The R1 is a champion in terms of payload and reliability. It is mounted on a ladder frame, with “C” section longitudinals connected by cross-members, which is strong, flexible and light-weight in that it is made of top quality steel.

Rear drive, with rigid beam axles, ensures maximum sturdiness and mechanical reliability with any superstructure, even in the most exacting applications: maximum admissible loads are 2,300 kg on the front axle and 3,900 kg on the rear axle, maximum GVW is 6,000 kg.

The excellent steering angle is achieved by cab-over construction and a track width of only 1420 mm, making for optimal manoeuvrability even in the tightest corners (city centres, historical districts, impervious routes).
The front suspension is by means of a rigid axle with leaf-springs and shock-absorbers designed to bear the heaviest loads and ensure maximum riding comfort, combined with superior safety; the drive train uses a clutch with either hydraulic control (with 5- and 6-speed ZF gearboxes) or wire control (for 5-speed 28 26 Iveco gearboxes), with provision to fit a PTO; all gearboxes are fully synchronised, for smooth, accurate gear shifting: power steering is a standard feature; the braking system is servo-assisted; ABS on request.

To optimise riding safety and operational versatility as a function of the job and type of equipment, the rear suspension can be had in various configurations.
Stabiliser bars or special elastic stiffening elements fitted to both axles ensure optimal vehicle control on bends, in all equipment and load configurations, including those with a particularly high centre of gravity.

The ladder frame with cross-members makes it possible to install the greatest variety of accessories in a safe and stable manner, without having to fit special coupling structures.

The R1 is available in four wheelbase variants, 2,200, 2,650, 3,000 and 3,350 mm, the first three of which can be equipped with AWD. A distinguishing trait of the frame is its limited width, which translates into a narrow track: only 1,420 mm or 1,370 mm with paired wheels at rear.

With an overall body width of but 1,700 mm, the R1 is the ideal choice for tasks requiring superior mechanical characteristics mated to compact dimensions: in historical centres, over difficult terrain. The weight of the R1 frame with 2,200 mm wheelbase is 1,700 kg (including driver and fuel), to which we must add the weight of the superstructure. Thus, we can estimate, for the vehicle fitted out as truck with body, a total payload of between 1,300 and 1,500 kg (approx.), depending on the version.

The R1 can be equipped with three types of homologated tyres, depending on the version: 215/75 R 16C; 195/75 R 16C and 185/75 R16C; 900/75 R16 (standard on the Trakker version).