Designed for all applications in the Class 4 through Class 7 market, the Hino Trucks 2008 model-year diesel lineup features a proven diesel particulate reduction (DPR) system that meets U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) 2007 diesel emission regulations.

"The system is the same technology we used in Japan to meet Japan’s 2005 emissions regulations, so we already have more than 1.2 billion revenue-producing miles on this system," said Glenn Ellis, Hino’s national manager, sales, marketing, and dealer development.

Hino’s system consists of a dual exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) cooler, variable nozzle turbo, ferrum cast ductile piston, and the diesel oxidation catalyst/particulate filter.

 2008 Lineup Offers Light- and Medium-Duty Trucks

Hino groups its truck models in two "families." The manufacturer’s light-duty trucks (LDT) include models 145, 165, and 185, ranging in GVW from 14,050 to 18,000 lbs. The LDT lineup features Hino’s 5L, four-cylinder J05 engine, rated at 175 horsepower.

"This is a very durable, fuel-efficient engine," said Ellis. The engine’s combined high-pressure common rail fuel injection, variable geometry turbocharger design, and cooled EGR for emission control optimizes air/fuel mixture across the entire speed range of Hino’s engines, he added.

Hino’s medium-duty (MDT) product line includes the 238, 258, 268, and 338 models, ranging from 23,000 to 33,000 lbs. GVW. The MDT trucks offer an 8L J08 engine. In the 200-series, the engine is rated at 220 hp, while in the 338 model, the engine produces 260 hp.

Hino’s proprietary steering gear developed by TRW enhances the trucks’ maneuverability, according to Ellis. Other Hino driveline partners include Allison and Eaton transmissions, Meritor axles and brakes, Dana driveshafts, and Hendrickson suspensions.

In addition to the three-person cab comfort, Ellis also noted the trucks’ serviceability. "The engine compartment is very roomy, and all gauges are easily accessed from the driver’s side. All maintenance and service points are accessed without difficulty for simple, straight-forward servicing and repair," he said.

Standard and Optional Features Expanded

New standard features in 2008 model-year Hino trucks include:

• Driver information display. Fuel economy, maintenance intervals, and the soot buildup amount in the particulate filter are clearly indicated.

• Davco fuel/water separator/filter.

• TruckLite LED marker lights.

• Fully trimmed interior cab.

• Engine glow plugs.

New optional equipment offered in all Hino 2008 models includes:

• Engine exhaust brake.

• Chrome mirrors.

• Red and black paint options.

Options available in the 338 MDT model include:

• 120,000 psi frame.

• De-rate option to 26,000 lbs. GVW.

• Rear locking differential.

The truck manufacturer offers a national body program with America’s Body Company (ABC) and a regional body program in California, Nevada, and Arizona with Marathon.

Now numbering 165, Hino U.S. dealerships this year will expand another 15-20 dealers to provide coverage in the top 150 U.S. medium-duty markets, said Ellis.