Long-overlooked medium-duty truck brand gains ground in Australia

article about how Hino is stepping up its game to become a major player in the Australian trucking industry.

Hino, a Japanese truck manufacturing company, has been operating in Australia for over half a century now. However, in terms of market share and recognition, it has always lagged behind its competitors, such as Volvo, MAN, Isuzu, and Mercedes-Benz.

That is not to say that Hino hasn't been doing well. The company has established a loyal customer base, particularly in the light to medium-duty truck category (ranging from 4.5 to 16 tonnes). However, when it comes to the heavy-duty market, which is dominated by European and American brands, Hino has struggled to make a dent.

Nevertheless, Hino has not given up on its ambition to be a top player in the Australian trucking industry. In fact, the company is now taking bold steps to expand its product range, improve its customer service, and showcase its capabilities as a reliable, efficient, and innovative truck manufacturer.

One of the key initiatives that Hino has launched recently is the Wide Body 500 Series. This is a new model of medium-duty trucks that features a wider and taller cabin, allowing for more spacious and comfortable driving experience. The Wide Body 500 Series is designed to meet the needs of a wide range of businesses, from local delivery companies to construction firms and waste management services.

One of the advantages of this model is that it provides more space for drivers, particularly those who are above-average height or weight. This can help reduce driver fatigue, improve safety, and enhance the overall efficiency of the trucking operation.

Another advantage of the Wide Body 500 Series is its versatility. The truck comes in various configurations, including single cab, crew cab, and long wheelbase models. This means that businesses can choose a model that suits their particular needs, whether it's for transporting goods, equipment, or personnel.

In addition to the Wide Body 500 Series, Hino has also introduced the 700 Spring Bracket. This is a device that helps prevent damage to the suspension and other components of heavy-duty trucks when they hit potholes or bumps on the road. The Spring Bracket works by absorbing the shock and distributing the load evenly across the suspension system, reducing the risk of costly repairs and downtime.

The 700 Spring Bracket is a testament to Hino's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. The company understands that truck breakdowns and repairs can be a significant source of frustration and cost for businesses. That is why it has invested in developing this solution that can help reduce the impact of harsh road conditions on trucks and their components.

These new products are just two examples of how Hino is stepping up its game in the Australian trucking industry. The company is also expanding its dealer network, investing in training programs for its staff and technicians, and improving its online platforms to make it easier for customers to find information and services.

Hino's efforts are already paying off. According to the latest industry data, the company's market share in the medium-duty truck segment has increased by 2.7% in the past year, reaching 16.5%. This is a significant improvement for a brand that has often struggled to break through in a highly competitive and mature market.

Of course, Hino still faces many challenges ahead. It needs to continue to innovate, listen to its customers' needs, and invest in talent and technology to stay ahead of the curve. It also needs to overcome the perception that Japanese brands are not as reliable or durable as their European or American counterparts.

However, with its new products, customer-focused approach, and long-standing reputation for quality, Hino is well-positioned to become a major player in the Australian trucking industry. It may have been a bridesmaid for a long time, but now it's ready to take the spotlight and prove that it can deliver the goods.