Squaring the circle: even more efficient and even cleaner – the new Fuso Canter with Ecofficiency

•Ecofficiency: the Canter is both cleaner and more economical

•Engine: 2000 bar injection pressure boosts efficiency

•Longer axle ratios reduce fuel consumption

•Emission control optimised for different weight categories

•ESP as standard for all models with driven rear axle

•Canter 4x4: even more traction with reduction gear

•Eco Hybrid: the Canter whispers through the city even more economically

•Can carry up to six tonnes: the new Canter with 8.55 t GVW

•New body variants: dropsider and tipper ex factory

Proof that even excellence can always be improved upon. With 140,000 units produced worldwide, the Fuso Canter is an international hit in the light-duty-truck sector and easily the best-selling truck model at Daimler Trucks. The prospects of further improving on this excellent position look very rosy: the introduction of the more stringent Euro VI and Euro 5b+ emissions standards has further improved the performance of the robust Canter. As well as being cleaner, it is now even more efficient – thanks to Ecofficiency. In addition to this, there are further attractive model variants and additional safety features available.

Ecofficiency: the Canter is both cleaner and more economical

Euro 5b+ for the light versions up to 6.0 t permissible GVW, Euro VI for the heavy versions – the Fuso Canter is doubly equipped for the future. The ambitious development aim for the new generation: a substantial reduction in fuel consumption despite the introduction of more stringent emissions standards.

Although originally a contradiction in terms, the development engineers have come up with an impressive solution here:the new-generation Canter Euro 5b+ and Euro VI is not only cleaner, it is also far more economical than the previous models. Ecofficiency means: the Canter combines outstanding environmental compatibility with superlative efficiency.

Ecofficiency comprises a whole raft of measures available as standard for all Canter model variants. There are many different aspects to this: higher injection pressure for even more efficient fuel combustion, low-friction engine oil to reduce in-engine friction, an electromagnetic fan clutch, an optimised cooling system, a start/stop system for the engine, a new axle ratio configuration, low rolling-resistance tyres for the Euro VI models and reduced friction losses in the transmission with manual gearshift.

The result is akin to squaring the circle: the Canter is up to nine percent more economical than its predecessor, depending on variant and field of application. At the same time, CO2 emissions have been reduced by a similar amount.

Engine: 2000 bar injection pressure boosts efficiency

Two overhead camshafts with robust drive via a chain, four valves per cylinder, common-rail injection system, exhaust gas turbocharger with variable nozzle turbine – the Fuso Canter's engine was already a technical tour de force.

And compliance with the new Euro 5b+ and Euro VI emissions standards means that the robust four-cylinder unit with a displacement of 3.0 l has upped its game again. New injectors increase the maximum injection pressure by 25 percent to as much as 2000 bar. Enhanced noise insulation ensures that this does not translate into a higher noise level either outside or inside.

The Canter's output and torque data remain unchanged following its further development. There are three versions of the engine with internal designation 4P10 available:

- 96 kW (130 hp) at 3000-3500 rpm, 300 Nm at 1300-3050 rpm

- 110 kW (150 hp) at 3500 rpm, 370 Nm at 1320-2840 rpm

- 129 kW (175 hp) at 3500 rpm, 430 Nm at 1600-2860 rpm

The high torque is remarkable for an engine of this size in a light-duty truck. Maximum traction is achieved at low engine speeds and is available across an exceptionally wide rpm range. The latest version of the Canter is therefore a prime example of pulling power and driveability.

Previously optional, a start/stop function for the engine is now included as standard for all models. When driving short distances, this technology can reduce fuel consumption by up to three percent.

Longer axle ratios reduce fuel consumption

The amazing elasticity of the relatively compact engine allowed the engineers to reconfigure the axle ratios. Most versions now have a longer ratio and are both quiet and more economical without compromising on driving dynamics. When maximum performance is key – such as when frequently carrying a full load, when towing a trailer or in demanding topography – almost all models are available with a ten percent shorter axle ratio.

Emission control optimised for different weight categories

As previously the Canter is still available with a choice of two different emission control systems. However, following the introduction of the new Euro 5b+ and Euro VI emissions standards, these systems have been modified and adapted to meet new requirements.

Canter models with a permissible GVW of up to 6.0 t comply with the Euro 5b+ emissions standard. Here the exhaust gases are cleaned by a combination of exhaust gas recirculation, oxidation catalytic converter and particulate filter.

