Torque by Hino Autumn 2012

ISSUE No.19 Autumn 2012

Safety first FUPS now standard on all 500 and 700 Series on-highway trucks

Accessorise!

New Hino genuine accessories for 300, 500 and 700 Series

In our last edition of Torque I mentioned how the first months of 2012 would be a busy time for Hino as we pushed forward with our plans for the future – little did I know exactly how busy it would be!

By the time you read this almost half of 2012 will have passed us by, and we’re pleased to report that Hino’s position in the market has continued to strengthen.

In fact, sales of new Hino trucks and buses in the first quarter of 2012 have grown by a robust 7.5 per cent over the same time last year, in light of increased demand for our refreshed model ranges.

This is direct recognition of the outstanding value that Hino provides to our customers – from the purchase of a new truck right down to the after-sales spare parts and service support from our dealer network.

We’re receiving feedback from customers right around the country telling us how they are benefiting from Hino’s efforts to deliver significant new product, plus safety and accessory upgrades to all models.

Buyers of the new 300 Series have continued to be impressed by the model’s outstanding safety credentials, including ABS-equipped four-wheel ventilated braking, front underrun protection (FUP) on the wide-cabin variants, and the standard fitment of our class-leading vehicle stability control system.

Likewise, buyers of 500 and 700 Series models have benefitted from the addition of FUP, a driver’s airbag and fatigue-reducing ISRI suspension seat.

We’re proud of our achievements to date – and there are plenty more to come.

Another major Hino milestone since our last edition is the inclusion of our new ProShift 6 automated manual transmission (AMT) as an option on a number of 500 Series models.

There’s plenty of detail on this exciting new product development in this issue’s cover story, and we’re confident you’ll be as excited about the new transmission as we are.

Alongside the work we’ve all been doing to bring safer, better performing, more efficient and more comfortable trucks and buses to customers, we managed to find the time to recognise the efforts of our outstanding dealer network at our annual Dealer of the Year gala function in April.

I’d like to take the opportunity to personally thank each and every one of our dealers, their staff and families for their commitment during the last year.

We wouldn’t be where we are today without their hard work and sheer dedication to their customers.

2011 was certainly a trying year, but it’s with overwhelming joy that we can report on how strongly the Hino family has bounced back during the initial months of 2012.

Please sit back and enjoy the pages of this edition of Torque, and we look forward to seeing you (and your Hino) out and about on the road!

Steve Lotter President Hino Motor Sales Australia

Contents 04

News

All the latest Hino news from around the country

06

HINO MAKES FUPS STANDARD EQUIPMENT Front Under-run Protection boosts safety across the Hino range

12

KEY ISSUES DISCUSSED AT GLOBAL STRATEGY MEETING Hino dealers from around the world attended the inaugural Hino Global Strategy Meeting

14

PERSONALISE YOUR HINO WITH NEW ACCESSORIES Check out the latest Hino truck accessories available across the range

15

HINO’S TOP DEALERS HONOURED

Hino dealers recognised at annual gala awards dinner

08

SHARP SHIFTER

ProShift Automated Manual Transmissions are now available as an option on Hino 500 Series models

17

BETTER SERVICE WITH HQS SPIRIT TRAINING

18

HINO HELPS KEEP THE DREAM ALIVE

A new Hino Quality Service training qualification is a win-win for technicians and customers alike

A new Hino truck is helping a Gold Coast church carry out its charity work

19

Hino dealer list Find your nearest Hino dealer

16

NEW HINOS IMPRESS AT MELBOURNE TRUCK SHOW

The Hino range takes pride of place at Melbourne international show

Torque | 3

News

AUSTimber a success with Hino Hino showed its support for the timber industry at the recent AUSTimber expo and conference where dealer Barry Maney Group displayed a range of trucks.

AUSTimber was held at Mount Gambier at the end of March.

Hino had three trucks on show – a 700 Series SS AMT prime mover and two 300 Series trucks, a 617 fitted with a truck tyre body and a 917 crew cab – which created much interest and positive feedback, plus a large spare parts display.

The dealership also had static displays, including Hino oils and coolants, between the Hino trucks.

This national event focuses on the Australian timber industry

while also generating significant international interest.

An estimated 1500 overseas visitors from New Zealand, South Africa, the US, Canada, Japan, China and Europe attended the expo.

“With over 10,000 visitors to the AUSTimber displays, there was no accommodation within a 150km radius of Mount Gambier,” Barry Maney truck dealer principal Jim Coronolo said.

