FEATURE - IVECO new Eurocargo range
The introduction of IVECO’s new Eurocargo range to Australia has brought a range of improvements and upgrades to this popular model. These include more powerful engines to boost operator productivity, additional active safety features, improved Telematics and enhanced driver comfort appointments.
“The new Eurocargo offers higher levels of comfort, safety and lower emissions - benefits that are underrepresented in the medium duty truck market,” said IVECO Trucks Australia Managing Director, Glen Dyer.
“Eurocargo provides a perfect blend of productivity and low total cost of ownership, matched with the cabin amenities and appointments that drivers who spend long hours behind the wheel will appreciate.
“It’s these characteristics that continually see Eurocargo top the sales charts in Europe, and we believe the latest generation trucks will strike a chord with Australian and New Zealand buyers.”
Five to Choose
The new Eurocargo range is available across five main variants – ML140, ML160 and ML180, plus ML150 4x4 and ML150 4x2 dual cabs with seating for seven. IVECO is also offering a ‘Tipper Pack’ option for the ML140, which introduces a 4185mm wheelbase, increased GCM of 22t, front and rear reinforced parabolic suspension, rear differential lock and ‘easy clean’ cab trim – features that lend themselves to tipping applications.
The 4x2 range is available with two transmission choices and three cabin options, plus a variety of wheelbase lengths. GVMs are 14, 15, 16 and 18t, with GCMs ranging from 17.5t and 28t depending on the model and transmission, providing added productivity for owners who require extra payload for freight, materials or equipment.
Revised Tector 7 engines
All of the fresh Eurocargo models for Australia feature more powerful ‘Tector 7’ six-cylinder engines as standard. Previously only available as a cost option, these advanced units feature high pressure common rail fuel injection and 24 valves. Peak outputs are 207kW (280hp) and 1,000Nm in the ML140 variant and 235kW (320hp) and 1,100Nm in ML 150, ML160 and ML180 models. All engines meet Euro6 (Step E) emission requirements using HI-SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction).
Matched to the more powerful Tector 7 in the 4x2 range is the standard ZF eight-speed automatic, with an Allison six-speed automatic optional for high torque/low speed applications. The ML150 4x4 is only available with a six-speed manual. Power is fed to the rear wheels via Meritor axles with standard cross locks on ML150 (4x2) Dual Cab, ML160 and ML180 models. Cross locks are optional on the ML140.
Front suspension on all 4x2 models (aside from Tipper Spec) is of the parabolic spring type with dual action hydraulic shock absorbers and stabiliser bar. At the rear, the ML140 features a two-bellow airbag set-up with dual action shock absorbers, while the ML150 Dual Cab, ML160 and ML180 are equipped with a four-bellow configuration, ensuring a supple ride for the driver and sensitive freight.
Fuel saving technologies
To reduce running costs and total cost of ownership, the latest generation Eurocargo introduces many of the fuel saving technologies already available in the S-Way heavy duty range.
Along with a new engine idle cut-off system that automatically switches off the engine after five minutes at idle (if certain conditions are met), models equipped with the ZF transmissions also feature ‘Eco Roll’. This is designed to exploit the inertia of the vehicle to minimise fuel use. When certain driving conditions are met, Eco Roll shifts the driveline to neutral, minimising drag torque and letting the truck roll.
A separate ‘Eco Mode’ system, available on both automatic transmissions, adjusts the vehicle’s power delivery and transmission shift points to an optimised fuel saving setting for improved efficiency and reduced emissions.
More safety equipment
The new Eurocargo has taken a considerable leap forward when it comes to active and passive safety, with standard features including Advanced Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, Hill Holder, Blind Spot Information, Reversing System (including camera), Emergency Stop Signal (where the tail lights pulse under heavy braking), Driver Drowsiness and Alert Warning and Moving Off Information. It should be noted that the Advanced Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control and Emergency Stop Signal features are not available in the 4x4 model.
Driver Drowsiness tech monitors both driving style (steering correction) and vehicle position inside the lane when the vehicle is travelling above 55 km/h on a straight road, giving audible and visual warnings should the system identify drowsiness.
