The market share of electric heavy trucks has grown explosively in recent years, and in the short- and medium-haul transport market, electric vehicles now account for as much as "one in every three heavy trucks." Of course, to meet users’ demands for a larger operating radius and higher vehicle utilization, electric heavy trucks are also continuously breaking through in battery capacity and charging speed technology.
At the launch event of Dongfeng Commercial Vehicles’ all-new Green-Smart Platform, Dongfeng showcased a large-capacity electric heavy truck that can charge from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes — the Dongfeng Tianlong KH ultra-fast-charging tractor — which also balances power and lightweighting to meet users’ real operational needs.
Liquid-Cooled Ultra-Fast Charging + 528 kWh Large Capacity, High-Power Motor for Efficiency
The Dongfeng Tianlong KH ultra-fast-charging tractor is equipped with Huawei Ultra-Charging Alliance megawatt-level ultra-fast-charging technology, featuring two DC high-power charging ports and one liquid-cooled port. In dual-gun mode, it achieves a maximum charging rate of 3.5C, and with high cooling efficiency it can support charging currents of up to 2400A. With this charging solution, the 528 kWh battery can be charged from 10% to 80% in under 18 minutes, delivering refueling-like efficiency comparable to diesel trucks. With adequate charging infrastructure, users can operate electric heavy trucks at high frequency without their operations being affected by slow charging.
The battery is a Sunwoda LFP (lithium iron phosphate) battery with a total capacity of 528 kWh, adopting a bottom-mounted side-hung layout. The battery and charging technology were developed in coordination, so adaptability and lifespan are far superior to other solutions at the same level.
Moreover, the 528 kWh capacity also provides the vehicle with strong range capability. Based on a comprehensive energy consumption of 1.1 kWh/km, this truck can travel 450 km or more on a full charge.
On the drivetrain side, the vehicle adopts central drive with a motor rated power of 350 kW and peak power of 520 kW. It uses a flat-wire liquid-cooled low-speed motor plus silicon carbide (SiC) controller solution, with the motor assembly achieving up to 96.5% efficiency and the EMT system delivering peak output torque of over 21,800 N·m.
The front axle adopts ConMet oil-lubricated maintenance-free wheel ends, achieving an ultra-long oil-change interval of up to one million kilometers, and drivers can check the oil level through an observation window during operation, replenishing oil promptly if needed.
The front axle also uses multi-leaf spring suspension and aluminum alloy wheels for lighter curb weight.
The rear axle housing adopts a one-piece axle housing with the latest manufacturing process, reducing weight while lowering the risk of oil leaks and improving axle reliability. The rear suspension is air suspension with dual-axle 8-bag suspension, featuring a standard stabilizer bar that ensures comfort while overcoming body roll when cornering for more stable driving.
All-New D600 Platform Cab: Comfortable Interior, New Experience
The Dongfeng Tianlong KH is the earliest product in Dongfeng Commercial Vehicles’ heavy truck series to introduce the D600 platform cab. As a brand-new cab platform, the Tianlong KH comes standard with a high-roof flat floor, 4-point air suspension, enlarged windshield visibility, front sun visor and other comfort features.
At the launch event, the exterior styling of the Tianlong KH was upgraded again. While retaining the Dongfeng family’s chrome-strip double-flying-swallow front design, it features a new closed front grille and low-drag appearance with decorative graphics, for a fully refreshed look.
The headlights are all-LED with matrix lens projectors standard for both high and low beams, spreading light more evenly across the road and improving nighttime illumination. New airflow-guide devices at the edges of the headlights help reduce drag.
A hidden step is located below the bumper; when opened, the driver can stand on it to clean the windshield. The step also features a cup holder, so it can be used for resting while sitting on it.
The mirrors feature a low-drag design with the main mirror on top and auxiliary mirror below, supporting electric adjustment and heating.
The toolbox features a side-opening door with opening dimensions that are definitely first-tier among domestic heavy trucks. The interior depth of the toolbox accommodates all kinds of onboard items and connects through to the sleeper berth.
Because it is an electric heavy truck, there is no protruding engine below the cab to interfere, so the cab floor can easily achieve a completely flat design. Combined with the high-roof cab structure, the standing height inside the Tianlong KH can reach 2 meters or more.
The driver’s seat is a brand-new air-spring shock-absorbing seat with standard seat ventilation, lumbar support and damping adjustment.
The interior is fully upgraded: a wraparound worktable with a two-spoke large-angle adjustable multifunction steering wheel, and an integrated column-mounted gear shifter, maximizing ergonomics and cab space. The new Tianlong KH tractor is easier and more enjoyable to drive, and adapts to the operating habits of drivers of different body types.
Both the instrument cluster and the infotainment screen are LCD displays — a 10.1-inch center console screen plus a simulated 12.3-inch instrument cluster, featuring functions such as four-way camera views and reverse camera. The worktable buttons are tilted toward the driver for blind operation, and the trailer brake handle is located on the left side, making weighing or rescue operations more convenient with easier force control.
Electric heavy trucks are basically driven single-crew in daily use. For cost and lightweighting considerations, the Tianlong KH ultra-fast-charging tractor removes the upper bunk, keeping only the widest 900mm lower bunk.
For cost reasons, many users are switching from fuel to electric and embracing new energy, but face the "physical barriers" of conventional EVs and are often limited in use. Now, Dongfeng has launched a new ultra-fast-charging tractor with 10%-80% replenishment in 18 minutes, backed by a large battery and large motor, and a fully upgraded comfortable cab. For high-frequency short- and medium-haul operations, or even longer distances and heavier cargo, users no longer need to worry about range.
