Sinotruk skid trailer: an innovator in port transport efficiency powered by MAN technology

As global port logistics enters a transformation toward automation, efficiency, and low carbon, trailers, core equipment for port cargo handling, face multiple challenges: balancing heavy-duty loads with flexibility, balancing efficiency with costs, and integrating traditional technologies with intelligence. Leveraging its deep technical collaboration with MAN of Germany, Sinotruk has integrated MAN's proven heavy-duty truck chassis technology and powertrain with the high-frequency transshipment and multi-operating-condition adaptability required by port transportation scenarios. This has resulted in a product portfolio featuring the Haohan series of sliding trailers. Leveraging its core strengths—MAN-powered powertrains, intelligent suspension systems, and lightweight, heavy-duty structures—the series has become a staple at major hub ports such as Tianjin and Shanghai, and has demonstrated international reliability at cross-border logistics hubs such as the China-Laos Railway Port. This article will analyze how Sinotruk's sliding trailers, leveraging advanced technology to reshape the value of port transportation and become the "efficiency engine" of modern ports, focusing on four key dimensions: technological heritage, core innovation, application scenarios, and a service ecosystem. 1. Technological Inheritance: Localized Innovation of MAN Heavy-Duty Truck Genetics

The core competitiveness of Sinotruk's sliding trailers stems from the comprehensive integration of German MAN heavy-duty truck technology and customized optimization for port operations. From the powertrain to the chassis and suspension, every key technology inherits MAN's design philosophy of "durability, efficiency, and low energy consumption." At the same time, they have been specifically upgraded to address the characteristics of port transportation: short distances, high frequency, alternating between empty and loaded vehicles, and narrow and complex operating conditions. This creates a unique advantage of "international technology + local adaptation." MAN Powertrain Technology: Dual Guarantee of Efficiency and Reliability

Port transport's core powertrain requirements are "no troubleshooting during frequent starts and stops, effortless heavy-load starting, and low fuel consumption at low speeds." The MAN engines used in Sinotruk's sliding trailers precisely meet these requirements:

The MC05 engine: Serving as the primary power source for light-duty sliding trailers (such as the Haohan 4×2 port tractor), this engine, derived from the MAN D08 series, has a 4.5L displacement, a power range of 210-250 HP, and a maximum torque of 950 Nm. It utilizes a dual fuel system consisting of a "high-pressure common rail + electronically controlled VE pump" design. Under the common port operating conditions of "idling, low-speed driving, and frequent starts and stops," it achieves fuel economy improvements of 12%-15% compared to comparable domestic engines. Its B10 lifespan reaches 1 million kilometers, meaning 90% of engines can operate without major repairs for 1 million kilometers, far exceeding the industry average of 800,000 kilometers, significantly reducing maintenance downtime for port fleets.

The MC11 engine: Designed for heavy-duty sliding trailers (such as the T7H 6×2 model), it features a 10.5L displacement, a power range of 400-440 HP, and a maximum torque of 2100 Nm. Utilizing MAN's patented "exhaust gas turbocharger intercooler + high-efficiency aftertreatment" technology, it not only meets China VIb emission standards but also achieves a 20% reduction in acceleration time compared to similar vehicles when fully loaded at 49 tons, making it perfectly suited to the port's demanding transshipment needs to meet shipping deadlines and meet efficiency requirements. The engine is mated to the Sinotruk HW series transmission independently developed by the company. The HW21716STL transmission inherits MAN's precision gear design, boasting a transmission efficiency of 98.7% and an 18% shorter shift stroke. Combined with "port-specific shifting logic" (enhanced low-speed gear ratios and amplified starting torque), it enables precise control and flexible steering in the confined container yards. Select high-end models are also available with a ZF 12-speed automatic manual transmission equipped with a "MAN-specific shift strategy" that automatically adjusts shift timing based on cargo load (identified by suspension pressure sensors). This delays upshifts when heavily loaded to maintain power output and advances shifts when unladen to reduce fuel consumption, resulting in fuel savings of 5%-8% compared to manual transmissions.​
2. MAN Technical Chassis: Balancing Heavy Loads with Flexible Structure

