Australia’s commercial vehicle industry is a dynamic and vital part of the nation’s economy. With vast distances between major cities and remote areas, road transport plays a crucial role in connecting communities and industries. Trucks, in particular, are the lifeblood of this system, transporting goods from farms, mines, and factories to markets across the country and beyond.
The trucking sector is a significant contributor to Australia’s economy. It generates billions in revenue annually, employing thousands of Australians in a range of roles, from drivers and mechanics to logistics and management professionals.
Reliable trucks are the backbone of any successful trucking business. They ensure that goods are transported efficiently and safely, reducing downtime and maintenance costs. A fleet of dependable trucks translates into reliable service for customers and steady income for businesses. Whether it’s long-haul transport across the outback or local deliveries in urban areas, the right truck can make all the difference.
Below we’ll delve into the most popular truck brands in Australia. These brands have earned their reputation through years of performance, innovation, and service to the Australian trucking industry.
Isuzu: A leader in the Australian market
Isuzu has long been a dominant force in the Australian trucking industry. For over three decades, this Japanese brand has consistently led the market in terms of sales, outperforming other brands with its robust and reliable vehicles. Isuzu’s success is a testament to its understanding of the unique needs of the Australian market, offering a range of trucks that are well-suited to the diverse conditions and demands of the country.
In the first half of 2019 alone, Isuzu sold over 4,350 new units, leading the pack in both medium-duty and light-duty truck sales. These impressive figures underscore Isuzu’s continued relevance and appeal to Australian businesses, from small enterprises to large corporations.
Isuzu’s new models: Setting the pace in the industry
Isuzu continues to innovate and expand its vehicle range to meet the evolving needs of its customers. Recently, the company introduced eight new models to the FX heavy-duty range and three new trucks to the FY heavy-duty range. These new additions showcase Isuzu’s commitment to providing high-quality, durable trucks that can withstand the rigours of the Australian landscape.
The new models come equipped with advanced features designed to enhance performance, safety, and comfort. They reflect Isuzu’s ongoing investment in research and development, aimed at delivering trucks that not only meet but exceed customer expectations.
The impact of these new models on the market has been significant. They have been well-received by businesses across Australia, further solidifying Isuzu’s position as the leading truck brand in the country.
Whether you’re looking to start a new business or expand an existing one, Isuzu’s range of trucks offers a reliable and cost-effective solution. With their proven track record and innovative new models, Isuzu trucks are a smart investment for any business in the trucking industry.
Hino: A legacy of quality and innovation
Hino, a subsidiary of the Toyota Group, has a rich history that spans over half a century. Celebrating 54 years of providing high-quality trucks to Australians, Hino has established itself as a trusted name in the commercial vehicle industry. The company’s journey began in Tokyo in 1910 as a gas lighting-maker company, but it was in 1967 when it joined Toyota and truly began to make its mark in the trucking industry.
Hino’s affiliation with the Toyota Group has been instrumental in its success. Leveraging Toyota’s renowned commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, Hino has been able to deliver a range of trucks that are not only reliable but also technologically advanced.
Hino’s range of trucks: Versatility and excellence
Hino offers a wide range of trucks, from light-duty to heavy-duty, as well as 4×4 and hybrid trucks. This diverse product line is a testament to Hino’s understanding of the varied needs of businesses. Whether it’s a compact yet powerful light-duty truck for urban deliveries or a robust heavy-duty truck for long-haul transport, Hino has a vehicle to suit every requirement.
One of Hino’s standout achievements is the introduction of hybrid trucks in Australia, a testament to the company’s commitment to sustainable and environmentally-friendly transport solutions. These hybrid trucks offer the same power and reliability as their conventional counterparts but with the added benefit of lower emissions and improved fuel efficiency.
Each Hino truck is a product of comprehensive research and development, design excellence, and superior engineering. They are built to withstand the challenging Australian conditions, ensuring they deliver consistent performance regardless of the terrain or weather.
Choosing a Hino truck means investing in a vehicle that combines the best of Japanese engineering with the specific needs of the Australian market. With their unique features and proven reliability, Hino trucks are an excellent choice for businesses looking to make their mark in the trucking industry.
