Al-Futtaim Motors Launches the New Generation HINO300 Series Light-Duty Truck

Al-Futtaim Motors exclusive distributors of Hino products in the UAE, unveiled the new generation of HINO300 Series light-duty truck, at a press conference held at Al Badia Golf Club, Dubai Festival City.

The light duty truck which will go on sale on October 2011, is the first in UAE to offer the automatic transmission option and has been completely redesigned to offer the best in improved drivability, aerodynamics, vision, cabin ergonomics, comfort, convenience, ease of maintenance and vehicle safety.

The new model was presented to the press and fleet customers by Mr. Koichi Ojima, Senior Managing Director, Hino Motors and Mr. Hideyuki Kakizawa, Executive Officer, Hino Motors alongside officials from Al-Futtaim Motors.

The new HINO300 Series features a full-model-change after 12 years of its development. The new series is developed as a "Global model" designed to be a "Perfect Fit" for all Middle East markets.

"We are introducing this exciting new model to all Middle-East countries at the same time, and we consider the UAE to be one of the biggest and most important markets for Hino" said Koichi Ojima.

He added: "The new HINO300 Series introduced today is designed to reflect quality, durability and reliability, same as medium and heavy duty trucks, and I strongly believe it will satisfy the needs of demanding customers in this country.''

"Our partners, Al-Futtaim Motors share with us the same trust we have in Hino. HINO300 Series light-duty trucks are made in Japan and reflects unique development concept based on ''Your Reliable Partner'' formula for success: For owners it means durability and reliability; for drivers it is synonym to easy maintenance; and for SMEs it is equal to profitability'' said Hideyuki Kakizawa.

The HINO300 Series will be available in the UAE in three different cab variations, from the newly remodeled wide cab, ideally packaged to meet the needs of a city driving, to the double crew cab, suitable for carrying additional passengers and the standard cab suitable for navigation through tight spaces.

Speaking at the conference, Mr. Simon Frith, Managing Director Al-Futtaim Motors said: "Our customers trust in HINO trucks because of their reliability, innovative solutions and customer service commitment. With the introduction of 6 speed automatic transmission in combination with 150 Hp engine, HINO will be the first and only Japanese truck to offer a full automatic gear with powerful environmentally friendly engine Euro 3 in Middle East market. This new feature is appreciated by our customers and will definitely reflect positively on the demand."

Mr. Vladimir Knezevic, General Manager Al-Futtaim Motors' Commercial Vehicles Division also commented: "This is an exciting time for HINO. Not only it marks the unveil of the new HINO300 Series light-duty truck, but also the launch of the official Hino/Al Futtaim Motors website to meet of our customers' needs and communicate our products directly and more efficiently to a wider audience base. "

The new HINO300 Series light duty truck is manufactured in Hamura plant in Tokyo, Japan, in the same plant where Hino produces Toyota's best-selling SUVs Prado and FJ cruiser while using high level of reliability through the Toyota Production System.

Hino Motors Ltd, which is now a subsidiary of Toyota Motor Corporation, was founded in 1910, established as a separate company in 1942 and entered in alliance with Toyota Group in 1966. Under the HINO brand, Hino Motors Ltd. represents the Toyota Group in the global market for trucks and buses.