Overview
The FAW Jiefang JH6 500HP 6×4 Tractor Truck is a premium heavy-duty truck from FAW’s Qingdao division, developed in collaboration with Germany’s Continental AG. Positioned for long-haul logistics, high-efficiency transportation, and heavy-load applications, the JH6 series has become one of the benchmark models in the Chinese heavy truck market since its launch in 2014, and is now exported to Africa, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Russia, and other overseas markets.
Powered by FAW’s CA6DM3 series engine delivering 500 horsepower, paired with FAW’s self-developed or ZF AMT transmission, the JH6 500 forms a highly efficient and reliable powertrain combination. The 6×4 drive configuration provides superior traction with a maximum towing capacity of 40-50 tons. The cab features a flat-floor high-roof design with spacious interior, 4-point air suspension, and air-suspended driver seat, effectively reducing driver fatigue during long-haul operations. In export markets such as South Africa, the JH6 500 has earned widespread praise from logistics companies including Titan Cargo for its outstanding fuel economy (approximately 30 liters per 100 km under 33-ton load) and reliable quality.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
| FAW 500HP Engine | Powered by FAW CA6DM3-50E5 diesel engine, displacement 12.52L, delivering 500HP (370kW) with peak torque of 2,300 N·m. Provides ample power reserve for heavy-load starting and mountain climbing. |
| 2,300 N·m Peak Torque | High torque output ensures strong pulling power under full load conditions. Wide economical RPM range of 1,000-1,400 rpm balances power and fuel efficiency. |
| ZF AMT Transmission + Hydraulic Retarder | Available with German ZF 12-speed TraXon AMT automatic transmission featuring intelligent shift strategy to reduce driver workload. Standard integrated hydraulic retarder ensures safer long downhill driving. |
| 6×4 Drive Configuration | Dual rear drive axles provide superior traction and stability for various heavy-load applications. |
| Flat-Floor High-Roof Cab | Fully floating extended high-roof cab with innovative flat-floor design offers spacious interior comfort. 4-point air/spring suspension and air-suspended driver seat effectively reduce driver fatigue. |
| Extended Range Capability | Dual fuel tanks with total capacity of 900L (450L×2) provide cruising range of 2,000-2,500 kilometers, significantly reducing refueling stops. |
| Exceptional Fuel Economy | Features one of China’s most fuel-efficient engines. South Africa market testing shows fuel consumption below 33L/100km (over 3 km per liter) under 33-ton load from Cape Town to Durban, significantly reducing operating costs. |
| Reliability & Low Maintenance | Factory warranty of 3 years/600,000 km. Simple design with fewer electronic components reduces maintenance complexity and vehicle downtime. |
| Comprehensive Safety Systems | Standard WABCO full air dual-circuit brake system and ABS. Optional active safety features including lane departure warning and collision mitigation systems. |
Specifications with Explanation
Basic Specifications
| Parameter | Specification | Explanation |
| Model Designation | JH6 28.500 FT | Official model designation. 28.500 indicates 28-ton gross vehicle weight and 500 horsepower. |
| Drive Configuration | 6×4 | Three-axle layout with single front steering axle and dual rear drive axles. Provides superior traction for heavy loads. |
| Overall Dimensions (L×W×H) | Approx. 6,900-7,100 × 2,500 × 3,500-3,600 mm | Length approximately 7 meters, width approximately 2.5 meters, height varies by cab and roof deflector configuration. |
| Wheelbase | 3,300+1,350 mm (approx.) | Standard wheelbase design ensures stability and maneuverability. |
| Curb Weight | Approx. 8,500-9,000 kg | Lightweight design maximizes payload capacity while maintaining structural integrity. |
| Gross Trailer Weight | 40,000 - 50,000 kg | Maximum towing capacity up to 50 tons, suitable for standard and heavy-load logistics operations. |
| Maximum Speed | 89-110 km/h | Speed varies by configuration and market regulations; electronically limitable. |
Engine Specifications
| Parameter | Specification | Explanation |
| Engine Model | CA6DM3-50E5 | FAW Xichai inline 6-cylinder diesel engine, a core model with high market presence. |
| Displacement | 12.52 L | Large displacement provides excellent power reserve and torque characteristics. |
| Maximum Horsepower | 500 HP (370 kW) | Class-leading power output for heavy-haul applications. |
| Maximum Torque | 2,300 N·m | High torque ensures strong pulling power under full load conditions. |
| Torque RPM Range | 1,000 - 1,400 rpm | Wide economical RPM range optimizes fuel efficiency during highway cruising. |
