HOWO tanker truck: a benchmark for safety and efficiency in hazardous chemical transportation, enabled by MAN technology

As global energy logistics transitions toward safety, standardization, low carbon efficiency, and intelligent connectivity, tank trucks, core equipment for hazardous chemical transportation, face multiple challenges: balancing explosion-proof safety with operational efficiency, ensuring heavy-duty endurance with regulatory compliance, and integrating traditional driving with intelligent management. Leveraging its deep technical collaboration with MAN of Germany, Sinotruk's HOWO series combines MAN's proven heavy-duty powertrain and high-strength chassis technology with the core requirements of tank trucks for leak prevention, explosion resistance, and precise metering. This has resulted in a comprehensive tank truck product portfolio, exemplified by the HOWO TX and HOWO MAX. Leveraging its core strengths—MAN powertrain technology, comprehensive explosion protection systems, and an intelligent hazardous chemical monitoring platform—these models have become a staple for major domestic refineries and chemical companies (such as CNPC and Sinopec) and cross-border energy logistics (such as the China-Vietnam oil and gas pipeline). They have also passed stringent standards, including the EU ECE R29 crash certification and China's mandatory 3C certification. This article will analyze how HOWO tanker trucks, through four dimensions: technological heritage, core innovation, scenario applications, and service ecosystem, reshape the value of hazardous chemical transportation with high-end technology, becoming the "dual engine of safety and efficiency" for modern energy logistics.

I. Technological Heritage: Customization for Hazardous Chemical Scenarios with the DNA of MAN Heavy-Duty Trucks

HOWO tanker trucks' core competitiveness stems from the comprehensive integration of German MAN heavy-duty truck technology and customized optimization for hazardous chemical transportation scenarios. From the powertrain to chassis protection, every key technology inherits MAN's design philosophy of "durability, safety, and low energy consumption." At the same time, they have been specifically upgraded to address the operating conditions of tanker trucks, characterized by long-distance, heavy-load transport, flammability, and explosiveness, and strict regulatory compliance. This creates a unique advantage of "international technology + local adaptation."​
1. MAN Powertrain: Double Guarantee of Efficiency and Compliance

The core requirements for power systems in hazardous chemical transportation are "long heavy-load endurance, emissions compliance, and stable operation." The MAN engines used in HOWO tanker trucks precisely meet these requirements:

MT13 Gas Engine: As the main power source for the HOWO TX China VI series tanker trucks, this 13L gas engine, derived from MAN technology, delivers 440 horsepower and 2100 Nm of torque. Utilizing "Precision Injection + Stoichiometric Combustion" technology, it achieves a fuel consumption of just 28-32 kg/100 km, reducing carbon emissions by over 30% compared to comparable diesel engines. Its emissions directly meet China VIb standards, eliminating the risk of vehicle replacement due to environmental policy upgrades. The B10 engine boasts a lifespan of 1.5 million kilometers, with 90% of engines achieving 1.5 million kilometers without major maintenance, far exceeding the industry average of 1 million kilometers. This significantly reduces maintenance downtime for energy logistics companies. With over 40,000 hours of bench testing and over 5 million kilometers of road testing, the MC07 diesel engine ensures stable operation in extreme temperatures ranging from -30°C to 45°C, perfectly suited for both winter oilfield transshipment in northern China and high-temperature refining and chemical transportation in southern China.

The MC07 diesel engine: Designed for lightweight tanker trucks (such as the HOWO 3.8L series light trucks), it features a 6.8L displacement, a power range of 280-320 horsepower, and a maximum torque of 1200 Nm. Utilizing MAN's patented "exhaust gas turbocharger with intercooler + efficient aftertreatment" technology, it achieves an 8%-10% reduction in fuel consumption per 100 kilometers compared to comparable domestic engines at a full load of 20 tons. Combined with the HW19710 gearbox independently developed by Sinotruk, the transmission efficiency reaches 98.5%, and the shift stroke is shortened by 15%. In the "multi-slope, short-radius" transportation scenario from oil depots in mountainous areas to gas stations, it achieves the dual advantages of "low-speed, high-torque, effortless climbing, and high-speed cruising with low fuel consumption." MAN Technical Chassis: Structural Support for Safe and Heavy-Duty Transport

The core technical challenge of tanker trucks lies in "both withstanding the dynamic loads of liquid media and meeting the explosion and collision protection requirements of hazardous chemical transportation." HOWO's optimized design based on the MAN TGS chassis platform perfectly addresses this contradiction:

