Isuzu’s FL IR truck a show-stealer at the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show

MANILA: This year’s Tokyo Motor Show has been an exciting ride for everyone. We’ve finally seen the new Toyota Yaris and Honda Jazz in metal, days after their photos leaked online. Mitsubishi Mi-Tech was another interesting sight at the event. But let’s face it, none of these vehicles stole the show the way Isuzu’s FL IR truck did.

The truck is dubbed Future Logistics Intelligent Relay, and for a good reason. The automaker believes it’s the future of trucking. Isuzu FL IR does look entirely out of this world. For a truck, it has a streamlined design, and nowhere near the muscular trucks, you would typically see on highways.

First is the massive fascia, which barely leaves any room for ground clearance. The front panel is painted dark blue and is complemented by a black wrap-around windshield. Below the windscreen is a silver, lightning-shaped frame with Isuzu’s branding at the center. Oh, and let’s not forget the huge grill at the bottom flanked by sleek LED headlights on both ends.

Isuzu FL IR is not only futuristic in design but also has the tech to match. For instance, it’s equipped with autonomous driving, which minimizes the risk of driver fatigue and road accidents. Instead of the usual wing mirrors, the truck will feature a pair of cameras. It also gets an extra ‘platooning’ feature, which enables a fleet of FL IR trucks to be linked together and driven as a convoy.

In theory, platooning allows the head of the platoon to lead adjoined trucks. Other drivers simply have to adjust and react to the leader’s movements. It’s supposed to be a safer and more efficient way to transport heavy loads, as it prevents convoys from breaking up during transit. However, this technology is still being tested by truck manufacturers. It may not arrive in the market until the next decade.

According to Isuzu, the truck’s “bio-design” was inspired by sharks and marine life with ultrasonic soundwaves and unique swimming formations. The FL IR was then created in the “image of a mighty robot” which would explain its Transformers-like exterior.
In an earlier press release, the automaker says its cabin automatically adjusts when switching between manual drive and all-autonomous mode. There’s no word yet on the powertrain, but Isuzu FL IR will likely have a diesel-hybrid mill similar to Isuzu Japan’s truck haulers.

Also Read: Super Height K-Wagon concept unveiled at the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show