“A huge focus was on the chipping and harvesting side of the timber industry.

“There were active pine and bluegum harvesting and chipping displays which were conducted by all of the large manufacturers,” he said.

Leaping into a new Hino Prestige Hino had a golden sales month in February with the help of a unique leap year sale.

The special event was held to kick-start 2012 for the Dandenong dealership, with the aim of selling 29 trucks in 29 days.

However, Dealer Principal Anthony Long said the combination of good deals on quality product saw that number reach 43.

The leap year sale offered customers free registration (not including stamp duty), as well as Hino’s offer of a free reversing camera

29 TruCkS In 29 DayS leap Year

sale 43-63 Princes Highway, Dandenong South VIC 3175

Free registration & Compulsory Third Party Insurance on all 2011 plated trucks in stock

plus Free sat nav upgrade & reversing camera on 300 series models

www.prestigehino.com.au

Free registration and CTP offer does not include stamp duty and is available on all 2011 plated new Hino trucks in stock purchased between 1/2/2012 and 29/2/2012 or while stocks last. Free sat nav upgrade and reversing camera applies to 300 series models only.

Excludes Government and Fleet buyers. PHO0002

4 | Torque

and satellite navigation on the new light duty 300 Series.

“The customers really warmed to that – about half of the trucks we sold were from the new 300 Series range.

“Customers are really appreciating the extra features and technology that has gone into the new model – the feedback that we have been getting consistently is that it really is the best product in its category.

“We supported the sale with radio and print ads in the Melbourne metropolitan area, as well as some online placements,” Mr Long said.

News

Hino on show at CQ Expo Hino trucks took pride of place on display at this year’s Central Queensland Transport, Trades and Mining Expo (CQ Expo), held for the first time at Rockhampton Showgrounds on 14–15 March.

Dealer Ian Weigh Hino displayed a number of Hino’s latest models, including an FG 1628, GH 1728, 617 tipper, 717 TradeAce and 1022 tipper.

Hino sales consultant Tony Patterson said the CQ Expo was a fantastic opportunity for Hino to display the range’s outstanding features to customers.

“The Hino trucks gained a lot of interest and the patrons were really impressed with the comfort features and multimedia systems.”

Hino service manager Paul Cane also attended the expo and pointed

out the importance of accurate servicing and quick turn-around times in light of the large numbers of Hino trucks now operating in the resources sector in the region.

Mr Patterson said the expo’s focus on the booming mining sector in the region fit in well with the dealership’s plans.

“Targeting the mining industry is something we will focus on over

the next 12 months,” he said.

“The boom is predicted to last for at least another 10 years, so it’s important to get in now and build the relationships for the future.”

The mining boom in central Queensland was a focal point of this year’s event, which brings together suppliers, service providers, government agencies and manufacturers.

Business after hours at Illawarra Hino Illawarra Hino has hosted the recent Illawarra Business Council’s ‘after hours’ event at its Albion Park dealership.

The events are held at the premises of a different member each month and provide an opportunity for members from around the Illawarra district to meet, network and learn

more about each others’ businesses.

Illawarra Hino sales manager Kurt Hofer said the dealership displayed a 300 Series crew cab truck on the night, which attracted a lot of interest from attendees.

“Events like this are a good opportunity for customers who might not normally attend a dealership to

come and have a close look at our Hino trucks and check out the comfort and safety features first-hand.

“The features of the newly revamped 300 Series are ideal for fleet customers and many of the people at these events run fleets, so it’s a great opportunity for them to meet us and see the trucks for themselves.

“It’s also good to be able to display our engagement with the local community, which includes our sponsorship of the Illawarra Hawks National Basketball League team,” he said.

The meeting on March 28 attracted a good turn-out of over 200 guests.

the range – the new 300, Hybrid, 500 and 700 Series – is really a

great branding exercise for us in this area.”

Trucks in action Victorian dealers CMI Hino and Prestige Hino displayed more than 20 Hino models at this year’s Trucks in Action exhibition in March.

The annual event in Warragul is renowned for not only presenting displays from truck manufacturers, but also offering a road test loop for potential customers to try out the vehicles.

A Hino 700 SS AMT prime mover

with trailer did the honours for Hino on the test track, with those who sampled it reporting favourably.

“Everyone that gets behind the wheel of the current Hino 700 becomes a fan – they especially notice just how much it is improved from its previous generation,” said Danny Timewell, sales manager at Prestige Hino.