Things are somewhat more complex in the case of the models with a permissible GVW above 6.5 t, including the Canter 4x4 and Canter Eco Hybrid: these feature BlueTec 6 engines and are thus also equipped with SCR technology featuring AdBlue injection and a downstream oxidation catalytic converter. The capacity of the particulate filter and the SCR catalytic converter has been increased to meet the stricter requirements of Euro VI.

To simplify the refuelling process, the Canter's AdBlue tank is housed on the right-hand side of the vehicle right next to the fuel tank and holds 12 litres. Euro VI adds around 30 kg of extra weight to the Canter, although this is negligible given the Canter's high payload.

Particulate filter designed to last the vehicle's lifetime

In all models, the particulate filter is configured for the vehicle lifetime and is maintenance-free, meaning that it never needs to be cleaned or replaced. It is regenerated automatically. In the case of extreme short-distance use, low exhaust gas temperatures may make manual regeneration necessary. A status indicator on the multifunction display indicates this to the driver, should this be the case.Manual regeneration is activated by a button.

The Canter's long oil change intervals - 40,000 km or once a year - remain unchanged for the new generation complying with Euro 5b+ and Euro VI.

One model series yet two emissions standards: Euro 5b+ and Euro VI

The 2014 Canter meets the requirements of different emissions standards, depending on the weight variant. Euro 5b+ applies to the weight variants up to 6.0 t permissible GVW, Euro VI to the heavier versions including the Canter Eco Hybrid.

This distinction is due to the different classifications defined by law. Up to a reference mass of 2380 kg, the complete vehicle has its emission characteristics tested on a chassis dynamometer, with the result being shown in pollutants per kilometre. Above a reference mass of 2840 kg, the engine is tested on an engine dynamometer, with the result being indicated in pollutant emissions per kW of output. The manufacturer can choose either of these methods.

The reference mass is the kerb weight of the vehicle plus 75 kg - which accounts for the driver and a 90-percent-full fuel tank. The weight of the individual model applies. Many chassis units in production have not yet had a body assigned to them, so they are weighed without a body and classified accordingly.

To make the distinction between the different measuring methods, emissions standards tested on a chassis dynamometer are often designated with Arabian numerals while those tested on an engine dynamometer are designated with Roman numerals. Furthermore, these standards become law at different times: Euro VI and Euro 5b+ have been in force since the start of 2014, Euro 6b does not become compulsory until September 2016.

ESP as standard for all models with driven rear axle

The 2014 Canter also makes a huge stride forward with its new safety features. All new-generation Canter models are equipped with an electronically controlled braking system as standard. This system is a prerequisite for another system designed to enhance safety: the Electronic Stability Program is likewise standard for all models with the exception of the Canter 4x4 with all-wheel drive. ESP will be fitted as standard in the new Canter 9C15 and 9C18 models with 8.55 t permissible GVW from the middle of this year. Integral functions of ESP include ABS, acceleration skid control and Brake Assist.

Additional wide-angle mirrors also help to enhance safety. They are now available for the entire model range and are fitted as standard on the Canter 4x4 and the 8.55-tonner.

Last but not least, the 3.5-tonners now ride on large 16-inch wheels.

Canter 4x4: even more traction with reduction gear

Highlights of the Canter range include the version with all-wheel drive, which has been on sale since spring 2012. It is available in Europe under the model designation 6C18 with a perm. GVW of 6.5 t, a 2.0 m wide comfort cab and an engine output of 129 kW (175 hp). The all-wheel drive can be engaged whenever required. This means fast reaction speed when driving on changeable terrain and also maximum fuel efficiency when driving on the road in 4x2 mode. Further standard features include a self-locking rear axle differential with up to 70 percent locking effect.

New features for the Canter 4x4 include the standard-fit engageable reduction gear. This reduces the maximum speed in the individual gears by a factor of 1.987 and also increases traction by this amount.It is engaged when the vehicle is stationary with the clutch released. An indicator lamp lets the driver know when the reduction gear is engaged. Despite the use of a rear axle with a longer ratio to maximise fuel efficiency when driving on the road, the Canter 4x4 now boasts an impressive slope climbing ability of 60 percent.

