Technology smarts are key to new Isuzu model line-up

The new Isuzu truck model range – specifically, the Isuzu Modular Architecture and Component Standard, otherwise known as I-MACS – has enabled a range of intelligent, innovative technological enhancements.

The new model line-up, going on sale throughout 2025, has been designed to meet the unique needs of Australian customer needs and applications.

Simon Humphries, the Australian arm’s Head of Product Management & Commercial Vehicles Chief Engineer, described the I-MACS approach as allowing the company to produce and offer: “A balance between what customers have been asking for up until now and what will be demanded in the new era of transport.”

He explained, “Essentially, this approach allows the design, development and combination of various common components, parts and devices to be applied in light of future tech advancement and the expansion of vehicle types.

“Hard-wired into this new model range is an improved understanding of the linkage between vehicle components and the notion of interchanging or relocating components – all making it possible to adapt to the future while remaining compatible with legacy models.”

A key part of this is the rollout of an all-new global wiring harness system intended to have a more far-reaching influence on the vehicle’s operation, regardless of the powertrain applied and the market in question.

Humphries noted that improvements to the flow of energy and information within a vehicle’s electrical architecture can profoundly affect its primary functions.

“With the level and sophistication of technology now found in modern cars and trucks, particularly in the area of safety innovation, the need for more robust communications systems simply translates to faster, more reliable operation of a range of active and passive functions.”

In other developments, Isuzu’s 2025 range has moved away from more traditional intra-vehicle communications towards a new lightning-fast digital messaging system, bringing the electrical engineering of the range line-up right on par with the latest global technological offerings in commercial vehicles.

“Again, under the banner of the global I-MACS approach, we’ve transitioned to full CAN bus (Controller Area Network) communications, which connects multiple electrical devices or modules together,” explained Humphries.

“This means there’s now faster, more reliable decision-making between critical modules within the vehicle, such as braking, steering and sensory reaction times and between the truck and ancillary body equipment.

“Whilst there are some production line efficiencies over in Japan, for the operator, it means that electrical communication within the platform is dramatically enhanced, meaning a safer, more responsive and better-managed tool of trade.”

The range features an all-new global wiring harness system. Image: Isuzu

Isuzu’s new generation range also complies with the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe’s regulation 155 (UNECE R155), reflecting the global group’s commitment to addressing cyber security risks across an increasingly connected and technologically advanced mobility ecosystem.

“These recent regulations are part of a global push to protect against cyber security threats. As our products become increasingly connected, a more standardised and unified approach is needed,” said Humphries.

“In responding to this, Isuzu has introduced a sophisticated gateway central controller unit or ECU that separates different module networks to produce more secure communication between critical functions of the truck.

“This is an exclusive gateway for Isuzu products, helping to protect the integrity of a range of key systems such as our advanced driver assistance system  – or ADAS.

“There’s a huge amount of data floating around a modern truck, so when we think about some of the autonomous safety features that might save our lives one day, the ultimate goal is to have those systems completely locked down and inaccessible to cyber threats.”

Backed by its parent company’s enthusiasm for delivering global mobility solutions for the here and now and into the future, Isuzu says Australian operators stand to benefit most from the features found “under the skin”.

“They may not have the same gravitas as something like a new type of powertrain technology, but these peripheral smarts are paving the way for safer, more efficient and better-suited products for Australian operators,” said Humphries.

“This is about seizing an opportunity such as an entirely new model launch and building in critical improvements that will, without a doubt, see out the lifespan of a particular model or product.”

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Free Easter eggs and hot cross buns for truckies this Easter Sunday

On Easter Sunday (April 20), truck drivers who have downloaded the Healthy Heads in Trucks & Sheds app will be able to collect a free hot cross bun and Easter egg at participating BP truckstops.

BP and Healthy Heads in Trucks & Sheds said the initiative was to thank those working through Easter across the road transport, warehousing and logistics industries for their efforts in supporting Australians all year round.

To claim your free Easter egg and hot cross bun, truckies will need to show staff at a participating BP site that they have downloaded the Healthy Heads App on their mobile device.

Available while stocks last.

A list of participating BP truckstops can be found here.

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Renewed plea for motorists to keep their distance this Easter as incidents climb

Transport workers are asking car drivers to give them space this long Easter weekend, with the number of incidents caused by inadequate following distance dramatically on the rise.

