When a press release from Iveco dropped into our email box recently , our minds did boggle a bit at the event it was discussing, something called Drillfest.
While our mind initially did run rampant, we quickly realised that Drillfest is an expo for the important business of drilling for various mining, oil and industrial operations and is\ about increasing skills and knowledge across the drilling industry workforce.
It takes place this week at Toowoomba in Queensland and truck maker Iveco has announced loud and proud that it will be showing two of its heavy duty off road models, particularly its new T-Way, the off road version of its recently launched S-Way, along with its Astra HD9 8×8.
Iveco says its T-Way is available in 4×4, 6×6 and 8×4 variants, and brings the next generation of technology to its off-road line-up including an enhanced range of low emission Euro6 (Step E) engines.
The T-Way AD 6×6 display model features a 12.9l engine that produces 450hp (331kW) and 2,200Nm of torque at 870 rpm. All engines are coupled to the Hi-Tronix Automated Manual Transmission (AMT), which is widely used in IVECO’s heavy duty road going models; this transmission offers super-fast and smooth gear changes and has been durability tested to over 1.2million kilometres.
It is equipped with the Hi-Tronix 16-speed automated transmission which it says provides the flexibility to be used in auto-mode, or alternatively, the driver can manually select gears via the sequential shifter, providing an additional level of control if road conditions require. To ensure suitability for a wide array of body fitments, all T-Way models feature a standard rear engine PTO.
Iveco claims safety in the new T-Way has also been elevated. AD 4×4 and 6×6 vehicles are equipped with a full air / Electronic Braking System (EBS) with Drum ABS and ASR (Anti-Skid Regulator) and Hill Holder, Daytime Running Lamps, LED headlamps (with cornering fog lights), transmission intarder and engine brake, and a tough ECE-R29.03 certified cab. Additionally, buyers can add to the safety equation by selecting the optional Lane Departure Warning System and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System.
The company says that drivers will appreciate new cabin and ergonomic benchmarks which replicate many of the features as the S-Way range, which are designed for long-distance travel.
It says that the T-Way is also extremely well equipped to thrive when road conditions deteriorate. The range features full-time drive systems, hub reduction to all drive axles and front, centre and rear differential locks* to provide superior traction in slippery conditions. The two-speed transfer case delivers excellent tractability in low range, allowing T-Way to overcome steep ascents and descents easily and safely.
The Astra HD9 8×8 display vehicle boasts a 48 tonne GVM and 70 tonne GCM ensuring generous payloads and towing capacity for an array of demanding off road applications.
Featuring huge ground clearance, a full-time 8×8 system with lockable differentials on all axles, a combination of parabolic front and rear parabolic cantilever suspension and high tensile steel chassis, the ASTRA can comfortably contend with the most difficult terrain.
Iveco says the Astra HD9, despite its off-road credentials, is surprisingly easy to drive thanks to its ZF Hi-Tronix 12-speed automated manual transmission, which is matched to a 480hp / 2,300Nm engine (a 520hp / 2400Nm option is also available). Inside the cab, the ASTRA boasts many of the comfort and ergonomic features of IVECO’s road-going models, making for a relaxed driving experience.
Iveco will be on stand OS6 at Drillfest, which will be held in Toowoomba, this week from October 18 to 19.
