Racing Trucks

The trucks HINO races in the Dakar Rally - the "Little Monsters".

Based on the HINO 500 Series trucks that are known for their world-class durability, these mid-sized racing trucks continue to fight fiercely against larger monster camions powered by engines with more than twice the displacement of the 500 Series engine. This is why these trucks, nicknamed "little monsters," have instilled fear and awse in their rivals. These trucks are currently being maximized the potential inherent in HINO trucks so that they will be ready to take on the race.

Race truck specifications

Vehicle name	HINO 500 Series
Engine	Model J08C-TI (turbo with intercooler)
Cylinders	In-line 6 cylinders
Displacement	7,961 cc
Maximum output	Over 260 ps at 2,700 rpm
Maximum torque	Over 76 kgm at 1,600 rpm
Transmission	6-speed direct drive With secondary transmission
Transfer	2-speed Hi-range: 1.000 Lo-range: 1.598
Axle	Full floating Differential lock with front and rear 4.625
Suspension	Multi-type leaf springs front and rear
Dimensions	Length: 6,100 mm Width: 2,330 mm Height: 3,100 mm
Wheelbase	3,750 mm
Tire size	14.00x20
Gross weight	7,000 kg

Outline of modification

	Engine Modified for higher revving and fine-tuned to meet regulations, including adjustments made to the injection pump, the J08C engine with inter-cooled turbo revs up to the red zone with no stress whatsoever. In addition to easier handling, its durability and reliability are in classes of their own. This engine is literally the "motive force" behind HINO's record of consecutive finishes in the Dakar Rally. Combined with large wheels, the truck is able to reach speeds up to 170km/h.
	Suspension Because the Dakar Rally weaves through areas where there are literally no roads, it would not be an overstatement to say that suspension settings determine the outcome of the race. Suspension settings must be fine-tuned to ensure that the truck is able to handle a variety of situations including driving over sand dunes and rocky terrain, as well as high-speed driving over gaps, all the while maintaining handling stability. The suspension has undergone countless improvements year after year, and currently uses a multi-leaf suspension by Horikiri, Inc. and shock absorbers by Reiger Racing per wheel.
	Central tire inflation system (CTIS) This is a system that allows the navigator to adjust tire air pressure from the cabin while driving. Pressure is regulated with air from an air tank via an air-sealed hub bearing. During the rally, the navigator constantly regulates the pressure between 0.8 and 3.5 kg. The photo at right shows the control box for regulating pressure.
	Rear body The rear body, whose side is combined with the cab for optimum aerodynamics, was made by Tsuboi Special Body and is the product of countless improvements. The outer shell is made of 1mm jointless aluminum panels and is attached to the frame using a special glue. The fuel tank is securely attached to the cargo bed, and the truck also carries 2 spare tires, a minimum supply of spare parts, and the crew members' personal belongings. Reducing the number of spare parts onboard by careful selection is also an important part of the team's strategy.
	Fuel tank The truck is fitted with 3 fuel tanks made by Nippon Light Metal, including one in the rear body. The truck needs a total fuel capacity of 650 liters because regulations require that the vehicle be able to drive 800km without refueling. The side panels on the right and left provide storage for tools and an air jack, allowing crew members to respond immediately to problems such as tire flats.
	Fog lamps The truck is equipped with 6 supplementary HID lamps made by Koito Manufacturing. The HID lamps, which light the road ahead as bright as daylight, are critical in racing the Dakar Rally which involves extended night driving. Special films have been applied to these fog lamps and all other lights to protect them against damage from flying stones, and also provide protection while retaining light intensity.
	Cockpit The roll cage made of 70mm in diameter material fitted to the wide and high-roof spec cabin, racing bucket seats, and navigating instruments are tell-tale signs that this is a rally racer. However, because vehicles racing in the camion category are only allowed a minimum amount of modification -- such as modifications to safety equipment and navigation instruments -- the speedometer and dashboard are stock. The special bucket seats with improved cushioning were modified at Noguchi Soubi based on FIA regulation seats. Seat selection is also an important aspect of racing in the Dakar Rally where racers must race for long hours. The entire windshield is protected against flying stones by a special film made by Seiko-Stella. The film is also effective in heat insulation and UV reduction.

Assisting camions

HINO 700 Series
The HINO 700 Series, HINO's world-class large trucks, are used to support the racing trucks, the transport of spare parts, and mechanics. The assisting trucks are operated by "Japan Racing Management" and travel the bivouacs with mechanics riding in the trucks that they are in charge of. One cannot keep one's eyes off of these trucks, either.

Related Link: HINO 700 Series