The core technical challenge of port sliding trailers lies in "both withstanding the heavy load of containers and achieving flexible maneuverability in confined spaces." Sinotruk's optimized design based on the MAN TGS chassis platform perfectly addresses this dilemma:

High-strength, lightweight frame: Utilizing MAN's patented "trapezoidal cross-section + variable-thickness flange" design, the frame is constructed from Q700-grade high-strength steel with a yield strength of 700 MPa, a 27% increase in strength compared to the Q550 steel used in conventional trailers. Topological optimization eliminates material in non-load-bearing areas, resulting in a frame weight 180 kg lighter than comparable products. Yet, it can easily withstand the concentrated load of a 40-foot container (approximately 35 tons), with frame deformation limited to less than 3 mm (compared to the industry average of 5 mm). Intelligent Lifting Axle System: Drawing on MAN TGS's mid-lift technology, Sinotruk's sliding trailers innovatively utilize a 7-airbag ECAS electronically controlled suspension (e.g., T7H 6× [no matching content found]). This system, powered by WABCO's electronic control system, achieves dual functions: intelligent axle load distribution and automatic axle lifting. When driving unladen, the mid-axle automatically raises the tires to 120mm above the ground, reducing tire wear (measured tire life extension when unladen has been measured by 30%). During heavily loaded steering, the system automatically distributes the load between the secondary and tertiary axles (dynamically adjustable between 30:70 and 50:50), addressing the "heavy steering" and uneven tire wear characteristics of traditional 6×2 trailers. Steering effort is reduced by 40% compared to conventional models, while tire wear is reduced by 25%.
MAN Technical Axle: The drive axle utilizes the MAN MCY13 series, and the axle housing utilizes a "one-piece forging + CNC boring" process, resulting in a bending strength of 1000Nm. 1800MPa, combined with a wheel-side speed reducer and anti-slip differential lock, effectively prevents wheel slippage on slippery surfaces and slopes common in ports, such as dock approach bridges, achieving a 100% start success rate (compared to approximately 85% for conventional axles). SKF hub bearing units are used at the wheel ends, utilizing oil lubrication instead of grease, extending the maintenance interval to 100,000 kilometers and reducing maintenance by 50% compared to conventional axles.

II. Core Innovation: Customized Technological Breakthroughs for Port Use

SINOTRUK's sliding trailers are not simply a collection of technologies; rather, they feature targeted technological innovations focused on the three core requirements of port transportation: efficient transshipment, safety protection, and intelligent management. From the trailer connection mechanism to the intelligent control system, every design feature is focused on improving single-container transshipment efficiency and reducing operational risks.

1. Efficient Sliding Connection System: Container Docking in 3 Minutes

The efficiency of the container-trailer connection directly determines the overall efficiency of port transshipment. The innovative "intelligent sliding saddle" system developed by SINOTRUK's sliding trailers transforms traditional methods of transshipment. Docking time reduced from 20 minutes to 3 minutes:

The electric sliding saddle: Driven by a German Siemens servo motor, the saddle has a sliding travel of 800mm, adapting to the docking requirements of various container sizes from 20 to 40 feet, with a sliding accuracy of within ±2mm. Equipped with a dual alignment system of "laser positioning + camera assistance," the driver can complete the entire process of "automatic positioning - precise docking - locking confirmation" via a 10-inch touchscreen in the cab, without having to exit the vehicle for adjustments. This single-person operation is six times more efficient than traditional manual saddles.

The fast locking mechanism: Drawing on the locking technology of MAN's specialized port trailers, it utilizes a "dual-cylinder synchronized drive + mechanical anti-drop buckle" design, achieving a locking time of just 15 seconds and a locking force of 500kN (withstanding 35 The inertial impact force of a 20-ton container); equipped with a pressure sensor to monitor the locking status in real time. If the locking is not in place, the system immediately triggers an audible and visual alarm and cuts off power output to prevent container detachment accidents.

Adaptive Height Adjustment: Leveraging the ECAS electronically controlled suspension system, the saddle height can be infinitely adjusted between 900-1300mm with an adjustment accuracy of 10mm. This adapts to container chassis of varying heights (such as standard containers, ultra-high containers, and open-top containers) without the need for gasket replacement or suspension adjustment, significantly reducing vehicle adaptation time.

