History of Hino Motors: Japan’s Leading Truck and Bus Manufacturer

Hino Motors is Japan’s largest manufacturer of trucks and buses, specializing in commercial vehicles and diesel engine technology. As a subsidiary of Toyota, Hino plays a crucial role in global logistics, transportation, and sustainability initiatives.

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Type 1 Ho-Ha

Early Origins: From Gasoline Cars to Commercial Trucks (1910s–1940s)

• 1910: Founded as Tokyo Gas Industry Company, producing gas-powered equipment.
• 1917: Entered the automobile industry, producing Japan’s first truck, the TGE "A-Type" Truck.
• 1937: Merged with Automobile Industries Co., Ltd., becoming Tokyo Automobile Industry Co., Ltd.
• 1942: Renamed Hino Heavy Industry Co., Ltd., shifting to military truck production during World War II.

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Hino BD Bus

Post-War Expansion and Diesel Engine Development (1950s–1970s)

• 1946: After WWII, Hino focused on diesel truck and bus production, launching the Hino BD bus.
• 1950: Officially renamed Hino Diesel Industry Co., Ltd.
• 1953: Briefly entered the passenger car market by assembling the Renault 4CV under license.
• 1961: Exited the passenger car market, focusing entirely on commercial trucks and buses.
• 1967: Formed a partnership with Toyota, supplying large trucks and diesel engines.

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Hino 300 Series

Global Expansion and Toyota Acquisition (1980s–2000s)

• 1982: Hino trucks became market leaders in Southeast Asia, Africa, and South America.
• 1991: Entered the Dakar Rally, showcasing its durability and off-road capabilities.
• 2001: Became a subsidiary of Toyota, integrating Hino into Toyota’s global strategy.
• 2003: Launched the Hino 300, 500, and 700 Series, which became bestsellers in commercial trucking.

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Sustainability and Electric Trucks (2010s–Present)

• 2010s: Focused on hybrid and fuel-efficient truck technologies.
• 2021: Partnered with Isuzu and Toyota to develop electric and hydrogen-powered trucks.
• 2022: Announced plans to expand zero-emission commercial vehicles.

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Hino's best selling vehicle: Hino 500 Series

Hino’s Legacy and Achievements

✅ Japan’s leading truck and bus manufacturer
✅ Major supplier of diesel engines worldwide
✅ Multiple-time Dakar Rally champion
✅ Pioneer in hybrid and hydrogen truck technology
✅ Toyota subsidiary, contributing to global logistics

Hino continues to lead in commercial vehicle innovation, focusing on sustainability and efficiency in the transportation sector.