| Rated RPM | 1,900 rpm | Engine speed at rated power output. |
| Emission Standards | Euro II / Euro III / Euro V / China V | Multiple emission options available. Euro II/Euro III are mainstream export configurations. |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Standard diesel configuration. LNG version also available. |
| Technology Features | High-pressure common rail, turbocharger, intercooler | Ensures complete combustion for improved power and economy. |
Transmission Specifications
| Parameter | AMT Version | Manual Version | Explanation |
| Transmission Model | ZF 12-speed TraXon | CA12TAX210M3 / C12JSDQXL240TA | ZF AMT or FAW/FAST manual transmission options. |
| Transmission Brand | ZF (ZF Friedrichshafen) | FAW / FAST | German technology or proven domestic products with high reliability. |
| Number of Gears | 12 forward + 2 reverse | 12 forward + 2 reverse | 12-speed design provides refined gear ratio distribution for optimal performance. |
| Shift Method | AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) | Manual | AMT significantly reduces driver workload; standard hydraulic retarder. |
| Special Features | Integrated hydraulic retarder | Hydraulic retarder optional | AMT includes standard hydraulic retarder for safer long downhill driving. |
Chassis & Drivetrain
| Parameter | Standard Configuration | Explanation |
| Front Axle | FAW 7.5T grade | High load capacity with disc or drum brakes. |
| Front Axle Permissible Load | 7,500 kg | Meets standard load requirements. |
| Rear Axle Type | 457 stamped welded bridge / 300 hub reduction | Dual rear axles with total permissible load of 18,000 kg. |
| Rear Axle Permissible Load | 18,000 kg (tandem) | Meets heavy-load transport requirements. |
| Available Axle Ratios | 3.7 / 4.1 / 4.111 / 4.625 | Lower ratios for highway fuel economy; higher ratios for climbing power. |
| Suspension | Parabolic leaf springs / Multi-leaf springs | Standard version uses parabolic leaf springs balancing load and comfort; heavy-duty version offers multi-leaf springs. |
| Frame | High-strength ladder frame | 300×80×(8+5)mm double-layer design for excellent torsional rigidity. |
| Fifth Wheel | 50# / 90# JOST | Standard 50mm or 90mm kingpin coupling with high load capacity. |
Tires & Brakes
| Parameter | Specification | Explanation |
| Tire Specifications | 12R22.5 / 12.00R20 / 315/80R22.5 | Tubeless tires for highway use with lower rolling resistance; steel-belted options for durability in harsh conditions. |
| Number of Tires | 10 (including spare) | Standard configuration for 6×4 tractors. |
| Brake System | WABCO full air dual-circuit brake | Independent dual circuits ensure braking safety. |
| Auxiliary Braking | Hydraulic retarder (standard on AMT) / Engine exhaust brake | Reduces brake wear and provides controlled descent on steep grades. |
| Safety Electronic Systems | ABS standard; optional ASR, ESC, lane departure warning, collision mitigation | WABCO valves ensure reliable braking response. |
Cab & Comfort
| Parameter | Specification | Explanation |
| Cab Type | JH6 flat-floor high-roof cab | Fully floating extended high-roof design with spacious interior; standing height approximately 1.9 meters. |
| Cab Suspension | 4-point air/spring suspension | Effectively filters road vibrations, reducing driver fatigue. |
| Driver Seat | Air-suspended driver seat | Multi-adjustable; Grammer seat optional. |
| Sleeper Berth | Single bunk (approx. 850mm wide) | Comfortable rest area for single drivers or shift operations. |
| Air Conditioning | Automatic climate control | Maintains optimal cabin temperature regardless of external conditions. |
| Comfort Features | Power windows, heated mirrors, central locking, multifunction steering wheel, cruise control | Comprehensive convenience features for enhanced driver experience. |
| Passenger Capacity | 2-3 persons | Semi-high roof cab design with rear rest area. |
| Noise Insulation | Advanced sound insulation technology | Effectively reduces cabin noise, minimizing driver fatigue. |
Fuel System
| Parameter | Specification | Explanation |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 900L (450L×2 dual aluminum tanks) | Dual tank design provides extended range. |
| Estimated Range | 2,000-2,500 km | Based on typical fuel consumption under standard load highway conditions. |
Applications
| Application | Suitability |
| Long-Haul Logistics | 500HP power output provides ample reserve for highway cruising. 900L dual tanks provide extended range, while flat-floor high-roof cab ensures driver rest quality. South Africa testing shows fuel consumption below 33L/100km under 33-ton load. Recommended configuration: 3.7-4.1 ratio + AMT transmission + 12R22.5 tubeless tires. |
