DFAC Trucks is targeting trades, contractors and fleet operators looking to move beyond dual-cab utes with the launch of its WorkReady Captain 45 in Australia.
The 4.5-tonne GVM light truck combines the Captain 45 cab chassis with an Australian-assembled aluminium tray designed for worksite applications, while retaining the ability to be driven on a standard car licence.
Imported and distributed by KRW Motor Group, the WorkReady model is being offered with introductory drive-away pricing until 30 September 2026.
Built locally for Australian applications
The WorkReady package uses a locally sourced MW Alloy tray measuring 4.5 metres by two metres, with a stated load capacity of 2,000kg.
It includes three crossbeams for carrying longer materials such as ladders, a rear cabin protection screen, wash station and dropdown sides.
The Captain 45 also has a towing capacity of 3.5 tonnes, potentially giving operators an alternative to a ute for applications where additional carrying capacity is required.
KRW Motor Group CEO and Founder Neil Wang said demand for 4.5-tonne trucks was being influenced by businesses looking for greater capability than a dual-cab ute could provide.
“Light duty 4.5 tonne trucks are being seen more and more on worksites as tradespeople look to maximise their business operations after growing out of their dual cab ute,” Wang said.
“After speaking to a wide range of operators, this tray model has been developed, designed and constructed locally sourcing the tray from MW Alloy trays to ensure availability for the WordReady model.”
Car licence at 4.5 tonnes
One of the key considerations for fleet operators will be the Captain 45’s ability to operate at 4.5-tonne GVM on a car licence, potentially allowing organisations to introduce additional load capacity without changing driver licensing requirements.
For applications requiring greater capacity, the truck is also available at six-tonne GVM for drivers holding a Light Rigid licence.
The Captain 45 has a 3300mm wheelbase and is powered by a 2.5-litre Euro 6 Cummins turbo-diesel engine, matched to Dana axles and a six-speed EATON FAST AMT transmission.
“With a wheelbase of 3300mm, the Captain 45 is a versatile workhorse that is sure to be welcomed on small landscape upgrades, through to major infrastructure projects and everything in between,” Wang said.
Safety and driver comfort
DFAC says the Captain 45 complies with Euro 6 and Australian Design Rule requirements, with the standard safety specification intended to provide features more commonly associated with passenger vehicles.
The WorkReady model is also backed by a seven-year or 250,000km warranty, 24/7 NTI roadside assistance and a network of DFAC Trucks Australia service centres.
Inside, the Captain 45 includes a 13-inch infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
“Gone are the days of a traditional truck layout inside with many car-like features in terms of function and comfort. A 13-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is the prime example of how the captain has been developed for the Australian market,” Wang said.
For fleets traditionally using utes for maintenance teams, trades and site-based operations, the WorkReady Captain 45 presents another option when payload, towing capacity and tray space become more important than passenger-carrying ability.
The challenge for DFAC as a new entrant will be demonstrating that the vehicle’s worksite capability can be supported by competitive whole-of-life costs, parts availability and reliable aftersales support as fleet numbers grow.