“Having such a strong presence, with so many trucks from right across

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Safety

Hino makes front under-run protection standard equipment

Hino has once again raised the bar for truck safety in Australia by fitting Front Under-run Protection (FUP) as standard equipment across its entire range of 300 Series wide cabin, 500 Series and 700 Series on-highway trucks.

Hino is the first manufacturer in Australia to offer this lifesaving technology across all three categories of trucks – light, medium and heavy duty.

FUP is designed to protect other motorists by preventing their vehicle from becoming trapped and crushed under the front of the truck in the event of a frontal collision.

The technology is incorporated in the truck’s front chassis and bumper bar, and is included on all 500 Series and 700 Series on-highway trucks from late 2011 production.

Hino Australia Manager Product Planning Daniel Petrovski said Hino

had made the decision to offer this important feature across as many vehicles in its range as possible to improve the safety of all road users – not just the occupants of the truck.

“In the event of a severe frontal collision, the Hino FUP is intended to prevent the opposing vehicle – in many cases a smaller passenger car – from being ‘run over’ by the truck,” he said.

“FUP assists the deployment of SRS airbags in the opposing vehicle in the event of a front-on or front-side collision, and also works to protect the truck’s steering components – thereby assisting the driver to maintain control of the vehicle

Hino has made lifesaving Front Under-run Protection (FUP) standard equipment on all 500 Series, 700 Series and 300 Series wide cabin models in Australia.

6 | Torque

and bring it to a controlled stop.

“In the unfortunate event of a collision, FUP may be the difference between life and death for the occupants of a smaller vehicle,” Mr Petrovski said.

In the case of medium and heavyduty models, Hino FUP is certified to Australian Design Rule ADR 84 and European Safety Standard UN ECE-93.

Despite their smaller physical presence on the road, Hino’s newgeneration 300 Series wide cab models also have FUP installed, complementing the model’s already outstanding safety credentials (including dual airbags, ABS anti-lock

braking and class-leading vehicle stability control).

Mr Petrovski said FUP was further evidence of Hino’s ongoing dedication to improving truck safety.

“The advanced crash structure of FUP has been subjected to extensive testing by Hino’s team of global engineers, including computer-aided design simulations and physical destructive testing at Hino’s dedicated safety centre in Japan,” he said.

“Hino takes road safety very seriously, and we’re particularly committed to offering the best available safety features on our trucks when and where we can.”

Traffic management

Hino looks to the future of traffic management Hino Australia, in conjunction with Toyota Motor Corporation and Toyota Fleet Management, has become a founding sponsor of the Traffic Management Association of Australia (TMAA).

TMAA was registered in November 2011 to provide a national peak body and voice for the traffic management industry, representing all Australian state-based traffic management associations.

Previously each state had its own traffic management body, but now the TMAA will communicate to government with a united voice.

“Hino Australia wanted to help create this body to develop the industry and help our customers,” said Mike Smith, Hino Australia Corporate Business Manager.

“Setting up this association required substantial funds to make it happen.

“Many of our customers are members and this is another way Hino is showing its commitment to the industry.”

Hino Australia has an ongoing interest in traffic management because of the far-reaching safety implications of making the correct decisions nationally.

“Safety is paramount and Hino’s support for this association will hopefully open dialogue for even better traffic management solutions while the TMAA works to ensure excellence in standards and safety for its member companies,” Mr Smith added.

The continued growth and development of the traffic management industry within Australia represents new challenges for companies and government to

Mike Smith, Hino Australia Corporate Business Manager, (left) and Gary Wilson, Toyota Australia Regional Manager – QLD.

“Safety is paramount and Hino’s support for this association will hopefully open dialogue for even better traffic management solutions” ensure compliance and management practices are aligned with the state-based and national policies, while also acting for road works, construction, reconstruction, emergency services, recovery services and utility services.

“With the state associations working together through TMAA the

nationalisation and standardisation of this rapidly growing industry can take place,” Mr Smith said.

“The TMAA members and board will target key committees and decision-making bodies to provide advice and feedback on policy, processes and procedures for the future of the industry.”

Torque | 7

SHARP SHifter Hino offers customers greater choice with ProShift Automated Manual Transmissions now available as an option on selected 500 Series models

8 | Torque

Feature

Hino Australia has introduced an all-new ProShift Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) option on FC and FD variants of the 500 Series medium-duty truck range.

Dubbed ‘ProShift 6’, the new AMT will initially be available as an option on FC 1022 and FD 1124 500 Series models, two of Hino’s most popular trucks.