The high-strength, lightweight frame utilizes MAN's patented "trapezoidal cross-section + variable-thickness flange" design. The frame is constructed from Q610 high-strength steel, achieving a yield strength of 610 MPa, a 32% increase over the Q460 steel used in conventional tanker trucks. Topological optimization eliminates material from non-load-bearing areas. Combined with lightweight components such as aluminum alloy wheels and an aluminum alloy fuel tank (the HOWO MAX series' aluminum alloy fuel tank has a total capacity of 700L), the vehicle's curb weight is 300-500kg lighter than comparable vehicles. Within the regulatory gross weight limit, payload is increased by 8%-12%, resulting in a 1.5-2 ton increase in single-trip transport volume and a potential annual increase in transport revenue of over 60,000 yuan. Frame deformation is controlled within 2mm (the industry average is 4mm), ensuring the tank remains stable when fully loaded and preventing the risk of seal leakage caused by frame deformation.

Explosion-proof dedicated suspension system: Drawing on MAN's specialized suspension technology for hazardous chemical vehicles, HOWO tank trucks utilize an innovative "3/5+3 reinforced suspension" equipped with a lateral stabilizer bar and two-way shock absorbers. During sharp cornering and emergency braking, the vehicle's roll angle is controlled within 3° (the industry average is 5°), effectively preventing center of gravity shift caused by "tank swaying" caused by liquid media. To address the frequent alternation between unloaded and loaded tank trucks, the suspension system automatically adjusts the damping coefficient using pressure sensors. When unloaded, the shock absorber stiffness is reduced by 30%, reducing tire wear (measured tire life extension of 25%). When loaded, the stiffness is increased by 50%, ensuring stress concentration is eliminated at the connection between the tank and the frame, preventing the risk of weld cracking due to long-term use. Anti-corrosion and explosion-proof treatment: The chassis is sprayed with three layers of seawater anti-corrosion coating before leaving the factory, undergoing a salt spray test for over 1,000 hours. This coating offers twice the corrosion resistance of ordinary paint coatings, making it perfectly suited for the high-humidity, high-salt transportation environment between refineries and oil depots in coastal areas. Key frame connections are treated with a dual rust-proofing method of galvanizing and plastic spraying. Bolt torque is calibrated using a German Dürr intelligent tightening system, ensuring no loosening during long, bumpy transportation and structurally eliminating the risk of friction sparks caused by component detachment.

II. Core Innovation: Customized Technological Breakthroughs for Hazardous Chemical Applications
HOWO tank trucks are not simply a collection of technologies. Instead, they feature targeted technological innovations focused on the three core requirements of hazardous chemical transportation: explosion-proof safety, precise metering, and intelligent monitoring. From the tank design to the monitoring system, every design element is focused on reducing safety risks and improving operational efficiency.
1. Comprehensive Explosion-Proof System: Eliminate Safety Hazards at the Source

The core safety of tanker trucks lies in preventing explosions and leaks. HOWO's innovatively developed "three-level explosion-proof protection system" covers safety requirements throughout the entire process, from the tank to the operator's terminal:

The explosion-proof tank design utilizes 5mm-thick 610L high-strength steel plate and one-piece welding. The tank welds are 100% X-ray inspected and free of defects such as pores and slag inclusions. The tank is equipped with a Graco explosion-proof subsea valve with a closing response time of ≤0.5 seconds. In the event of a collision or a tilt exceeding 15°, it automatically disconnects the tank from the pipeline, preventing fuel leaks. The top of the tank features a dual "breathing valve + flame arrester" device. The flame arrester core utilizes a corrugated stainless steel structure to effectively prevent external flames from entering the tank, achieving a fire protection rating that meets BS EN 1834-1:2016 standards. Customizable "wave-proof panels" can be installed inside the tank for different media (gasoline, diesel, and lubricating oil) to reduce static electricity generated by liquid sloshing. The static grounding resistance is ≤10Ω, far below the national standard requirement of 50Ω.

