MAXUS to showcase near-production 40-tonne electric truck at IAA 2026
MAXUS will use IAA Transportation 2026 to look beyond the vans and pick-ups for which it is currently known in Europe. The SAIC-owned brand will showcase a near-production 40-tonne electric truck alongside an autonomous RoboVAN concept, while strengthening its German operations through direct distribution.
MAXUS will bring a near-production 40-tonne battery-electric truck to IAA Transportation 2026, offering a first indication of how the Chinese commercial vehicle manufacturer could expand beyond its established van and pick-up business in Europe.
The heavy-duty eTruck will be displayed in Hannover as a technology preview rather than the announcement of an immediate European market launch. According to MAXUS, the vehicle will also be used to gather feedback directly from European fleet operators and assess potential future applications in long-haul transport.
Technical specifications have not yet been disclosed, leaving important questions such as battery capacity, range, charging performance and payload unanswered ahead of the show.
MAXUS also brings autonomous logistics to Hannover
Alongside the 40-tonne electric truck, MAXUS will showcase the RoboVAN, a technology demonstrator designed to explore AI-supported, highly automated last-mile logistics.
The two vehicles broaden the scope of a brand that has so far built its European commercial vehicle presence primarily around light commercial vehicles. At IAA, MAXUS will also present its updated Model Year 2027 range, including combustion-powered and fully electric vans and pick-ups.
The Hannover appearance comes as MAXUS strengthens its organisation in Germany. Since September 1, vehicle distribution in the country has been handled directly through SAIC Motor Deutschland GmbH, replacing the previous distribution structure.
According to the company, the move is intended to shorten decision-making processes and provide dealers and fleet customers with more direct access to manufacturer-level sales and after-sales support. MAXUS will reveal further details about its strategy and new products during its IAA press conference on September 14.
