Freightliner proudly announces the introduction of a 112-inch BBC (bumper-to-back-of-cab) version of the popular Columbia heavy-duty truck-tractor. Intended for diverse regional applications, the Columbia 112 features a semi-forward control cab design for improved aerodynamics, driver accessibility and ease of repair and maintenance operation.

“The Freightliner Columbia is the most popular heavy-duty truck on the road in the United States and we see its advanced lightweight design filling many an operators requirement for greater payload capacity,” said Johan Cloete, Divisional Manager of Freightliner division of DaimlerChrysler SA. “We are very proud to introduce the 112-inch BBC configuration to further expand the successful Freightliner range here in southern Africa.”

The Columbia 112 is built with the same attention to durability and reliability as all Freightliner trucks. With a high level of maneuverability and superior visibility, the new Columbia 112 is ideal for the operator who wants maximum payload capability, ease-of-operation and greater fuel economy and cost per kilometer efficiency.

“The Columbia 112 is designed to be an efficient partner for medium distance operations, bulk haulers, inter-city delivery and distribution operations,” said Cloete. “The ride is smooth and handling is precise and predictable, meaning reduced driver fatigue and safer operating standards.”

Engineered to be lightweight and versatile, the Columbia 112 features a set-back front axle and an up-to-50 degree wheel cut to optimise maneuverability. The truck’s wide, two-piece swept back windshield and sloped hood are designed to reduce air drag as well as offer the driver improved visibility.

The aerodynamic cab reduces wind resistance and improves fuel economy. Even the bumper boosts efficiency with its aerodynamic shape and three-piece design that minimizes repair costs by allowing individual section replacement.

Ride and handling are enhanced with a taper leaf front spring suspension, rated at 6 300 kgs. Rear suspension is Freightliner’s popular, bullet proof, Airliner. The Airliner is operating on thousands of Freightliner Argosys’ and its durability and reliability is unchallenged.

The Columbia 112 is equipped to handle the stress of city deliveries or the long distance routes of regional hauliers. The truck will be fitted with the Caterpillar C12 410/1550 engine, which develops up to 317 kW and 2 101 Nm of torque and peaks at 425 hp @ 1 800 r/min. The standard transmission is the Eaton-Fuller 10-speed Smartshift in the latest Gen3 iteration.

The Columbia is also designed to be easily serviceable with a 90ºdegree tilting hood for easy engine compartment access.

Fitted with anti-lock braking (ABS) and a hi-tech engine braking system as standard, the Columbia’s safety systems are as advanced as those of the Argosy. Freightliner was the first brand to introduce electronic engines, ABS and cab air-conditioning as standard.

“These introductions and changes have transformed the whole face of trucking, and with the introduction of the Freightliner Columbia, we continue to roll out technical innovations,” added Cloete.

These innovations have contributed to Freightliner being recognised as the preferred brand for long haul trucking in terms of durability, reliability, ease of maintenance and fuel consumption.

The Columbia 112 comes in a Day Cab or in a single Sleeper Cab version with easy walk through access. Both cabs are designed to maximise space and comfort with ample storage space. The Sleeper Cab features a wrap-around privacy curtain for overnight stops and a cargo net with a secure locking mechanism.

The cab structure complies with the most rigorous and stringent crash test standards of the European ECE. The cab is built to be reliable and durable and has been tested over millions of km on shaker test and test tracks in the US.

The Columbia’s cab also features a host of components and options designed to create a comfortable working and living environment, including anti-glare cabin lights. Inside the cab, the wrap-around dash is mounted low to increase visibility, controls and switches are easy to reach, and the LED back-lit instruments are easy to read. A 21-setting HVAC system provides fresh, filtered air at temperatures designated by the driver.

The fully adjustable air suspended Bostrom driver and passenger seats, features a tiltable seat squab and adjustable lumber support for maximum driving comfort and control.

The Freightliner Columbia 112 comes with the standard Freightliner warranty of 12 months unlimited km and 24 months or 400 000 km on the drive train.

“On top of being a great-looking truck, the Columbia 112 is a smart business decision,” added Cloete. “With its comprehensive warranty, solid construction, and efficient operation, the Columbia 112 is an investment that will pay off...now and in the future.”

Production of the Freightliner Columbia 112 will be in CKD (completely knocked-down kits) and commences in the second quarter of 2007 at Ikhwezi in East London.

“We expect the Freightliner Columbia to grow in popularity as more fleet operators and owner-operators discover its value, style and performance,” concluded Cloete.

Freightliner currently boasts a market share of 20% in the 6x4 Truck Tractors > 400 hp extra-heavy segment of the local market, and record sales of 831 units were recorded for the year 2006. These are all attributed to the ever popular Argosy.

The Freightliner Columbia will be sold throughout the dealer network in southern Africa. “We place a great deal of importance in the role of our dealer network across Southern Africa. Dealer investment and development plans made a few years ago are well underway and the dealer network strategy is being realised. Their business is now customer focused and with the addition of the Freightliner Columbia, we will see a further increase in sales,” concluded Cloete.