Fuso NZ has introduced four new Shogun models with a range of innovative, class-leading features engineered to lower running costs and improve performance in specialist freight applications.
Fuso NZ managing director Kurtis Andrews said the new models represent a planned evolution of the Shogun line-up, bridging the gap between FUSO’s 280hp Fighter and 400hp Shogun ranges with the introduction of a highly efficient, low-emission 8-litre 360hp engine.
Specifically for low-loader applications, two light-tare ‘Super Low’ 8x4 models, built on an 844mm-high chassis with 19.5” wheels, feature front and rear air suspension for the first time in a Japanese truck.
Providing further options for freight operators are 6x2 and 6x4 variants with eight-bag rear air suspension and, on the 6x4, a limited slip diff on both drive axles for improved traction.
The new Shogun range in depth:
Four new models: 6x2 FU2536 / 6x4 FV2536 / 8x4 FS2536 / 8x4 FS2540.
A highly efficient 8-litre 360hp / 1400Nm OM936 engine (FU2536 / FV2536 / FS2536).
Two 8x4 ‘Super Low’ 844mm-high chassis options with 19.5” wheels and front and rear air suspension – a first for any Japanese truck (FS2536 / FS2540).
A new, ultra-smooth eight-bag rear air suspension design (FU2536 / FV2536).
All models include the full complement of advanced safety features that come as standard across the Shogun range.
“These four trucks represent a significant addition to our range, providing tailored solutions for specialist delivery applications and strengthening our Shogun line-up to 13 models,” said Fuso NZ managing director Kurtis Andrews.
“As the transport sector looks to get back on its feet, smart, cost-effective transport solutions built to safeguard the safety of drivers and stakeholder investment will be more important than ever.”
The new model line-up features the 6x2 FU2536 and 6x4 FV2536, fitted with rear eight-bag air suspension, and two 8x4 ‘Super Low’ FS2536 and FS2540 models fitted with front and rear four-bag trailing arm air-suspension.
The FU, FV and FS2536 all feature the new, fuel-efficient 8-litre 360hp OM936 T1 engine, with the FS2540 powered by the 11-litre 400hp OM470 T2 engine found in some existing Shogun models.
A smaller engine with plenty of smarts
Reducing running costs with optimal power output are key aspects of the 8L engine, which is paired with the intelligent ShiftPilot automated manual transmission found across the Shogun range.
Built to comply with JP17 (Euro 6 equivalent) emission standards, the T1 has a high output to displacement ratio, providing efficient, effective power delivery and exceptional fuel economy, resulting in a low carbon footprint.
Offering additional cost savings, AdBlue SCR conversion reduces AdBlue consumption to between 2.0-2.5% of fuel consumption, while robust construction of components reduces wear and tear for enhanced longevity.
OM936 technical focus:
The engine features a cross-flow cylinder head, four valves per cylinder and double overhead cams, with the exhaust camshaft actuated by a variable camshaft phaser (VCP) – the first adjustable exhaust camshaft of this type to appear in any diesel engine.
The adjustment supports the regeneration of the particulate filter and makes regeneration possible under practically any operating conditions and at outdoor temperatures as low as -30oC.
The highly flexible injection strategy allows up to five separate injections, including pilot, main and post injections, and is also the basis of the engine’s cold-start capability, enabling it to start reliably and without pre-glow at temperatures well below freezing.
The OM936 uses two-stage turbo charging, with twin asymmetric double-flow turbochargers and an electronically controlled boost pressure valve, to regulate the charge pressure and further improve engine response during acceleration and when using the Jake engine brake.
The bore/stroke ratio of 110/135 mm enables low fuel consumption, and at the same time the long-stroke configuration ensures excellent pulling power at low revs.
Further fuel economy is achieved by electronically controlling the speed of the water pump to achieve fast warm-up and to maintain optimum engine temperatures over the complete rpm range.
First-class air travel
Another defining characteristic of these new Shogun models is air suspension – and there are two aspects to this story.
Grabbing the headlines are the two 8x4 FS variants, which represent the first-ever new Japanese trucks with front and rear air suspension available in New Zealand.
This set-up provides the advantages of even ride height and load share, enhanced protection for sensitive cargo and reduced fatigue to alloy truck bodies caused by road shocks.
The second part of the story is the FUSO-first eight-bag design fitted to the rear of the 6x2 FU and 6x4 FV models. This new design provides added stability and an exceptionally smooth ride – even on New Zealand’s less-than-perfect roads.
All the new Shogun models are equipped with ride height control, which can be operated in the cab or remotely for added convenience at different loading docks.
The 6x4 has a limited slip diff on both drive axles for greater traction, such as a crane truck moving on and off a work site.
A low-loader with maximised payload
With its full air suspension and lighter engine, the new 8x4 Shogun Super Low weighs over 1.1T less than existing 460hp 8x4 models (which themselves have class-leading tare weights).
The Super Low’s light tare weight enables operators to maximise their payloads, which, combined with a chassis height of just 844mm, makes these trucks a solid investment for both general freight and low-loader transporters.
Road-tested and ready to go
Three evaluation trucks have been extensively road-tested over 120,000km in New Zealand for the last six months in both linehaul general freight and low-loader configuration. Operator feedback was extremely positive, with reports indicating significant fuel savings and noticeably improved ride stability and comfort.
“Where air suspension is the standard specification for highway delivery trucks, added to superior performance, advanced safety and value for money, these new Shogun models will tick a lot of boxes for New Zealand freight operators,” said Andrews.
Models are due to arrive in New Zealand in June.