Isuzu FL-IR

The Isuzu FL-IR is a concept truck that Isuzu Motors built for the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show, held from 24 October to 4 November 2019. The name stands for Future Logistics Intelligent Relay.

Isuzu developed it specially for the show to depict a futuristic distribution network, under the theme “Create with you – for supporting transportation”. The company presented it as a proposal for new ways of working for long-haul drivers, helping them to feel safe, secure and stimulated.

The design is built around a sharp-nosed cab with a wide, dark front panel and a large Isuzu badge. Isuzu says the shapes of connected, platooning trucks were inspired by marine mammals that navigate by ultrasonic sound, which led to a shark-like “bio design” meant to give the impression of a mighty robot.

Slim LED lamps sit at the corners of the front end, a wrap-around windscreen sits high in the cab, and a pair of cameras reportedly replaces the conventional exterior mirrors. A sturdy aero device surrounds the cab, and the bodywork is finished in white and dark violet with blue accents on the wheels.

The FL-IR is shown as a truck for connected and autonomous operation. Isuzu says it is intended for platooning, in which a group of trucks travels in a convoy with the vehicles linked to each other. It can be driven manually or run in a fully autonomous mode.

The cab uses a layered dashboard design, so the layout can be adjusted when the driver switches between manual and autonomous driving. In the autonomous mode the seats can move together toward the centre of the cab.