Mitsubishi Fuso Truck of America (MFTA) introduced its 2015 Canter FE130 cabover work truck, which increases payload capacity over the earlier FE125 model, at the NTEA Work Truck Show in Indianapolis.

The Canter FE130 boosts gross-vehicle weight by 700 pounds to 13,200 compared to the 12,500-pound rating for the FE125 model. The new Canter extends the truck's wheelbase to 169.3 inches, which will allow the installation of 20-foot bodies. The company had added a long-wheelbase version to the 2014-model FE125. The longer wheelbase allows greater cargo volume capabilities, said Todd Bloom, MFTA's president and CEO.

"For our customers who transport high-bulk items, this is a real benefit," Bloom said about the extended wheelbase. "Those who haul heavier items could only take advantage of the longer wheelbase if the GVWR also increased. That's where the new FE130 comes in."

Individual axle ratings for the FE130 come in at 5,360 pounds front and 9,880 pounds rear. The ratings total 2,040 pounds more than the FE130's GVWR, according to the company.

"That GVWR-to-axle-rating margin provides the loading flexibility for the FE130 that FUSO owners have come to rely on and expect," said Leighton Good, MFTA's manager of product and applications.

Engine specs won't change. The FE130 is powered by a DOHC turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine that generates 161 horsepower and 295 lb.-ft. of torque. However, company engineers have adjusted the engine's operating parameters, transmission shift points, and emissions control system to improve performance. The truck meets OBD II and EPA 10 emissions requirements.

Other improvements include relocating the oil dipstick to the driver's side so it can be checked without tilting the cab and a bright blue DEF tank cap color for maintenance.

The additional capacity will especially pay off for transport fleets, Bloom said.

"That 700 additional pounds means two more zero-turn landscaper mowers or 700 pounds more mulch per trip," Bloom said. "Or 33 additional cases of soda, 560 loaves of bread or 1,806 bananas."

The Canter FE130 and other 2015 Fuso models will be available at dealers by mid-April.