The latest National Truck Accident Research Centre (NTARC) Major Incident Investigation Report shows over a five-year period, crashes caused by inadequate following distance have increased by 73.5 per cent.

The research is developed in partnership between NTI, Monash University Accident Research Centre (MUARC) and the National Road Safety Partnership Program (NRSPP).

NTI Supply Chain Technical Manager, Aaron Louws, said the incidents often play out the same way.

“What we’ve found from our data, and what we regularly hear from truck drivers, is that when they leave a safe travelling distance in front of them, a car driver will cut in and try to erode that gap,” Louws said.

“This can result in the truck colliding with the rear of the car causing significant damage and harm. These incidents are almost always in a major city.

“We see this more than twice a week among NTI-insured trucks.”

Louws said it’s often the result of car drivers being complacent on the road and failing to understand the needs of heavy vehicles.

“The reality is trucks take a longer distance to stop. They’re also less agile when it comes to defensive driving, and sometimes the alternative is more dangerous,” he said.

“So, while it may look like there’s plenty of space to fit, if traffic unexpectedly slows ahead, there’s simply no time or space for a heavy vehicle to stop safely if you’re too close to the front of the vehicle, and that’s before even worrying about large blind spots.”

Louws said the data had a stark warning for car drivers.

“The research also found for fatal truck and car crashes, the car was at-fault in 85 per cent of incidents.

“Let’s slow down, take the time, give the space, and work towards creating safer roads for all users.”

Meanwhile, the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) said it is imploring the entire heavy vehicle industry to take fatigue seriously and drive safely over the Easter holidays.

To help reinforce that message, NHVR has launched Operation Omega 2, which sees its officers partner with police across the country to help educate heavy vehicle drivers about the risks of driving while tired or impaired.

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130-year-old business welcomes new custom Mack Super-Liner to the fleet

O’Neill’s Heavy Towing of Newcastle was founded in 1895 in Newcastle, New South Wales.

Breakdowns and road accidents are the two things transport operators want to avoid more than anything, but when they happen, O’Neill’s is on hand to get the truck back to a workshop.

“The competition comes and goes. I was born into this business, and in my lifetime we’ve just outlasted all of them,” said O’Neill’s Transport Manager Ben Grining.

“Newcastle is a loyal place, and if you do a good job the work will come to you.”

Over the years O’Neill’s has established itself as a towing company of choice, forming contracts with the NSW Police, the Roads and Traffic Authority, local truck dealerships, transport companies and the Department of Defence, who have major installations in the Hunter Valley and Newcastle area.

“We’ve towed just about anything you can think of, whether it’s road trains, buses, armoured vehicles, and we’ve noticed over the years vehicles and freight are getting heavier,” added Ben.

O’Neill’s Heavy Towing Fleet Manager Ben Grining and wife Chloe Grining, Owner and Director Michael Grining and his wife and part owner Kerry Grining. Image: Mack Trucks

This increasing need for power and torque can be an issue in difficult terrain, such as out in the hills near Denman, where a tow driver needs to be able to take off on a  hill without assistance.

The new 685hp Mack Super-Liner is specifically designed for these situations, with ultra-low speed crawler gears and multi-speed reverse built into an all-Mack driveline.

“The ultra-low reverse gears will sure make life easier when you’ve got to reverse a truck you’re towing into the sheds at a dealership,” said Ben.

The Super-Liner is the first one Mack has purpose-built as a tow truck, and features a 7.25 metre wheelbase with front axle rated at 8.2 tonnes.

“The towing bodies are made in the USA and they take about a year to build and ship, so we had a bit of time. When I was looking around for a truck to mount this one on, Craig Maddox from VGA got in touch and said Mack could build something to spec for it,” explained Ben.

The truck is rated to tow 130 tonnes. Image: Mack Trucks

Rated to tow 130 tonnes, the Super-Liner comes with a premium leather interior, a 28-inch bunk and a dash customised to Ben’s requirements.

“This Mack’s all fully-airbrushed and covered in stainless steel and lights, to fit in with the rest of our fleet,” said Ben.

“I love the look of the Super-Liner, it’s an old- school bonneted American truck, right up my alley.

“There’s not a lot of room for error when you’re towing weights like these, so power, control and reliability are absolutely key. Mack built this Super-Liner in Brisbane exactly to our specifications, so I’m confident it’ll be up to the task.”

With a truck workshop covering an acre, Ben’s crew is used to maintaining their own trucks, but Mack will be servicing the Super-Liner for the next five years under a Gold Service Agreement.

