Artificial Intelligence
Domestic key components of domestic heavy truck control
The power performance of domestic heavy-duty vehicles has been steadily improving over the years. According to historical data, in 2001, the power range of China's leading heavy-duty engine models was between 180 and 210 horsepower. However, in recent years, with rapid development in the truck market, the dominant power range for heavy-duty trucks has increased significantly, now ranging from 260 to 300 horsepower.
Internationally, heavy trucks are trending toward higher power and greater tonnage. In the 1950s, the maximum power of trucks was around 150 kilowatts. By the end of the 1990s, this had risen to approximately 440 kilowatts. Experts predict that within the next 50 years, the maximum power of heavy trucks could reach as high as 735 kilowatts, with total vehicle mass potentially reaching 100 tons.
This shift towards higher power is shaping a new trend in global engine development. Heavy-duty trucks capable of carrying more than 15 tons are expected to see the highest market demand, while those exceeding 20 tons will continue to experience strong growth. High-tonnage, high-power, and high-end heavy trucks tailored for specialized transportation are likely to become the mainstream in China’s truck market.
However, this progress comes with challenges, particularly for parts manufacturers. One major issue is the lack of core technology. Compared to advanced foreign engines, China's engine technology lags by about 8 to 10 years. While foreign companies are producing engines with 500–600 horsepower, domestic engines only reach up to 400 horsepower. Additionally, many key components in the fuel supply system are still imported, despite ongoing research efforts.
In terms of transmission systems, domestic manufacturers also face limitations. Their technologies are largely based on foreign imports from the 1980s and 1990s. Although they have made progress, they still rely heavily on original designs and lack true core technologies. Currently, one-third of the heavy-duty transmission market in China is dominated by imported products, and most of the rest are based on foreign technology.
Another challenge lies in quality management. Despite having similar equipment to foreign counterparts, Chinese companies often struggle with consistency and product reliability. Some original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) still prefer to purchase foreign "original" parts due to concerns about quality. Improving management practices, staff training, and overall quality control is essential for catching up with international standards.
Product updates are also critical. Many components, such as axles introduced nearly 20 years ago, need to be replaced. The product structure is often too limited, and production lacks scale, leading to issues like poor sealing and gear noise. Companies must focus on enhancing product design, quality inspection, and reliability.
For example, in the engine industry, the reliability requirement abroad is that the failure rate within 800,000 kilometers should not exceed 10%. In China, such standards are not yet met, and many tests fall far short of even 100,000 kilometers. To improve, companies need extensive computational analysis and rigorous testing.
Overall, while China's heavy-duty vehicle industry is making progress, it still faces significant challenges in technology, quality, and innovation. Addressing these issues will be crucial for future competitiveness in the global market.
Dongguan Anding Technology Manufacturing Co., Ltd , https://www.cn-moulds.com