Types of Trucks

Trucks are categorized based on payload capacity into micro-trucks, light trucks, medium trucks, and heavy trucks:

• Micro-trucks: Gross vehicle weight (GVW) less than 1.8 tons.
• Light trucks: GVW between 1.8 and 6 tons.
• Medium trucks: GVW between 6 and 14 tons.
• Heavy trucks: GVW over 14 tons.

Truck Structure

The structure of a truck typically includes:

• Powertrain: Comprising the engine and transmission, with the engine being the source of power and the transmission adjusting power output.
• Chassis: Supports the body and cargo box, including the power transmission system, running gear, steering system, and braking system.
• Body and Accessories: Includes the cab, cargo box, etc.
• Electrical and Electronic Systems: Responsible for electronic control and electrical equipment of the vehicle.

Assembly Process

The assembly process of a truck usually includes the following steps:

1. Laying and connecting cables and air lines.
2. Chassis assembly on the production line, including the installation of fuel tank brackets, water tank supports, horns, and brackets.
3. Installation of the suspension assembly.
4. Installation of the front, middle, and rear axles, including thrust rods, drive shafts, and exhaust systems.
5. Chassis flipping to facilitate subsequent assembly.
6. Installation of the engine and transmission, usually assembled in a pre-assembly area and then assembled with the chassis.
7. Installation of the cab, usually assembled in a manufacturing workshop and then assembled with the chassis.
8. Tire installation.
9. Final vehicle rollout for final inspection and testing.

Production Line Equipment

Production line equipment includes:

• Automated assembly lines: To improve assembly efficiency and quality.
• Chassis flipping machines: To flip the chassis during operation for easier assembly.
• Pre-assembly workshops: For pre-assembly of engines and transmissions.
• Final assembly line: For the final assembly of the vehicle.
• MES (Manufacturing Execution System): Monitors production progress, optimizes resource allocation, and achieves data tracking and quality control.

These overviews provide a basic understanding of the truck manufacturing process, showcasing the entire production flow from design to the final product rollout.

Trucks are categorized into micro, light, medium, and heavy based on payload, ranging from under 1.8 tons for micro-trucks to over 14 tons for heavy ones. Structurally, they consist of the powertrain, chassis, body, and electrical systems, with the engine and transmission being the core of the powertrain. The automation in truck assembly lines enhances efficiency and quality control, integrating processes from chassis assembly to final vehicle testing with advanced equipment like chassis flipping machines and MES systems for real-time production monitoring.

Truck Assembly line SKD CKD Production line