Creating the New Hino 500 Series Wide Cab
From planning to launch, it took over nine years to create the all-new Hino 500 Series Wide Cab, the safest Japanese medium-duty truck in the Australian market. What exactly goes into so many years of R&D, you might ask? We had a chat with our Manager of Product Strategy, Daniel Petrovski, about what was involved in introducing this new model line-up to the Australian market - from the research phase to running them through the wringer in some of the most extreme road tests.
First Stage
“The rigorous consultation process for this model series began in 2009. Our engineering and market research teams spent weeks on the road visiting Australian customers and talking to them about their operational needs, requirements and objectives,” explained Daniel. “Then we combined this research with market data trends on horsepower, suspension, transmissions, safety, and comfort”. From there Hino conducted local benchmarking exercises before the project officially began.
Trial by Fire
“Once concepts were locked in and prototypes were built, we began testing these early versions on the test tracks in Japan where we literally drove the trucks 24/7 for months, as well as lab testing that simulates the toughest roads in both the coldest and hottest temperatures on earth. Replicating conditions as distant toas Siberia, where temperatures can dip below -50°C through to the dry heat in the Middle East where temperatures can reach up to +50°C.” described Daniel.
“We ran the trucks throughout Australia field testing over a number of years to make sure they performed as expected under the toughest Australian conditions. Why do we test here? Because let’s face it, if a truck can survive conditions in Australia, it will last anywhere in the world.”
Wheels on The Ground
“Our aim is to be an innovative market leader that develops tough trucks that delivers on the Hino QDR (Quality, Durability and Reliability) promise.”
“We are confident that the extensive processes we have undertaken will result in many satisfied customers and open up opportunities for Hino in new segments of the ultra-competitive medium-duty market,” Daniel concluded.
The new Hino 500 Series Wide Cab is a game changing truck with unrivalled build quality, delivering the next level chassis, suspension and axles. There are more engine and transmission options with the most comprehensive active safety package ever offered by a Japanese truck in the medium duty category with Vehicle Stability Control now standard. Enquire today.