Split dropside Isuzu is delivering the goods for CPL Distribution

Manoeuvrability and payload were both critical factors behind solid fuel supplier CPL Distribution Ltd choosing an Isuzu Forward 5020kgs GVW truck as the latest addition to its 90-strong commercial vehicle fleet. Featuring a split drop-side body, specifically designed for kerbside deliveries, the Isuzu N50.150 4×2 rigid is currently working in south Wales. It handles a range of delivery operations including daily house-to-house residential drops in rural areas, as well as deliveries to the company’s commercial customers locally.

According to Mandy Gill, transport manager at CPL Distribution Ltd; “As we had a specific requirement for this particular vehicle in South Wales, we worked extremely closely with Isuzu Truck on the final specification to achieve the right choice of vehicle that would enable us to carry the maximum payload on the most manoeuvrable and versatile chassis currently available.”

The wheelbase of this Isuzu N50.150 day cab rigid was shortened from 3395mm to 2480mm, and both of the axles uprated. A split dropside body was also specified and features pull-out steps on both sides of the truck as well as at the rear. This allows the drivers to gain easier access to, and helps the unloading of, the bagged coal when delivering to customers.

“By having a high-sided body, this enables the open coal sacks to be safely contained within the truck body itself,” commented Mandy Gill. “Whereas on previous flat bed trucks, the open coal sacks would normally have had to be strapped in, as well as netted over.”

Based out of the CPL Distribution depot in Onllwyn, close to Neath Port Talbot, this new Isuzu will have a five-year working life there, predominantly working locally and will travel up to 40,000 kms per annum. CPL Distribution is the UK’s largest coal and solid fuel supplier with over 30 coal depots nationwide.

“Across the UK, there are many varied distribution operations where the attraction of the Isuzu’s proven payload capability, matched to its manoeuvrability and versatility, makes the vehicles the perfect choice. The distribution of bagged coal and solid fuel within the narrow roads and lanes within the Welsh valleys is the ideal scenario for Isuzu products and, in this particular case, the Isuzu N50.150 model is proving to be a most suitable long-term workhorse for CPL Distribution,” commented Keith Child, marketing director at Isuzu Truck (UK) Ltd.