Hino South Africa is ramping up its efforts to explore cleaner transport solutions by extending the trial phase of its Hino 300 Series diesel-electric hybrid trucks.
The move forms part of a broader strategy to evaluate the performance and market potential of New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) in the local logistics space.
The Hino 300 Hybrid features a 4-litre Euro 6 turbo-diesel engine paired with an electric motor, designed to cut emissions and improve fuel economy without sacrificing the durability or performance commercial operators demand.
The first three hybrid units landed in South Africa in 2023 and have been on trial with Namlog Logistics, operating from the Toyota Africa Parts Centre in Ekurhuleni.
These field tests are aligned with Toyota South Africa Motors’ NEV strategy, aiming to contribute to a cleaner environment through real-world testing.
“We’re looking at critical factors like cost, range, payload, maintenance, and resale value to determine which powertrain technology best suits local conditions,” said Itumeleng Segage, General Manager of Hino SA.
Tech That Works
Unlike many hybrid passenger cars that shrink the engine to compensate for the electric assist, the Hino 300 Hybrid keeps its full-sized diesel unit to ensure longevity and an under-stressed drivetrain.
The electric motor is mounted between the clutch and gearbox, working in tandem with the diesel engine to offer up to 111kW of power and 470Nm of torque, with full torque kicking in at just 1,200rpm.
A six-speed automated manual transmission (AMT), with optional manual override, handles the gear shifts while improving driver ease in stop-start urban deliveries.
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Real Results
The hybrid system is already turning heads overseas. Tests in Australia – where Euro VI emissions standards will be enforced from November – have shown fuel savings of up to 24%, depending on the cab configuration. Independent tests by journalists from GoAuto echoed these results, noting savings around 21.1%.
Still a 300 at Heart
Even with the hybrid tech, the truck retains all the familiar features from the rest of the 300 Series – including air conditioning, electric windows, two airbags, a radio, and daytime running lights.
“We’re excited about what hybrid tech can offer for urban and regional operations,” Segage added. “The ongoing local trials will give us crucial feedback from real customers operating in real conditions.”
As pressure mounts on fleets to clean up their operations, hybrid trucks like the Hino 300 may become an increasingly attractive middle ground between full electrification and traditional diesel.
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