13.08.2011 FIAT PROFESSIONAL EXPANDS THE DOBLÒ RANGE WITH FIRST EVER TRUCK BODY OFFERING

FIAT DOBLO WORK UP

Fiat Professional is broadening further the versatility of its best selling vehicle, the Doblò, by introducing a new "small truck" version; this is the first time that such a multi functional option has been offered on the Turkish-built LCV.

Fiat Professional is broadening further the versatility of its best selling vehicle, the Doblò, by introducing a new "small truck" version; this is the first time that such a multi functional option has been offered on the Turkish-built LCV.

While the first-generation Doblò van was only offered in a single basic body format, the new second-generation model has already expanded its range to include a long-wheel-base option and now it adds a flatbed with folding sides format, called the Doblò Work Up, that will allow it to correspond to the needs of a whole new customer base. In Italy, where the Doblò Work Up is now on sale, the price starts at 16,570 euros (excluding taxes) for the version equipped with the 1.3 Multijet 90CV (Euro 4).

Aiming fit concept of a "small truck", the brand's best-selling vehicle in Italy has a new unique design that slots into an unexplored segment, a new version of a "truck" with small external dimensions that allows for ease of use in a crowded urban environment and especially in difficult, narrow passages such as alleys and driveways. The Doblò Work Up offers compact body load area measurements: 2.30 m long, 1.82 m wide and 4 m2 load space. The vehicle can carry up to a 1,000 kg payload due to the bi-link rear suspension that provides significant loading ability; the maximum permissible load on the axles is in fact 1,120 kg at the front and 1,450 kg at the rear.

To ensure efficient load carrying, robustness, light weight and lower fuel consumption, Fiat Professional's designers have adopted a chest-high tensile steel frame equipped with a plywood floor and hinging side-frames made from aluminum alloy. Under the floor, and accessed from the rear end, there is now a compartment to stow tools, including ones that are somewhat long and cumbersome in shape, all of which are safely protected from the elements. In addition, on either side of the vehicle is a small and practical recessed platform with a rubber-coated step that allows for ease of access into the load bay. This new rear structure incorporates a ladder rack/door poles, hooks to secure loads and a sturdy grille to protect the rear of the cab and the window: all solutions that will give the Doblò Work Up the flexibility to be utilised in areas such as agriculture, construction, maintenance services or city parks, as well as for the transportation of large frames and glass panels. The Doblò Work Up will accommodate three 'Euro' pallets or thirty three boxes of fruit with ease.

At launch the engine range of the New Doblò Work Up comprises of two turbodiesels: the 1.3 Multijet with 90 CV and 1.6 Multijet with 105 CV (both Euro 4 compliant). Later, a 135 CV 2.0 Multijet Euro 5 will be added to the powerplant mix. All the engines aim to offer driveability, performance, low noise, reduced operating costs (in terms of fuel consumption and maintenance) in addition to reliability and environmental friendliness. The 2.0 Multijet will also offer as standard, Start & Stop system and particulate filter.

Driveability is further improved by the Doblò's bi-link rear suspension, while electronic devices to come as standard include stability control and ABS with electronic brake force distribution (EBD). ESP and Hill-holder, which assists the driver during hill starts, are available as optional extras. Front airbags complete the safety equipment list. To turn the Doblò Work Up into a 'mobile office' all the cabin features of the van version are carried over including a dashboard document holder and several practical storage compartments. Other features include automatic climate control, Cruise Control and Blue&Me (which includes the navigation system Blue&Me TomTom).

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