The Canter 4x4 is available with a single cab or a crewcab and with a choice of two wheelbases. The chassis load-carrying capacity is around 3.5 t. If this needs to be increased, the Canter 4x4 can be uprated to a GVW of 7.0 or 7.5 t, depending on its application, thanks to its high axle load reserves (permissible front/rear axle load: 2800/6000 kg).

The cab and body are positioned much higher to optimise off-road driving characteristics. An additional step has therefore been included to make boarding easier.The angle of approach is 35 degrees compared to 18 degrees for the Canter 4x2, while the angle of departure is 24 degrees compared to 11 degrees. Compared to the Canter 4x2, the ground clearance has been increased from 219 to as much as 320 mm.

The combination of robust design and off-road capability makes the Fuso Canter 4x4 suitable for all manner of off-road applications, including on construction sites, for energy suppliers or in the fire service. For municipal authorities, it is an ideal snow-clearing vehicle when combined with a snowplough and gritter. The vehicle width of just two metres allows the Canter 4x4 to easily pass through narrow gaps. The robust, three-piece steel bumper with plastic corner bumpers is highly shock-resistant. When driving off-road in particular, the Canter 4x4 benefits from the typical strengths of this model series: space-saving cab-over-engine design, outstanding manoeuvrability and good visibility through low-edged windows.

Eco Hybrid: the Canter whispers through the city even more economically

The Fuso Canter Eco Hybrid squares the circle: high-tech helps to protect the environment and really pays off. The Canter Eco Hybrid achieves fuel savings of up to 23 percent and, given its moderate extra cost of just €8500 (plus VAT), pays off within just a few years. Rather than being an experimental vehicle, the first production truck in its class with hybrid drive is a production model capable of carrying heavy loads during everyday use.

Compared to the previous model, the already low fuel consumption has been reduced further whilst CO2 emissions have also been cut. This is thanks to the longer axle ratio and an optimised gearshift strategy.

The Canter Eco Hybrid boasts an array of outstanding and robust technology including a start/stop device, all-electric starting off and the Duonic dual clutch transmission which is unique in this class. Featuring a drive system boasting low exhaust and noise emissions, it is made for short-radius distribution in built-up areas and other emission-sensitive zones.

The highly sophisticated four-cylinder turbodiesel with a displacement of 3.0 l, an output of 110 kW (150 hp) and a maximum torque of 370 Nm comes from the Canter with conventional diesel drive. The BlueTec 6 engine meets the requirements of the Euro VI emissions standard. Its emission control system combines exhaust gas recirculation, SCR engine technology with AdBlue injection and a particulate filter.

The electric motor has an output of 40 kW. Typically for an electric motor, the peak torque of 200 Nm is fully available right from the start. Energy for the electric motor is provided by lithium-ion batteries. The batteries have a capacity of 2 Ah and weigh just 63.5 kg. Fuso provides a five-year or optional ten-year warranty on all major battery components. Every time the brakes are applied, the batteries are replenished through recuperation, i.e. the conversion of kinetic energy into electric current.

The batteries are housed in a robust holder on the left-hand side between the axles. Safety was a top priority when developing the Canter Eco Hybrid. A crash sensor deactivates all of the high-voltage technology immediately in the event of an accident, for instance. The driver can also do this using the emergency off switch. The battery holder has even withstood a frontal crash at 40 km/h and a side impact on the battery side at 50 km/h without suffering any damage.

The handling strategy for the Canter Eco Hybrid is based on the vehicle starting up and moving off in quiet, electric mode. Then at a speed of around 10 km/h the diesel engine kicks in. Below this speed, it also runs in neutral, supplying power to the ancillary assemblies. In tune with the power requirements, the electric motor assists the diesel engine when accelerating, even at higher speeds. Start/stop control stops the diesel engine when the vehicle is stationary.

As well as being economical and ecofriendly, the Canter Eco Hybrid is also capable of carrying heavy loads. The extra weight of the hybrid drive is only around 150 kg, meaning that the 7.5-tonne chassis with cab has a load-carrying capacity of up to 4.8 t. So the Canter Eco Hybrid even puts most conventionally powered trucks in this weight category in the shade.

The Canter DNA remains unchanged

The familiar benefits of the Canter, inherent in its DNA, remain unchanged. Starting with the cab-over-engine design with compact dimensions, outstanding manoeuvrability and high payload. The functional driver's cab includes a co-driver twin bench seat as standard. The controls, seats, heating and air conditioning leave nothing to be desired. Standard equipment includes a multifunction display with trip computer, for example. One hallmark benefit of the Canter is its easy-to-reach joystick gearshift on the dashboard, which frees up space in the middle of the cab.

