- 60 years since the first Canter model was launched in 1963
- Highly acclaimed globally, the Canter is sold in over 70 countries worldwide
Muscat, Oman| Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation (MFTBC), represented in Oman by the General Automotive Company (GAC), is pleased to announce that 2023 marks the 60th anniversary of the light-duty Canter truck.
The first generation Canter entered the light-duty truck segment for the first time in March 1963 as the T720 cab-over type model boasting a design providing a wide field of view and easy operability. Named the Canter to conjure the image of a sturdy but nimble horse, it was highly acclaimed as the best in its class for its excellent driving performance and economy.
Since the launch of the first generation model, the Canter has evolved alongside Japanese society through many eras. Its history dates back to the postwar reconstruction period, through the rapid economic growth that brought long-distance and high-speed transportation to the changes of the 21st century that pushed ecological issues and carbon-neutral transportation to the forefront.
Throughout its 60-year history, the Canter has delivered every aspect required of a light-duty truck at a high level. On top of consistent performance and driver comfort, the Canter has achieved ever higher levels of fuel efficiency and environmental friendliness over the decades with continuous engine improvements and hybrid technology. Through the development of advanced safety technologies, MFTBC has sought to make the Canter a safe and reliable truck for drivers and others on the road. The design of the Canter has also evolved to match the needs of drivers and the shifting zeitgeist. Over the years, the Canter has established an immovable identity within the industry: a safe, comfortable, and environmentally friendly companion to drivers and businesses everywhere.
Since the 1960s, the Canter has expanded its sales worldwide and led the light-duty truck segment in the global market. Currently, knock-down production is carried out in 12 overseas markets. Furthermore, sales of the Canter have long since expanded into Africa, Central and South America, and the Middle East, with built-up vehicles being exported to over 60 countries around the world. Combining knock-down production locations and export markets, the Canter is now sold in over 70 countries worldwide. In Oman, right from the moment it was introduced over five decades ago under the watchful eye of GAC, the truck has maintained the top market share in the light-duty segment and continues to be the light-duty truck of choice for most businesses across the country.
Throughout the truck’s long history, the Canter has represented the FUSO brand and MFTBC’s dedication to standing as a pioneering presence for customers, societies, and the transportation industry. Carrying on the legacy of the past decades, MFTBC launched Japan’s first series-produced electric light-duty truck, the eCanter, in the light-duty truck segment in 2017. With the fully remodelled next-generation model of the all-electric truck to be introduced to markets in 2023, MFTBC and the FUSO Canter will continue running on a path of innovation.
In Oman, GAC is the official distributor of the FUSO range of commercial vehicles. They are available at the FUSO Truck Centre in Azaiba, Muscat, with Branches in Sohar, Nizwa, Ibri, Barka, Sur, Jaalan Bani Bu Ali, and Salalah. For more information on the FUSO range of commercial vehicles.