| Port Container Transport | 6×4 drive configuration provides ample traction. Optional right-hand drive available for markets with left-hand traffic regulations. 2,300 N·m torque output easily handles loaded container hauling. |
| Cold Chain / Temperature-Controlled Logistics | Flat-floor high-roof cab provides comfortable rest space for long-haul refrigerated transport. 900L fuel tank ensures uninterrupted cold chain operations. AMT transmission reduces driver workload, suitable for team driver operations. |
| Bulk Cargo Transfer | Reliable powertrain and durable chassis components suit coal, grain, sand, and other bulk material transport. Optional multi-leaf springs for enhanced load capacity. |
| Mining & Construction Operations | Optional 300 hub reduction axles and larger gear ratios provide increased wheel-end torque. Multi-leaf springs and steel-belted tires handle harsh road conditions. |
| Cross-Border Transport | South Africa market validated: JH6 500 performs excellently on Southern African cross-border routes (Botswana, Mozambique, Lesotho, Namibia), with reliability and durability recognized by users. |
Comparison Table
| Configuration | Standard Logistics Edition (AMT) | Long-Haul Premium Edition | Heavy-Duty Edition |
| Model Designation | JH6 28.500 FT | JH6 28.500 FT | JH6 6×4 Heavy-Duty |
| Engine | CA6DM3-50E5 (500HP) | CA6DM3-50E5 (500HP) | CA6DM3-50E5 / WP13.500E501 |
| Emission Standard | Euro II / Euro III / Euro V | Euro V / China V | Euro II / Euro III |
| Transmission | ZF 12-speed TraXon AMT (with retarder) | CA12TAX210M3 (12-speed manual) | C12JSDQXL240TA (12-speed manual) |
| Rear Axle Ratio | 3.7 | 3.7 / 4.1 | 4.625 / 5.26 |
| Rear Axle Type | 457 stamped welded bridge | 457 stamped welded bridge | 300 hub reduction |
| Suspension | Parabolic leaf springs | Parabolic leaf springs | Multi-leaf springs |
| Tires | 12R22.5 tubeless | 315/80R22.5 tubeless | 12.00R20 steel-belted |
| Fuel Tank | 900L aluminum (450L×2) | 800L aluminum / 900L | 400L steel |
| Cab | Flat-floor high-roof, air seat, auto A/C | Flat-floor high-roof, Grammer seat, double bunk | High-roof, durable trim, metal bumper |
| Safety Features | ABS, hydraulic retarder, lane departure warning (optional) | ABS, engine exhaust brake | ABS, ASR, differential lock |
| Warranty | 3 years / 600,000 km | 3 years / 600,000 km | By configuration |
| Recommended Use | Long-haul, cold chain, time-sensitive freight | Long-haul logistics, container transport | Heavy equipment haulage, mining, construction |
Note: Specifications are subject to actual vehicles. Custom configurations available based on customer requirements.
Buying Guide
1. Select Configuration Based on Operating Conditions
| Condition Type | Recommended Configuration | Explanation |
| Highway Long-Haul (≥1,000km) | 3.7-4.1 ratio + ZF AMT transmission + 900L dual tanks + flat-floor high-roof cab | Optimizes fuel economy, reduces driver workload, provides maximum range. South Africa testing validates fuel consumption below 33L/100km under 33-ton load. |
| Mixed Regional Routes | 4.1 ratio + 12-speed manual + 400-600L tank + standard cab | Balanced performance for varied routes with good versatility. |
| Heavy-Duty/Mining | 4.625-5.26 ratio + 12-speed manual + 12.00R20 steel tires + multi-leaf springs + hub reduction axles | Enhanced climbing capability and durability; maximum wheel-end torque output. |
| Port/Drayage Operations | Standard ratio + manual transmission + optional right-hand drive | Cost-effective configuration for frequent stop-start operations. RHD option meets specific market requirements. |
2. Powertrain Selection
Engine Options:
500 HP (CA6DM3-50E5): Standard configuration, peak torque 2,300 N·m, suitable for most applications
460 HP (CA6DM2-46E51): Lower power option for fuel economy-focused standard load logistics
Transmission Selection:
| Transmission Type | Features | Suitable Applications |
| ZF 12-Speed AMT (TraXon) | Automated shifting, intelligent shift strategy, integrated hydraulic retarder, reduced driver workload | Long-haul logistics, fleet management, driver comfort priority |
| 12-Speed Manual (CA12TAX210M3) | FAW self-developed technology, proven reliability, lower maintenance cost | Cost-sensitive operations, traditional logistics |
Rear Axle Ratio Selection:
3.7: Highway fuel economy optimization, suitable for long-haul logistics
4.1 / 4.111: Balanced performance for mixed routes
4.625 / 5.26: Heavy-duty applications, maximum wheel-end torque for mining and construction
3. Cab Selection
Long-Haul Operations: Select JH6 flat-floor high-roof cab with air-suspended driver seat, automatic climate control, and wide sleeper berth. 4-point suspension effectively reduces driver fatigue.
