In an industry as dynamic as the heavy truck sector, two decades can witness tremendous transformations. Over the past 20 years, many once-prominent heavy truck brands have faded into obscurity. However, amidst this sweeping change, a few brands have managed to defy the odds and thrive. Among them, China National Heavy Duty Truck Group’s (CNHTC) HOWO brand stands out, its brilliance shining ever brighter with time.
As the first single truck brand in China to exceed 2 million units in production and sales, HOWO has rightfully earned the title of “Sales King.” Internationally, the HOWO brand has played a crucial role in CNHTC’s consecutive years of leading truck exports from China.
HOWO is not just a name; it is a legend.
Two Decades of Exploration and Achievement
The birth of HOWO coincided with a golden era for China’s heavy truck market. Between 2000 and 2002, the market experienced a rapid surge. Recognizing this historical opportunity, CNHTC set ambitious production and sales targets: 35,000 units by 2004, 70,000 units by 2007, and 100,000 units by 2010.
On October 28, 2004, after a year of meticulous development, the first HOWO truck rolled off the new assembly line at CNHTC’s Jinan Truck Company, marking the beginning of China’s heavy-duty vehicle technology aligning with international standards. HOWO trucks were renowned for their spacious cabs, advanced engine combustion control, and sophisticated electrical systems. The trucks featured the world’s largest single-stage reduction axle and China’s highest-level intelligent control system. These innovations quickly made HOWO a household name, achieving production and sales of over 10,000 units in its first year and more than 20,000 units by 2006, accounting for a third of CNHTC’s annual sales and initiating large-scale exports.
The HOWO-7 set the benchmark as the most advanced heavy truck in China upon its debut. The subsequent HOWO-A7 integrated years of technical innovation from CNHTC, becoming a pinnacle of domestic heavy trucks. The HOWO TH7, equipped with a global-exclusive easy-shift transmission and a high-efficiency 590-horsepower natural gas engine, ushered in the era of powerful gas trucks. The HOWO T5G, as the world’s first L4 pure electric unmanned container truck, and the first-generation intelligent truck, HOWO T7H, launched in quick succession, heralding the dawn of intelligent domestic heavy trucks.
Craftsmanship and Customer Trust
HOWO’s resilience lies in its ability to absorb and adapt foreign technologies for local needs. In 2003, CNHTC introduced Volvo’s truck technology, embedding its essence into the HOWO series. The trucks met global safety standards, featuring unique suspension systems for optimal shock absorption on any terrain.
In 2009, CNHTC integrated German MAN’s technology, including engines, axles, and entire vehicle systems. This collaboration brought engines that were 15 years ahead of global standards. Moreover, CNHTC adopted MAN’s meticulous development approaches and management techniques, enhancing product consistency and quality.
After three years of rigorous development, the HOWO T7H and T5G, incorporating MAN’s technology, debuted in late 2012 and became CNHTC’s flagship models. During the heavy truck market downturn in 2015, HOWO T7H sales surged by 97.38%, and T5G sales by 130.23%, demonstrating their market resilience.
Global Recognition for Quality
HOWO’s journey from a domestic leader to an international icon is marked by strategic global expansion and deep understanding of market needs. Since 2004, CNHTC has steadily increased its international presence, with HOWO trucks becoming synonymous with reliability in various global markets.
HOWO’s ability to meet local regulations and adapt to user preferences has solidified its international reputation. In 2012, HOWO A7 trucks with Euro V engines were exported to Brazil, marking China’s first batch export of trucks meeting such stringent standards. In 2013, HOWO A7 trucks broke into the highly regulated Hong Kong market. By 2017, HOWO trucks were being exported to Ireland, symbolizing China’s heavy truck industry’s entry into the European market.
Standing in 2024 and reflecting on 2004, the remarkable 20-year journey of HOWO is no accident. It embodies a commitment to innovation, quality, and international collaboration. This legacy of perseverance and excellence continues to drive HOWO forward, securing its place in the future of the global heavy truck industry.