The Canter features exemplary safety technology, including a powerful engine brake, disc brakes all round and the now standard Electronic Stability Program ESP with numerous subfunctions. Passive safety is likewise a top priority. Side impact protection in the doors and the Fuso RISE impact protection and Break Override technology are standard for all models. Fuso can supply the Canter with driver and co-driver airbags as an option.

Furthermore, the Canter is an outstanding proposition in terms of long-term ownership: the cathodic dip priming of the driver's cab and the powder-coated frame provide long-term corrosion protection at the highest level. This complements the Canter's resilient design perfectly.

Duonic – the popular dual clutch transmission now available in a truck

A five-speed manual transmission is fitted as standard in Canter models with a perm. GVW between 3.5 and 7.5 t. Alternatively – or fitted as standard in the new Canter with 8.55 t – there is the Duonic, the world's first dual clutch transmission for a truck. Unveiled in 2011, the fully automated transmission is now installed in some 30 to 50 percent of Canter vehicles, depending on model. Advantages: in addition to reducing

fuel consumption, the transmission is kind on the engine and other major components, makes the driver's job easier on short journeys in particular and combines the convenience of an automatic with the efficiency of a manual transmission.

The Duonic dual clutch transmission is based on a six-speed manual transmission with two hydraulic wet clutches and electronic control. A major advantage is that the next gear is already engaged whilst driving, so gearshifts are extremely fast, without any interruption in power flow, and completely smooth. Manual intervention is possible at all times. The transmission has a crawler function for manoeuvring and a parking position.

Suspension and frame configured for high loads

The Canter has been adapted to its application conditions in terms of comfort and robustness. The 3.5 t variants, for instance, feature independent wheel suspension with coil springs, which improves both comfort and handling. In the higher weight variants, truck technology with a very high load-bearing capacity is used, including a rigid axle and parabolic springs.

On the rear axle, even the 3.5-tonne variants have twin tyres – further evidence of the Canter's robust design. The Canter has disc brakes as standard on all wheels.

The stable ladder-type frame likewise ensures stability. It is available in three versions with widths ranging from 700 to 850 mm. Its standardised hole pattern and body support brackets make work easier for bodybuilders. With three different power take-offs, a voltage transformer (12V vehicle electrics to 24V body electrics), alternators adapted for the task in hand and different configurations for the fuel tank, the Canter can be flexibly adapted to the requirements of bodybuilders and a wide range of applications.

Can carry up to six tonnes: the new Canter with 8.55 t GVW

The 2014 Fuso Canter covers a wider range. Whereas the model range previously ended at 7.5 t GVW, the Canter 9C15 and 9C18 with 8.55 t GVW extend the range at the top end. As a chassis, the new model has a payload of almost six tonnes, making it a new leader in this weight category.

The largest Canter has the Duonic automated dual clutch transmission fitted as standard along with the wide C (Comfort) cab. It is supplied with efficient and clean 3.0 l engines generating an output of 110 kW (150 hp) or 129 kW (175 hp) with SCR technology BlueTec 6 and a particulate filter. The Ecofficiency package is standard in this class, too.

The Canter 9C15 and 9C18 are available in three wheelbases from 3400 to 4300 and 4750 mm (9C18 only). The maximum body length is 7210 mm. The maximum payload of the chassis is exactly 5995 kg. With special springs on the front and rear axle, a heavier-duty transmission and a higher brake pedal ratio, the Canter is well prepared for the new weight category. Permissible axle loads of 3100 kg at the front and 6000 kg at the rear leave reserves for uneven loading. The standard-fit wide-angle mirrors on both sides improve rear visibility if a wide body is mounted. The track circle of min. 12.2 m sets a new record in this weight category.

The backbone of the heaviest Canter is a powerful 850 mm wide frame with correspondingly higher track width. Both ensure driving stability even if a high body is fitted. In accordance with the expected weights, the standard driven axle is around 20 percent shorter than for the lighter 7.5-tonner (i= 5.714 instead of i=4.875) to enhance driving dynamics. The towing capacity remains unchanged at 3.5 t.

