Hino Motors Limited unveiled a cutting-edge zero-emission electric delivery van concept as part of the company's presentation at the recent Tokyo Motor Show.
The eZ-CARGO light duty EV (electric vehicle) van concept points toward the future of urban cargo transport – with a lightweight compact body, exceptionally large cargo space and zero-emission drivetrain.
Hino used the 42nd annual Tokyo show as a platform to showcase the company's latest hybrid, plug-in hybrid and EV (electric vehicle) technologies that will be used in production trucks and buses from 2012.
Hino Australia divisional manager Alex Stewart says Hino used the show to display the depth and spread of Hino technologies in markets around the world.
"Hino Motors works extremely hard to identify exactly which technologies are suited to individual markets around the globe," he says.
"Hino's stand at this year's Tokyo show is of significant importance for new and existing customers as it showcases a number of potential hybrid and electric propulsion technologies we are likely to see in the future.
"We're looking forward to sharing new hybrid and electric truck and bus technology with customers in the near future, along with Hino's considerable engineering expertise in this field," he said.
New Hino vehicles on display at the show include the Hino Dutro (300 Series) hybrid, 300 Series plug-in hybrid, S'ELEGA hybrid premium bus and the eZ-CARGO concept.
The eZ-CARGO concept is a unique EV vehicle, designed primarily for use in congested urban areas.
It features a large, flat cargo area with a lightweight and compact exterior body, and is highly suited to short-distance high-volume cargo transport.
The all-new Dutro (300 Series) plug-in hybrid is a direct development of the Australian market's Hybrid 300 Series.
It features an advanced battery pack charged from an external power source to provide extended electric-only running that further reduces fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
The S'ELEGA hybrid bus is the only mass-produced hybrid touring bus from a Japanese manufacturer, and will be displayed with a luxury-specification interior for show attendees.
Hino also displayed a series of global heavy duty trucks, and a 500 Series truck that competed in the recent Dakar Rally.
