We may have witnessed many exhibitions which are based primarily around passenger car segment, but a unique exhibition by the name of Commercial Vehicle Middle East, Dubai has changed the concept. The very first exhibition targeting Heavy Commercial vehicles market was held during March 9 ~ 11, 2010, and participants from all parts of automobile industry enthusiastically participated in this mega event.  

For Hino, a new chapter in its history has already begun when they decided to export their completely built-up buses made by Hinopak, Pakistan to the Middle East and African countries. This action was further energized, when Hino participated in the Dubai Motor Show through Al-Futtaim Motors, the exclusive distributor for Hino commercial vehicles in the UAE.

This exhibition was a perfect opportunity to introduce Hino’s range of buses in Middle East. Not only the buses were put on display, but also a complete range of Hino’s commercial products was demonstrated. The new CITILINER 60 seater Air Conditioned bus, alongwith a small SENATOR 33 seater bus were put on display. The response from the visitors was appreciative and they showed keen interest in placing orders in the future.

The main target market for the two buses launched in Dubai were the staff and school transport segments of the market as well as the tourism segment.  Due to its product quality, fuel efficiency, durability and reliability; Hino has an edge over its competitors and Hino is proud to have fleet owners with vehicles that are still operating 15 years after their initial purchase.

Emirates Transport, one of the largest transport company providing school buses, praised the efforts made by Hinopak, and gave their satisfaction on the quality, and specifications of the school bus. A delegation including Counsel General of Pakistan in UAE, and principals of Pakistani schools operating in UAE also appreciated Pakistani expertise, and showed positive interest in purchasing a fleet of buses in near future.

Hino Japan has already placed an order on Hinopak for the supply of 25 units of AK8J School buses to Emirates Transport, UAE, and these buses will leave Pakistan in the month of June and July 2010, bringing honor, fame and heavy foreign exchange to the country.

Hinopak in collaboration with its principals is continuously striving to tap other prospective markets, and many inquiries are in pipeline from Panama, Tanzania, Mozambique, Papua New Guinea and Costa Rica. Discussions of specifications and delivery timelines and other terms and conditions are in active considerations with various customers and the efforts will bear their fruit by the end of 2010; hence, opening a new horizon in Latin America and Africa for Hino’s products.

Surely this entry into the international market has registered another victory for Hino and has added a new chapter in the history book of Pakistan’s automobile industry.