IVECO’s ‘Evil’ Trakker Successor

In-depth

11 Jun

Alongside its brand new S-Way, Iveco unveiled the ‘evil’ spiritual successor to its versatile and venerable Trakker at the Brisbane Truck Show: The T-Way

I say ‘evil’, because I reckon the truck displays menace from whichever angle you look at it. It is truly an in-your-face machine!

The T-Way is purpose built to thrive in the most difficult conditions and to meet the rigours of the toughest off-road applications such as mining and exploration, forestry work, water cartage, agricultural spreading and tipper work.

The range boasts the hardcore off-road equipment of its Trakker predecessor, while introducing the latest Euro 6 (Step E) engine range, vastly improved levels of comfort and refinement as well as a stunning new cabin appearance that draws styling cues from the road going S-Way range.

On offer across the T-Way line-up are:

4x4: GVM 20,500kg. GCM 44,000kg

6x6: GVM 33,500kg. GCM 60,000kg

8x4: GVM 41,000kg GCM 60,000kg

These should ensure there’s a solution for most off-road applications.

Further boosting the model’s flexibility is a choice of four wheelbases; model dependent they range from 3800mm to 5820mm.

Euro6 Step E engine range

The new T-WAY range is available with four powerful Euro6 (Step E) engines. Standard in the T-Way AD 4x4 is IVECO’s Cursor 9, 8.7l 6-cylinder powerplant producing 360hp (265kW) and torque of 1,650Nm at just 925rpm. For those requiring additional power, the optional Euro6 Cursor 13 with its 12.9l displacement is also available. This engine produces an impressive 410hp (302kW) and 2,100Nm of torque at 1,000rp

In the T-Way AD 6x6 model, the Cursor 13 again features but in a higher state of tune, to produce 450hp (331kW) and 2,200Nm of torque at 870 rpm, while in the dual steer T-Way AD 8x4, the Cursor 13 produces 510hp (375kW) and 2,300Nm of torque from 900rpm.

Having experienced these engine variants in the new S-Way, I can vouch for their performance. The power/torque balance in each is spot on, along with their quietness.

I reckon they should do away with a muffler or two in the T-Way though. Lol.

Emission control on all engines comes courtesy of IVECO’s patented Hi-eSCR after-treatment with Diesel Oxydation Catalyst, Diesel Particulate Filter, Selective Catalytic Reduction and Clean Up Catalyst.

**Even though we know it wasn't, Trakker looks like a sissy by comparison to the new design**

Already a favourite in several IVECO roadgoing models, the Hi-Tronix Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) is also specified in T-Way. This transmission is featured as standard in the AD 4x4 in 12-speed guise, and if the AD 4x4 is selected with the optional larger 410hp engine, then it’s matched to the 16-speed Hi-Tronix AMT.

The 16-speed Hi-Tronix is standard on AD 6x6 and 8x4 models. Both AMTs provide the flexibility to be used in auto-mode as you would in an automatic, or alternatively, the driver can elect to manually select the gear via the column mounted sequential shifter, providing an additional level of control if the road conditions require it. A rear engine PTO comes standard on all models.

The Hi-Tronix transmissions offer super-fast and smooth gear changes for seamless power delivery and have been durability tested to over 1.2million kilometres.

Building on the off-road prowess of its predecessor, T-Way features full-time drive systems in 4x4 and 6x6 variants, with drive to the rear axles in the 8x4 variant.

All vehicles are also equipped with 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.

Further aiding off-road capabilities is a generous 33° approach angle, while minimum front and rear ground clearance of 346mm and 284mm* respectively with standard tyres, provides the ability to negotiate muddy or uneven ground more easily.

T-Way models utilise a steel chassis with 10mm thick frame that allows better flex and articulation over rough ground – its flat finish also means that body fitment to the new T-Way range is easier and more efficient. PTO on all models provides further flexibility and scope for a wide range of body types. A towing cross member and front tow hook also come as standard.

Smoothing out the bumps on the new AD 4x4 and AD 6x6 models while providing impressive articulation, is front parabolic suspension with dampers and stabiliser bar and rear 3-Leaf parabolic suspension with stabiliser bar.

The AD 8x4 also features front parabolic suspension with dampener and rear 4-Leaf parabolic suspension; there’s also an optional pneumatic suspension (8 bag) for this model.

In the new T-Way, superior off-road performance doesn’t come at the expense of safety, incorporating the latest technology. The range includes a host of active and passive safety features designed to make every journey – both off road and on road – as safe as possible for the driver, passengers and other road users.

AD 4x4 and 6x6 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. Buyers can also add to the safety equation by selecting the optional Lane Departure Warning System and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System.

The AD 8x4 variant offers the same safety benefits while opting for full disc brakes all round in lieu of drums.

With its newly designed cabin that incorporates features of the latest IVECO family look, T-Way’s appearance is sleek and modern, while remaining purposeful. Its aerodynamic design provides excellent visibility out of the cabin, while specially designed and positioned new side mirrors (motorised and heated) also assist out of cabin view.

Other benefits include a multi-piece steel front bumper (each component can be replaced individually if damaged) with foldable step and headlight protection grid.

Inside the cabin, the amenity and ergonomics of T-Way deliver a generational leap on the model it replaces. The driver is treated to a new 7” LCD HD touch screen display Infotainment system with Apple CarPlay®, Bluetooth® connectivity, smart phone mirroring, voice recognition and in-built satellite navigation by TomTom. The unit is also reverse and side camera compatible.

Additionally, there’s twilight and rain sensors that automatically turn on the headlamps and windscreen wipers, and new integrated heating, ventilation and air conditioning system with ‘Eco-mode’.

A new leather wrap steering wheel with integrated controls provides added convenience and sophistication, while the wheel’s flat-shaped bottom provides extra leg room. Starting the models is also easier via start/stop push button.

Standard seating for driver and passenger is courtesy of air suspended, heated, 3-way adjustable seats, with a third seat option also available to accommodate a second passenger.

The new IVECO T-Way is available for ordering now from IVECO Dealerships nationwide with a standard warranty of 2 Years / 500,000km / 6,000 engine hours. Extended warranties of up to 5 Years are also available along with IVECO Maintenance and Repair Contract options.

*Rear differential locks only for AD 8x4 model.