One of the hot issues worldwide in the automotive business continues to be to be the drive towards new energy vehicles.

“One of the hot issues worldwide in the automotive business continues to be to be the drive towards new energy vehicles. Hino is committed to taking a multipath approach for its trucks, with the choice of a power unit which will best suit the operators’ needs,” explained Itumeleng Segage, General Manager of Hino South Africa. He was addressing attendees at Hino South Africa’s media briefing held at the Gazoo Racing headquarters at Zwartkops Raceway, near Pretoria, recently.

“The company is continuing with the development of internal combustion diesel engines, while offering diesel-electric hybrids as well as battery electric trucks and vans in certain markets. Hino is also in the process of developing hydrogen as an emission-free power source and is investigating this in global trials using this fuel. Zero emission green hydrogen is an ideal energy source for long haul trucks operating out of depots which can be equipped with the necessary refuelling systems.

“As previously shared, here in South Africa we are trialling 38 Hino 300 diesel-electric hybrid models with operators on a non-ownership basis. Fuel consumption with this type of power unit is showing savings of up to 20%. Normally the initial purchase price of such alternative technology would be high, but because it is a trial, Hino South Africa is subsidising the acquisition cost.”

Hino SA, in partnership with KINTO, Toyota’s mobility brand, will provide selected customers with a low-risk, affordable and all-inclusive leasing solution for selected customers over a four to five year period.

“The Hino 300 Hybrid is well-suited for urban operations, and we will be closely tracking the performance of these vehicles while they are in use here. We have appointed five dedicated dealers in the regions where the Hino Hybrids will operate to look after the maintenance and servicing of these trucks during the trialling period.”

Segage went on to say that Hino SA was also using the media event to showcase one of the Hino battery electric vans that are already operating in certain international markets.

“We will be using the Dutro Z EV walk-through van as a display and demonstration unit, showcasing another of Hino’s alternative transport solutions and to assess local interest. It has a roomy body with a one ton carrying capacity and is well suited to final mile deliveries in urban arears, with a driving range of 150 km,” added the Hino SA General Manager.

The Hino Dutro Z EV is fitted with a 40 kWh lithium ion battery located beneath the floor which can be recharged to full in eight hours using a normal 5 W domestic power socket or in less than one hour using a 50 kW quick charger.

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