Hino adds 35k Model 338

Nov. 1, 2014
NTEA Truck Product Conference 2014 report

HINO Trucks is expanding its lineup with a 35,000-pound GVW version of its Model 338 conventional cab.

This gives Hino a Class 8 version of the Model 338 to go with the Class 7 version that is rated at 33,000 pounds.

The Hino 338 is designed for a variety of industries, including beverage delivery, municipalities, construction, utilities, petroleum/gas delivery and waste/recycling.

The JO8E VB 260hp engine provides 660 lb-ft of torque. VNT turbochargers optimize airflow by changing the turbocharger’s output based on control input from the engine’s electronic control unit. This allows engine designers to more accurately control cylinder pressure and air/fuel ratio. Better control means a more complete burn, resulting in better fuel efficiency and full EPA compliance.

Hino’s Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology not only meets the EPA 2010 Standards, it produces gains in fuel economy and it does so without the need for carbon credits.

Common Rail Fuel Injection provides higher pressure over the entire speed range of an engine. Unlike unit injectors whose pressure varies with the “rise time” of the injection event, common rail systems are supplied by constant pressure pumps that assure instant high-pressure response for each injection event. The result is a more responsive engine and better control of fuel quantity in the combustion.

The other news from Hino is the introduction of its Hino Insight 2.0 telematics powered by Telogis. It is a standard offering on 2015 Class 5 cabover hybrid 195h and 195h-DC models and an option on the Class 5 diesel-fired cabover 195 and 195-DC models. It is available on the OEM’s full Class 6-7 conventional truck product lineup.

The Hino Insight 2.0 product and service suite provides customers with access to the Telogis comprehensive location intelligence platform, which includes route optimization, real-time work order management, truck-specific navigation, telematics, and mobile integration services.

The Hino Insight 2.0 package will continue to feature what the OEM calls its “unique” dashboard, specifically designed for fleet managers to gain a daily snapshot of their fleet’s critical diagnostics status and performance against established targets. Hino will continue to offer its 195 model double cab option, introduced last year, for both the diesel-fired model 195-DC and diesel-electric hybrid model 195h-DC.

The four-door, six-person double cab is designed on a 19,500-lb-GVW chassis to provide class-leading payload capability. An optional magnetic suspension seat is designed to accommodate drivers up to 6 feet, 6 inches tall. The double cab is powered by Hino’s 5.0L diesel engine rated at 210 hp with 440 lb-ft of torque mated to an Aisin A465, 6-speed automatic transmission.

HinoCare, a preventive service care program rolled out last year for 2013 and 2014 model-year 195 cabover diesels, will continue to be offered by the company. During the first two years of ownership (or 60,000 miles), HinoCare will cover all standard checks and replacements such as engine oil, fuel filter, air filter transmission, plus fluid and differential oil. The program also includes standard checks of steering, brake pads, battery terminals, and warning lights.

Spencer Nicol, senior manager of strategic product applications for Hino Trucks, gave the following product announcements:

  • There are no plans for a natural gas model, but the hybrid is doing well.
  • New 21,000- and 23,000-pound rear suspension upgrade options for the 268 and 338 models will make these vehicles better suited for tankers, reefers, and high-CG applications.
  • PTO clearance will be a little better due to motor mount changes. A special Chelsea 277H series PTO is designed for the right side. Nicol said to be sure to specify the H because the housing of this model has been modified to provide better clearance.
  • New air tank drain valves will have ring pulls, rather than a conventional threaded release to make draining tanks easier and more accessible.

Nicol said the company enjoyed a record year and record market share in 2013. Sales volume this year is up 13% year-to-date, compared with 11% for the market in general.

For 2015:

  • Orange seats are optional.
  • Optional rear axle ratios.
  • 180-amp alternator.
  • Fuel cooler delete.
  • A 90-gallon fuel tank available.
  • New exhaust brake location.
  • New after-turbo catalyst.
  • An electric heater has been added to defrost the DEF fluid and lines to -40C.
  • The suspension dump control has been enhanced to maintain dumped height when the key is off. It will not allow the suspension to remain dumped while driving.
  • There is a 21k and 23k capacity rear suspension upgrade option for 268s and 338s. It’s good for tankers, reefers, and high-CG applications.
  • The PTO clearance is a little better due to motor mount changes. The Chelsea 277H series is for the right side. Be sure to specify the H because the housing has been modified.
  • The throttle control can be done with cruise control features.

For 2016, Allison is standard in all 238 and 338 models. ♦

About the Author

Rick Weber | Associate Editor

Rick Weber has been an associate editor for Trailer/Body Builders since February 2000. A national award-winning sportswriter, he covered the Miami Dolphins for the Fort Myers News-Press following service with publications in California and Australia. He is a graduate of Penn State University.