KUALA LUMPUR: Hino Motor Sales Malaysia Sdn Bhd (HMSM) took part in the Malaysia Commercial Vehicle Expo (MCVE) for the fourth time this year, with the theme ‘The Future of Transportation in Malaysia’.
In line with the theme, HMSM displayed its 300 Series light-duty trucks and Prime Mover 700 Series trucks, as well as the HINO Poncho – a low-floor minibus which was making its Southeast Asia debut.
The HINO Poncho was designed as an innovative solution for first and last mile travel for passengers of Malaysia’s rail transport systems.
Compared to regular buses which are 10 to 12 metres long, the HINO Poncho, with a length of seven metres, is easier to manoeuvre through busy city streets.
Mechanically, it is powered by a Euro5-rated 5.0-litre JO5D engine with 208PS at 2,800rpm and 490Nm of torque at 1,600rpm.
Output is transferred to its rear wheels via an automatic transmission and the minibus has a gross weight of around 7.7 tonnes.
It is also equipped with air suspension and an anti-lock braking system (ABS).
With its ultra-low floor and kneeling functions, the minibus is able to cater to senior passengers and wheelchair-bound travellers.
Driver Aptitude Test
Hino Motor’s expo booth also features its Driver Aptitude Test (DAT), which is part of a new training course conducted at Hino Total Support Customer Centres (HTSCC).
Officially developed in Japan, the test has been localised by Yamato Transport Malaysia (YTM).
Examinees who sit for the DAT will get their results immediately and be able to identify the strengths and weaknesses of their driving techniques.