Explosion-proof electrical system: All electrical components on the vehicle, including cameras, sensors, and wiring harnesses, utilize an Ex d IIB T4 Ga explosion-proof design, ensuring safe operation in hazardous environments containing gasoline vapor. A 3-meter-long fireproof barrier, constructed from a rock wool and steel composite structure, is installed between the cab and the tank. With a fire resistance rating of 1.5 hours, this provides the driver with ample time to escape even in the event of a tank fire. The vehicle is equipped with two independent static grounding systems: an automatic reel-type grounding clamp (with real-time grounding resistance monitoring) and a tire conductive rubber strip. These dual systems ensure that static electricity is promptly conducted to the ground, preventing static accumulation and sparks. Active Safety: Equipped with a 360° Surround View + Collision Warning system, six high-definition, explosion-proof cameras capture real-time information about the vehicle's surroundings, displaying a comprehensive 360° image on the 12-inch touchscreen in the cab. When an obstacle or pedestrian is detected within a 5-meter radius, the system immediately issues an audible and visual alarm and applies gentle braking. Equipped with the EBS (Electronic Braking System) and ESC (Electronic Stability Control) system, the system automatically distributes braking force to each wheel during emergency braking on slippery roads, shortening stopping distance by over 15%. If the vehicle begins to slide, the ESC system can individually apply the brakes to individual wheels to correct the vehicle's posture and prevent a rollover.​
2. Intelligent Hazardous Chemical Monitoring Platform: Data-Driven Safety Management
HOWO tankers are equipped with Sinotruk's independently developed dual-mode, dual-standard intelligent connected platform, integrating Beidou positioning with 4G/5G communication technologies. This platform provides hazardous chemical transport companies with comprehensive intelligent services, including real-time monitoring, compliance management, and remote diagnostics.
Real-time Data Collection: The onboard terminal collects over 200 data items, including engine speed, water temperature, oil pressure, tank pressure, liquid level, and electrostatic grounding status, and uploads them to the platform via an encrypted network. Managers can view vehicle location, speed, remaining fuel, and other information via a computer or mobile app. If there are any speeding (the speed limit for hazardous chemical transport is 80 km/h), deviation from the designated route, or abnormal tank pressure, the platform will immediately issue an alert with a response time of 10 seconds or less. To meet the demand for precise measurement in fuel transportation, the system automatically calculates loading and unloading volumes using level sensors with an error of 0.5%, eliminating losses and disputes caused by manual measurement. Compliance Operation Management: The platform features "electronic waybills + track playback" functionality, seamlessly integrating with the national hazardous chemicals transportation regulatory platform. Vehicle operation data is automatically uploaded to ensure compliance during transportation. The system also incorporates an "e-fence" function. When a vehicle enters a restricted area (such as a school or residential area) or deviates from a preset route, the platform remotely limits or locks the vehicle, and provides voice prompts to the driver to correct the route. For driver behavior management, the platform monitors dangerous maneuvers such as sudden acceleration, braking, and sharp turns in real time, generating driver behavior score reports to help companies standardize driving habits and reduce accident risks.

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 brake system malfunctions). This allows them to identify the faulty component without on-site disassembly, improving repair efficiency by 60%. The platform automatically generates maintenance reminders based on vehicle mileage and operating hours, recommending the nearest explosion-proof repair service station to prevent component damage caused by missed maintenance schedules. For example, when 10% of the engine oil life remains, the platform will remind users to change the oil immediately and provide information about nearby service stations certified to repair hazardous chemical vehicles.

3. Efficient Loading and Unloading System: Improving Transfer Efficiency

The loading and unloading efficiency of fuel tankers directly impacts overall operational efficiency. HOWO tankers have undergone specialized technical optimizations to meet the requirements of "fast loading and unloading, and reduced waste":

Efficient loading and unloading pipelines: Utilizing large-diameter Φ100mm stainless steel pipelines with quick connectors, loading and unloading speeds are 30% faster than conventional Φ80mm pipelines, reducing the loading and unloading time of 20 tons of fuel to under 30 minutes (compared to 45 minutes for standard vehicles). The pipelines are equipped with an integrated "filtration + pressure regulation" device that filters impurities from the fuel (with a filtration accuracy of up to 10μm) while also stabilizing loading and unloading pressure to prevent excessive pressure from causing pipeline rupture or fuel splashing.​
Automatic Loading and Unloading Control: High-end models are available with an optional "Automatic Loading and Unloading Control System." The driver can complete the entire process of "pipeline connection - pressure testing - loading and unloading operations - and pipeline recovery" via the in-cab touchscreen, eliminating the need to manually exit the vehicle. This not only improves efficiency but also reduces the risk of driver contact with fuel. The system features a "load and unloading volume preset" function, which allows the loading and unloading volume to be preset based on the destination tank capacity. Once the preset volume is reached, the system automatically stops, preventing spills or underloading.