ProShift is the name given to Hino’s range of fully automated manual transmissions, with the number following the name denoting the specific number of ratios the transmission features. In the case of the FC and FD models it is a sixspeed variant.

The Hino-designed and manufactured ProShift 6 AMT is one of a number of key improvements Hino is making across its expanding model range this year, which kicked off with the launch of the all-new 300 Series light-duty truck in 2011.

Hino Australia’s Divisional Manager Product Strategy, Marketing and Dealer Development, Alex Stewart, said the introduction of an AMT further strengthened Hino’s diverse range of transmissions across the 500 Series range.

“An increasing number of operators are choosing AMTs over manual transmissions thanks to their all-round efficiency versatility and

Hino offers AMT models in all three truck categories – light, medium and heavy duty driveability,” he said.

“Hino believes in offering true choice to customers, which is why we’ve introduced ProShift transmissions in two of our most popular 500 Series models, alongside the existing 500 Series range of manual and fully automatic models.

“In this case, the 500 Series ProShift 6 is an automated version of Hino’s own six-speed manual transmission and is perfectly suited to the needs of truck owners in the medium-duty class.”

The new ProShift 6 AMT features state-of-the-art electronic control for swift gear changing, and is a true two-pedal layout. The driver does not need to engage or disengage the clutch pedal as the clutch is controlled automatically by a computer-control unit.

Hino says one of the major advantages of the ProShift AMT is its ability to deliver manual transmission fuel economy with an automatic transmission’s all-round ease of use.

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Feature

Mr Stewart said the new Hino ProShift models can deliver significant fuel savings for operators.

“Hino engineers have tailored the shift points of the ProShift 6 transmission to maximise the use of effective engine torque at all times, increasing fuel efficiency and driveability.

“This transmission has been optimised for use in Australian conditions following an extensive development program that relied on the input of local engineering.

“Shift points, final drive ratios and up-rated oil capacities to provide cooling in high-temperature climates are just a few of the modifications made on Australian models,” Mr Stewart said.

“Having been proven in the Japanese domestic market for more than 10 years, we feel Australian operators will be pleasantly surprised by the benefits ProShift models can provide.”

ProShift AMTs will become available across the Hino model range progressively over the next few years.

Hino ProShift models can deliver significant fuel savings for operators

ProShift – an AMT for all models The introduction of the ProShift 6 AMT in the 500 Series means Hino offers AMT models in all three truck categories – light, medium and heavy duty.

Hino 300 Series Hybrid models are fitted with the ProShift 5 AMT, while ProShift 16 AMTs feature on selected 700 Series models.

ProShift 6 AMT specifications CLUTCH Model:

CS-350 series

Type:

Dry single plate with damper springs

Facing material:

Moulded (non-asbestos)

Facing outside diameter:

350mm

Control:

Hydraulic with air booster controlled by transmission

TRANSMISSION AND GEAR RATIOS Model:

LX06S

Overdrive type:

Six forward and one reverse speeds, synchromesh on 2nd to 6th

Control:

Electronic automated manual transmission

Rear axle gear ratio:

4.625:1 1st: 6.098 2nd: 3.858 3rd: 2.340 4th: 1.422 5th: 1.000

Hino ProShift 5 is fitted to 300 Series Hybrid variants.

10 | Torque

Hino ProShift 16 is featured on selected 700 Series models.

6th: 0.744 Rev: 5.672

Mid-weight champion In addition to the transmission upgrade, all Hino FD models are now rated at 11-tonne gross vehicle mass (GVM), up from the previous 10.4-tonne rating.

Hino’s FC and FD models are renowned for their durability and all-round versatility and are suited to a wide variety of applications, from general freight to earthmoving and tow-truck operations.

The upgraded GVM allows operators greater flexibility in their choice of truck body, and allows for better utilisation of the 500 Series’ excellent engine torque and power outputs.

FD long and extra-long wheelbase models are also available with optional rear air-suspension, and the FD 1126 variant is equipped with a class-leading 260 horsepower version of the durable Hino J07E five-cylinder diesel.

All new 500 Series models feature Hino’s world-first DAB+ digital radio enabled multimedia unit, driver’s SRS airbag, front under-run protection (FUP) and a fully adjustable air-operated ISRI suspension seat, with integrated seat belt for increased comfort.

Feature

The J07E five-cylinder diesel is rated at 260 horsepower in FD 1126 models.

