Hino Australia has boosted the versatility and appeal of its 500 Series medium duty truck range with the addition of new long-wheelbase variants of the FE 1426 Auto.
Combining an Allison automatic transmission with the Hino J07E-TN engine has created an FE that is accessible to a wider range of drivers while being capable of doing the work of a larger vehicle.
The 500 Series FE 1426 Auto's 6.4-litre five-cylinder engine generates a class-leading 191kW and 794Nm from 1500rpm, for superior performance and carrying capacity.
The Allison 2500 series transmission uses five forward speeds and features a torque converter with lock-up clutch.
Hino chose the transmission because it meets its stringent quality, durability and reliability requirements while offering smooth, user-friendly drive characteristics and the ability to maintain optimum engine speeds for increased efficiency.
The 500 Series FE 1426 Auto has a GVM of 14 tonnes and is able to carry payloads previously reserved for larger vehicles in a more agile and economical package.
It is available in single cab configuration in short, medium, long and extra-long wheelbases ranging from 3750 to 5500mm.
The 500 Series FE 1426 Auto also comes with the safety and comfort features the 500 Series is known for, including the ISRI 6860 driver's seat with integrated safety belt, ergonomically designed cabin, ABS brakes, SRS driver's airbag and ECE-R29 crash safety compliance.
Hino Australia Chairman and CEO Steve Lotter said the launch of the 500 Series FE 1426 Auto demonstrates Hino's commitment to offering greater choice in its products, and is an important part of the brand's push for automatic transmission models.
"The market has been demanding more 'two pedal' options in light and medium duty truck lines, and Hino has responded with an increased number of automatic transmission choices," Mr Lotter said.
"The 500 Series FE Auto brings a very well rounded package to the market and allows fleets access to a larger pool of drivers thanks to its automatic transmission.
"It also has the potential to cut down on gearbox maintenance that may be required with drivers who are less experienced with a manual transmission.
"The 500 Series FE Auto is what we like to call a 'smart truck' as it is capable of carrying payloads usually reserved for our FG and GH models, but in a lighter, more nimble and cost-effective package.
"We believe it is the right truck for this sector of the Australian truck market, and we expect it to do great things for Hino and our customers," Mr Lotter said.