The local importer of China’s Foton Tunland, FAA Automotive Australia, has developed a generic mine-spec version of the one-tonne ute it hopes to sell into the demanding sector. The specially modified Tunland features an external steel tube rollover protection system comprising an over-cab bar structure and rigid bullbar. The dual-cab utility is also fitted with aerial mounts, a heavy-duty anodised drop-side tray, canvas-covered seats and an integrated UHF radio, as well as the various safety accessories and lighting equipment mine sites require.
To meet the requirements of mine-spec utilities, the Tunland’s enclosed tray floor boasts six flush-mounted tie-down rings under a rubber mesh bed liner, perimeter tie-rails, tail-light guards and reversing sensors.
FAA director, Grant Phelan, said the Tunland has some advantages that should see it favoured over its competition.
“Unlike all other one-tonne utes, Tunland’s Cummins 2.8 litre turbo-diesel engine has a cast iron cylinder head whose superior thermal efficiency enables reliable operation at higher temperatures, with the added benefit of thermostat-controlled electric radiator fans rather than the power wasting (and noisy) viscous-coupled fans paired with alloy head utes.
“Tunland’s engine also does duty in Foton’s bigger trucks up to 4.5 tonnes GVM, so is understressed in Tunland, a further boon to the Cummins’ longevity reputation. A steel plate sump guard is standard on Tunland 4x4.
“Tunland also has a very stable stance, with the longest cab-to-axle in the class, which minimises tray rear overhang and optimises its tow ball positioning, plus it has the widest front track and second-widest (by 5mm) rear track of any non-European ute in the class.
“Braking too is a feature with the class-largest diameter front disc brakes, twin-piston AP6 calipers, big rear drums, an RHD-offset handbrake lever and Bosch four-channel ABS with EBD.
“This Tunland Mine Spec is a base evaluation template which can be customised to an individual mine or mining company needs,” concluded Phelan.
The Foton Tunland is currently sold through a national network of 20 dealers, though this too is set to expand. With more variants on the way, Foton hopes to appoint another 10 dealerships as it moves to import a light-commercial van, mini bus and SUV to its line-up.
FAA recently appointed two new dealerships to the Foton franchise based at Campbelltown and Port Macquarie in NSW. FAA’s General Manager of Dealer Development, Paul Vuko, said he aims to have Foton dealerships set up across all states and territories by year end.
The Tunland was launched in Australia in November last year. Year-to-date (2013) sales to the end of August tally just 105. The segment best-seller, Toyota HiLux, has sold 26,576 units during the same period.
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