KUALA LUMPUR: What does it mean to go pro? For Hino, it is to identify itself with qualities synonymous with "professional, protect, and profit", with a touch of offerings that represent "strong, spacious, safety, and smart".
That's the package concept of the latest generation of the Hino 300 Series Pro lineup of four-wheeler and six-wheeler Light Commercial Vehicles (LCV)
"In Malaysia, we launched the Hino 300 Series in 2004 and it was highly praised for its quality, durability and after-sales support. I am confident that this new HINO 300 Series Pro will further contribute to our customers' business in Malaysia," said Hino Motors Limited Japan president Yoshio Shimo.
"We have sold more than one million units of Hino 300 Series globally and we have been receiving good reviews and feedback from many customers all over the world," he added.
The new lineup offers a warranty period of five years or up to 300,000km (terms and conditions apply).
PERFORMANCE
There are three models under the four-wheeler segment with the highlight model being the XZU600 AT that comes with an automatic transmission.
All the four-wheeler models are powered by a Euro-3 turbo-charged inter-cooled engine that produces 141PS and 402Nm of torque.
The four-wheelers' gross vehicle weight (GVW) has been upgraded to 5,000kg from 4,800kg, making it the highest GVW in its segment.
The six-wheelers come with a rear tread dimension of up to 1,660mm, making it the widest rear tread in its segment while also allowing for a wider and higher body construct.
This upgraded feature allows space for the placement of two pellets side by side with sufficient space for forklift manoeuvring as well as being able to cater to bulkier items.
Two out of the six six-wheeler models come with automatic transmission. All are fitted with six- speed transmission with power assistance, making it easier to shift gear at higher speeds along with a Euro-3 turbo-diesel engine that produces 156PS and 429Nm of torque.
Both segments are said to have the highest horsepower in its category with the engines being compatible with B20 biodiesel.
The new improved transmission with higher first gear ratio is said to give better gradeability while lower top gear ratio offers better fuel consumption at high speed.
SAFETY
Many of the Hino 300 Series Pro wheelers safety features are centred (though not exclusive) on the brakes with the aim to reduce potential fatal injuries to both drivers and road pedestrians.
All of them feature front disc brakes with supposed better ventilation and enhanced braking performance that minimises brake fade while the rear drum brake offers good performance in low-speed drive.
As with Hino's other models, this new lineup is also fitted with an anti-lock braking system and the electronic brake-force distribution sub-system.
Another new safety feature is the brake override system, a system in which sensors recognise when the acceleration pedal and brake pedal are being pressed at the same time while giving priority to braking instead of acceleration.
Additionally, the brake pedal is also upgraded with smart technology to detect abnormality.
Passive safety features include side door impact beams, improved mirrors to provide the driver with a bigger field of vision, front and rear under-run protection, three-point seat belt, and the emergency guard impact safety cabin.
SUPPORT
The new smart telematics device called "Hino Connect" is introduced to support logistic companies in running their operations and for fleet managers to take care of their trucks.
It includes a 24-hour call centre assist and multiple monitoring features that include driver behaviour and truck maintenance.
The Hino Connect is also linked to the mobile application myHINO, where users can access their truck information at any time through the mobile phone.
The main element in Hino Connect is the SOS button that can be used in the event of an emergency and the driver is unable to make a call out.
Lastly, all Hino drivers are trained at the Hino Total Support Customer Centre in Sendayan, Negri Sembilan
.