And now, a more down-to-earth look at the Leyland Roadrunner.
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If you've seen the TV commercial for the Roadrunner you'll know Leyland have proved that their new 7.5 tonne truck can take a spot of rough treatment. But for a truck that's got to take everything the roads and traffic of the 80's can throw at it that's just not enough.
So here are the facts that make the Roadrunner the outstanding truck in its class.
Simple but brilliant
The Roadrunner was designed from scratch as a 7.5 tonne truck and as a result all the engineering that's gone into it is a model of clear, straight
forward design, simple but Superb supremely efficient. cab access
That simplicity makes it light without sacrificing strength. It's up to 500 kg lighter than other 7.5 tonners and we don't have to tell you what that means in terms of carrying capacity. The Roadrunner will take nearly 5 tonnes body and payload no trouble at all, amazing for a truck of this overall size. And because of the truck's more than generous axle tolerances there's plenty of allowance for uneven loading.
Good news for drivers
Just because it's a tough truck doesn't mean it has to be tough on the driver. The unique cab is probably what will impress you first. The compact dimensions of the cab ensure good manoeuvrability and give more room for load space but not at the expense of the cab space or driver comfort. The cab is so spacious and uncluttered that you can walk right through it from one side to the other, making it ideal for delivery work.
Amazing visibility is provided by the unique kerbside observation window and a huge direct glazed windscreen. Both of these are, of course, laminated.
The instruments and switches have all been grouped in one neat binnacle set in front of the steering wheel, all easily within the driver's reach and view The driver's seat itself has a greater range of adjustment than in any other light truck. In conjunction with the adjustable rake steering column it can give a variety of driving positions from the 'laid back' car driver style to upright truck-style. It also has an inflatable lumbar support that has won praise from top orthopaedic consultants.
Roadrunner has a twin passenger seat with a split back which will fold down to form a tray for documents or even cups of tea and still leave space for one passenger.
Another fact that will gladden the heart of anyone who's ever driven a truck in a congested city. The remarkably light steering of the Roadrunner is complemented by the smallest turning circle in its class.
More good news
The parts you can't see are just as impressive. The Roadrunner's engine is a revised version of Leyland's 5.65 litre 6 cylinder engine. It comes in two different specifications one producing 97 bhp, the other 115 bhp. A new synchromesh gearbox, incorporating a fuel saving overdrive 5th gear, couples the power of the engine to a new fast ratio back axle.
Not just one truck
The Roadrunner is built in a variety of GVW's, wheelbases, and power outputs so you can put together a truck that fits your needs exactly.
The strong, rigid chassis is totally flat without any protruding nuts or rivets, so it's a bodybuilder's dream: any kind of body can be fitted easily.
Your Co-driver
Every Roadrunner is backed by a range of support services that together form the Co-driver' package. Leyland's comprehensive network of Distributors and Dealers can provide all the service and parts support you'll need. Support that includes a 1 year unlimited mileage warranty together with an optional 2 and 3 year warranty to cover major driveline components.
Distributors also offer leasing packages, repair and maintenance contracts and with Leyland operate `Linldine' a 24 hour roadside assistance service. Whilst our Distributors and Dealers provide extensive parts support for Roadrunner any parts not in stock can be obtained through Leyland's 24 hour VO.R. programme. There is also more good news for Roadrunner drivers. They qualify for membership of the T45 Team. Leyland's own unique truckdrivers' club.
What next?
These are the basic facts. There's a lot more worth knowing about the Roadrunner. Get in touch with your local Leyland 'Rucks Distributor and Dealer (he won't be far away) and he'll tell you the whole story.