In a remarkable display of endurance and engineering excellence, Hino has once again solidified its status as one of the most resilient competitors in the grueling Dakar Rally. The only Japanese manufacturer in a field of 44 trucks, Hino upheld its unblemished record of always having at least one finisher in every Dakar Rally it has contested since its debut in 1991.
Team Hino Sugawara, the official entrant of Hino racing trucks in the Dakar, fielded a single truck in the 2025 edition of the rally, continuing the approach taken over the past four years. The formidable machine, piloted by an all-Japanese crew consisting of team director and driver Teruhito Sugawara, co-driver and navigator Somemiya Hirokazu, and mechanic Mochizuki Yuji, secured a commendable 13th-place finish in the demanding competition. This achievement marks Sugawara’s 20th consecutive Dakar finish, an impressive milestone that sees him match the record set by his father, Yoshimasa Sugawara, a Dakar legend who competed in 36 Dakar rallies and founded Team Hino Sugawara in 1992.
Despite facing a field dominated by larger European manufacturers, many of whom run trucks equipped with significantly larger engines, the Hino’s 9-litre power unit once again proved its mettle. Built on the bonneted 600 Series model—sold exclusively in North America—the four-wheel drive Hino rally truck shares drivetrain specifications with the 500 Series models available in South Africa, reinforcing Hino’s reputation for durability and performance in extreme conditions.
The 2025 Dakar Rally presented competitors with one of the toughest routes in recent memory, covering a total distance of 7,826 km, with 4,903 km consisting of special timed racing sections over 14 days. The first leg of the rally was particularly brutal, featuring two double stages where outside servicing was strictly prohibited at overnight stops. This placed immense pressure on the teams, requiring meticulous vehicle management, strategic tire conservation, and relentless perseverance.
Hino’s steadfast commitment to reliability and performance was once again evident as its racing truck withstood the punishing terrain and extreme conditions. “The Hino South Africa team and our dealers are once again delighted that the racing truck has been able to continue its amazing reputation of reliability in the toughest motorsport event in the world,” commented Itumeleng Segage, Hino SA General Manager.
With yet another Dakar Rally finish in the books, Hino continues to exemplify the spirit of endurance racing, proving that precision engineering, meticulous preparation, and an unwavering commitment to performance can overcome even the most challenging landscapes.