2. Intelligent Operation System: Data-Driven Efficiency Optimization

SINOTRUK's sliding trailers are equipped with the "Smart Sinotruk" port-specific management platform, integrated with MAN remote diagnostic technology, providing the port fleet with full-process intelligent services including real-time monitoring, fault warning, and dispatch optimization.

Real-time Data Collection: The onboard terminal collects over 180 pieces of data in real time, including engine speed, water temperature, oil pressure, saddle lock status, and tire pressure. This data is uploaded to the platform via a 5G network and can be accessed by managers via a computer or mobile phone. The app allows users to view vehicle location and operation progress (such as the number of completed transfers and current load status). If any issues such as engine overheating, tire flatness, or locking anomalies occur, the platform will immediately send warning messages, with a response time of 10 seconds or less.

Remote Diagnosis and Maintenance: Leveraging MAN's "Remote ECU Diagnostic System," service engineers can access vehicle control unit data through the platform and remotely locate over 90% of electrical faults (such as sensor failure and electronically controlled suspension failure) without on-site disassembly, identifying the faulty component and improving repair efficiency by 60%. The platform automatically generates maintenance reminders based on vehicle operating hours (port trailers operate an average of 16 hours per day) and recommends the nearest service station to avoid component damage caused by missed maintenance intervals.

Smart Fleet Scheduling: The platform features "multi-vehicle coordinated scheduling" that automatically plans optimal transport routes based on container yard location, ship arrival times, and vehicle load status, minimizing empty distances and optimizing operation sequences. Data from a logistics company at Tianjin Port shows that after implementing this system, the fleet's idle driving rate has dropped from 22% to 10%. 14%, with the average daily transfers per vehicle increasing from 12 to 16, generating approximately 12,000 yuan in additional revenue per vehicle per month.

3. Safety and Protection Configuration: Comprehensive Protection for Complex Port Environments

Port operating environments present safety risks due to mixed traffic, cramped spaces, and frequent loading and unloading. Sinotruk's sliding trailers feature comprehensive designs, encompassing both active and passive safety features:

360° Surround View Monitoring System: Equipped with six high-definition cameras (front, rear, side, and seat), it displays a 360° panoramic image within the cab. It also features pedestrian recognition and collision warning. When a pedestrian or obstacle is detected within a 5-meter radius, the system automatically issues an audible and visual alarm and applies light braking to prevent a collision within the vehicle.

Roll Stability Control: Leveraging the lateral stability function of the ECAS suspension system, the system adjusts the pressure of the airbags on both sides in real time when the vehicle is cornering or driving on an inclined surface, limiting the vehicle's roll angle to within 3° (the industry average is 20°). 5°), effectively preventing container rollover when heavily loaded. Combined with the MAN Technology axle's anti-slip differential lock, the system achieves a 100% success rate of starting on slippery surfaces (such as at a dock after rain).

Cabin Safety Structure: Utilizing the MAN TGS cab's high-strength steel frame and crush-type energy-absorbing structure, it meets EU ECE R29 collision regulations. In the event of a frontal collision, the cab can be moved back 150mm to cushion the impact. Equipped with dual airbags and seatbelt pretensioners, an optional rollover protection cage (ROPS) protects the driver in extreme rollover situations.

III. Application Scenarios: Covering All Port Transport Conditions

SINOTRUK's sliding trailers utilize a modular combination of powertrain configuration, suspension system, and connection mechanism to create three product lines: light-load, standard-load, and heavy-load. These products fully cover the three core port scenarios of empty container transshipment, loaded container transport, and special container operations, demonstrating efficiency, reliability, and economy in all operating conditions.

1. Empty Container Transfer Scenario: A Lightweight, Efficient Cost Optimizer

For the "short-distance, high-frequency" transfers at port empty container yards, the Haohan 4x2 Lightweight Sliding Trailer (equipped with the MC05 engine) is the optimal choice:

Operational Adaptability: This vehicle, developed specifically for empty container transport (launched in 2016), weighs only 5.8 tons (600kg lighter than comparable vehicles) and can accommodate the transfer of 20-40-foot empty containers (weighing 2-4 tons). Equipped with an "electrically lifted center axle," it raises the center axle when empty, reducing tire wear by 40% and achieving fuel consumption as low as 18L/100km (compared to approximately 23L for a standard 6x2 trailer).

