Our History
In 1918, Hino Motors Ltd Japan introduced their first truck to the world. More than 100 years later, our delivery of durable, reliable, quality trucks continues worldwide. 51% owned by Toyota, Hino is where the world’s most successful car maker and leading-edge truck design meet.
Clyde Engineering Ltd truck and bus franchise began distributing Hino vehicles throughout New Zealand in 1964. Imported from Japan, and assembled in Auckland, their first two bonneted 195hp diesel trucks were sold to Rotorua logging operators.
Hino Distributors (NZ) Ltd purchased the Clyde Group in 1984. In 1999, we relocated to Palmerston North, and a few years later introduced a new European influenced cab for the medium-duty market. Hino New Zealand grew quickly, selling its 10,000th unit in 2003.
In 2004, the Sime Darby Group purchased Hino Distributors (NZ) Ltd. 2004 also saw the introduction of the Hino 700 Series, completing the full range: Hino 300 Series (light-duty trucks), 500 Series (medium-duty trucks), and 700 Series (heavy-duty trucks).
In 2006, Hino introduced a new 300 Series range with an extensive line-up of 17 models, including Hybrids. Hino was also the first manufacturer to comply with the next level of strict emission requirements, reflecting our commitment to reducing the adverse effects of the transport industry on the environment.
2014 represented 50 years of Hino in New Zealand.