The official launch was held at EX8 Venue Subang Jaya, and featured the Hino 700 series models such as the 4x2, 6x2 and 6x4 prime mover.
HMSM managing director Atsushi Uchiyama said, "Hino is proud to have a long-standing number 1 position in the market in various segments, including light and medium-heavy commercial vehicles, as well as buses."
The Total Industry Volume (TIV) of heavy-duty prime mover trucks in the Malaysian market is 1,200 to 1,700 units yearly.
The demand for heavy-duty trucks with automated-manual transmission is up to 50% more than manual transmission as AMTs offer more advantages in terms of reduction of fuel consumption, improvement of driving comfort, and shifting quality.
“We are the only brand that produces a full line-up of commercial vehicles, and our flagship HINO 700 Series is now better than ever before with AMT technology, making them smarter, safer trucks for our customers," said Uchiyama.
Hino Motors Sales (M) Sdn Bhd managing director Atsushi Uchiyama (left) and executive director Dato' Johnny Chan launching the new HINO 700 Series heavy-duty trucks with 16-speed Automated-Manual Transmission (AMT) technology.
The three new Hino 700 Series AMT heavy-duty trucks are imported from Japan, and fitted with the 16-speed mechanical auto synchromesh ZF16 transmission with power assistance, making it easier to shift gears at higher speeds.
It also helps to reduce driver fatigue from constant gear and clutch shifting, allowing for a more comfortable drive.
Drivers are also given the option to select a sequential manual transmission for on-demand shifting conditions.
Fleet operators also benefit from lower operational costs through lower fuel consumption and clutch replacement cost.
Also, the Hino 700 Series AMT has a powerful Euro 3 common-rail engine with turbo-charged intercooler and features a full-air brake system that improves braking responsiveness.
Although fully developed and manufactured in Japan, Hino vehicles can run on B10 Biodiesel without any changes to components or service intervals.
Safety and comfort features on the Hino 700 Series include an optimised cab space for better visibility and operability; improved cab accessibility with the first step now connected directly to the chassis; antilock braking system (ABS) which controls the braking force of each individual wheel to prevent the wheels from locking; high rigidity door impact beams; new large reflector headlamps to enhance night-time visibility; and front under-run prevention (FUP).
The trucks are also fitted with air suspension seats for superior seating comfort.
The three-dimensional (3D) seat with a body-cradling form can support the driver’s back and reduce fatigue on long road trips.
Also, the new Hino 700 Series AMT also promises longer maintenance lifecycle and better fuel consumption when its drivers are properly trained and certified at the Hino Total Support Customer Center (HTSCC).
This is part of the company’s total support concept, which aims to provide total support in after-sales for customers, maximise vehicle uptime, and minimise vehicle lifetime cost.
Hino’s design philosophy of quality, durability, and reliability permeates every Hino 700 Series AMT model, making them the best-in-class in the prime mover category.
Hino has a wide service network across the country, allowing customers to quickly send their vehicles for repairs and maintenance when required.
Since the establishment of HMSM in 1977, the company has manufactured and provided the best-fit trucks and buses for local industries.