“When you tow broken-down trucks for a living, you get see up close just how important reliability is and one thing I can say is that we don’t tow many Macks, and I reckon that speaks for itself,” Ben said.

Tony O’Connell, Vice-President Mack Trucks Australia, added, “We are absolutely delighted to be able to deliver exactly the truck O’Neill’s were looking for to enable them expand the range of their towing operations. This is a great example of Mack’s commitment to delivering tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of our customers.”

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#PicOfTheDay – Matt Kinsey

Travelling fully loaded and southbound out of Belyando Crossing in Queensland.


We’ll choose a pic to appear in our Facebook cover slot, and will publish some of the best pics in our upcoming print edition of Big Rigs where you now also have a chance to win a $500 Shell Coles Express Gift Card.

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Upcoming lane closures for Toowoomba Bypass

There will be upcoming night-time closures on the Toowoomba Bypass at the Warrego Highway to carry out annual pavement condition assessments on the southbound and northbound lanes.

The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) has advised there will be two temporary night time closures on the Toowoomba Bypass between 9pm Wednesday April 30 and 5am Friday May 2, 2025.

Between the Warrego Highway West Interchange at Charlton and the Toowoomba Cecil Plains Road Interchange, the southbound and northbound lanes of the Toowoomba Bypass will be closed to all traffic during this period.

The approved heavy vehicle detour route is via though Warrego Highway, Troys Road, Toowoomba Cecil Plains Road, O’Mara Road, Warrego Highway.

Approved detour route. Image: TMR

Between the Toowoomba Cecil Plains Road Interchange and the Gore Highway Interchange, the approved detour route is Gore Highway, Toowoomba Cecil Plains Road, Carrington Road, Taylor Street, Tor Street, Anzac Avenue, Toowoomba Athol Road, Gore Highway.

Approved detour route. Image: TMR

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NHVR releases new tools to help road managers with permits

Road managers now have access to two new tools in the NHVR Go portal, the Historic Access Reporting Tool (HART) and Access Permit Rapid Cost Benefit Analyis Tool (Rapid CBA), which are designed to make issuing of permits easier and faster.

Paul Sariban, the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator’s Acting Chief Safety and Productivity Officer,  said that used together, the tools can help road managers increase their productivity, by identifying permit applications for the same vehicle type that are being submitted and approved repeatedly.

The HART allows users to generate historical permit data for their network and beyond, to identify trends in heavy vehicle usage across the network and enable full visibility of past access decisions,” Sariban said.

Using data from the HART, the Rapid CBA then allows road managers to evaluate the time and costs of administering repeated permits, both in the present and into the future.

The insights from both tools can help road managers find opportunities, including those not previously considered, to free up their valuable time by gazetting and pre-approving roads where it is safe to do so.

Sariban said the NHVR’s growing number of safety and productivity tools would assist to deliver safe, productive, and sustainable heavy vehicle movements.

“The release of these tools not only aligns with our intention to make more services and data accessible via NHVR Go, but also implement our Heavy Vehicle Productivity Plan, to drive actions such as easing the burden of permits,” he said.

In 2024, there were more than 80,000 industry permit applications and 180,000 cases where the NHVR administered, reviewed or processed a request or decision made by an industry applicant or road manager.

“With an increasing demand on the supply chain, we want to ease the burden of permits on road managers and industry, and these tools can help better guide access decisions to save time and free up resources,” Mr Sariban said.

NHVR Go offers a single, digital checkpoint for road managers to manage their respective assets and help meet their safety, productivity, sustainability, and regulatory needs.

This includes access to the National Network Map, as well as self-service tools to manage their networks on the map.

The NHVR said NHVR Go will also play a critical role in supporting a future National Automated Access System.

To access the HART and Rapid CBA, road managers can log into their NHVR Go user accounts, where they will find the tools in the ‘Access permits analytics reports’ page.

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NAPA has solutions to take your business further

NAPA has cemented its position as a leading provider of specialised heavy-duty products and services across Australia. With a comprehensive range of solutions and a strategically positioned network of branches, NAPA is the trusted partner for truck fleets and workshops seeking reliable, high-performance solutions to keep their operations running smoothly.

From OE replacement alternators and starter motors to braking components, air conditioning components, lubrication, service parts, and cutting-edge auto electrical accessories, our expertise ensures you stay ahead of industry demands. Backed by smarter technologies and operational efficiencies, we deliver value that goes beyond expectations.

