Sinotruk’s Magnificent Seven
Sinotruk’s Magnificent Seven
At the IAA Transportation 2024 in Hanover, Sinotruk attracted scores of visitors to its substantial stand, which showcased seven advanced new vehicles.
The stand marked a notable shift from the company’s smaller presence in its previous participation at the IAA six years ago. The 2024 exhibition demonstrated Sinotruk’s growing ambitions and capabilities, underpinned by an array of cutting-edge commercial vehicle technologies and innovations. The company clearly means business!
Yellow River X7 breaks records
Among the vehicles showcased, the futuristic Yellow River X7 4×2 truck tractor stood out due to its unique, streamlined design. Both the tractor and trailer feature a droplet-like shape, significantly reducing the drag coefficient to 0.286, which – according to Sinotruk – is 40% lower than that of comparable trucks. This aerodynamic efficiency translates into energy savings of up to 10%, positioning the Yellow River X7 as an efficient option in its class.
A key feature of the Yellow River X7 is its hydrogen internal combustion engine, which delivers 530hp and 2,700Nm of torque, offering a range of over 800km. Additionally, the model is available with a diesel engine, and Sinotruk reports that this model recently set a Guinness World Record for the longest distance driven on a single tank, covering a staggering 4,871km.
A pair of Sitrak trucks
Sinotruk also showcased two Sitrak vehicles. One of these was an electric model equipped with a 600-kWh battery capable of an output of 825kW, giving it a range of up to 450km. The battery can be charged to 80% in just 20 minutes, demonstrating significant improvements in charging efficiency.
The other Sitrak model on display was a fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV), which featured a 300-kW fuel cell system and eight 350-litre hydrogen tanks.
Its hydrogen fuel cell system, developed by Foresight-Energy (a subsidiary of Sinotruk), is installed beneath the cab. The system generates 300kW of power with an efficiency of 48%, reaching up to 65% under optimal conditions. According to Sinotruk, it boasts a lifespan of 30,000 hours and can operate in temperatures as low as -40°C. The fuel cell system is equipped with self-learning and self-calibration capabilities, allowing it to adapt to different driving conditions, such as driving style and ambient temperature.
The FCEV’s eight 350-litre hydrogen storage cylinders, which are manufactured by Voith, each have a pressure of 70MPa. This setup provides a total capacity of 2,800 litres (112kg of compressed hydrogen) and the system enables a refuelling rate of 180g/s, allowing the tanks to be fully refuelled in under 10 minutes. Thanks to various energy-saving technologies, the FCEV’s hydrogen consumption is less than 9.5kg/100km, enabling a range of up to 1,200km.
HOWO Tongshuai Pro light truck
Among the other vehicles exhibited, the HOWO Tongshuai Pro light truck stood out for its efficiency and long-range capabilities. This model features a centrally mounted
100-kWh blade battery pack, capable of fast charging from 20 to 80% in just 20 minutes. The vehicle offers a range of 300km on a single charge, making it a viable option for urban and regional deliveries.
Bolden bakkie launched
Sinotruk also unveiled the Bolden bakkie, which has a super bold and distinctive design. It features a so-called “long face” inspired by the Chinese dragon, with LED headlights resembling a dragon’s whiskers.
The off-road version measures 5,400mm in length, 1,965mm in width, and 1,898mm in height, providing spaciousness, stability, and manoeuvrability. The cargo box is 1,520mm long, 1,520mm wide, and 530mm deep, and is equipped with high-strength steel roll cages, a power tailgate, and a telescoping step ladder for easy access.
Powered by a Weichai Power WP2H 2.0 turbodiesel engine with 140kW of power and 420Nm of torque, the Bolden pickup can operate in temperatures as low as -40°C. It features a dual selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system to improve exhaust efficiency.
Off-road capabilities include a BorgWarner 4×4 system, three differential locks, and six off-road modes, supported by a 12,500-pound winch and K-MAN nitrogen shock absorbers, ensuring excellent performance across varied terrains.
The Bolden pickup has already been launched in China and is expected to be rolled out in global markets in the coming years.
Commitment to green and intelligent solutions
The IAA Transportation 2024 provided Sinotruk with a platform to fulfil its commitment to green, intelligent, and efficient solutions. The company’s focus on reducing emissions and enhancing vehicle efficiency was evident in the range of models presented at the fair, and was underscored by Wang Chen, Sinotruk’s executive vice president. “The products will be as powerful as the water surging into the sea,” he remarked, reflecting the company’s ambition to lead industry transformation. “We are so honoured to be on the journey of transforming the truck industry,” he emphasised.
Global reach
Since entering international markets in 2004, Sinotruk has topped export sales of heavy trucks in China for 19
consecutive years, with products exported to over 150
countries and regions. The company has built a comprehensive sales and service network across Asia, Africa, Europe, and South America, earning recognition for reliability and performance.
Launch dates
The vehicles launched at the IAA 2024 are planned to be sold in various international markets, including South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, the Middle East, Africa, Central and South America, and Southeast Asia. The South African models are planned to be introduced in the first half of 2026, with Australia and New Zealand following in the second half of 2027.
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