INTRODUCTION OF 500 WIDE CAB FILLS IMPORTANT GAPS IN HINO TRUCK RANGE
The introduction of the new Hino 500 Wide Cab models not only marks the first full model change of the 500 Series in 14 years,
but also fills several important gaps in the overall Hino truck range.
Other new features for the 500 Wide Cab models include wheelbase options – long and super long on 4X2 and 6X2 models and the addition of
6x4 models, available with on- or off-road cabs and suitable for use as Freight Carriers and Tippers.
Changes compared to the previous Hino 500 models are extensive. They start with an all new chassis frame which is bolted rather than riveted
and has a hole pattern on the web surfaces for easy body mounting, while the frame is wider in the engine compartment area for the fitment of
larger and more powerful engines.
The high strength web frame is common for all models, to simplify replacement component availability. The layout of the ancillaries on the
chassis has been revised to provide more utility space for customers.
A new, wider front axle provides increased load ability – from 5.5 to 7.5 tons - and a 7% tighter turning circle. The adoption of a trunnion
rear suspension system improves durability and allows the fitment of a cross-differential locking system for 6x4 models.
Three engines are now used in the 500 range, all with more power and torque than the engine fitted to the previous 500 models.
New Hino manual transmissions are specified, either the six-speed MX06 or nine-speed M009OD/DD, with the option of Allison 3000 or 3500 fully
automatic, six-speed transmissions for certain models. A new rear differential with increased torque rating is fitted, which improves reliability and
durability.
Another new feature that improves QDR is a 65 mm wider radiator core for improved cooling.
Enhanced performance
The new 500 models all offer better performance without sacrificing fuel efficiency, with higher gear ratios resulting in lower engine revolutions.
There are improvements in hill climbing, pulling off on a slope and acceleration.
There is now a choice of three engines, whereas the previous Hino 500 models had only one engine, the 8-litre JO8 developing 184kW (251ps).
The latest models have a JO8 Lo developing 191kW (265ps) of power and 794N.m of torque, a JO8 Hi putting out 206kW (290ps) of power and 883N.m of torque,
as well as the 11-litre P11 which develops 257kW (360ps) of power and 1 275N.m of torque.
These changes equate to an improvement of 3.8% more power and 7.4% more torque from the JO8 Lo and 12% more power and 19.5% more torque from the JO8 Hi.
Safety and security
Several important safety and security features have been incorporated in the new 500 range. These include a driver’s side airbag, seatbelts with
emergency locking retractor, substantially improved headlight illumination on low beam, anti-skid (ABS) brakes, Hino Easy Start with adjustable brake
release timing for pulling off on a slope, an engine immobiliser and central locking.
Comfort and convenience
The dashboard and instrument panel have been redesigned for improved ergonomics. The instrument panel uses both analogue and digital instrumentation.
Standard equipment includes air conditioning, cruise control, power windows and a radio/CD audio system.
Access to the cab is made easier with additional sure-grip steps for both the on- and off-road cabs as well as a much larger inside cab grab handle.
The driver and front passenger seats are adjustable, while the driver’s seat has air suspension for added comfort. The cabs use either semi-floating or
full-floating mounting of the cab to the chassis to contribute to the comfort of the occupants.
Research and development
The worldwide research to develop the new generation Hino 500 models included Africa, which is considered an increasingly important country for Hino
as it expands its coverage of the truck market, particularly in the Sub-Saharan region.
Hino specialists who visited South Africa to collect data and evaluate local trucking operations included Mamoru Tamazawa, the Chief Engineer for the Hino 500 project.
He has been with the company for 22 years and has headed up engineering teams designing and developing 10 new models in this time.
“The project to design a new 500 range was launched at Hino in Japan in 2010,” explained Tamazawa. “The first concept was presented to top management
a year later. This kicked off an intensive research and development programme that lasted until the new model was launched into produdtion in Indonesia in 2014.
This was a tough challenge, but our experienced development team has met or exceeded all the targets set and the new Hino 500 Wide Cab is an even better truck
than its highly-rated predecessors,” said Tamazawa.
The Hino 500 Chief Engineer concluded by saying: “The design and development team’s major focus points were to further enhance Hino’s reputation for
outstanding QDR, while improving engine performance, cutting emissions, and lowering fuel consumption. Most importantly our aim was to make the new Hino 500
a better driving experience in all aspects and I believe we have succeeded.”
After sales
The complete vehicle carries a 24 month/100 000 kilometre warranty, which excludes batteries, tyres and normal wear and tear items.
New Wide Cab Hino 500 range
4x2, 16-ton GVM: 1627 FC LWB; 1627 FC LWB AT; 1627 FC SLWB; 1627 FC SLWB AT; 1627 Tipper.