Time flies, and twenty years have swiftly passed. On October 28, 2004, the Howo series heavy-duty truck, representing the pinnacle of domestic heavy vehicle technology, rolled off the production line at Sinotruk, marking China’s alignment with advanced international heavy-duty vehicle technologies.
From its inception, Howo has been a symbol of cutting-edge technology in domestic heavy trucks. The brand has continuously illuminated the path of technological innovation for two decades, playing a crucial role in the growth of China’s commercial vehicle industry.
Milestones of Innovation and Breakthroughs
Each step of Howo’s journey is marked by innovation and breakthroughs. In 2008, the Howo A7, symbolizing the highest standards in China’s heavy-duty truck industry, was launched in Jinan. Every four years, the brand has reached new heights, with Howo A7 becoming not only a domestic pinnacle but also leading China’s heavy-duty trucks towards world-class standards.
In 2013, the comprehensive launch of the Howo T7H series marked its synchronization with the most advanced European technologies, solidifying its industry-leading position. Over the years, the Howo T7H has helped numerous users achieve their entrepreneurial dreams.
Entering the era of intelligent manufacturing, Howo focused on technological advancements and leadership. In 2016, Sinotruk’s first intelligent heavy-duty truck debuted, heralding a new era. On April 12, 2018, the world’s first L4-level pure electric unmanned Howo T5G container truck began trial operations at Tianjin Port, setting a new industry record. On January 17, 2020, 25 autonomous electric container trucks, independently developed by Sinotruk, performed the world’s first fully automated docking operation at Tianjin Port, establishing a “Chinese model” for smart port upgrades.
Today, Sinotruk’s intelligent trucks are active in mines, ports, and logistics parks, providing more solutions for China’s logistics equipment and continuously leading the progress of smart truck manufacturing.
Responding to Market Needs
In 2020, the Howo TX and TH7 models were launched following comprehensive technical upgrades, addressing genuine market and user demands, and leading a new trend in the commercial vehicle industry. In December of the same year, Sinotruk Group’s annual production and sales of commercial vehicles surpassed 500,000 units, setting historical records for various economic indicators and marking significant progress in corporate reform and development.
Embracing New Era Trends
In October 2021, the Howo MAX model was launched, embodying Sinotruk’s innovative spirit and confidence in integrating with modern cultural trends. The MAX model highlights enhanced safety, energy efficiency, and environmental protection, with a unique Euro VI warranty service policy provided in collaboration with Weichai. This policy includes a seven-year or 700,000-kilometer warranty for Euro VI components and extends the B10 engine life to 1.8 million kilometers, offering substantial benefits and value to customers.
As the flagship brand of Sinotruk, Howo spans heavy, medium, light, passenger, and specialty vehicles. From the first Howo unit to the 1 millionth and 2 millionth units, the brand has become the first in the domestic truck industry to exceed 2 million units in production and sales, earning the title of “sales champion” in the domestic market.
Upcoming Celebrations and Future Prospects
Howo, a symbol of national pride in heavy-duty trucks, carries numerous firsts and honors in China’s heavy truck industry. Adhering to the principle of “customer satisfaction is our goal,” Howo continues to innovate and stay at the forefront of the market. Supported by Sinotruk’s robust R&D capabilities, it consistently delivers products that meet users’ needs. In June 2024, the “Howo Brand 20th Anniversary Celebration” will be held, during which a new flagship product will be unveiled. What surprises will Sinotruk Howo bring in the next 20 years? Let’s look forward to it together.
