PETALING JAYA: UD Trucks' sole distributor partner in Malaysia, Tan Chong Industrial Equipment Sdn Bhd (TCIE), has introduced the new UD Kuzer SKE 155 light-duty truck.
With a five-year or 300,000km warranty (whichever comes first), the new lineup has been touted to be ideal for urban and regional transportation duties such as deliveries, distribution and logistics.
Customers of the new Kuzer will be supported by UD Extra Mile Services which includes UD Genuine Parts for durability and reduced repair frequency with a standard one-year warranty, UD Trust for fixed-price maintenance plans, priority scheduling for fleet operators and 24/7 roadside assistance, and UD Genuine Service for quality service for sustained uptime.
Compared to its predecessor, the new Kuzer has been improved in six key areas such as payload, performance, chassis, emissions, durability, and safety.
The truck is available in two variants, starting with the entry-level BPR75UKH that comes with a standard 4X2 axle configuration and a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of 7.5 tonnes, which can accept payloads up to 4,880kg or 610kg more than its predecessor (RKE150).
The range-topping BQR75UKN, which has a GVW of 8.5 tonnes can take up to 5,665kg of payload.
Meanwhile, the wheelbase has also been shortened to 3,815mm from 3,850mm, but its kerb weight has dropped to 2,620kg (BPR75UKH) and 2,835kg (BQR75UKN).
Both variants utilise a 5.2-litre (5,193cc) Euro4 4HK1-TC turbo diesel engine with a common-rail direct-injection system and variable geometry turbocharger.
While using a 100-litre fuel tank, output has been rated at 155PS at 2,600rpm and 419Nm of torque from 1,600 to 2,600rpm - all of which gets managed by a MYY65 six-speed manual transmission.
This allows the new Kuzer to reach a top speed of 100kph (BPR75UKH) and 90kph (BQR75UKN) - both with speed limiters.
The front reverse Elliot I-beam axle can take up to 3,100kg (BPR75UKH) and 3,300kg (BQR75UKN).
The rear, with a fully-floating single reduction hypoid gearing axle, can take up to 6,600kg for both variants.
Aerodynamics of the cab is claimed to be lower to further improve fuel efficiency, while also featuring LED headlights for better low-light visibility.
The cabin comes with an ECE R29 certification - a United Nations regulation regarding the safety of commercial vehicle cabins for occupant protection, while also providing ample storage compartments.
Among the inclusions are USB ports, easy to read instrument cluster, wide-opening doors, A-pillar grab handles, and lower footsteps.
(From left) Keiichiro, UD Trucks International Sales managing director Asia Pacific Eric Labat, TCIE executive director Tan Keng Meng and Loh.
For convenience, the Kuzer includes a keyless entry system, door visors and a radio system with speakers.
For safety, it now includes a driver airbag, anti-slip regulator (with on/off switch), anti-lock braking system, electronic brakeforce distribution, cab tilt warning, reverse alarm,
"The new Kuzer SKE light-duty truck highlights our renewed zest and commitment toward the logistics industry, and in continuously expanding and enhancing our product line to deliver smart logistics for our customers," said UD Trucks region director for Southeast Asia and East Asia Ochiai Keiichiro.
“Developed for key markets in Southeast Asia especially Malaysia, the new Kuzer corresponds with the growing demand for quality light-duty commercial vehicles particularly spurred by the rapid rise in e-commerce activities," added Keiichiro.
"We foresee that the demand for light-duty trucks will continue to increase in the coming years and we are poised to capturing more segmental growth with the new Kuzer,” concluded Keiichiro.
"The new Kuzer promises our customers operational efficiency and maximum uptime through accessibility, easy serviceability, genuine parts and other relevant support at our network of 28 dealer and service centres across the country.
"Our priorities are for our customers to achieve more impact per kilometre, improve their total cost of vehicle ownership, and make New Kuzer a savvy investment which will go the extra mile, every time,” commented TCIE chief operating officer Loh Thim Choy.
“The launch of New Kuzer has further reinforces the unique customer-focused partnership between UD Trucks and TCIE, and it remains our commitment to ensure that our customers receive fast response and easy serviceability for prime efficiency and productivity,” said Loh.
