Page 28 - TBN-2014-2

Roland S.Folger
Mitsubishi Fuso launched its Canter FG 4x4, the first four wheel drive truck in Malaysia, on 16th Feb.
The FG 4x4, the new generation in the Mitsubishi Fuso Canter range, fo- cuses once again on improved safety, comfort and drivability, further ex- panding the versatility of the Canter range first unveiled in 1963.
Speaking at the launch of the vehicle, President and CEO of Mercedes- Benz Malaysia Roland S. Folger said the roll-out of the Mitsubishi Fuso Canter FG 4x4 marks a new milestone for the company as the pioneer distributor of the first four-wheel drive truck in Malaysia.
“We had a great start to 2012 with the launch of three new models in our luxury passenger car range and we are absolutely excited to welcome the Mitsubishi Fuso Canter FG 4X4, which we expect will drive and extend the brand’s equity in the Malaysian truck sector while enhancing FUSO sales by 250 units,” he added.
A key feature of the Canter FG 4x4 is its smooth-shifting manual transmis- sion that, when combined with the transfer case and front locking hubs, allows drivers the on-road economy of a two-wheel drive, while simultane- ously offering the versatility of a four-wheel drive when the front hubs are manually locked.
Designed for the agriculture and construction sectors, the Canter FG 4x4 has a compact and extremely robust chassis for excellent maneouvrabil- ity on off-road conditions, crowded job sites and even while navigating through tight plantations.
Besides its enhanced drivability, the new light duty truck is also equipped with a 3.9 litre turbocharged intercooler diesel engine that is compliant with Euro 2 emission standards and has good fuel-efficiency.
Other features include generous interior dimensions to give drivers a smoother and more comfortable experience, extensive storage space, ad-
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vanced ergonomics as well as an in-dash gearshift to provide greater comfort without compromising con- venience.
“Harsh road conditions, brutal weather and long-dis- tance journeys to remote, hilly and uneven terrains are just some of the many situations faced by Ma- laysian truckers every day. Although common, these situations would be a nightmare to most without the support and reassurance of a reliable and versatile vehicle. And needless to say, this Canter FG 4x4 of- fers just that, ”said General Manager, Sales and Mar- keting Albert Yee.
To demonstrate the Canter FG 4x4 capability, the company took the media to the construction site to witness the performance of the truck descending a slope with heavy load.
Priced at RM131,000 (OTR without insurance), the new 5-ton GVW capacity Canter FG 4x4 is assem- bled at the Mercedes-Benz Malaysia plant in Pekan alongside other Fuso models.
Folger also added that they are targeting to sell 2,500 units of various Fuso models this year, with the new Canter FG 4x4 making a significant contribution. With a strong line-up of products the company foresees a steady growth in market share following the very en- couraging demand for the Canter series. Thus, they envisage more than a 40% increase in overall Fuso sales this year.
From right: Roland S.Folger, Albert Yee & Yoji Sumida