Hino’s most recent addition to its model range in Australia, the 300 Series 4×4 has quickly become a star in the company’s line up and has surpassed its targets and expectations in its first six months on the market.
Following its launch in November last year the little 4×4 truck’s versatility and capabilities have delivered Hino ‘new areas of opportunity’, according to a statement from the company which says the truck has proved popular in a range of areas and not just in the mining and emergency services where it was always going to be a strong seller.
“In terms of trucks delivered, we have captured almost 20 per cent of the light duty 4×4 market in just six months, a result we are proud of but not surprised by,” said Mr Bill Gillespie, general manager brand and franchise development for Hino Australia.
“The real story is in our customer order intake – at the end of April, we increased our orders by 71 per cent on our April year to date target.
“In the west, our dealerships are meeting the demands of customers including mining and rental companies that want a light duty 4×4 truck with more power, more torque, more standard safety, more gears and more comfort.”
“Interestingly our regional dealerships have had strong sales from farmers who are trading in their light commercial vehicles for the 300 Series 4×4 due to its 7,500kg GVM and 4×4 capabilities.
“Whilst we have gained success in known markets, there has also been considerable interest from the agricultural and forestry industries.
“This 4×4 segment of the light duty truck market is expected to finish between 800 and 900 units at the end of 2018, which is an increase of over 33 per cent from 2017.
“Market interest and customer orders of the 300 Series 4×4 have been so strong that we have accelerated our forecasts for the next two calendar years significantly to meet market opportunities,” concluded Mr Gillespie.
The safety and standard equipment features of the 300 Series 4×4 may have helped its popularity with standard driver and passenger SRS airbags, cruise control, 4-wheel-disc-brakes and rear air conditioning in Crew Cab models.
Hino also points out that it’s the only 7,500kg GVM 4×4 truck in Australia with Vehicle Stability Control and reverse camera as standard.