Midlands sister companies Smart Cut and TFN Landscapes have bought 10 of the latest Isuzu Grafter Green 3.5 tonne rigid vehicles.

Their decision was based on the successful performance of their first four Isuzu Grafters and will take their combined vehicle fleet up to 40.

Now representing over 35% of the Smart Cut and TFN fleets, the Isuzu N35.125 Grafter Green rigids are progressively replacing the incumbent Nissan Cabstars, say Smart Cut and TFN, which aim is to become an exclusively Isuzu fleet by the end of 2019.

'Our initial attraction to Isuzu was prompted by the payload achievable from the impressive 7 tonne GTW Grafter as a result of its 3.5 tonne gross towing capacity,' said Tom Rimell, director of Smart Cut.

'This combination makes them ideal fleet vehicles as we transport a range of heavy plant equipment from job to job. Following on from the original four Grafters ordered in 2017, we are now taking another 10 new Isuzus for our 2018 fleet replacement programme, while shortly we will be placing a follow-up order for a further 10 new Grafters for delivery in 2019'

All 10 Isuzu N35.125 Grafter Greens being supplied to Smart Cut and TFN Landscapes during 2018 feature the Isuzu Driveaway TGS dropside body configuration.

Tom Rimell said: 'We only keep our vehicles for a two year period, so we go for their Driveaway models bearing in mind that the vehicle can then be easily resold in two years' time, since it is a popular, in-demand specification.

'In addition, by choosing the Isuzu Driveaway models, the trucks arrive at our premises ready to go to work. This specification includes items such as seat covers, towbar fitment and lighting kits that previously we used to fit ourselves.

'Driveaway takes these time consuming jobs off our hands, both from fitting initially as well as at removal at the end of the two year period. Most importantly, we have the trucks out there working, and earning, without any delay'

The new Isuzu Grafter Green rigids are expected to cover a maximum of 40,000 miles in their two year working life within the fleet at Smart Cut and TFN Landscapes. They are being supplied by local Isuzu dealer Aquila Truck Centre in Worcester.

'Aquila fully understands our business model for vehicle acquisition and we now have a really good working relationship with them. Their support during the truck replacement programme has been first class,' said Tom Rimell.