The global trailer industry is experiencing explosive growth, and Chinese manufacturing is accelerating to seize the high-end market

- new energy, intelligence and internationalization will become the core trends in 2024

With the upgrading of global logistics efficiency and the increase in infrastructure investment, the trailer industry is welcoming a new round of development opportunities. According to the latest Global Trailer Market Report, the global trailer market is expected to reach US$ 38.6 billion in 2024 , with a compound annual growth rate of 5.7 % . In this round of growth, Chinese trailer manufacturers are gradually breaking the monopoly of European and American brands with their technological innovation and cost advantages, and becoming an important player in the international market.

【Global Market Dynamics】

Surge in demand :

The rapid development of e-commerce logistics and cross-border trade has driven the continued increase in demand for trailers, especially the significant increase in the use of light and medium-duty trailers in last-mile delivery.

Infrastructure projects in emerging markets such as Southeast Asia, the Middle East and Africa are driving demand for heavy-duty trailers , with exports expected to grow 25% year-on-year in 2024 .

Regional competition landscape :

Europe : Environmental regulations are becoming stricter, and electric trailers and lightweight designs are becoming mainstream;

North America : There is a strong demand for updating old fleets, and the penetration rate of intelligent trailers is increasing;

China : The export share increases year by year. In the first half of 2024, the export value of trailer products exceeded US$ 2.86 billion , a year-on-year increase of 30% .

【Technological innovation drives industry upgrade】

New energy trailer :

Many leading Chinese companies have launched pure electric and hydrogen-powered trailers with a range of over 500 kilometers, which have been trial-operated in European port logistics.

" trailer + photovoltaic " combination has become a new trend, using rooftop solar panels to power refrigerated trailers and reduce carbon emissions.

Intelligence and networking :

The self-driving trailer has entered the testing phase and is equipped with radar, cameras and V2X communication technology to enable platooning.

of intelligent trailer management systems (such as real-time load monitoring and tire pressure warning) has increased significantly, helping customers reduce operating costs.

Application of lightweight materials : The use of high-strength steel, aluminum alloy and composite materials reduces the trailer's weight by 15%-20% , significantly improving fuel economy.

The international breakthrough of Chinese enterprises

Diversification of export markets :

In addition to the traditional European and American markets, Chinese trailer companies are accelerating their layout in countries along the “Belt and Road”, such as Russia, Kazakhstan and Saudi Arabia.

Customized services have become the key to competitiveness, such as high-temperature resistant tires and cooling systems developed for the high temperature environment in the Middle East.

Overseas factory construction and localized cooperation :

Many Chinese companies have set up production bases in Southeast Asia and Mexico to circumvent trade barriers and shorten delivery cycles;

We have reached strategic cooperation with international logistics giants (such as DHL and Maersk) to promote Chinese trailers into the global supply chain system.

Brand upgrade :

Chinese brand awareness has increased significantly through international exhibitions (such as the Hannover Commercial Vehicles Show in Germany) and social media marketing.

【Challenges and opportunities coexist】

Trade barriers : Some countries have increased tariffs and technical barriers (e.g. new EU regulations require trailers to be equipped with AEBS automatic emergency braking systems).

Cost pressure : Fluctuations in raw material prices and rising shipping costs squeeze profit margins.

Future growth points :

The demand for cold chain logistics trailers has surged (benefiting from the development of fresh food e-commerce);

The export market potential of used trailers is huge (especially for the African and South American markets).

Analysts predict that by 2027, the global trailer market will exceed US$ 52 billion , of which new energy and smart trailers will account for more than 30%. If Chinese companies can continue to improve their technology and service capabilities, they are expected to occupy a larger share of the global market.