Hino’s future on show at Tokyo

Hino will give a glimpse into the future at the 46th Tokyo Motor Show, which will run from October 24 to November 4 with a stand that features the world premiere of a new concept vehicle and a hybrid version of its heavy-duty 700 Series.

On display will be a production version of the heavy duty Hino Profia Hybrid, which was launched onto the Japanese domestic market in August 2019 – it is known in Australia as the 700 Series.

The Hino Profia Hybrid is equipped with a world first Artificial Intelligence (AI) system which implements optimal hybrid driveline control dependent on a number of varying factors such as drive route, vehicle load, hybrid energy availability, and uses these factors to determine the driving requirements up to 100 kilometres away.

Hino says this helps reduce the environmental footprint while minimising power consumption and maximising fuel economy.

The Hino Profia Hybrid uses the A09C diesel engine in parallel with an electric motor, which are both mated to 12 speed automated manual transmission.

“The launch of the Hino Profia Hybrid in the Japanese market is a very exciting development for Hino globally. We are working with Hino Japan to determine suitability for this product and many other products for the Australian market,” said Daniel Petrovski, Manager of Product Strategy for Hino Australia.

The Hino stand will also include a versatile concept vehicle, the Hino FlatFormer.

“The FlatFormer is a modular electric vehicle platform that measures 4.7m long, 1.7m wide and has a platform height of only 335mm, with an electric motor output of 170kW delivered through its six wheel-end motors which are feed energy from the 50kWh Lithium Ion Batteries,” said Petrovski.

“The FlatFormer offers a new level operational flexibility and can be fitted with a myriad of cab and body configurations to suit the customer’s transportation and mobility requirements.”

Hino will also showcase its racing heritage and prowess with its 500 Series Dakar Rally truck that competed in the 2019 event, and which also marked Hino’s tenth consecutive victory in the Under 10 litre class.

Key specifications of the 2019 Dakar Rally Hino truck include full-time 4WD and an A09 9.9 litre direct injection turbocharged and intercooled engine, which is matched to a six-speed manual transmission.