A world of choice The addition of the ProShift automated manual transmission option for FC and FD models completes the trifecta of transmission options across the 500 Series range.

Hino continues to offer its renowned six-speed as standard fitment on FC and FD variants for those operators who prefer a manual transmission. Applauded for its ease of use, the Hino six-speed features syncromesh from 2nd to 6th gears.

Hino also offers the option of a fully automatic torque-converter style Allison automatic on FG, GH, FM8J, FM1A and GT variants, and either six or 16 speed manual transmissions on the larger wide-cabin 500 Series models.

Torque-converter automatics are available in selected Hino 500 Series variants.

The Hino 500 Series allsyncro six-speed manual remains a customer favourite.

Torque | 11

Hino global

DEALERS DISCUSS KEY ISSUES At Inaugural HINO GLOBAL STRATEGY MEETING

Issues important to Hino’s international distributors were the centre of discussion at the inaugural Hino Global Strategy Meeting in early February.

Hino Australia hosted the meeting, the first of four scheduled for 2012–13, at its national headquarters in Sydney.

Eight representatives from seven key Hino global subsidiaries, including Australia, Indonesia, New Zealand, Guatemala, the Middle East, Thailand and the US, attended the two-day meeting.

Hino senior executive officer

12 | Torque

Yoshinori Noguchi, who is responsible for vehicle sales in North America and China as well as worldwide aftersales, operations, and industrial and marine equipment, was also in attendance.

In addition, Hino Motor Sales Australia chairman and CEO Kenichi Sekine and President and COO Steve Lotter brought their experience to the discussion table.

Greg Bleasel, Divisional Manager,

Product Support and Business Development, Hino Motor Sales Australia, said the idea for the meeting was for global divisions to discuss key topics collectively, with the outcomes to be communicated to Hino’s decision-makers in Japan.

“Given that two-thirds of Hino vehicles are sold outside Japan, it was critical that key global division subsidiaries had a platform to

express the issues and be part of shaping Hino’s future direction,” Mr Bleasel said.

“The meeting proved a particularly worthwhile one in allowing the different divisions to communicate issues that affected them, such as the effects of parallel importing and aftermarket parts, long and short-term profitability, information usage and access and

“Given that two-thirds of Hino vehicles are sold outside Japan, it was critical that key global division subsidiaries had a platform to express the issues and be part of shaping Hino’s future direction” developing business opportunities,” Mr Bleasel explained.

The information exchange had extra meaning because of the different points of view the various distributors brought to the table, Mr Bleasel added.

“Seven different distributors inputting their ideas and experiences from selling vehicles in seven different markets proved interesting and useful,” he said.

Mr Bleasel said the experiences of the Guatemalan dealer were

different to those of Hino’s US dealer, but that both sets of views were equally important in forming a global perspective.

The second Hino Global Strategy Meeting will be held in Los Angeles on May 21–22, where Mr Bleasel

expects the committee to make further progress.

“The gathering in LA will enable us to gain momentum in developing ideas and strategies that can ultimately benefit our dealers worldwide,” he said.

Eight representatives from seven key Hino global subsidiaries attended the inaugural Hino Global Strategy Meeting in Sydney.

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Accessories

PERSONALISE

YOUR HINO with NEW ACCESSORIES

Hino has released a new range of accessories that allows customers to personalise and enhance the safety and appearance of their Hino 300, 500 and 700 Series trucks.

New items now available include FUP (Front Under-run Protection) compliant bull bars for 500 and 700 Series Euro 5 models, a nudge bar for the 300 Series, updated premium seat covers for 300, 500 and 700 Series, and Engel fridge/warmer units for the 500 and 700 Series.

The new bull bars are designed to work in unison with Hino’s FUP

deep channel that offers maximum accident protection,” said Mr Harrison.

“The bull bars also feature a high level of strength throughout, with a 100mm diameter main tube and a 6mm thick wall, and side gussets for added side impact strength.

“Additionally, the bull bar’s aerodynamic design allows maximum airflow to the truck’s radiator inlet

Designers and engineers paid special attention to the bull bar’s strength, rigidity and aerodynamic properties

The new 300 Series nudge bar is a light, low-cost alternative for trucks based in metropolitan areas.

system, which prevents the truck from ‘running over’ another vehicle in the event of a collision.

Kirk Harrison, Hino Australia Assistant Manager Parts and Accessories, said designers and engineers paid special attention to the bull bar’s strength, rigidity and aerodynamic properties.

“All high-quality bull bars have extruded channels and the Hino bull bar is no exception, with a 250mm 14 | Torque

courier and rental-type applications.

