The shortage of drivers remains one of the main structural challenges for the trucking industry in Mexico , a problem that is not new, but continues to condition the operation and growth of the sector.

This deficit is not only a reflection of an industry perception, but also a documented problem at a global level.

According to the International Road Transport Union (IRU) and the National Chamber of Freight Transport (Canacar) , in Mexico the deficit is around 99,000 operators , a figure that already directly impacts the operational capacity of road transport.

In fact, Canacar has pointed out that this lack of personnel has left more than 90,000 vehicles idle due to a lack of operators , while internationally the situation is replicated on a larger scale, demonstrating that it is a structural challenge and not isolated to the Mexican market.

In this context, companies have had to focus part of their strategies not only on attracting talent, but also on retaining it and making it more efficient. Training has become a key element in reducing turnover, optimizing unit performance, and avoiding corrective maintenance that impacts operating costs.

At the same time, the proper use of vehicles and the technical training of operators are positioned as factors that directly affect the useful life of the units, in an environment where efficiency is increasingly crucial for profitability.

Under this scenario, Isuzu Motors de México is focusing its strategy on supporting its customers—both fleet operators and retailers—in developing operational capabilities. The company has committed to strengthening operator training as a way to address this structural challenge in the sector.

“For several years we have been focused on assisting our clients to provide their operators with the necessary training so that they can maintain and operate the units according to the needs of each vehicle,” José Manuel García Soria, the company’s Fleet Development Manager, explained to T21.

The automaker also highlighted reliability as one of its main differentiators, particularly in its diesel engines, where, according to García, fuel efficiency and durability continue to be key attributes for its customers.

In that context, the firm maintains in its portfolio the range of Euro 6 vehicles , corresponding to the 2026 model year, while advancing in the incorporation of new products, such as its D-Max pickup, which is expected to arrive soon in the Mexican market.

In an environment where operational challenges persist , the combination of technology, efficiency, and human capital is emerging as one of the main routes to sustain the operation of road transport.

In 2025, the Japanese automaker sold 5,910 units at retail, which represented a 10% increase compared to 2024.

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El cargo Isuzu Motors de México focuses on operators in the face of the sector’s structural challenge apareció primero en T21.

Not all growth stories begin with certainty. Many are born from discomfort, from the urgency to leave the comfort zone and dare to resist. That is the starting point of “The Unstoppables ,” the documentary series with which Isuzu Motors Mexico  decided to look beyond the product to tell what happens behind every kilometer traveled.

History reveals trajectories marked by daily work , inevitable setbacks, and irreversible decisions. There are no perfect scripts or straight paths. There are companies that grew through the rain, amidst complicated paths and days that didn’t always promise certainty, but always the need to persevere.

With four seasons and 20 episodes , “The Unstoppables” brings together stories from different industries and contexts that converge on a single idea: stopping is not an option. For the brand, these narratives explain its reason for being and the purpose of supporting those who make transportation a tool of life, as explained by Mariana Cervantes, the brand’s Marketing Manager.

“We invite you to discover the real stories of real people, to learn about journeys that haven’t always been easy, but that have never stopped. This documentary series is inspired by people who turned their greatest challenges into the strength to achieve their dreams,” Cervantes emphasized.

From an institutional perspective, Isuzu emphasized that a brand isn’t built solely on vehicles, but on the trust of those who depend on them to fulfill their needs . Each vehicle represents stability, but also a promise: to arrive, return, and set out again the next day. This logic of long-term support is what shapes the project and gives coherence to each story.

Also present at the event was Rogelio Arzate, executive president of the National Association of Bus, Truck, and Tractor-Trailer Manufacturers (ANPACT) , who emphasized the role that micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) play in the dynamism of the national economy. He explained that this segment is what truly drives the country and that having adequate transportation solutions is key to their daily operations.

“Mexico’s economy is driven by micro and small businesses,” she noted. She acknowledged that Isuzu products, manufactured in the country, are part of that productive system and give visibility to stories that also include women entrepreneurs.

On behalf of the automaker, Hiroshi Ikegawa , president of Isuzu Motors Mexico, highlighted the relationship the brand has built with the country since its arrival, as well as the value of the stories featured in the “The Unstoppables” series. During his remarks, he expressed his gratitude for the openness of the Mexican market and affirmed that the testimonials presented reflect entrepreneurs who have a positive impact on their communities.

“What a great country Mexico is, it is an honor to be able to be with you,” he expressed, and indicated that the documentary series reflects stories of those who drive economic development every day through their businesses.

One such story is that of Juan Jesús Gutiérrez , CEO of Promoeco , whose relationship with the brand began at a pivotal moment, both for his business and for Isuzu’s history, as he became its first customer in Mexico. The need to find a vehicle that offered safety, cargo capacity, and stability led him to make a decision that, over time, would become a foundational commitment.

The news of being the first customer didn’t come without its challenges. The possibility of encountering failures, adjustments, or setbacks was always present. However, over the years, they built something more solid than any initial expectation. Two decades later, the accumulated experience translated into operational confidence , on-time deliveries, and the peace of mind of knowing that the vehicle would perform, even in adverse circumstances.

Regarding the global context, Gutiérrez noted that the current environment is marked by uncertainty, economic tensions, and technological acceleration. Against this backdrop, he emphasized the value of humanity . Beyond innovation or trends, he highlighted the importance of the intelligence that is built daily, within the family, and through consistent work. Based on his experience, he explained that the relationship with Isuzu has evolved from a transactional one to a long-standing alliance.

Starting February 2nd , the stories that make up “The Unstoppables” will begin to be shared gradually on the Isuzu Mexico website , allowing the public to learn firsthand about the journeys, decisions, and lessons learned by those who have made transportation a tool for growth. It’s an invitation to see the path through the real-life experiences of those who, even in the most challenging times, chose not to stop.

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El cargo Isuzu celebrates its “Unstoppables” with stories of real growth apareció primero en T21.