Fuso: A trusted name in the Australian market
Fuso has been a familiar name in the Australian trucking industry for several decades. This Japanese brand, with its strong presence in Australia, has been supplying reliable and durable trucks to businesses across the country for over 40 years. Fuso’s trucks are known for their quality and versatility, catering to a wide range of business needs.
Fuso’s affiliation with the Daimler Truck and Bus Group further enhances its credibility in the market. As a member of one of the world’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturers, Fuso benefits from Daimler’s extensive experience and technological prowess. This partnership ensures that Fuso trucks are manufactured to the highest standards, offering superior performance and reliability.
Fuso trucks: Reliability and durability in every model
Fuso trucks are synonymous with reliability and durability. Whether it’s a light-duty Canter for urban deliveries or a heavy-duty Shogun for long-haul transport, every Fuso truck is built to withstand the rigours of the road. These trucks are designed with the user in mind, offering comfortable cabins, easy handling, and excellent fuel efficiency.
Fuso trucks are manufactured by Mitsubishi Truck and Bus Corporation in Australia, ensuring they are perfectly adapted to the unique Australian conditions. Whether navigating busy city streets or traversing the rugged outback, Fuso trucks are built to perform.
Choosing a Fuso truck means investing in a vehicle that will stand the test of time. With their proven reliability, durable construction, and the backing of the Daimler Truck and Bus Group, Fuso trucks are a smart choice for any business in the Australian trucking industry.
Kenworth: A favourite in the Australian market
Kenworth is a name that resonates with strength, reliability, and innovation in the Australian trucking industry. Originating from Washington, USA, Kenworth has become one of the most popular truck brands in Australia, earning the trust of businesses across the country with its high-quality vehicles.
Kenworth’s popularity is not just a result of its superior products, but also its commitment to innovation. The company continually invests in research and development, striving to introduce new features and technologies that enhance the performance, safety, and efficiency of its trucks. This focus on innovation ensures that Kenworth trucks are always at the forefront of the industry, setting standards for others to follow.
Kenworth’s local production: Made in Australia, for Australia
One of Kenworth’s unique strengths is its local production facility in Victoria. This facility allows Kenworth to design and manufacture trucks that are specifically tailored to the Australian market. By understanding the unique demands of the Australian landscape and the specific needs of Australian businesses, Kenworth is able to produce trucks that are perfectly suited to the local conditions.
Kenworth’s local production also means that the company contributes significantly to the Australian economy, providing jobs and supporting local suppliers. This commitment to local manufacturing has earned Kenworth a special place in the hearts of Australians.
Kenworth’s trucks are not just vehicles; they’re a testament to the company’s dedication to quality, innovation, and local manufacturing. Whether it’s a medium-duty T series for urban deliveries or a heavy-duty C series for long-haul transport, every Kenworth truck is a symbol of Australian resilience and ingenuity. Choosing a Kenworth truck means investing in a vehicle that is built to perform, built to last, and built in Australia.
Volvo commercial: A commitment to local production
Volvo Commercial is a brand that is synonymous with quality, reliability, and innovation in the trucking industry. One of the key factors that sets Volvo apart from many other truck manufacturers is its local production facility in Australia. Located in Wacol, Queensland, this facility was established in 1972 and is the largest heavy-duty truck assembly plant in Australia.
Having a local production facility allows Volvo to tailor its trucks to the specific needs and conditions of the Australian market. It also demonstrates Volvo’s commitment to the Australian economy, providing jobs and supporting local suppliers. This local focus is a significant reason why Volvo trucks consistently feature on the top sales list in Australia. Australians appreciate the quality and reliability of locally produced or assembled vehicles, and Volvo trucks are no exception.
Volvo trucks: Excellence on wheels
Volvo offers a range of trucks that are renowned for their superior quality, advanced safety features, and excellent performance. One of the standout models in Volvo’s line-up is the Volvo FH16, which is considered one of the safest Volvo trucks in the world. This truck is designed for long-haul transport and is equipped with powerful engines, advanced safety features, and a comfortable cabin, making it a favourite among drivers and fleet owners alike.