“It is lighter in weight than a full-sized bull bar while providing maximum protection and air bag compatibility.”

New seat covers for the 300, 500 and 700 Series trucks bring an extra level of cabin comfort while protecting the original seat material.

They are available in the choice of carbon fabric, canvas and sheepskin.

“All seat covers suit single and crew cab models, come in customdesigned packaging and are very easy to fit with a zipper and buckle tie system,” Mr Harrison said.

“The seat covers come in either a

with tough, all-over canvas and heavy duty reinforced stitching,” Mr Harrison said.

Hino’s new sheepskin seat covers in charcoal are made with high-grade wool to provide extra comfort over both long and short distance journeys.

“They also mould to the contours of the seat, which give a bespoke, premium look to the cabin,” Mr Harrison said.

Engel’s fridge/warmer units further add to cabin convenience for 500 and 700 Series owners in allowing occupants to store hot and cold food items.

“The units are custom-designed

by Sawafuji in Japan to fit in place of

The Engel fridge/warmer units give 500 and 700 Series owners the convenience of storing hot and cold food items.

for effective cooling and increased efficiency.”

All Hino bull bars are also air bag compatible and have a one-piece steel mount for additional rigidity in the event of a frontal impact.

The new nudge bar for the 300 Series was developed as a low-cost alternative to bull bars for smaller operators, Mr Harrison said.

“This product is ideal for metrobased vehicles involved in delivery,

black or carbon grey colour scheme and include a convenient rear storage pocket for maps, logbooks and other items.

“They also feature reinforced stitching, UV stabilised flame retardant material, and a hardwearing stain-resistant coating.”

The canvas seat covers, available in charcoal colour, offer additional durability for the toughest applications.

“These covers are made from 500GSM 100 per cent cotton canvas

the centre seat,” Mr Harrison said.

“They are supplied with brackets and electrical harnesses, so no modifications to the cabin are required for installation.

“The units have an 11-litre capacity and feature an internal divider, which allows the occupant to vary the size of the cold and warm section depending on the situation.”

More information on Hino’s new accessory range is available at Hino dealers nationwide.

Dealer of the Year

Hino’s top dealers

honoured in Sydney Hino Australia recognised its top performing dealers for 2011 during an official gala awards dinner held in Sydney on April 20.

Brisbane-based Sci-Fleet Hino was named metropolitan dealer of the year and Bendigo Truck Centre regional dealer of the year for 2011.

Sci-Fleet Dealer Principal Craig Andersson accepted the metropolitan dealer award while Steve Elliott, Dealer Principal of Bendigo Truck Centre, accepted the regional award.

President and Chief Operating Officer of Hino Australia Steve Lotter said the winners had delivered exceptional results amid difficult circumstances over the past 12 months.

“These awards recognise the dedication of the Hino dealer network, especially in the wake of a number of significant natural disasters in 2011 – both at home and in Japan,” Mr Lotter said.

“Our dealers were all impacted by stock shortages following the devastating Japanese earthquake and tsunami, but their strong resolve and commitment to customers saw sales recover strongly.

“Craig and the team at Sci-Fleet are to be congratulated on their achievements – especially given the

2011 HINO DEALER OF THE YEAR MAJOR AWARD RECIPIENTS dealership was severely damaged in the January 2011 Brisbane floods.

“It was also pleasing to see Steve Elliott and his team at Bendigo win the regional dealer of the year award – their dealership continues to go from strength to strength and we congratulate them on their success,” Mr Lotter added.

Both Mr Andersson and Mr Elliott said the hard work and dedication of their staff played a major part in winning their respective awards.

The annual Hino dealer of the year awards recognise a number of contributions Australian dealers and their staff make to the success

of the Hino franchise each year.

These include sales, service and spare-parts delivery performance, and achieving a number of customerservice oriented criteria set by Hino Australia.

Gold, silver and bronze awards were also presented across three different categories – Sales Excellence, Parts Excellence and Service Excellence. A number of individual sales achievements were also recognised.

Six individual dealerships received long service awards, ranging from 10 years up to 30 years’ association with the Hino brand.

