Long life, reliability and an impressive payload capability were the key reasons behind the decision to specify the Isuzu NQR 7.5t truck with the Longleat Forestry department looking for a working life of between 15 and 20 years for this vehicle.

With a design approved by the forestry operations staff and Ray Doncaster from Isuzu Truck Sales, the Isuzu NQR is fitted with a purpose-built, all-aluminium fabricated and welded tipping body, with the addition of cab roof height removable high sides and tail gate. “This gives the staff various body configurations to suit their particular forestry operation and ease of use,” Ray Doncaster from Isuzu Truck UK commented.

“The vehicle is delivering a range of forestry products such as firewood, wood chip and mulch to customers within a 20 mile radius of the Estate and the vehicle was specified to accommodate all these different loads,” said Paul Grugeon, Deputy Land Agent at Longleat.

He went on to say that “The width of the Isuzu chassis cab was also a key factor in this vehicle being chosen; as so many of the forestry deliveries are to local residential properties with narrow drives and gateways”.

“During the course of the year, we know that the Isuzu will carry a large proportion of the 1600 tonnes of firewood and the 500 tonnes of woodchip sold each year,” commented Paul Grugeon, “this makes the Isuzu’s 4-tonne payload essential for this side of our forestry operation.”

In addition, the Isuzu will be used for the transportation of un-sawn timber, natural garden sculptures, rustic poles and Christmas Trees, making it a truly practical workhorse for Longleat Forestry.

“Operating within one of the country’s most popular tourist attractions at Longleat, the Isuzu NQR will certainly provide Longleat Forestry with value for money over its planned 20-year life. Once again this application at Longleat showcases the versatility of the Isuzu in a rural environment,” said Keith Child, Marketing Director, Isuzu Truck (UK).