Another popular model is the Volvo FM, a versatile truck that is suitable for regional transport, construction, and various forms of heavy-duty applications. The Volvo FM is known for its excellent drivability and comfort, making it a great choice for businesses that require a reliable and efficient truck for their operations.
Choosing a Volvo truck means investing in a vehicle that is designed with the driver in mind, built for the Australian landscape, and backed by a brand that is committed to safety, quality, and environmental care. Whether you’re in the business of long-haul transport, construction, or regional deliveries, Volvo has a truck that will meet and exceed your expectations.
IVECO: A rich history and local manufacturing excellence
IVECO Trucks, formerly known as International Harvester and International Trucks, has a long and storied history in Australia. The company has been distributing light, medium, and heavy-duty trucks to Australian businesses since 1902, making it one of the oldest and most established truck brands in the country.
A significant milestone in IVECO’s history was the establishment of its local manufacturing plant in Dandenong, Victoria, in 1952. This facility has allowed IVECO to tailor its trucks to the specific needs of the Australian market, ensuring they are perfectly suited to the unique conditions and demands of the country. Since its establishment, the Dandenong plant has manufactured more than 230,000 trucks, a testament to IVECO’s commitment to Australian manufacturing and the local economy.
Popular IVECO truck models: Versatility and performance
IVECO offers a wide range of truck models, each designed with a specific purpose in mind. Among the most popular models are the ACCO, Stralis, and Powerstar.
The ACCO is a versatile and robust truck that is ideal for waste management, construction, and local distribution. Known for its reliability and durability, the ACCO has been a favourite among Australian businesses for many years.
The Stralis is a heavy-duty truck that is designed for long-haul transport. It offers excellent fuel efficiency, advanced safety features, and a comfortable cabin, making it a great choice for businesses that require a high-performance truck for their operations.
The Powerstar, on the other hand, is a powerful truck that is designed for demanding applications such as road train and B-double work. It combines power, reliability, and comfort, making it a popular choice for businesses that require a heavy-duty truck.
Choosing an IVECO truck means investing in a vehicle that is designed and manufactured in Australia, for Australia. With their proven reliability, versatile range, and the backing of a company with a rich history in the country, IVECO trucks are a smart choice for any business in the Australian trucking industry.
Scania: A global powerhouse with a specialisation in class 8 Vehicles
Scania, a Swedish company, is a global powerhouse in the trucking industry. With a presence in over 100 countries, Scania has been producing commercial vehicles – specifically heavy trucks and buses – for more than a century. The company’s reputation for quality, reliability, and advanced technology is well-known worldwide.
Scania has a particular specialisation in Class 8 vehicles, the largest and most powerful trucks in the industry. These trucks are designed for heavy-duty applications, including long-haul transport, construction, and other demanding tasks. Scania’s expertise in this class of vehicles has made it a preferred choice for businesses that require the highest levels of performance and reliability from their trucks.
Scania’s heavy-duty trucks: Built for the tough jobs
Scania’s heavy-duty trucks are renowned for their power, durability, and advanced features. These trucks are designed to handle the most demanding tasks, making them ideal for road trains and construction purposes.
One of Scania’s standout models is the R-series. Known for its robustness and versatility, the R-series is designed to handle a wide range of heavy-duty applications. It offers excellent fuel efficiency, advanced safety features, and a comfortable cabin, making it a popular choice for long-haul transport and construction tasks.
Another popular model is the G-series. This truck is known for its excellent performance in tough conditions, making it ideal for construction and other demanding tasks. The G-series combines power, reliability, and comfort, making it a great choice for businesses that require a heavy-duty truck.
Choosing a Scania truck means investing in a vehicle that is designed to handle the toughest jobs. With their global presence, specialisation in Class 8 vehicles, and a range of heavy-duty trucks, Scania is a smart choice for any business in the Australian trucking industry.
Mack: A legacy of strength and reliability
Mack Trucks, an American brand with a rich history dating back to 1900, has been a significant player in the Australian trucking industry for many decades. Known for their strength, durability, and power, Mack trucks have earned a reputation for being ‘built like a Mack Truck’, a phrase that signifies toughness and reliability.
