BLOOMFIELD HILLS, MI – Hino Trucks experienced a record month in March 2008 posting retail sales of 900 units and achieving 15-percent market share in the Class 6 market segment, and 3-percent market share in the Class 7 market, according to company officials.

The industry’s overall Class 6-7 market lagged in 2007 sales, and Hino sales also dropped. However, the company said it boosted market share and stayed above the market decline. For the fiscal year ending Mar. 31, Hino Trucks recorded retail sales of 5,350 trucks, off 960 units from the previous year.

Additionally, Hino Trucks grew its dealer network in 2007, now standing at 175 dealers nationwide.

Hino Trucks forecasts flat Class 4-7 market segments in 2008, based on current economic conditions. However, the manufacturer set a 7,000-unit sales goal for fiscal year 2008.

Hino believes they can achieve this aggressive target through growth of its existing dealers and through the addition of their new dealers.

Hino Trucks noted that a significant portion of additional sales will come in the East Coast, prompting a move of production to Hino’s newest plant in Williamstown, W. Va.

“In addition to aligning production with the majority of our customer base, the sheer size of the facility in West Virginia will allow for a more flexible manufacturing scenario,” said Bob Petz, vice president, logistics operations. “In time, a paint booth will be added so we can offer our customers a wider range of paint options as an example.”