METROPOLITAN DEALER OF THE YEAR: Sci-Fleet Hino Brisbane REGIONAL DEALER OF THE YEAR: Bendigo Truck Centre NUMBER ONE SALES VOLUME: WA Hino Sales and Service REGIONAL NUMBER ONE SALES VOLUME: FRM Hino (Tasmania) SALES EXCELLENCE (METRO): GOLD – Sci-Fleet Hino SILVER – WA Hino Sales and Service BRONZE – Adtrans Hino (Sydney) SALES EXCELLENCE (REGIONAL): GOLD – FRM Hino (Tasmania) SILVER – Primemovers (Townsville) BRONZE – Carlisle Hino (Mackay) PARTS EXCELLENCE (METRO): GOLD – CMI Hino (Adelaide) SILVER – Sci-Fleet Hino BRONZE – CMI Hino (Melbourne) PARTS EXCELLENCE (REGIONAL): GOLD – Bendigo Truck Centre SILVER – Vanderfield (Toowoomba) BRONZE – Ian Weigh Motors (Rockhampton) SERVICE EXCELLENCE (METRO): GOLD – City Hino (Sydney) SILVER – CMI Hino (Adelaide) BRONZE – Prestige Hino (Melbourne)

Bendigo Truck Centre’s Steve Elliott (centre) and Sci-Fleet’s Craig Andersson (2nd from right) accept their awards.

SERVICE EXCELLENCE (REGIONAL): GOLD – Vanderfield (Toowoomba) SILVER – Bendigo Truck Centre BRONZE – Wagga Trucks Torque | 15

Melbourne Truck Show

The Hino stand at this year’s International Truck, Trailer and Equipment Show.

New Hinos impress at Melbourne truck show

Hino’s expansive range has once again taken pride of place at the biennial International Truck, Trailer and Equipment Show (ITTES), held at the Melbourne Showgrounds in March.

Hino Australia used this year’s Melbourne-based truck show to stage the local unveiling of its expanded range of Hino 500 Series FC and FD model variants, which are now available with a new ProShift 6 automated manual transmission (AMT).

The show, which is held in March every second year, is one of the

largest displays of heavy vehicles and associated transport equipment in the southern hemisphere. Hino’s stand this year was modelled on the company’s “better class of truck” philosophy, and featured a number of new interactive displays to demonstrate Hino technologies to prospective truck buyers.

Hino Australia’s Divisional

Manager Product Strategy, Marketing and Dealer Development, Alex Stewart, and Manager Product Planning Daniel Petrovski were on site at this year’s show to brief a large gathering of specialist trucking media on Hino’s everexpanding range.

Mr Stewart said the show is particularly significant in that it is

one of only a handful of such events in the world where practically every single make and model of truck can be viewed in the one location.

“We at Hino aim to participate in as many of these events as possible as it’s a great way for us to reach a large number of our customers who aren’t always able to make it to a dealership,” he said.

Hino’s Manager Product Planning Daniel Petrovski explains the benefits of Hino ProShift to media attendees.

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Parts & Service

Better SerVice

With HQS Spirit Training Hino Australia is boosting the quality of training for its technicians, with resulting benefits for customers, by implementing a Hino Quality Service (HQS) Spirit training qualification level in its internal training system.

According to Sergio Bonvini, Hino Australia Training Manager, improved and higher levels of training lead to greater expertise, which means dealer technicians can find solutions for customers more quickly, offer better products and deliver better outcomes.

“We believe training and work experience are among the most valuable assets an individual can possess,” Mr Bonvini said.

He said the new service “passports” were an important way not only for the company to keep track of the training expertise of its technicians, but also for the individuals to have a record of the training they have completed.

“This passport provides a convenient means for Hino apprentices and technicians to keep a permanent record of their work experience and training.

“The pages are designed to accommodate an adhesive-backed certificate which is issued at the end of each training program.

There are three qualification levels – junior, senior and professional – which cover the knowledge and skills required to repair and maintain vehicle systems and components of Hino’s range of light, medium, heavy duty and hybrid trucks.

The information recorded includes the technician’s Hino employment history, education and training courses

Improved and higher levels of training lead to greater expertise, which means dealer technicians can find solutions for customers, offer better products and deliver better outcomes

attended, and attendance at special Hino events such as the Hino National Skills Competition.

HMSA instructors attach a certificate label to each passport every time new qualifications are achieved, confirming that a technician has gained the appropriate skill and knowledge level required for the training course.

The passports include a number of blank pages for future training updates, and update stickers will also be available for employment changes when necessary.

The first eight Hino technicians received their passports in November last year after the third annual Hino National Skills Contest.

Torque | 17

Community

Hino helps

Keep the dream alive The reliability and functionality of a Hino 616 Auto light-duty truck is making it easier for a Gold Coast-based community church to carry out its weekly food delivery service.

