Food Service Company, Plateau Food Distributors, has been a loyal Isuzu customer for 25 years and runs a modern fleet of Isuzu trucks, with 13 NQR 450 models and one FSD 850. Supplying products to commercial clients such as restaurants, cafes and caterers, the trucks are always on the go, delivering frozen, chilled and dry products.
Plateau Food Distributors’ Managing Director, John Smith, said that the Isuzu trucks’ insulated van bodies make the vehicles ideal for transporting perishable goods.
“Our delivery trucks are modified and fitted with freezer bodies and refrigeration units to allow for transportation of chilled and frozen products,” said John.
As the company employs 15 drivers for its Isuzu fleet, it is vital that the trucks are easy to handle and reliable on long delivery runs. John explained, “All of our drivers are very pleased with the performance of the Isuzu trucks. Our fleet vehicles each cover 40,000 to 60,000 kilometres per year, operating in busy city conditions and in regional areas – they cover a lot of ground.”
Although the Isuzu NQR 450 is a small vehicle, John said that its four cylinder, sixteen valve SiTEC Series II 185 engine makes light work of deliveries.
The FSD 850 is the largest truck in the fleet and it features a six cylinder, 24 valve SiTEC Series II 255 engine. The Isuzu four-bag electronically controlled air suspension system helps to meet the needs of heavier deliveries often allocated to this truck. The FSD also features cruise control for highway driving.
Both Isuzu models used by the company have a range of advanced safety features including Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Anti Skid Regulator (ASR) and driver and passenger airbags.
The Isuzu NQR 450 and FSD 850 both meet the most recent government emissions regulations with their Euro IV rating.
John commented, “We always choose Isuzu trucks due to their power, economy, reliability and excellent resale value – Isuzu trucks are really second to none.
He adds, “We purchase Isuzu Trucks to not only expand the fleet, but also to replace retiring vehicles. The trucks generally have a lifespan of five years before they are resold and replaced with new Isuzu models.”
Over the past 12 months, Plateau Food Distributors has added eight new units to its fleet, with plans to add another three units by the end of 2010.