| UD Condor | |
| Manufacturer: | Nissan Diesel (1975–2010) Hino (1994-2011) UD Trucks Corporation (2011–2017) Isuzu (2017–present) |
| Production: | 1975–present |
| Class: | Truck |
| Engine: | NE6, NE6T, FE6T, FE6TA, FE6TC, FD6T, ED6, J08E, D16K, D12C, 4HK1, 6NX1, GH7, JO8C EH700, HO7D, EH500, EH300, |
| Transmission: | Nissan (manual), Aisin (automatic) |
| Related: | UD Quester UD Croner Isuzu Forward Hino Ranger |
The UD Condor (kana:UD・コンドル) is a line of cabover medium-duty commercial vehicles produced by Nissan Diesel (now UD Trucks), introduced in 1975, Compact models sold under the Nissan Diesel Condor brand and rebranded Nissan Atlas.
Most mid-size and larger models of the truck are distinguishable by a front 'Condor' badge, but the common Nissan Diesel or UD badge is usually used on the rear.
In the United States, it is sold as a UD followed by a four-digit numeral indicating its load capacity, Its principal competitors are the Bering MD, Mitsubishi Fuso FM, Chevrolet W-Series, GMC W-Series, and Isuzu F-Series. Its Japanese market competitors are the Mitsubishi Fuso Fighter, Isuzu Forward, and Hino Ranger. In 2011 a new generation Condor MK/LK was introduced, which used the UD name in all markets, rather than Nissan Diesel.
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The first Condor appeared in 1975. Two types of engine were available: ED6 (a swirl chamber) and FD6T (a direct injection, with turbo). The turbo model is referred to as the "Condor GF"; it is equipped with power steering standard. In 1979 the base engine changed from ED6 to FD6 due to emissions regulations; the cab design was also revised.[1]
The second generation Condor launched in 1983 following emissions compliance. In 1988, minor changes were made to the grille, the Condor S was added, and in 1989 anti-lock brakes were added.
Engine options available were the 6.9 Liter FE6 Engine offered in turbo and non turbo variants with power ranges from .
In the United States, this generation was sold as the UD 1800-3300 but it was also imported by Navistar International and sold as the International Model 400, 500, 600, 700, and 900. The smallest Model 400 was a Class 5 truck with a 17640lb GVW and Nissan Diesel engines of 160or.[2] The heaviest Model 900, a Class 7 truck, corresponds to the UD 3300.[3]
In 1993, the third generation of the Condor range was introduced as the Fine Condor, and in 1994 it added a 4WD package. Minor changes included exhaust emission regulations in 1994 and in 1995 the Condor SS ultra-lightweight specifications was added. In addition, the CNG vehicles on its Condor range, and soon after, in 1997 it added PW (with 10 tons) and a short cab Condor Z, does similar to Condor S is out of print and accordingly. Also the same year, it adopted shock-absorbing steering. Low-floor 4WD was also added.
In January 2000, an Allison 5-speed automatic transmission became available. The 9- and 12-ton versions were replaced in 2010, with the other models continuing to be built for another year.
In April 2010 the 8 ton class model PK series was announced, following the name change to UD Trucks in February 2010. It was introduced in Japan, with plans to sell in the US and other markets.
Engine options are the 4.6 L GH5 and the 7.0 L GH7[4]
On 23 August 2010, the 9-ton PK series and 12-ton PW series were introduced while other models continued within the third generation.
On 28 July 2017, as part of its transition from UD Trucks to Isuzu, the fifth generation Condor was introduced. It is now a rebadged version of the Isuzu Forward, with unique front fascia and new cab.[5]
The next generation UD Condor due for a redesign was announced by the press on January 24, 2024. The fully redesigned UD Condor went on sale days later.[6]