HINO 300 SERIES
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Any resemblance of the Hino 300 to Toyota's Dyna is no coincidence Nino builds Dyne for its giant parent company. The 300 is Hino's lightweight challenger for its mission to increase market share beyond eight-logger tippers.
The 300 Series Nino is thoroughly conventional in the mould of Mitsubishi Fuso and Isuzu and looks to have the credentials to make some inroads a 4.0-litre common-rail diesel motor provides 150hp, while a stylish cab and a competitive chassis-cab tare weight mean the Irish-built machine will give the rivals a fair fight, although the lack of a 180-190hp rating may deter some buyers.
The lack of choice also extends to transmissions and cab specs, with a 'one-size-fits-all' approach. Nina will have a tough job establishing itself in this relatively small and competitive sector with an unknown product and unproven for distribution applications dealer network, although it has a ready market with existing Nino operators looking for a onebadge fleet.
The real test will come if Toyota decides to take the Hino brand in-house and puts its full weight behind the CVs.