Howo or Shacman: the comparison
Howo or Shacman: they are two serious Chinese trucks from two different manufacturers. The Howo is built by Sinotruk in Jinan, the Shacman by Shaanxi Automobile in Xi'an. Both use technologies derived from the German company MAN. The right choice depends mainly on the exact version, the parts available near you and the mechanics who know them.
Howo and Shacman: two different manufacturers
These two brands are not related: they are competitors.
- Howo is a range of the Sinotruk group (China National Heavy Duty Truck Group), based in Jinan. The first Howo trucks left the factory in 2004. Since 2009, MAN has held 25% of Sinotruk's capital. We present the group in our article Sinotruk Howo: what is the difference?
- Shacman is the trade name of Shaanxi Automobile Group, founded in 1968 and based in Xi'an. Its heavy trucks are built by its subsidiary Shaanxi Heavy Duty Automobile, in which the engine maker Weichai holds a majority stake. Its best-known range, the F3000, has been produced since 2009.
The Howo Shacman comparison point by point
| Point | Howo (Sinotruk) | Shacman |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Sinotruk, Jinan | Shaanxi Automobile, Xi'an |
| Link with MAN | MAN a 25% shareholder since 2009 | MAN technologies used, notably for the cab and axles |
| Engines | Sinotruk (WD615, D12…) or Weichai depending on the version | Mostly Weichai, sometimes Cummins |
| Gearboxes | Sinotruk HW (for example HW19710) | FAST (for example 12JSD200) |
| Rear axles | Sinotruk HC16, MCY13… | MAN technology, built by Hande |
| Common ranges | Classic Howo, Howo A7, Howo TX and NX, Sitrak | F2000, F3000, X3000, H3000 |
| Configurations | 4x2, 6x4, 8x4 | 4x2, 6x4, 8x4 |
Both brands offer the same types of trucks: dump truck, tractor unit, tanker, concrete mixer and rigid truck. The gross weight allowed does not depend on the brand, but on the number of axles: in UEMOA, 26 tonnes for a 3-axle rigid truck and 31 tonnes for 4 axles.
Two comparable versions
To compare seriously, put two trucks with the same use side by side. Here are two 12-wheel dump trucks from our catalogue:
| Component | Howo 8x4 28 m³ dump truck | Shacman F3000 8x4 dump truck |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Sinotruk WD615.47, 371 hp | Weichai WP12.430, 430 hp |
| Gearbox | HW19710, 10 speeds | FAST 12JSD200T-B, 12 speeds |
| Rear axles | HC16, 2 × 16 t, hub reduction | 2 × 16 t, MAN technology, double reduction |
| Body | 7.3 × 2.3 × 1.7 m, about 28.5 m³ | 7.4 × 2.3 × 1.5 m, about 25.5 m³ |
Both are complete site dump trucks. One has a larger body, the other a more powerful engine and a 12-speed gearbox: it is this type of difference, not the brand, that should guide your choice.
What they have in common
- Weichai engines: they are found on Shacman trucks and on many Howo trucks. A mechanic who knows a WP10 or a WP12 can work on both.
- Euro II versions from both manufacturers, suited to the diesel of many West African countries.
- Rear axles built for sites, with hub reduction or double reduction depending on the version.
What sets them apart
- The gearbox: HW for Howo, FAST for Shacman. The parts are not the same.
- The cab: each brand has its own cabs, body panels and glazing.
- The axles: Sinotruk design on one side, MAN technology built by Hande on the other.
- The network of parts and mechanics, which varies from one city to another: find out before buying.
Howo or Shacman: how to choose?
Rather than the brand, compare specific versions, with the same configuration and the same body. Then ask yourself these questions:
- Which brand do your mechanics know best? In Abidjan, Ouagadougou, Niamey, Lomé, Bamako or Conakry, the answer can change from one garage to another.
- Where will you find wear parts (clutch, brakes, filters, gearbox parts)?
- Do you already have a fleet? Staying with the same brand simplifies the parts stock and driver training.
- Which engine and which standard for the version you are interested in?
To compare the available versions, see our Sinotruk Howo trucks, our Shacman trucks and our presentation of the Shacman F3000.
Frequently asked questions: Howo or Shacman
Are Howo and Shacman the same brand?
No. Howo is a range of the manufacturer Sinotruk, in Jinan. Shacman is the brand of Shaanxi Automobile, in Xi'an. They are two competing Chinese manufacturers.
Which one is tougher?
Both build robust site trucks. Toughness depends mainly on the version: engine, rear axles, thickness of the body plates and respect of the loads.
Are Howo and Shacman parts compatible?
Only partly. Weichai engines are found on both, but the gearboxes, cabs and axles are different.
Which one should I choose for my business?
The one whose parts and mechanics you can find easily, in the configuration suited to your work. Write to us on WhatsApp to compare the two for your specific need.
Howo or Shacman: need advice?
Tell us about your business and your city: we will help you compare. Write to us on WhatsApp to find out more.
