Hino » 500-series Wide Cab
Hino launches the new 500 Series wide-cab models in 2017. Despite the somewhat confusing wording that can infer these trucks have a new, wider cab, the cab actually retains the same generous dimensions of the first 500 Series wide-cab models launched a decade ago. There is, however, no confusion in the release of a model range, with a swathe of new and highly functional features including enhanced 8- and 9-litre engines, expanded manual and automatic transmission options, numerous drive train developments, improved chassis design, and safety advances headed by the standard fitment of a Wabco vehicle stability control (VSC) system in all models.
The new trucks are easily distinguished from the outgoing wide-cab models and, likewise, from the FC, FD and FE medium-duty specialists sporting Hino’s narrower ‘standard cab’. The most notable external change is in a bold, dark grille but there are also relatively subtle changes in areas such as cab steps. On the inside, the changes are less apparent, with a new radio and redesigned digital dash being the most obvious.
However, it’s underneath where the greatest changes have been made, led by further development of Hino’s 7.7-litre J08E enginee and its 8.9-litre stablemate, the A09C. In the case of the 6-cylinder J08E, maximum governed engine speed and compression ratio have been raised to deliver peak outputs of 206kW (280hp) at 2500rpm and top torque of 883Nm (651lb-ft) at 1500rpm. Depending on the model, transmission choices are an Allison 6-speed auto, Hino 6-speed manual, or an Eaton 9-speed directdrive manual. As for the A09C, also a 6-cylinder layout, Hino says it contains a new turbocharger, revised water pump and cooling fan, and a swap from Bosch to Denso common-rail fuel injection. It’s an engine offering two performance ratings starting with 235kW (320hp) and 1275Nm (940lb-ft) coupled to an Allison automatic transmission, and a lively 257kW (350hp) rating supported by a potent 1422Nm (1049lb-ft) of torque stirring through a Hino 9-speed overdrive synchromesh transmission.
Both engines greatly benefit from the adoption of an SCR emissions system instead of the previous EGR and diesel particulate filter combination to achieve Euro 5 emissions compliance. Several of the models provided for drives during the launch of the new trucks were equipped with the Hino 9-speed synchromesh manual shifter. Akin to Hino’s light-duty hybrid model, manual versions of the new 500 Series trucks are also equipped with an engine stop-start system to enhance fuel efficiency by switching the engine off when it would be otherwise idling.
Importantly, the new models also have a wider front axle with a tighter wheel cut angle, while at the back end electronically controlled air suspension (ECAS) is available on models with Hendrickson’s HAS air bag rear suspension. A quick summary of the model line-up is:
• FG 1628 4x2: A 280hp (206kW) unit with the choice of a 6-speed manual or 6-speed Allison auto, and ratings of 16 tonnes GVM and 32 tonnes GCM
• FL 2628 6x2: A 280hp (206kW) model fitted with the 6-speed Allison auto, and weight ratings of 26 tonnes GVM and 38 tonnes GCM
• FM 2628 6x4: Another 280hp (206kW) model but offering an Eaton 9-speed manual or the 6-speed Allison. Ratings are 26 tonnes GVM and GCM of 33 tonnes with the auto box and 38 tonnes with the manual
• FM 2632 6x4: A model with 320hp (235kW) and the 6-speed Allison auto. Ratings are 26 tonnes GVM and 36.5 tonnes GCM
• FM 2635 6x4: Flagship of the range, this 350hp (257kW) six-wheeler is coupled to Hino’s 9-speed overdrive manual transmission. Weight ratings are 26 tonnes GVM and 45 tonnes GCM
• GH 1828 4x2: This 280hp (209kW) model has the choice of an Eaton 9-speed manual or 6-speed Allison auto, with a standard GVM of 16 tonnes and an optional 18 tonnes. GCM is 38 tonnes
• GH 1832 4x2: A 320hp (235kW) model coupled to the 6-speed Allison auto, and also offering two GVM ratings of 16 tonnes and an optional 18 tonnes, along with a GCM of 38 tonnes
• GH 1835 4x2: The ‘flyer’ of the pack with 350hp (257kW) and Hino’s 9-speed overdrive manual. Again, there are two GVM ratings of 16 and 18 tonnes, and GCM of 38 tonnes.
