The bus sped across the East China Sea Bridge, a 30-kilometer-long structure that connects Shanghai to the open sea, and reached the newly developed Yangshan Port in just half an hour. The massive investment of over 100 billion yuan in the modern port infrastructure, along with the rapid increase in container throughput, has significantly boosted demand for low-speed tractors—vehicles essential for port operations. This growing need caught the attention of China National Heavy Duty Truck (CNHTC), China's leading manufacturer of heavy-duty vehicles.
On September 27, at the site of the Shanghai Yangshan Port, CNHTC delivered 54 low-speed terminal tractors, marking one of the largest single orders the company has received in recent years. This move highlights the company’s expanding role in supporting China’s logistics and port infrastructure.
As a top player in the heavy truck industry, CNHTC has not only dominated traditional segments like dump trucks and tractor-trailers but has also made significant strides in specialized vehicles such as low-speed tractors, snow removal trucks, fire engines, and cement mixers. The company has achieved notable breakthroughs in these niche markets, broadening its product portfolio and strengthening its market position.
In an interview after the delivery ceremony, CNHTC Chairman Ma Chunji emphasized the company’s strong sense of responsibility and commitment to innovation. He stated that CNHTC is dedicated to researching and developing advanced heavy vehicles, aiming to replace imported models and lead the industry in technological advancement. The recent large-scale order for low-speed tractors at Shanghai Port reflects the company’s long-term vision and determination to maintain its leadership in the Chinese heavy truck market.
Ma Jing, head of CNHTC Jinan Special Vehicle Co., Ltd., shared insights into the company’s early efforts in low-speed tractor development. Since 1998, CNHTC has been pioneering research in this field, launching the first prototype in 2000. Through continuous improvements, the company has tailored these vehicles to better suit domestic needs, making them popular among major Chinese ports.
According to Ma Jing, other domestic manufacturers began entering the low-speed tractor market around 2005. However, CNHTC was the first to match international standards in performance and functionality, filling a critical gap in the domestic market. These tractors are well-suited for short-distance, heavy-load operations in ports, airports, and logistics hubs.
Bao Qifan, vice president of Shanghai International Port Group, noted that previously, most low-speed tractors were imported. Now, with CNHTC offering cost-effective alternatives—priced at about one-third of foreign models—Shanghai is accelerating its partnership with the company. The procurement of these tractors is expected to enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs for local ports.
A representative from Yangshan Port added that CNHTC’s low-speed tractors offer competitive pricing, lower maintenance costs, and easy access to spare parts, making them ideal for domestic port operations. These vehicles are seen as practical and reliable solutions for the industry.
Over the past few years, CNHTC’s low-speed tractors have matured significantly, forming three series with 12 models. They have been widely adopted in major ports across China, including Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Qingdao, and Tianjin. Recently, the company has also started exporting small quantities of these vehicles overseas.
Currently, CNHTC’s low-speed tractors have achieved sales of over 120 units in Shanghai alone, with an annual production capacity of 2,000 units. The company is gradually replacing imported models in many ports that once relied on brands like Otva, Kamset, and Maffei. Compared to smaller competitors, CNHTC’s scale and reliability give it a clear advantage in the market.
Since the beginning of this year, the heavy truck market has seen unprecedented growth. CNHTC has performed exceptionally well, especially in the traditional sectors of dump trucks, tractors, and freighters. The company is on track to meet its goal of selling 100,000 units this year.
With its strong R&D investment and focus on innovation, CNHTC continues to expand into new market segments. It has become a leader in specialized vehicles, breaking the dominance of imported models and achieving “multi-flowering†across various industries.
CNHTC’s commitment to independent innovation and cost reduction has helped it carve out a unique path in the industry. Its special vehicle division has gained a solid foothold in the market, becoming a key driver of the company’s growth. As the heavy truck market becomes more competitive, CNHTC’s special vehicles are emerging as a powerful force in China’s transportation sector.
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