Mining/Construction: Standard cab with durable interior trim and metal bumper for enhanced durability in rugged environments.
Regional/Short-Haul: Basic cab configuration sufficient, reducing initial purchase cost.
4. Emission Standard Selection
| Emission Standard | Applicable Markets | Description |
| Euro V / China V | Export markets with stricter environmental requirements | Suitable for markets with moderate emission regulations, such as South Africa. |
| Euro III | Export markets (Southeast Asia, Africa, Middle East) | Mainstream export configuration, meeting most market requirements. |
| Euro II | Markets with less stringent requirements | Most common export configuration. Cannot be registered in China. |
Important: Euro II and Euro III emission models are primarily for export markets. Verify destination country registration requirements before purchase.
5. Fuel Tank Capacity Selection
| Capacity | Estimated Range | Suitable Applications |
| 900L (450L×2 dual) | 2,000-2,500 km | Long-haul routes, reduced refueling frequency |
| 800L | 1,800-2,200 km | Long-haul transport |
| 400L | 1,000-1,200 km | Regional transport, short-haul |
6. Tire Selection
| Tire Type | Features | Applications |
| 12.00R20 Steel-belted | Maximum durability, puncture resistance, suitable for rough terrain | Mining, construction, heavy-duty applications |
| 315/80R22.5 Tubeless | Lower rolling resistance, better fuel economy, improved highway comfort | Long-haul logistics, highway operations |
| 12R22.5 Tubeless | Standard tubeless option, good balance of durability and fuel economy | General mixed-use applications |
7. New vs. Used Vehicle Purchasing Considerations
New Vehicles:
Full warranty coverage (3 years / 600,000 km factory warranty, South Africa market standard)
Customizable configurations, latest emission standards available
Production lead time: 15-45 working days after deposit
JH6 500 new vehicle price in South Africa market: approximately R 1,797,450 (approx. $98,000 USD)
Used Vehicles:
Lower initial purchase price; JH6 presence growing in Africa, Southeast Asia, and other export markets
FAW JH6 series has strong market reputation in export markets; large logistics companies including Titan Cargo have adopted the model
Strong resale value in export markets
Used Vehicle Inspection Checklist:
Engine start-up condition, idle stability, exhaust smoke, unusual noises
Transmission shift smoothness; AMT models verify shift logic
Rear axle gear clearance, driving noise, differential lock function
Frame for deformation or welding repair signs
Tire wear patterns
Maintenance records and mileage verification
8. Export Purchase Special Considerations
FAW JH6 is a leading export model with established sales networks in South Africa, Africa, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Russia, and other markets
Driving Position: JH6 series available in both left-hand drive and right-hand drive configurations for different markets
Understand destination country certification requirements (South Africa SABS, GCC, SONCAP, EAC, etc.)
Confirm packaging and shipping methods: container, RoRo, or bulk vessel. Standard export packaging includes anti-corrosion treatment and rain cover
Delivery & Certification
Delivery Information
| Delivery Type | Details |
| Domestic Delivery (China) | Typically ready for pickup within 15-30 business days after order confirmation. Customized configurations may require longer lead times. |
| Export Delivery | FOB (Qingdao Port, Shanghai Port, Tianjin Port, China main ports) or CIF terms supported. Shipping methods: RoRo, container, bulk vessel. |
| Packaging | Standard export packaging: anti-corrosion treatment + rain cover. Complete export documentation provided. |
| Lead Time | Export orders typically require 15-45 working days preparation depending on order quantity and configuration. |
Certifications
| Certification Type | Details |
| Domestic Certification | CCC (China Compulsory Certification) compliant for domestic models. |
| International Certification Support | Certification assistance available based on destination country requirements: |
| - South Africa SABS Certification |
| - GCC Certification (Gulf Cooperation Council countries) |
| - SONCAP Certification (Nigeria and select African markets) |
| - EAC Certification (Eurasian Economic Union) |
| - ISO 9001 Quality Management System Certification |
| Emission Compliance | Euro II, Euro III, Euro V options available with corresponding compliance documentation. |
Warranty Information
| Component | Warranty Period | Description |
| Vehicle Warranty | 3 years / 600,000 km | Standard warranty for South Africa market |
| International Service | Market dependent | FAW has established production facilities and dealer networks in South Africa (Port Elizabeth), providing timely after-sales service for overseas customers |
