Hino New Zealand has launched its new 500 Series Standard Cab model, which it reckons is "smarter, stronger and safer than its predecessors."
The Japanese make's medium-duty model not only gets a new cab, it's also loaded with high-tech options, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning and collision avoidance systems, plus vehicle stability control.
The new mid-ranger (the 500 Series covers a big lineup of models stretching from 10.4 tonne to 26 tonne gross ratings) also comes with a twin-turbo A05C engine that delivers up to 194kW/260 horsepower and, in some instances has an 11% increase in torque – up from 794 Newton metres/585 lb ft, to 882Nm/650 lb ft.
There's also a new dashboard and a new driver's seat, in a completely redesigned cab interior.
"We wanted to make a truck that can be used by everyone, for any job," says Hino NZ's general manager Darren Salt. 
"We know our customers need the latest technologies in order to compete in their field. This Hino will be the herald of a new generation of trucks."
Salt says the new 500 Series is "a modern player. We've redesigned every aspect of the truck to make it more versatile and an ideal fit for absolutely any of our drivers' needs."
Hino Motors chief engineer Shigeru Nakada says that the truck market now demands "not only loading capacity, roadability and durability, but also safety, driveability and comfortability.
"In developing the new Hino we sought to produce a sophisticated brand-new product that will outperform the current truck and its competitors."
The Hino's Pre-Collision Safety System automatically maintains a safe following distance to vehicles ahead – warning the driver and cutting the truck's speed if necessary.
The launch of the 500 Series Standard Cab comes in the midst of Hino's Japan 2019 competition, which sees every buyer of a new Hino before the end of June in a draw to win one of eight all-expenses-paid trips to Japan for the Rugby World Cup. The package includes flights, tickets to the opening ceremony, the Japan versus Russia and All Blacks v South Africa pool games…plus guided sightseeing, accommodation and a tour of the Hino factory.