Business

Unique D-MAX aerial platform application reaches for the sky

PORT ELIZABETH – When you need an innovative solution, trust Kanu Commercial Body Builders to create the solution for you – no matter how high, remote or off-road the work may be.

Kanu Commercial Body Builders’ latest unique application is a hydraulic aerial platform fitted to an Isuzu D-MAX 250 bakkie. Ideal for maintenance work in the telecommunications and energy sectors, the bakkie derived aerial platform is versatile and able to manoeuvre in confined spaces, explained Kanu Commercial Body Builders Managing Director Mike Pienaar.

“Aerial platform applications are commonly fitted to trucks, but fitting it onto a bakkie is unique. This handy innovation is also a cost-effective solution for work that needs to be carried out at heights,” said Pienaar.

The aerial lift has a reach of 15.2 metres in height and can manoeuvre up to 6.5 metres sideways – with a 360˚ continuous turret rotation. The basket can carry up to two people and their tools (200 kg) – with a 60˚ basket rotation to the left and right.

Kanu Commercial Body Builders Product Design and Engineering Manager, Juan van Rensburg, who was heading up the project, said it took about four months to develop, test and complete the prototype.

“We modified the bakkie’s suspension and conducted numerous testing to ensure the application is perfect,” said van Rensburg.

The D-MAX’s 250 diesel engine powers the hydraulic pump of the aerial lift – which works with a pulley system and is controlled by a switch in the cab.

“The bakkie is a good example of how we drive innovation and provide products for niche markets. From concept to the final product, Kanu has a solution for any business. Each body is custom-made and designed to meet the specific needs of the customer for just about every commercial or business sector in Sub-Saharan Africa,” said Pienaar.

Situated in Markman Township in Nelson Mandela Bay, Kanu Commercial Body Builders is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Isuzu Motors South Africa and designs, manufactures and sells steel-based truck bodies and D-MAX dropsides and flatbeds.

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