A semi-trailer truck is a commercial vehicle used to tow semi-trailers, connecting to the trailer via a fifth wheel or kingpin, and is used for long-distance freight transport. It differs from a full trailer in the position of the trailer's front axle and the way weight is distributed. The semi-trailer's center of gravity is located towards the rear and the weight is shared with the tractor unit. They are commonly used to transport goods such as cars and containers.
The Chinese semi-trailer tractor market has developed rapidly since China joined the WTO. In 2010, sales reached 354,600 units, with models having a gross trailer weight of 25-40 tons accounting for 92%. The new energy vehicle sector is developing rapidly; in the first half of 2025, the number of pure electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles announced increased by 15% year-on-year, with the 6×4 drive configuration accounting for 81%. Regarding safety technology, from July 2025 onwards, newly manufactured vehicles will be required to be equipped with intelligent devices such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Automatic Emergency Braking Systems (AEBS).
