Production of new Isuzu truck models begins

2012 N-Gas

Assembly of gasoline-powered N-Series trucks began in April 2011 at the Spartan Motors, Inc., facility in Charlotte, Michigan.

The 2012 N-Gas models are powered by the General Motors Gen IV Vortec 6.0-liter V8 engine producing 297 horsepower. The powerplant is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with double overdrive and lock-up torque converter for enhanced fuel economy and performance.

A full range of gasoline-powered models is available, including the 12,000-lb. GVWR NPR and the 14,500-lb. GVWR NPR-HD. Both are available in Standard Cab and Crew Cab configurations with wheelbases stretching from 109 to 176 inches in length.

Production of the 2013 model year N-Gas models will begin in July 2012.

2012 Reach Commercial Walk-in Van

Production began in October 2011 of the revolutionary Reach commercial walk-in van at Utilimaster Corporation's assembly facility in Wakarusa, Indiana.

The Reach, with a body designed by Utilimaster atop a rugged Isuzu NPR chassis and powered by Isuzu's 4J 3.0-liter diesel engine, achieves 35 percent better fuel economy than a traditional commercial van while offering the functionality of a custom-built work truck along with the styling and ergonomics of a cargo van. The Reach offers best-in-class mileage and meets the latest EPA emissions standards, yet still provides true commercial truck capability and delivers a dramatically lower cost of ownership than traditional walk-in vans.

The Reach is offered with a 151-inch wheelbase with either a 12- or 14-foot body. With an interior up to 27 inches higher than a conventional van, the cargo area can offer 540 or 630 cubic feet of storage.