Sinotruk's HOWO Trucks Cement Export Leadership, Accelerate New Energy Push in Global Markets
Jinan, China | June 2025 – Sinotruk's flagship HOWO brand continues to dominate global heavy-duty truck exports while rapidly expanding its new energy vehicle (NEV) portfolio, solidifying its position as a key driver of China's commercial vehicle growth.
Export Powerhouse Maintains Momentum
HOWO trucks remain the undisputed leader in China's heavy truck export sector, commanding over 50% of the country's overseas shipments. First-half 2025 sales data confirms sustained strong demand across Africa, Southeast Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East. Recent milestones include a 700-unit order from the Philippines for mining and logistics applications and the inauguration of a new assembly plant in Mexico to serve the North American market. HOWO's success is attributed to its rugged durability, market-specific adaptations (like desert-cooling packages for the Middle East), and competitive total cost of ownership.
New Energy Portfolio Gains Traction
Accelerating its decarbonization strategy, Sinotruk is deploying HOWO-branded electric and hydrogen trucks in targeted sectors:
Electric: Over 200 HOWO pure-electric concrete mixers and dump trucks commenced operations in zero-emission urban construction zones across 10 Chinese cities. Port logistics fleets in Shenzhen and Tianjin have also adopted HOWO electric terminal tractors.
Hydrogen: HOWO hydrogen fuel cell dump trucks have begun commercial trials on the "Shandong Hydrogen Corridor," covering heavy-duty routes exceeding 400km per fill. Government-backed demonstration projects in Hebei province are testing the viability for long-haul transport.
Hybrid: Development of HOWO plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models for regional haulage is advancing, with field testing expected in Q3 2025.
Global Localization Deepens
Beyond exports, HOWO is strengthening its global footprint through local production. Newly expanded knockdown (KD) factories in Nigeria and Pakistan significantly increased output capacity in Q2 2025. These facilities enhance market responsiveness, reduce costs, and create local jobs while ensuring parts and service support aligns with regional needs.
Intelligent & High-End Models Elevate Offerings
The premium HOWO TH7 series, featuring Level 2+ driver assistance systems (including adaptive cruise and lane-keeping), is gaining acceptance in domestic long-haul logistics. Enhanced connectivity, digital cockpits, and optimized powertrains (notably the fuel-efficient S-AMT16 transmission paired with WP14T engines) are becoming key selling points for fleet operators prioritizing efficiency and driver comfort.
Industry Outlook
"Sinotruk's dual focus on dominating traditional export markets with proven HOWO platforms while aggressively investing in zero-emission technologies positions them uniquely," noted Li Wei, Senior Analyst at Automotive Insights Asia. "Their extensive global service network and localization strategy provide a critical edge as competition in international markets intensifies."
Sinotruk is expected to unveil further enhancements to its HOWO NEV lineup and next-generation smart truck platforms at the upcoming China International Commercial Vehicle Show (CICVS) in November.