The Ark’d FOODMARKET, a not-forprofit initiative of Dream Centre Christian Church, began delivering food and groceries in 2009 and supplies over 350 food parcels each week to needy families in the local area.

The Hino 616 Auto, part of Hino’s 300 Series light-duty range, was purchased through the Vanderfield dealership at Nerang.

A refrigerated pantec was fitted to the truck prior to purchase to enable the charity to deliver fresh produce.

“They were using an old truck for their delivery run, which kept breaking down,” said Tony Noel, sales manager at Vanderfield Nerang.

“The 300 Series 616 Auto is a

The new Hino 616 Auto is helping the FOODMARKET volunteers to deliver much-needed fresh produce to families in the Gold Coast region.

18 | Torque

perfect size truck for their needs and the reliability, versatility and safety features of the Hino 616 will enable them to get on with their important charity work in the Gold Coast.”

FOODMARKET marketing manager Kylie Rodgers said the Hino 616 was a comfortable and reliable truck for the daily return trip to Brisbane to pick up goods for delivery.

“The new Hino is a dream to drive,” she said. “I used to drive our old truck which constantly broke down and cost us a fortune in repairs.

“We couldn’t continue operating like that, so a more reliable truck was needed.”

Ms Rodgers said Pastor Rod Gilchrist researched the offerings from other manufacturers before deciding

that a truck from the Hino light-duty range was the right choice.

“He also likes dealing with local people, and the Vanderfield dealership is close by so from a parts and servicing point of view it was a

good fit all round,” she said.

A team of 50 volunteers from FOODMARKET is involved in running the daily food delivery service which has helped over 8,000 families in need.

SEE YOUR LOCAL HINO DEALER TODAY NEW SOUTH WALES

QUEENSLAND

Albion Park Rail Illawarra Hino ................................(02) 4256 7111

Ayr Don West Hino ................................................... (07) 4783 1600

Beresfield Newcastle Hino ...................................... (02) 4974 7800

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Inverell Tait Motors ...................................................(02) 6722 5090

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Kempsey South Mavin Truck Centre Pty Ltd ........ (02) 6562 6211

Garbutt Primemovers (NQ) Pty Ltd (Townsville) ...... (07) 4727 5200

Lismore Vanderfield Hino .........................................(02) 6626 2828

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Gympie Hi-Way 1 Truck & Tractor ............................(07) 5480 5000

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Kedron Sci-Fleet Hino ..............................................(07) 3361 0024 Mackay Carlisle Hino ................................................(07) 4952 1088 Maryborough Hi-Way 1 Truck & Tractor ..................(07) 4190 4190 Mount Isa Bell & Moir Hino ..................................... (07) 4743 3066 Nerang Vanderfield Hino ..........................................(07) 5596 3599 Rockhampton Ian Weigh Motors ............................(07) 4924 5200 Toowoomba Vanderfield Hino..................................(07) 4633 4822

WESTERN AUSTRALIA Bunbury Bunbury Truck Sales & Service ...............(08) 9725 6880 Welshpool WA Hino Sales & Service .......................(08) 9351 2000

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North Geelong ISR Truck City.................................(03) 5278 9844

Port Augusta Northpoint Hino ................................(08) 8642 3433

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Regency Park CMI Hino (Adelaide) ......................... (08) 8243 8100

Wodonga Jacob Hino ...............................................(03) 6055 9800

TASMANIA NORTHERN TERRITORY

Derwent Park FRM Hino (Hobart) ...........................(03) 6272 3822

Alice Springs Peter Kittle Motors............................(08) 8952 5500

Devonport FRM Hino ...............................................(03) 6424 9855

Pinelands Vanderfield Hino (Darwin) .......................(08) 8932 4200

Invermay FRM Hino (Launceston)............................(03) 6334 5877

HMS00131

hino.com.au Torque | 19

hino.com.au

A Better CLASS OF trUCK. The Hino 300 Series leads its class in safety, performance, efficiency and comfort. With the cleanest diesel engine in its class, it combines common rail fuel injection and variable geometry turbo technology for improved performance and fuel economy. As for safety, the Hino 300 Series is the only light duty truck to offer a combination of Vehicle Stability Control and dual SRS airbags as standard and the interior is ergonomic and comfortable. So step up to a better class of truck. Step up to the Hino 300 Series.

HMS00139/DE

SEE your Hino DEalEr toDay anD aSk about tHE nEw 300 SEriES.