Mack’s commitment to the Australian market is evident in its local assembly operations. Since 1963, Mack has been assembling its trucks in Australia, ensuring they are perfectly suited to the unique conditions and demands of the country. This local assembly not only allows Mack to tailor its trucks to the Australian market but also contributes to the local economy and provides jobs for Australians.
Mack trucks: Power and performance on wheels
Mack offers a range of trucks that are renowned for their power, durability, and advanced features. Whether it’s the versatile Granite series, the powerful Trident, or the flagship Super-Liner, Mack has a truck to suit every need.
The Granite series is known for its versatility and reliability. Designed for a wide range of applications, from construction to waste management, the Granite series combines power, durability, and comfort, making it a popular choice among businesses.
The Trident is a powerful truck designed for both highway and vocational applications. With its powerful engine and advanced features, the Trident is ideal for businesses that require a high-performance truck for their operations.
The Super-Liner, Mack’s flagship model, is a testament to Mack’s commitment to power, performance, and style. Designed for heavy-haul applications, the Super-Liner combines power, reliability, and comfort, making it a great choice for businesses that require a heavy-duty truck.
Choosing a Mack truck means investing in a vehicle that is built to last. With their proven reliability, local assembly, and a range of powerful trucks, Mack is a smart choice for any business in the Australian trucking industry.
MAN: A global giant with a rich history
MAN, a German company, is a global giant in the trucking industry with a rich history that dates back more than a century. Founded in 1758, MAN has been at the forefront of the commercial vehicle industry, producing a range of vehicles including trucks, buses, and diesel engines. The company’s reputation for quality, reliability, and advanced technology is well-known worldwide.
MAN’s global presence extends to over 120 countries, including Australia. The company’s long history and extensive experience in the industry have allowed it to develop a deep understanding of the needs of businesses, enabling it to produce vehicles that meet and exceed customer expectations.
MAN’s range of delivery vehicles: Reliability and quality in every model
MAN offers a range of reliable and high-quality delivery vehicles that are designed to meet the diverse needs of businesses. Whether it’s a light-duty TGL for urban deliveries or a heavy-duty TGX for long-haul transport, MAN has a vehicle to suit every requirement.
One of MAN’s standout models is the TGM, a versatile and robust truck that is ideal for a wide range of applications, including regional distribution and urban deliveries. The TGM is known for its excellent fuel efficiency, advanced safety features, and comfortable cabin, making it a popular choice among businesses.
Another popular model is the TGS, a powerful truck designed for heavy-duty applications. With its powerful engine, robust construction, and advanced features, the TGS is ideal for businesses that require a high-performance truck for their operations.
Choosing a MAN truck means investing in a vehicle that combines the best of German engineering with the specific needs of your business. With their proven reliability, diverse range, and the backing of a company with a rich history in the industry, MAN trucks are a smart choice for any business in the Australian trucking industry.
The importance of choosing the right truck and the right financing option
Choosing the right truck for your business is a decision that can significantly impact your operations, profitability, and overall success. The right truck can enhance your business’s efficiency, reduce operating costs, and ensure the safe and timely delivery of goods. Whether it’s a light-duty truck for urban deliveries or a heavy-duty truck for long-haul transport, each truck serves a unique purpose and is designed to meet specific business needs.
In Australia, there’s a wide range of truck brands to choose from, each offering unique features and benefits. From the dominance of Isuzu to the innovation of Kenworth, the reliability of Fuso, and the power of Mack, the choice ultimately depends on your business’s specific requirements and budget.
When purchasing a new truck for your business, it’s also important to consider the financing options available to you. Traditional financing methods can often be complex and time-consuming, with extensive documentation requirements and long approval times. This is where ARG’s Rent to Buy solution comes in.
ARG offers a leading alternative to commercial vehicle financing, designed to get you on the road and working quickly, while also providing a path towards buying the vehicle outright. With low documentation requirements, fast approvals, and a human touch, ARG’s Rent to Buy solution is designed to help you get in the truck you need without the hassle of traditional financing.
Whether you’re looking to Rent To Buy a Pantech, a curtain-sider, a removalist Pantech, or any other truck, ARG works with you to find a suitable vehicle.
Ready to get behind the wheel of a new truck that drives your business forward? Speak with a Rent to Buy expert at ARG today.