In the world of commercial vehicles, Hino trucks have earned a reputation for reliability and longevity. While heavy-duty Hino models are often seen logging well over a million kilometres, achieving such a milestone with a smaller, two-ton urban truck is far less common. Yet that is precisely what Green’s Radiator Service has celebrated with its Hino 200, 4-093.
Purchased new in 2006 from Rand Stadium Toyota in The Glen, Johannesburg, the Hino 200 has faithfully served the company for 19 years. Despite covering nearly one million kilometres in stop-and-go urban traffic, the truck has required only routine servicing along with brake and clutch maintenance. Remarkably, none of its major drivetrain components have needed replacement, and all maintenance has been carried out by Hino Isando.
The hardworking truck continues to play an essential role in the business, collecting and delivering radiators, intercoolers, and charge air coolers to customers across industrial sectors, including mining, locomotive, generator, and automotive industries. Its standard drop-side body remains fully functional, and it is still in daily operation despite an odometer now stuck on 999 999 km.
Over its nearly two-decade career, only four drivers have been entrusted with the Hino 200, with Samuel Kubheka, a 25-year veteran of Green’s Radiator Service, handling the majority of the kilometres.
Bradley Green, director of Green’s Radiator Service, says the company’s loyalty to Hino trucks runs deep. “We are most impressed by the reliability and durability of our Hino trucks and find them well suited to our type of operation. We only replace them with a new Hino when necessary.” The company currently operates a four-truck fleet, including three Hino 300-series models – the 714, 816, and 915 – alongside the enduring Hino 200.
The milestone achieved by this Hino 200 is a testament to both the vehicle’s engineering and the company’s commitment to regular maintenance, proving that even smaller commercial trucks can deliver extraordinary longevity when treated well.
