatherley Foden will launch a new heavy truck cab in August designated the 5000 Series.
Operators say that the Sandhach truck builder is developing an updated version of the 4000 Series cab with a revised grille, steps and under cab area and full cab air suspension.
The "big kite" badge which was dropped three years ago is set to make a comeback, although it's unclear whether it will carry the Foden script name.
The cab interior is also due to be reworked; it is expected that the dog-leg binnacle will be dropped in favour of a straight dash. Foden research has shown the dog-leg dash is not popular with drivers because of restricted cross-cab access.
The engine lineup in the 5000 Series has yet to be confirmed but Euro-1 versions of the Caterpillar 3406E 14-litre and the 10litre 3176 could be offered alongside the current 1.10 and N14 Cummins engines. Foden will also bring in the latest 11-litre Cummins Mll engine (already offered in the US) before the 1996 Euro-2 emission standard. Until now Cummins has said that the Mll will not reach the UK in advance of the Euro-2 emission deadline.
Foden's fortunes continue to rise with production at the Sandbach plant now running at 40 chassis a week-60% of these are multi-wheelers, fuelled by the growth in the six and eight-wheeler markets.