The last mile logistics solution will be scheduled for launch in early summer 2022 as the Hino Dutro Z EV.
A Vehicle Designed for Last Mile Logistics
Hino Motors has developed an ultra-low-floor and front-wheel drive light-duty electric truck with a walk-through van style that combines user-friendliness and is carbon-free at advanced levels for the logistics field. Designed for last mile logistics, the new vehicle is scheduled to hit the Japanese market in early summer 2022 under the name Hino Dutro Z EV.
Given the background of current trends such as a decreasing workforce and the growth of e-commerce, the field of last mile logistics who deliver cargo and goods to the consumers is facing increasingly serious issues ranging from a shortage of drivers to the physical burden of cargo handling and other delivery work and an increasingly diverse array of goods. With greater increases in cargo volumes expected in the future, the need to address these issues is gaining greater urgency. Furthermore, the global trend toward achieving Hino Motors Develops Light-Duty Electric Truck Designed for Logistics Usability has increased the environmental expectations that logistics companies have to comply with.
Hino’s new ultra-low floor front-wheel electric drive is aimed at addressing the core concerns of customers, wanting new logistics solutions. Compared to conventional rear-wheel drive vehicles, it features an ultra-low-floor design that cuts ground clearance in half to approximately 400mm, offering noticeable improvements in cargo handling and accessibility. The walk-through structure also provides greater ease of use at delivery locations. For its cruising range, the goal is at least 100 kilometres, which is needed for delivery use.
Along with a walk-through van, there is also a cab chassis model that can be equipped with a cargo bed according to customer applications, offering configuration choices to best suit the way customers do business. This model’s design is also a size smaller than the current Hino Dutro, making it easier to drive in residential areas. The model allows use with a standard driver’s license in Japan, which can help businesses secure driving personnel and even with its compact body, it still provides the required cargo volume.
While this vehicle is mainly intended for home deliveries in urban areas, we anticipate utilisation in a wide range of locations and different timeframes, such as inside stores, warehouses, airports, and other large-scale facilities, as well as during night time and early morning operations.
Yoshio Shimo, Hino President & CEO said of the new electric vehicle model: “The Hino Dutro Z EV is our first full-scale electric vehicle, and we take pride in presenting this useful electric truck as a solution for the future of last mile logistics. We focused on delivery logistics and designed it with usability thoroughly listening to the valuable opinions of our customers. The result is this ultra-low floor walk-through van EV design. I am confident that we have achieved a vehicle that will be chosen not only because it is electric, but because it is truly easy to use.”