Residual Oil Recovery: An "residual oil recovery device" is installed at the end of the pipeline. After loading and unloading, the remaining fuel in the pipeline is returned to the tank. This reduces fuel loss by 0.5-1 liter per loading and unloading operation. Based on 300 operations per year, this translates to a reduction of 150-300 liters per year, saving the company operating costs.​
III. Scenario Applications: Covering the Full Range of Energy Transportation Requirements
HOWO tank trucks utilize a modular combination of powertrain configuration, tank specifications, and intelligent equipment to form three product lines: light trucks, medium trucks, and heavy trucks. These fully cover the three core scenarios of oilfield exploration and transshipment, refinery-to-oil depot transportation, and gas station delivery. They demonstrate the advantages of safety, efficiency, and economy in all operating conditions. 1. Oilfield Exploration and Transportation: A Reliable Partner in Extreme Environments
For the harsh road conditions and extreme temperature swings found in oilfield exploration areas (such as the Karamay and Daqing oilfields in Xinjiang), the HOWO heavy-duty truck series tanker truck (equipped with an MT13 gas engine) is the optimal choice.
Adaptable: Equipped with a 440-horsepower MT13 engine and HW25712 transmission, coupled with 11.00R20 all-steel off-road tires, this model can easily handle complex road conditions such as gravel roads and ramps, with a maximum climbing grade of 30%. The large-capacity 700L aluminum alloy fuel tank (HOWO MAX series) provides a range of 2,500 km, reducing refueling times in remote areas. Equipped with a "low-temperature starting system" (glow plug + fuel heater), the vehicle can successfully start in temperatures as low as -30°C on the first try, maintaining an availability rate of over 98%, far exceeding the industry average of 90%. Operational Value: After an oilfield transportation company deployed 20 of these vehicles, each vehicle completed an average of two fuel transfers per day from the oilfield to the transit depot (a one-way distance of 150 kilometers), a 25% improvement in efficiency compared to conventional tanker trucks. The MT13 engine's low fuel consumption (28 kg per 100 km) reduced monthly fuel costs per vehicle by 12,000 yuan, resulting in a payback period of just 18 months. The vehicle's high reliability reduced maintenance downtime by 40% compared to conventional vehicles, ensuring a consistent fuel supply for oilfield exploration.

Interruption.

Customized Optimization: To address the high dust and vibration environments of oilfields, the vehicle can be customized with an enlarged air filter and chassis guard. The air filter's filtration area is increased by 50%, reducing engine intake resistance while also preventing sand and gravel from impacting chassis components. The cab is constructed of 30% high-strength steel, meeting the latest EU R29 collision regulations and enhancing driver safety. 2. Refinery to Oil Depot Transport: A Heavy-Load, High-Efficiency Workhorse

For long-distance, heavy-load, highway transport from refineries to large oil depots, the HOWO TX China VI series tanker truck (equipped with an MC07 diesel engine) has become a key player due to its strong heavy-load capacity and low fuel consumption.

Suitable for use: Equipped with a 320-horsepower MC07 engine and HW19710 transmission, coupled with 9.00R22.5 vacuum-free tires, this model can handle a full load of 31 tons (gross mass) while consuming only 26L/100km (compared to approximately 30L for standard models). The 40-cubic-meter tank capacity allows it to transport 28 tons of diesel fuel (density 0.85g/cm³) per trip, improving transport efficiency by 33% compared to standard 30-cubic-meter tanks. The vehicle is equipped with an "Intelligent Fuel Saving System" that automatically adjusts engine fuel injection based on speed and load, reducing fuel consumption by an additional 5% when cruising on highways (80 km/h).

Operational Value: After a large refinery deployed 50 of these vehicles, coordinated scheduling via the "Intelligent Connected Platform" enabled each vehicle to complete an average of one transfer per day from the refinery to the oil depot (a one-way distance of 300 kilometers). This reduced the fleet's idle rate from 25% to 18%, and increased monthly revenue per vehicle by approximately 8,000 yuan. The MC07 engine's long-life design (B10 life of 1.2 million kilometers) extends the overhaul interval to 80,000 kilometers, reducing maintenance costs by 40% compared to conventional vehicles. Compliance Performance: This vehicle fully complies with the requirements for hazardous chemical transport vehicles in GB 7258-2024, "Technical Conditions for Motor Vehicle Operation Safety," including explosion-proof electrical systems, electrostatic grounding, and fire isolation. It has passed the mandatory 3C certification and the Ministry of Transport's hazardous chemical transport vehicle access certification, allowing it to operate nationwide in compliance with regulations.