Operational Value: After an empty container logistics company at Shanghai Port deployed 50 of these vehicles, each vehicle averaged 22 empty container transfers per day (each covering a distance of 0.8-1.5 km), achieving improved efficiency compared to the conventional light trucks they were previously using. 57%; due to reduced fuel consumption and extended tire life, monthly operating costs per vehicle are reduced by approximately 8,000 yuan, with a payback period of just 14 months.

Customized Optimization: To meet the empty-to-loaded container transport needs of cross-border ports (such as Qinzhou Port in Guangxi), this model can be equipped with an optional "Quick Switch Saddle." The preparation time for switching from a 20-foot empty container to a 40-foot loaded container (maximum weight 30 tons) is only 10 minutes, a 75% reduction compared to traditional models. This perfectly meets the multi-format container transshipment needs of ports along the Belt and Road Initiative.

2. Heavy Container Transport Scenario: A Reliable and Efficient Guarantee for Heavy Loads

For the transfer of heavy containers (weighing 20-35 tons) from the terminal front to the storage yard, the T7H 6×2 sliding trailer (equipped with an MC11 engine and 7-airbag suspension) has become the main equipment due to its strong heavy-load capacity and flexible steering.

Operating Condition Adaptation: This model is equipped with the MAN MC11 technology. The 440HP engine, HW21716 transmission, and 5.29-ratio MCY13 drive axle can easily handle a 49-ton fully loaded pier approach with an 8% gradient, reducing acceleration time by 25% compared to similar vehicles. The 7-airbag ECAS suspension system automatically adjusts axle load distribution based on the weight of the container (the load ratio between the two axles can be adjusted between 25% and 40%), ensuring uniform tire contact pressure and avoiding the "heavy-load tire wear" problem common with traditional trailers, extending tire life by 30%.

Operational Value: After the Tianjin Port Container Terminal deployed 30 of these vehicles, through coordinated scheduling using the "Smart Sinotruk" platform, each vehicle now completes an average of 16 loaded container transfers per day (each trip a distance of 2-3 kilometers), a 23% improvement in efficiency compared to the previously used imported trailers. The long-life design of the MAN engine (B10 lifespan of 1.2 million kilometers) extends the overhaul interval to 100,000 kilometers, reducing maintenance costs compared to imported trailers. 45%.
Extreme operating conditions: In the winter temperatures of -15°C at Qingdao Port, this model's "MAN Technology Low-Temperature Starting System" (glow plug + fuel heating) can achieve -30

The system was successfully started up once, and the attendance rate remained above 98%, far higher than the industry average of 90%, ensuring uninterrupted port transportation in winter.​
3. Specialty Container Operations: Provider of Flexible and Customized Solutions

For the transport of specialized containers commonly found at ports, such as ultra-high containers, open-top containers, and reefer containers, Sinotruk offers customized sliding trailer solutions:

Ultra-high container transport: By lowering the saddle height to 900mm (compared to 1100mm for standard models) and integrating foldable guardrails, this system can transport ultra-high containers up to 3.2 meters in height. The ECAS system also lowers the vehicle's center of gravity by 80mm, improving driving stability by 25%.

Refrigerated container transport: A refrigerated unit power supply port (optional 220V/380V) is installed on the side of the vehicle frame. Combined with an insulated saddle design, this ensures that the temperature fluctuation of the reefer container during transport is ≤1°C, meeting the transport requirements of cold chain goods such as food and pharmaceuticals.

Dangerous goods container transport: Equipped with run-flat tires, an electrostatic grounding device, and a fire extinguisher mounting bracket, and featuring a 3-meter-long fireproof partition between the cab and the cargo box, this system fully complies with GB 9001 standards. The requirements for hazardous goods transport vehicles in the "Technical Conditions for Motor Vehicle Operation Safety" (7258-2024) have been implemented in large quantities at the Ningbo Port Chemical Products Terminal.

