Hino Australia experienced a bumper year in sales in 2015. In fact, it was our greatest sales year since the GFC.
From a product perspective, there were a few key introductions to the marketplace that contributed to the result.
In the 300 Series light-duty truck category we introduced the standard cabin 616 IFS Medium Auto cab chassis and 616 IFS Medium Auto WorkAce built-to-go models, as well as the wide cab 616 Long Auto.
These new models excluding the WorkAce, have a 5,500kg GVM or alternative rating of 4,495kg, which means that anyone with a car licence can now start trucking.
We are also the only Japanese manufacturer to offer a true automatic transmission in the light duty truck range.
Moving to our medium-duty 500 Series, we made a very popular addition to the range with the fully-automatic FE models making their debut in the first quarter of 2015. Alongside the FE 1426 Auto in Medium, Long and X-Long wheelbase, we also added the powerful FM 2628 in a Medium wheelbase with automatic transmission.
For better visibility and improved safety our FC, FD and FE models joined the rest of the 500 Series range by being fitted with a kerb observation mirror to eliminate the blind spot next to the passenger side steer tyre.
In the arena of heavy-hitters, we added two key Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) offerings, our FS 2844 ProShift and FS 2848 ProShift. These models are already proving to be a popular choice for councils, mining and other applications that require an auto shifting transmission with the no-nonsense reliability and durability of a leaf-sprung heavy duty truck.
Cruise control was implemented for all automatic models which adds extra driver safety and comfort. This has resulted in us being the only Japanese manufacturer to offer cruise control as standard across its range of light, medium and heavy duty trucks.
The trend across the board shows that automatic transmission options are in high demand and we now have a solution in each model variant for our customers.
All new model variants have been well received, demonstrating that we’ve listened to the needs of our customers and are committed to delivering the transport solutions you require.
As for the future, we are innovating and improving the core attributes of what we are already delivering on – Quality, Durability and Reliability.
Features you will see in the near future will continue to focus on delivering value for your business.
If you would like to receive any updates or pre-launch Hino information, please email marketing@hino.com.au and we will add you to the distribution list.