Since last year, natural gas heavy trucks have become the “star” of China’s commercial vehicle industry. Engines with continuously improving thermal efficiency, more convenient refueling stations, and more cost-effective natural gas prices have been reshaping the market order for natural gas heavy trucks. In the first half of 2024, the market share of NG (natural gas) trucks in the domestic tractor market reached as high as 77%, and this trend is expected to continue to “heat up” in the second half of the year.
At the beginning of this year, FAW Jiefang introduced the J7 tractor equipped with a 16-liter 6SX1 large-displacement natural gas engine, specifically targeting the fast freight logistics segment. This model aims to meet user demands for strong power, low gas consumption, high reliability, comfort, and extended maintenance intervals. Now, with half of 2024 already passed, the Jiefang J7 6SX1 has achieved sales of 5,000 units, solidifying its position as a favorite in the natural gas heavy truck market. Its positive reputation in the market also attests to its appeal. So, what exactly makes Jiefang’s natural gas heavy trucks so attractive? Let’s take the Jiefang J7 6SX1 as an example to explore the reasons, and provide some insights for truckers considering purchasing a natural gas heavy truck.
Strong Power: “High-Horsepower” Products Gain Popularity
Currently, “high-horsepower” products are becoming the new competitive arena in the natural gas heavy truck market. Most natural gas heavy trucks undertake tasks such as long-distance logistics and mountainous transportation. High-horsepower trucks provide stronger driving force when climbing, effectively reducing the impact of gradient resistance, wind resistance, and rolling resistance. This significantly enhances the vehicle’s acceleration performance, reduces the driver’s need for frequent gear shifts, and ensures uninterrupted power delivery, making the driving experience more comfortable.
The Jiefang J7 6SX1 is equipped with the CA6SX1 16L engine, which delivers a maximum output of 600 horsepower and a maximum torque of 2800 N·m, the highest power output among domestic engines in its class. Technologically, this engine employs the high-efficiency Miller cycle combustion technology, intelligent high-precision low pump loss wake-up technology, and DownSpeed powertrain technology, achieving a leap in performance through technical means. The braking power reaches 460 horsepower, representing the highest level in the industry. In an era where detailed operating conditions and scenarios are emphasized, particularly in mountainous areas at 3,000 meters or plateaus at 5,000 meters, the Jiefang Power CA6SX1 engine can maintain power without degradation.
Smart Power Domain: Balancing “Efficiency” and “Profitability”
In addition to high horsepower and stable operation, natural gas heavy trucks must also balance “efficiency” and “profitability.” To ensure that users’ money is spent where it matters most, FAW Jiefang has introduced the development concept of “Smart Domain, Command the Future.” The new CA6SX1 engine leads the industry in comprehensive transmission efficiency, with the engine, gearbox, and axles calibrated to the actual operating conditions of Chinese truckers, resulting in excellent fuel efficiency. The vehicle’s three key components collectively achieve a 3% higher transmission efficiency than industry standards, with joint calibration and unique technology ensuring stable fuel efficiency during operation. Verified by real operational data, the Jiefang J7 6SX1 has a lower average fuel consumption per 100 kilometers than its peers, significantly reducing costs. For truckers engaged in fast freight logistics, this also means they can achieve higher transportation efficiency at a lower operating cost.
Five-fold Guarantee: Comprehensive Service Measures
Whether for individual truckers or large and medium-sized logistics fleets, transportation demands long-term reliability and punctuality. Frequent maintenance visits can take up substantial transportation time, costing both time and money for companies and individuals alike, and potentially leading to various losses. Therefore, FAW Jiefang has implemented five core service guarantee policies for the Jiefang J7 6SX1, ensuring users can operate without worries. These include:
- Five-year warranty – The warranty for the engine block, crankshaft, connecting rod, and camshaft is extended to 60 months.
- Engine replacement – Within two years, if the engine block, crankshaft, connecting rod, or camshaft requires open cover repairs, the entire engine assembly can be replaced.
- Downtime compensation – Compensation of RMB 1,200 per day for vehicle repairs caused by engine quality issues.
- GAP insurance – Additional insurance coverage beyond standard policies.
- Two complimentary engine services – Starting from August 1st, purchasers of the J7 600 horsepower 6SX1 will receive two complimentary engine services.
By focusing on the stability, economy, and other key performance aspects of its products, and continuously optimizing them to meet customer needs, FAW Jiefang has laid a solid foundation for achieving high sales. Coupled with the Jiefang J7 6SX1’s attractive appearance, high comfort level, fuel efficiency, and peace of mind, it’s clear why Jiefang natural gas heavy trucks are widely favored. Additionally, compared to models from other brands, Jiefang trucks are of higher quality and have a better resale value. All these factors make it easy to understand why Jiefang’s natural gas trucks are the top choice for many truckers.
