The 2025 Hino National Skills Contest showcased more than technical ability — it highlighted how digital tools, telematics insights and hybrid technology are reshaping the skills required across modern dealerships.
Service technicians used virtual-reality diagnostic headsets fitted with heat-sensing cameras and remote collaboration features. General Manager – Service & Customer Support Gus Belanszky calls the technology “amazing,” noting that head office can dial in to assist a technician anywhere in Australia. “Sometimes it’s just about wanting to see what the technician sees,” he says.
Telematics also played a major role. Brian Wright says Hino-Connect is now integral to discussions with customers: “It assists with customers managing the uptime of their truck through the 24/7 diagnostics.” With activation above 90 percent on eligible models, dealership staff must be fluent in interpreting and explaining data.
Hybrid technology continues to feature strongly in customer conversations. Wright says Hybrid Electric offers fleets a practical step forward: “You can lower your fuel consumption, lower your emissions without compromising payload or operational range.” He notes that many fleets appreciate the simplicity — Hybrid Electric requires no charging infrastructure.
The Skills Contest helps ensure teams understand how these technologies translate to everyday operator outcomes: fuel saving, emissions reduction, driver fatigue improvements and predictable servicing. As Belanszky notes, technicians must now manage advanced safety systems and emission controls: “They’re pretty complex bits of gear.”
For fleets watching the transition to cleaner and more digital transport, the contest demonstrates how Hino is aligning its workforce with modern requirements. The combination of VR, telematics and hybrid training shows that the brand is preparing not only trucks for the future — but the people behind them.
