INDIANAPOLIS - Isuzu Commercial Truck of America, Inc. and Utilimaster, Inc. unveiled the Reach commercial van at The Work Truck Show 2011 in Indianapolis.

The commercial van—with a body designed by Utilimaster Corporation atop a Isuzu NPR ECO-MAX chassis and powered by Isuzu’s 3.0L diesel engine—will achieve 35 percent better fuel economy than a traditional commercial van application while offering the functionality of a custom-built work truck along with the styling and ergonomics of a cargo van, the companies stated. Production is scheduled to begin this summer. The Reach will be available through the Isuzu nationwide network of 284 dealers.

The Reach will be offered in two wheelbases—134 and 151 inches—and three body lengths—10, 12, and 14 feet. The cargo area can offer 450, 540, or 630 cubic feet of storage, depending on wheelbase and body length selected.

The video above shows the unveiling of the Isuzu, Utilimaster Reach Commercial Van at the NTEA Show in Indianapolis.

The Reach’s stripped chassis’ engine has been relocated to minimize engine protrusion into the cab, facilitating driver movement in and out of the front seat for improved productivity. Likewise, the driver seat position and numerous component locations have been revised to accommodate the walk-in van body. Otherwise, the van’ setup is like the 12,000-lb. GVWR Isuzu NPR ECO-MAX chassis.

Powering the Reach is Isuzu’s biodiesel fuel compatible 4JJ1-TC 3.0-liter turbocharged engine, capable of generating 150 hp, this engine is mated to an Aisin medium-duty six-speed automatic transmission with double overdrive, lock-up torque converter and power take-off (PTO) function. In independent testing, this powertrain achieved 35 percent better mileage than traditional commercial vans, according to the companies. The engine offers B10 durability ratings of 310,000 miles, meaning that 90 percent will reach that mileage before requiring an overhaul, the companies stated.

Like Isuzu’s N-Series trucks, the Reach’s 4JJ1-TC engine employs selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology, which injects Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) into the hot exhaust stream to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions by over 85 percent. As a result, the Reach is EPA 2010 compliant and CARB OBD II compliant.

Driver safety and productivity are enhanced by such features as:

• Available sliding front door (swing-out doors are also available) that requires 15 seconds less to operate than a conventional door

• Wide aisles

• Sufficient interior height to give even drivers over six feet tall the ability to enter and exit the cab, and access and use the cargo area, in an upright position

• Available integrated back-up camera

• Available Keyless, auto-opening bulkhead door

• Easy-to-access maintenance items

Features that maximize the utility and practicality of the Reach’s body include flat, vertical side walls; available sliding cab doors; and multiple rear-door options. In addition, a choice of integrated vocational modules will give buyers the opportunity to turn the cargo area into a space customized to their needs.

To achieve maximum durability of the Reach’s body, engineers have employed Impact-resistant urethane rear and lower exterior panels; rear spring bumper and energy-absorbing side bumpers; and one-piece molded roof to eliminate leaks. All body panels have been designed for quick removal and replacement so that, if repairs are necessary, technicians can quickly restore the vehicle to its original condition.

Among the industries and vocations the Reach is expected to appeal to:

• Package delivery fleets

• Contractors

• Cleaning services

• Plumbers

• Moving and storage companies

• Home health care providers

• Locksmiths

• Lease/rental agencies

• Appliance repair and delivery firms

• Dry cleaners and laundries

• Heating and air conditioning technicians

• Electricians

• Airports

• Florists

• Rent-to-own outlets

• Food distributors