Assistant branch manager at NAPA, Mark Spoor. Image: NAPA

Our branches are strategically located along the National Land Transport Network, ensuring the right parts are available where and when you need them. Supported by the world’s largest supplier of aftermarket components, we combine 100 years of industry knowledge with unrivalled distribution capability. By leveraging national scale and international partnerships, we deliver cost savings and operational benefits tailored to your needs, all with unmatched speed and efficiency.

Safety first

Safety is at the core of everything we do. Whether it’s our products, people, or processes, we are committed to continuous improvement to ensure the safest possible environment for everyone who interacts with NAPA.

Uncompromising quality

We understand that quality means reliability and reduced downtime. That’s why we maintain ISO 9001 accreditation, extending this rigorous standard to our OE manufacturers and partners. With a focus on consistent quality across all areas of our business, we supply only genuine, high-value solutions that help you achieve your operational goals.

Scale and capability

As Australia’s most comprehensive network of heavy-duty parts specialists, we combine deep technical knowledge with a proven ability to solve complex challenges. Our experienced teams provide the insights, advice, and expertise you need to overcome industry demands with confidence.

More than just parts

NAPA goes beyond simply supplying components. We are your partner in enhancing safety, productivity, and profitability. Our solutions are tailored to deliver measurable efficiencies for your business, including:

• Vendor rationalisation programs

• Range consolidation and standardisation

• OE alternative supply chain solutions

• Strategic sourcing and fleet profiling

• Automated inventory management

• Vending solutions and freight aggregation

NAPA provides heavy-duty products and services to customers across the country. Image: NAPA

Your professional advantage

We know your time is valuable. That’s why our industry-leading e-commerce platform, NAPA PROLink, is designed to simplify your operations. PROLink integrates seamlessly with your existing ERP/OCI systems, enabling automated 24/7 ordering. With features like intuitive parts identification, live stock visibility, and real-time pricing at your nearest branch, we ensure you have everything you need at your fingertips.

The power of partnership

At NAPA, we don’t just sell parts – we deliver solutions that drive efficiency, reliability, and growth. Whether it’s technical expertise, advanced technologies, or tailored supply chain strategies, NAPA is with you for the long haul. We make it our business to drive yours.

For more information, visit napaparts.com.au.

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Veteran transport operator sells his business as he heads into retirement

Peter Carter was just 17 years old when he got his truck licence and began driving at his father’s sawmill, hauling timber and logs, from behind the wheel of an International, powered by a V8 petrol engine.

A lot has changed since then, with Peter continuing to roll with the times, through the highs and the lows. He spoke with Big Rigs about making the difficult decision to walk away from the industry he’s been part of for his entire working life.

Peter and his wife Kate Carter. Image: Kate Carter

“I’ll be 70 this year, that’s why I reckon it’s time to give it up,” he told Big Rigs. “The industry is in a fair bit of hurt right now and there’s a lot that transport operators are having to go through.”

One particular issue he noted was the difficulty operators are having with finding good truck drivers. “People just can’t get drivers. That’s been an issue for a couple of years now. I had a number of drivers who were with me for 20 years or more. We had good drivers who stayed with us. Now there are a lot of young people who just don’t want to work. It’s hard to get people in. So many want to get their truck licence and go straight into a B-double. They don’t realise you need to work your way up to that.”

Based on the Sunshine Coast, Peter spoke of how he came to establish Peter Carter Transport in 2000, a successful transport operation with a fleet of 38 prime movers, 74 trailers and 16 rigids – operating from three depots (Coolum Beach on the Sunshine Coast, Rocklea and Townsville).

During the 1970s, he worked by his father’s side for six or seven years, until he closed the sawmill. “Then I went carting for Bells Transport for four years. I got out of that and went back into sawmills for another 16-17 years,” he explained.

Peter had been running his own sawmill; harvesting, and carting timber and logs with his small fleet of trucks.

“That was until 2000. The Greens had been pushing to stop logging in various forestry areas around the state, so the Queensland government shut down my sawmill due to the Regional Forest Agreements.”

At that moment, Peter had to choose which of two career paths he wanted to take. “I had to decide if I wanted to keep sawmilling or move into trucks.”

Peter chose the latter, keeping two of his trucks to form Peter Carter Transport. “When we started up, we were doing recycled cardboard into Brisbane; and recycled glass, bricks and alcohol out of Brisbane,” he explained.

