Jul 1, 2003 12:00 PM

In a move aimed at increasing its presence in the United States truck market, Hino Motors Ltd has announced a restructuring of its distribution company, Hino Diesel Trucks (USA) Inc (HDT).

As part of this effort, Hino has entered into an investment agreement with PCP Holdings Inc, a wholly owned subsidiary of Penske Corp, along with its existing partners in HDT: Mitsui & Co Ltd, Mitsui & Co (USA) Inc. A formal agreement was signed May 24, 2003.

HDT will build a nationwide sales and service network that will offer a new line of conventional medium-duty trucks incorporating Hino Diesel engines and American-produced driveline components.

The new company has named Derek Kaufman senior vice-president — sales, marketing, and customer support. He brings 25 years of heavy-transportation experience to Hino including roles with Euclid, Freightliner, and Penske.