Sinotruk prepares European market entry with electric and diesel trucks

Sinotruk is preparing its entry into the European truck market. Some vehicles have already been delivered for exhibitions, demonstrations and testing, while the first small-batch deliveries are expected in the first quarter of 2027. The Chinese manufacturer plans to proceed gradually, building up a service and spare parts network while also developing financing solutions for customers.

The company sees greater opportunities for its diesel trucks in Eastern Europe, while its electric models are primarily aimed at Western and Northern European markets. Sinotruk has also identified its Steyr facility in Austria as a potential assembly location for vehicles destined for Europe and, potentially, other markets.

A 600 kWh electric tractor for long-haul transport

Among the vehicles showcased at IAA Transportation in Hannover was the battery-electric SITRAK 4×2 tractor, with a kerb weight of 10.1 tonnes and designed for combinations of up to 44 tonnes.

Its 600 kWh battery provides a claimed range of around 500 kilometres. According to Sinotruk, energy consumption can be as low as 1.1 kWh/km, while charging from 20 to 80% can take approximately 23 minutes when connected to sufficiently powerful charging infrastructure.

The cab is equipped with driver assistance systems and technology providing visibility around the vehicle. For rest periods and life on board, equipment also includes a refrigerator, microwave and coffee machine.

An electric 6×2 for Northern Europe and an 8×4 tipper

The electric SITRAK 6×2 rigid has been developed for operations involving long distances, heavy loads, cold climates and deliveries over different types of routes. The vehicle is aimed particularly at Nordic markets.

The wheelbase measures 4.9 metres between the first and second axles and 1.4 metres between the second and third. The chassis can accommodate a body of around 45 cubic metres and can also tow a trailer. The platform is designed for combinations of up to 64 tonnes where regulations allow, while the third axle can be automatically lifted depending on the load.

For construction and mining applications, Sinotruk displayed an electric SITRAK 8×4 tipper. It has a kerb weight of 11.9 tonnes, a gross vehicle weight of 32 tonnes and a 450 kWh battery, with a claimed range of 350 kilometres.

The powertrain uses a centrally mounted motor connected to conventional axles, a configuration selected by the manufacturer to cope with the demands of more severe-duty applications.

Sinotruk’s European-oriented line-up also includes an electric 4×2 light-duty vehicle for urban distribution and a diesel 4×2 tractor for long-haul transport.

Charging, energy storage and battery swapping

Alongside the trucks, Sinotruk presented an energy solution combining wind and solar power generation, energy storage, charging and battery swapping.

The system includes a microgrid designed to support sites where grid connection capacity is limited and can also be configured to operate independently. Fixed and mobile battery-swapping stations are part of the concept, alongside chargers with stated outputs ranging from 7 to 800 kW.

This broader energy offer complements Sinotruk’s approach to the European transport market. Rather than focusing exclusively on vehicle purchase price, the Chinese manufacturer is also addressing maintenance, aftersales support and charging availability – factors that will ultimately determine whether the first trials can develop into regular fleet operations.