KATHMANDU: A new commercial vehicle holding company, Archion, has started operations in Japan. The company is backed by Toyota Motor and Daimler Truck.
Archion combines Hino Motors and Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus under one group. It aims to improve global competitiveness and scale.
The company was listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange on the same day. Shares opened at $2.5 and closed at $2.7, marking an 8% rise. Hino Motors was delisted earlier, while Mitsubishi Fuso was not previously listed.
Toyota Motor and Daimler Truck remain key shareholders. Both plan to reduce their stakes to 25% each. Together, they currently hold over 80% of shares.
Archion targets a position among the world’s top 10 truck makers. The merger brings combined revenue of around $15.8 billion. This remains below Isuzu Motors, which reported about $20.2 billion.
The integration process began in 2023 but faced delays. Regulatory approvals and Hino’s emissions scandal slowed progress. Final approval came from Japan’s competition authority in February 2026.
The new group will retain both Hino and Mitsubishi Fuso brands. It plans to streamline operations and launch new models by fiscal year ending March 2027.
The move comes as Chinese truck makers expand globally. Companies like FAW Trucks and Dongfeng Motor are gaining market share. BYD is also growing in electric trucks and buses.
Archion sees Southeast Asia as a key market after Japan. The company aims to improve efficiency and compete with rising players from China and India.