Moving Off Information is particularly useful in urban and metropolitan environments where traffic and pedestrian activity are high. This technology provides visual and audible information to the driver about the proximity of vulnerable road users. These are displayed within three detection zones in a ‘bird’s eye’ vehicle view.
Finally, the Blind Spot Monitoring on the front and side of the truck warns the driver of vulnerable road users who might be endangered during a turning manoeuvre to the passenger side.
Other standard features include an ECE R29-compliant cabin, vented disc brakes all round with ABS and ESP (ESP on 4x2 only), LED DRLs and LED tail lights. A Tyre Pressure Monitoring System is available as a cost option.
Striking looks – inside and out
Outside, the new Eurocargo’s cabin styling draws inspiration from the IVECO family look, with cues taken from S-Way and T-Way trucks. A revised front face introduces more prominent and contemporary IVECO badging, plus a V-shaped swept grille and new front bumper sensors.
Inside, the enhancements are also prominent. Immediately apparent upon entering the cabin is the new steering wheel, a 10-inch configurable digital instrument cluster and new tactile controls.
The new steering wheel features more user-friendly integrated controls including ‘start/stop’ button and an electric proximity key. Additionally, the wheel provides a soft touch finish as standard, with leather as a cost option.
Complementing the wheel’s flat bottom design is a revised steering column that offers greater adjustability, and easier ingress and egress to the cabin. Gear selection for the auto transmission is now via convenient steering column-mounted stalks.
Seating across the range consists of a fully adjustable ISRI air suspended seat as standard, with a ‘Hi-Comfort’ ISRI seat optional. This features belt height adjustment, backrest/shoulder adjustment and Ventilation Climate Control.
Also new for the Eurocargo is a central 7-inch multimedia screen with Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This screen is also prepped for ‘IVECO On’ telematics.
Tough ML150 4X4
A favourite for emergency service work, mining, exploration and forestry applications, the ML150 4x4 has also been upgraded as part of the new model roll out and features many of the same enhancements as its 4x2 stablemates.
Powering the ML150 4x4 is the same Tector 7 engine used in the ML160 and ML180, producing 235kW (320hp) and 1,100Nm, matched to a six-speed manual. Emission control is via Selective Catalytic Reduction.
With a GVM of 15t and GCM of 19t, and wheelbase choices of 3915 and 4150mm, the ML150 4x4 is the ideal medium duty truck for extreme off-road conditions. Features include front, centre and rear differential locks for superior traction on slippery surfaces, as well as parabolic three-leaf front suspension and parabolic (two plus two) rear leaf suspension providing excellent articulation over undulating terrain. Also assisting operations off-road are generous 26-degree approach angle and 28-degree ramp angles, plus a steel front bumper.
While the exterior of the ML150 4x4 is made to tackle challenging off-road conditions, safety equipment and cabin appointments are the same as the 4x2 models, so long days in the cabin are less fatiguing.
IVECO On telematics – fully connected trucks
Previously only available in S-Way and ACCO models, IVECO On telematics have now been introduced to the Eurocargo. Using data collected by the truck’s on-board telematics box, IVECO On evaluates driving style and generates regular reports for owners and fleet managers, allowing operating costs to be reduced and safety improved. The reports include detailed fuel consumption and driving style data, allowing changes to be made to improve fuel efficiency. The system can also be used en route, further promoting frugal driving by providing live tips.
Boosting safety is another key benefit of IVECO On, with the system monitoring and providing alerts on things such as harsh braking and acceleration. Detailed reports can be downloaded for further analysis and consultation to cover any areas of concern.
IVECO On can also reduce fleet down-time by taking a proactive approach to vehicle maintenance and vehicle monitoring services. The program provides detailed insights into vehicle operating data, including odometer readings, scheduled maintenance reporting and instrument cluster light alerts covering battery voltage level, engine coolant, engine oil and transmission fluid status.
Hands-off servicing via remote diagnostics, teleservices and over-the-air software updates are further features of the system, all of which are available through the IVECO Customer Uptime Centre.
IVECO Support
IVECO’s new Eurocargo range is backed by a 5-Year/300,000km (whichever comes first) warranty for all variants. Extended warranties of up to 600,000km are available at additional cost, along with maintenance and repair agreements, allowing owners to better manage maintenance costs.
