With Toyota assuming a 50.1 percent controlling interest in Hino, Hino Diesel Trucks (Canada) Ltd. is undergoing some changes, including the appointment of new president Frank Suzuki, shown above with Alan Masters, a long-time presence at Hino and recently promoted to the vice president.’s role.

The changes are expected to spread beyond the boardroom. Don’t be surprised if you start seeing a few Toyota innovations appearing in Hino’s trucks, Masters advises.

“Hino Diesel Trucks have always been affiliated with Toyota but more as a relative. Hino is now a full member of the Toyota Manufacturing Group. As a result we are already starting to see new directives here in North America such as engineering teams looking at new ways to improve our products and to be more cost effective,” he says.

Another innovation that could soon be making its way across the ocean is diesel hybrid technology. Japanese truck manufacturers, including Hino, have been working with such technology for more than 15 years.

Hino has already announced its intent to manufacture in North America in the near future and Masters believes that could happen within four years.

Meanwhile Hino Canada, which unlike other Hino distributorships around the world, is wholly owned by Hino Motors Japan, achieved its highest market share to date last year – 13.1 percent. Its best performance was in the Quebec market with a market share of 27.4 percent in the Class 5 to 7 sectors.

“I think the Quebec market is particularly ready for Hino. The French culture is more open to a European-style type of vehicle and as well we have nurtured some very strong dealers who are very committed to the product,” Masters said.