Dubai, December 03, 2007: Al-Futtaim Motors, the exclusive distributor for Hino commercial vehicles in the UAE, today launched the new Hino 300 Series light duty truck. The launch event was attended by VIP customers and key representatives of the UAE's media.

Also attending were Simon Frith (Managing Director of Al-Futtaim Motors), Tony Barlow (General Manager, Sales & Marketing), Javed Khan (Sales Manager for Commercial Vehicles), together with Mr. Ichikawa (Senior Managing Director of Hino Motors), and Mr. Kakizawa the Chief Engineer responsible for the development of the new truck.

Mr. Frith commented that, "The new 300 Series is extremely important to our business, and will enable us to increase our share of the rapidly growing truck market. By our estimates, the total truck market and the Light-Duty truck segment, in the UAE in 2006 have doubled in size since 2004. This growth has clearly been driven by the overall strength of the economy, and the resulting expansion of the service and distribution sectors. And we are forecasting continued growth in this segment."

He also highlighted that Al-Futtaim Motors have been making huge investments in their network in new facilities to ensure that commercial vehicle operators enjoy the optimum level of reliable sales and after-sales service that they require across the UAE, particularly in the area of parts supply to minimize un-productive vehicle down-time.

He also stated, "The three Hino core brand values that have driven the development of this new truck are Quality, Durability and Reliability, which exactly reflect our customers' needs."

The 300 Series has one of the strongest frames in its class, using the same 6mm thickness high-strength steel that is normally reserved for medium duty trucks. This makes it highly resistant to twisting and bending stress on rough roads. It has a new double-wishbone, independent front suspension system, a first for Hino in the light-duty truck segment. This provides optimum ride comfort, and improved handling and stability, even when carrying large loads in tough driving conditions.

The 300 Series is powered by a new W04D-J, 4-cylinder, 4009cc diesel engine which delivers the right balance of power, economy and low emissions. This is coupled with a smooth 5-speed manual transmission.

The new truck has a roomy, comfortable car-like cabin with excellent head clearance, and air-conditioning for added driver comfort. The optimum driving position can be achieved using the fully adjustable telescopic steering column, and adjustable driver's seat.

Routine maintenance is made easy through the cab-tilt function, making the engine readily accessible.

Superior active and passive safety in the new truck is delivered through several features. The wide front and side windows, and large outside rear view mirrors, ensure excellent all-round driving visibility whilst the large halogen lamps and fog lamps make for easier night driving.

The 300 Series has an EGIS (Emergency Guard Impact Safety) cab, with side door impact beams and reinforced floor members, to protect the driver and passengers in the event of a collision. It also has an energy absorbing steering wheel and column for increased driver safety.

Tony Barlow commented, "Our business customers require a truck with exceptional levels of durability and reliability, that incurs minimum down-time, is easy to maintain  with low operating costs, and  that delivers the goods.

The drivers want a truck that has good handling, ride and stability, that is easy to drive, with a cabin that is comfortable and functional. And above all they want a truck that is safe for them to work in all day.

I am confident that the new 300 Series will deliver on the needs of both operators and drivers, and is going to become a very familiar sight on our roads." 

Javed Khan, said: "With the introduction of the new 300 Series, Hino has raised the benchmark standards on safety, innovation and most importantly, value for money. This combined with the U.A.E-wide after-sales support, and the wide choice of bodies available, will make it the logical choice for truck operators."      

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About Al-Futtaim Motors:
Al-Futtaim Motors is a member of the Al-Futtaim Group, the leading UAE business conglomerate. It operates the Toyota, Lexus, Hino and BT franchises through a network of modern Sales showrooms, Service and Parts facilities strategically located throughout the Emirates. The company also operates twelve Tyre Express outlets in the UAE, where a comprehensive range of tyres and batteries are available, together with expert advice on tyre care and safety. The company's customer focus is exemplified in its guiding maxim, 'We care and it shows.'

For more information, please contact
Victoria Jacks
PR Manager
Al-Futtaim Group
Tel +971 4 2282 101
Fax +971 4 227 9801

© Press Release 2007