Peter Carter with his grandchildren Annaleisa, Aden and Leaha, and his son Trent Carter. Image: Kate Carter

A family business through and through, Peter credits his wife Kate for helping to get the business to where it was. “Behind every good man is a good woman, and my wife has been there since we started this business. We wouldn’t have gotten to where we are today without her, and my son Trent and his wife Kaicee,” said Peter.

“When we started this business, Trent came back from Broome in WA, where he was driving trucks. He came into this business and we continued to build it from there.”

In the early days of Peter Carter Transport, growth was slow and steady, with the fleet growing to four or five trucks by 2004. That was when an opportunity came up to acquire Morgans Suncoast Freighters, bringing another nine trucks into the mix. Along with tripling the size of the fleet, this move also saw the business expanding into general freight.

Asked about his biggest career highlight, Peter nominated the move to the purpose built Coolum Beach facility eight years ago. “It was a huge decision to make that move and make such a big investment in the space. We were previously based at a 3000 square metre facility at Kunda Park and went into a 10,400 square metre space at Coolum Beach. From there we ran the transport operation and a separate cardboard baling business. The day we moved was a really big highlight for me.”

However, it certainly hasn’t always been smooth sailing. “We have had our run of ups and downs. Our Rocklea site was flooded in 2011, then we had a fire at the cardboard baling facilities at Coolum Beach in 2018 and another flood at Rocklea in 2022,” said Peter, admitting those moments were tough to get through. “Sometimes when things like that happen, you wonder how to get past it, but you’ve got to keep on going.”

And that’s exactly what he did, continuing to grow the business into the respected player it is today.

Peter operated his business from three Queensland depots. Image: Kate Carter

With Peter and Kate both ready for the next chapter of their lives, their business was sold to Blacks Transport Group, with the acquisition announced in early March.

“It was a difficult decision and took a lot of consideration but we knew it was time. Our staff were our biggest concern when we sold. We wanted to make sure that our staff were looked after, as well as our customers – and Blacks Transport were happy to do that, taking on all our staff,” explained Peter.

Like Peter’s business, Blacks Transport Group is also family-owned and operated. It was started in 1995 with a single truck and has been built up to a fleet of over 150 trucks and trailers, predominantly servicing south-east Queensland, the Burnett/Wide Bay Region and North Queensland.

As part of the transition, Peter Carter Transport has now been rebranded as Carters Transport Qld, operating as a division of Blacks Transport Group.

Peter revealed his decision to sell to Blacks also came down to timing. “We didn’t actually have the business on the market but were looking to retire and Blacks Transport Group was looking to expand.”

He added that it was great to know his staff and customers would be looked after by another family owned and operated business.

Blacks Transport Group has depots in Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Maryborough, Bundaberg and Rockhampton. The acquisition of Peter Carter Transport will add a company-owned depot to Townsville; along with an additional depot on the Sunshine Coast.

Managing Director at Blacks Transport Group, Bruce Black, told Big Rigs, “The acquisition will give us depots right along the east coast of Queensland, with our agent depots located across the rest of the state.”

Asked about the attraction to Peter Carter Transport, Bruce commented, “We were looking to expand our business further. The Carters business has a lot of the correct freight profiles, that complement the freight profiles we already had, so we believed it would be a good blend.

“It will allow us to further improve our services and provide additional services daily.”

With the acquisition, Blacks Transport Group now has a fleet of around 125 trucks. 

While all transport operations will now fall under Blacks Transport Group, Peter has retained his cardboard baling business that operates from the same site at the main Coolum Beach depot. “I have someone managing that for me. A man has to retire but he can’t have nothing to do,” laughed Peter.

Looking ahead, now that he has more time on his hands, Peter is looking forward to doing some travelling. “Kate and I are going to get in our motorhome and travel around Australia. We’d also like to take a few overseas trips too,” he said. “I’ve got to keep the wife happy!”

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#PicOfTheDay – Liz Armstrong

Loading the steel boat down at the wharf in Brisbane.

We’ll choose a pic to appear in our Facebook cover slot, and will publish some of the best pics in our upcoming print edition of Big Rigs where you now also have a chance to win a $500 Shell Coles Express Gift Card.

The post #PicOfTheDay – Liz Armstrong appeared first on Big Rigs.

  1. Australian Truck Radio Listen Live