Return of the Hino

Toyota Jamaica distributes truck brand

Chad Bryan, Star Writer

Japanese brand Hino, known for the durability and reliability of their trucks, has been reintroduced into Jamaica, with Toyota Jamaica as the distributor.

According to Hino's website, the trucks are considered the sector's fastest-growing make in the United States' heavy- and medium-duty truck market. Hino was officially launched last Wednesday by Toyota Jamaica at the residence of the Japanese ambassador, His Excellency Yasuo Takase.

Assistant marketing manager at Toyota Jamaica, Tracy-Ann Fletcher, pointed out that the vehicle has been gaining a considerable amount of traction from interested persons since its reintroduction a few months ago.

"So far, persons have been welcoming of it. They are glad for an option - or an additional option - that they can have. Since we have such a good reputation for after-sales service, persons are eager to look forward to what is going to come with this brand and Toyota Jamaica as a partner," she said.

Previous presence

Uni-Motors had previously distributed the vehicle. "Hino was here some time ago, long long time ago. It requires a lot of after-sale commitments. So you have to ensure you have the parts and the persons who can service it, and that is where we are at now, so that we can meet the demands of customers," Fletcher pointed out.

She said Hino's place in the local automotive industry is strategic for Toyota Jamaica. "It is for acquiring a reasonable market share and to be the leaders in the truck business, as we are with automobiles. We are looking to offer the Jamaican market another superior brand coming out of the Toyota family," Fletcher stated.

The vehicles, which are Hino 300 and 500, are imported in cab and chassis form and then can be fitted with a box, drop-side or refrigerator body, depending on the customer's specifications.