Sinotruk Howo semi-trailer tractor | Can LNG become a new choice for logistics transportation?

Sinotruk Howo Lng Trucks

In June 2026, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) released the 408th batch of the “Announcement of Road Motor Vehicle Manufacturers and Products,” which included the Howo brand ZZ4257Y424KF1L semi-trailer tractor truck submitted by China National Heavy Duty Truck Group Jining Commercial Vehicle Co., Ltd. This model is positioned as a high-horsepower LNG clean energy heavy-duty truck, suitable for long-distance trunk logistics and bulk commodity transportation. It will officially obtain market sales qualification after the public announcement period.

Sinotruk Howo Lng Trucks

Multiple Specifications to Cover Diverse Transportation Needs

The Howo semi-trailer tractor truck submitted this time offers a wide range of configuration options. The body length is available in two specifications: 7415mm and 7615mm. The width is uniformly 2530mm, and the height covers eight parameters ranging from 3270mm to 3980mm, corresponding to different cab configurations, fairings, and optional roof-mounted air conditioning. The wheelbase is available in two options: 3825+1350mm and 3800+1400mm, matched with a front overhang of 1465mm and a rear overhang of 750-975mm, adaptable to the passability requirements of different transportation scenarios. It features an approach angle of 19 degrees and a departure angle of 33 degrees, ensuring good handling capabilities in complex road conditions.

Sinotruk Howo Lng Trucks

The curb weight is available in two versions: 8800kg and 9600kg, both with a gross vehicle weight of 25000kg. The corresponding maximum permissible load capacity for the semi-trailer saddle is 16070/16005kg and 15270/15205kg respectively (the difference depends on whether the cab can accommodate 2 or 3 people). The gross vehicle weight for the trailer can reach 40000kg and 39200kg respectively, meeting the transportation needs of different load scenarios. Tire specifications are available in five options, including 12R22.5 18PR and 295/80R22.5 18PR. Leaf spring counts offer over 20 combinations, such as 2/3, 2/4, and 2/5 leaf springs, allowing users to choose lightweight or heavy-duty configurations based on their operational scenarios.

High-horsepower LNG engine meets China VI emission standards.

In terms of power, this model is equipped with a WP16NG720E61 LNG engine produced by Weichai (Weifang) Gas Power Co., Ltd., with a displacement of 15690ml, a maximum power of 529kW (approximately 720 horsepower), and a net power of 524kW. It meets the GB17691-2018 China VI emission standards and is one of the most powerful mass-produced LNG heavy-duty truck engines currently available in China, perfectly suited to the high-horsepower, low-operating-cost requirements of efficient long-haul logistics. The maximum speed is selectable at 102 km/h or limited to 89 km/h. It is equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) and an EBS electronic stability control system (controller manufactured by Jinan Fuqiang Power Co., Ltd., China National Heavy Duty Truck Group). A driving recorder with satellite positioning function is standard, and an ETC on-board unit is optional, meeting the current intelligent and compliant operation requirements of the freight market.

Sinotruk Howo Lng Trucks

Multi-dimensional Optional Equipment to Adapt Personalized Needs

In terms of exterior configuration, this model offers a wide range of optional equipment, including different cab designs, fairings, gold logos, roof/side markings, roof-mounted air conditioners, sun visor markings, mirror appearances, and different step designs. Users can customize the vehicle’s appearance according to their company’s image requirements. The chassis supports optional appearance and layout of components such as gas cylinders, side mufflers, battery boxes, air tanks, and air filters. Different mudguard mounting brackets, rear structures, rear parking wedges, taillight appearances, rear wheel arch appearances, mudguard markings, and work lights are also available, fully meeting the personalized usage needs of different regions and transportation scenarios.

SWOT Analysis of this Model

Strengths: Leveraging the brand influence of China National Heavy Duty Truck Group (CNHTC), the world’s leading heavy-duty truck manufacturer, and the mature manufacturing experience of Jining Commercial Vehicle Company in the Howo series heavy-duty truck field, this model’s 720hp Weichai LNG engine is among the top-tier in the industry, boasting outstanding power performance. Its rich optional configurations can cover diverse needs, and CNHTC’s comprehensive after-sales service network and parts supply system can effectively reduce users’ later operating costs.

Sinotruk Howo Lng Trucks

Weaknesses: The 9600kg curb weight version does not offer a significant weight advantage compared to other LNG heavy-duty trucks in its class, potentially affecting loading capacity in standard load transportation scenarios. Furthermore, the current LNG heavy-duty truck market is crowded with competitors offering similar high-horsepower products, requiring further differentiation to highlight the product’s competitive advantage.

Opportunities: Currently, LNG fuel prices in China have a cost advantage over diesel. Long-haul logistics continue to drive demand for high-horsepower clean energy heavy-duty trucks. In 2025, Sinotruk’s heavy-duty truck exports exceeded 150,000 units. This model can leverage the group’s global channels to expand into overseas markets. Simultaneously, domestic “dual-carbon” policies are driving demand for clean energy commercial vehicles, providing market space for increased sales volume.

Sinotruk Howo Lng Trucks

Threats: New energy heavy-duty trucks (pure electric and hydrogen fuel cell) have experienced rapid growth in recent years. In 2025, Sinotruk’s sales of new energy heavy-duty trucks are projected to increase by 230% year-on-year. In the long term, this will put pressure on the LNG heavy-duty truck market. Furthermore, intense competition in the heavy-duty truck industry, with price wars among leading companies like FAW Jiefang and Shaanxi Automobile potentially squeezing profit margins for this model, could further reduce its profitability.

Sinotruk Howo Lng Trucks