Hino Motors revamps light-duty truck line-up

Hino Motors Ltd. will launch a revamped version of its Dutro light-duty trucks in July.  The new hybrid version conforms with Japan’s new emission requirements, and comes with an idle stop function as a standard item.  The new idle stop function helps increase the fuel efficiency of the hybrid model.  There is fuel savings from the idle stop which automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stopped. The new Dutro also has a new engine and transmission, which according to Yoshio Shirai, president of Hino, is 50% more fuel efficient than the diesel version.  The company has set a goal to sell 12,000 new Dutros per year.  The diesel 3-ton standard truck will start at US$58,672, while the 2-ton hybrid model will start at US$58,110.  Both new models will be sold under the Toyota Motor truck brand. (June 16, 2011)