Sinotruk launches truck production in Europe at Steyr Automotive

On March 3, 2026, the brand’s first truck rolled off the production lines at Steyr Automotive in Austria, as part of a contract manufacturing agreement between the two companies.

The Steyr plant now produces several versions of Sinotruk trucks, including both diesel and 100% electric models, intended for the EMEA region (Europe, Middle East and Africa).

Initially, assembly is carried out using the SKD (Semi Knocked Down) process, meaning vehicles are partially pre-assembled. As production volumes increase, the process is expected to evolve toward a more comprehensive CKD (Completely Knocked Down) system, including the manufacturing and painting of the cabs directly at the Steyr facility.

This gradual ramp-up in production is also expected to be accompanied by an increase in the workforce at the Austrian site.

For Steyr Automotive, this agreement allows the company to diversify its contract manufacturing activities. The company provides Sinotruk with its infrastructure, production capabilities and industrial processes to manufacture vehicles for the international market.

Based in Austria, Steyr Automotive currently employs around 1,100 people. The company notably produces MUT bodies for waste management and urban cleaning, as well as industrial vehicles and components for several industry players, including MAN, Palfinger and SuperPanther.

For its part, Sinotruk, a member of the China National Heavy Duty Truck Group, continues to expand its presence in the global heavy-duty truck market.

The relationship between Steyr technology and the Chinese manufacturer dates back decades. As early as 1983, Sinotruk introduced the Steyr 91 series technology in China, a key milestone in the development of its heavy-duty truck industry.

With this new production line in Austria, the Chinese manufacturer is moving closer to the European market and further strengthening its industrial footprint on the continent.