IV. Service Ecosystem: A Full-Lifecycle Guarantee System for Port Scenarios

The high-end positioning of Sinotruk's sliding trailers is reflected not only in their product technology, but also in the dedicated service ecosystem they have built for port users. From pre-sales customized consultation to rapid after-sales response and lifelong technical support, each service meets the operational needs of 24/7 port transportation, addressing the concerns of difficult maintenance of high-end equipment and significant downtime losses.

1. Pre-sales: Customized Port Solution Design

To address the differences in terminal layout, container types, and operational processes across different ports, Sinotruk provides a dual-team service of "MAN technical experts + port logistics consultants." By researching a port's average transshipment distance, average daily operations, and cargo type ratio, and incorporating MAN's technical parameter database, they customize a customized solution combining powertrain configuration, suspension system, and intelligent equipment. For example, the "MC11 engine + AMT gearbox + automatic docking system" is recommended for the automated terminal of Tianjin Port, and the "MC05 engine + manual gearbox + basic monitoring system" is recommended for small and medium-sized ports to ensure "precise matching and optimal cost" between vehicles and scenarios.
2. After-Sales Service: Port-Specific Rapid Response
SINOTRUK has established "Sliding Trailer Dedicated Service Stations" at 12 major ports nationwide (including Tianjin, Shanghai, and Guangzhou). These stations are staffed by MAN-certified technicians (all technically trained at MAN's headquarters in Germany) and equipped with specialized repair equipment (such as MC engine test computers and ECAS suspension adjustment instruments). They provide 24-hour port assistance services:

Response Time: Within the port area, we guarantee a response within 15 minutes, on-site arrival within 1 hour (compared to 3 hours for standard road assistance), and resolution of common faults (such as electrical faults and saddle issues) within 4 hours.

Spare Parts Guarantee: We stock core MAN technology components (such as MC engine blocks, ECAS airbags, and intelligent saddles) at each port service station, with spare parts arrival time ≤ 2 hours (compared to 48 hours for standard service stations).

Spare Vehicles: We offer a "1:10" service for large customers purchasing over 20 units annually. A proportion of spare vehicles is available. If a vehicle needs major repairs (such as engine failure), a spare vehicle can be provided immediately to ensure uninterrupted port operations.​
3. Value-Added: Port Operation Empowerment Services
To help port users improve operational efficiency, Sinotruk provides three core value-added services:

MAN Technical Training: Courses taught by MAN certified instructors cover topics such as MC engine maintenance, ECAS suspension operation, and intelligent system usage. These courses ensure drivers and maintenance personnel master the operating techniques of high-end equipment. After training, drivers' fuel consumption has decreased by an average of 5%, and maintenance personnel's troubleshooting time has been reduced by 40%.

Financial Support: In collaboration with Bank of China, we have launched a dedicated port trailer financing solution, offering low interest rates (under 3.2% annually), long loan terms (up to 5 years), and flexible repayments. Down payments start at 20%, and repayment amounts can be adjusted based on the port's peak and off-peak seasons (higher repayments during peak season, lower repayments during off-peak season), alleviating financial pressure on businesses.

Used Vehicle Replacement Service: For Sinotruk sliding trailers over three years old, we offer a trade-in service. The appraised value of the used vehicle is 10%-15% higher than the market average, and comes with one year of free maintenance, reducing the cost of upgrading equipment.
Conclusion: Promoting Port Logistics Upgrades with Technological Innovation

At a critical time when global ports are transitioning towards "smart ports and green ports," Sinotruk's sliding trailers, through the combination of MAN technology heritage, port scenario innovation, and intelligent system empowerment, not only address the pain points of port users facing the challenges of balancing heavy loads with flexibility, efficiency with costs, and integrating traditional and intelligent technologies, but also redefine the value proposition of port trailers—evolving from a "sole transport tool" to a "port efficiency optimizer, operating cost controller, and smart logistics participant."

Moving forward, as port automation continues to improve, Sinotruk will continue to deepen its technological collaboration with MAN, exploring cutting-edge areas such as hydrogen fuel cell sliding trailers (already piloted at Tianjin Port) and Level 4 autonomous port systems (jointly developed with Huawei). These efforts aim to provide modern ports with more efficient, greener, and smarter transportation solutions, driving global port logistics towards zero emissions, full automation, and high efficiency.