New body variant: the Canter dropsider available ex factory

With new bodies available ex factory, the versatile Canter range continues to grow: it is now available as a chassis with cab or crewcab and as a dropsider and tipper from a single source.

The range covers all requirements. The aluminium dropsider for the Canter with a permissible GVW of 3.5 t is available in four lengths from 3200 to 4300 mm and two widths: 1870 or 2050 mm. For the variants between 6.0 and 8.55 t, there are even ten different versions comprising lengths from 3200 to 4300 mm and three width sizes. The body weight is between around 300 and 500 kg, ensuring that payload remains high.

The frame for the dropsider body is made of galvanised steel, the dropsider itself of lightweight and non-corrosive aluminium that has undergone cathodic dip priming and been painted. The floor is made of 15 mm thick plywood with an anti-slip coating. Lashing eyes are integrated.

At the front, all dropsiders have a firewall made of galvanised steel tubes with a ladder rack and a grille for protecting the cab's rear wall. At the rear there is a lockable stowage box under the overhang. All three side boards can be opened. The rear side board carries an integrated folding step, while an extendable ladder makes it easier to climb up at the rear. The side underride guard is made of aluminium.

New body variant: the Canter tipper available ex factory

Equally versatile: the new tipper bodies available ex factory for the Canter. Even the model with 3.5 t GVW has five versions to choose from. For the Canter between 6.0 and 8.55 t perm. GVW, there are as many as ten variants to choose from, with body lengths ranging from 3200 to 4400 mm and widths from 1950 to 2200 mm. The tipper bodies weigh between around 670 and 970 kg, depending on version, making for an outstandingly high payload, especially in the upper tonnage classes.

These vehicles are all three-way tippers. The frame is made of galvanised sheet steel, the body of cathodic dip primed and painted sheet steel. As an alternative to the standard white colour, the tipper bodies can be painted in the cab colour. As with the dropsiders, the firewall is made of galvanised steel tubing with a ladder carrier and a grille to protect the rear wall.A lockable stowage box under the rear overhang is included as standard, as are integrated lashing points in the floor and an extendable ladder to make climbing up easier.

All side boards are folding and additionally swing-mounted. When unloading, the side boards can be fixed in the 45-degree position by chain and can then be used as a chute.

The 3.5-tonner combines a single-stage hydraulic cylinder with a scissor mechanism. It operates at max. 180 bar pressure and is configured for 3.0 t. The heavier versions have a five-stage tipping cylinder. Here the integrated tipper hydraulics operate at max. 280 bar pressure and are configured for eight tonnes. Actuation is via convenient remote control in each case.

Key advantages of the ex-factory bodies: from ordering to financing and service, customers receive a vehicle from a single source at a competitive all-in price. Furthermore, processing is easy, and there are no additional delivery times or diversions during the buying process. As this is a single-invoice model, the Canter factory warranty of three years or 100,000 km also covers the vehicle body. Individual body solutions are still possible and available on request from the customer, of course.

The wide Canter range

The Fuso Canter range covers all the key segments of light-duty trucks, offering permissible gross vehicle weights from 3.5 to 8.55 t (new) and a wealth of different variants. Highlights of the range as ever include streamlined standard cabs (S), which are just 1695 mm wide and suitable for use in restricted spaces, and comfort cabs measuring 1995 mm in width. Both are equipped with a twin co-driver seat as standard. Attributes worthy of mention include the extra-long wheelbase of 4750 mm for the Canter as a 7.5-tonner with crewcab and long wheelbase, introduced at the end of the generation with emissions standard Euro V. It provides an ideal basis for breakdown vehicles, for example. The Fuso Canter range:

•Canter 3S13, 3.5 t perm. GVW, Euro 5b+, standard cab

Output 96 kW (130 hp)

Five-speed manual transmission, or Duonic dual clutch transmission

Wheelbase 2500/2800/3400 mm

•Canter 3S15, 3.5 t perm. GVW, Euro 5b+, standard cab

Output 110 kW (150 hp)

Five-speed manual transmission, or Duonic dual clutch transmission

Wheelbase 2500/2800/3400 mm

•Canter 3C13/3C13D, 3.5 t perm. GVW, Euro 5b+, Comfort cab or crewcab

Output 96 kW (130 hp)

Five-speed manual transmission, or Duonic dual clutch transmission

Wheelbase 2500/2800/3400/3850 mm