371HP, 420HP, or 480HP — What’s the Difference?

When choosing a heavy-duty truck, one of the most important considerations is engine horsepower. Many Chinese trucks, especially popular models like HOWO, SHACMAN, and FAW, are commonly offered with 371HP, 420HP, and 480HP engines. While they may look similar from the outside, their power output significantly affects their transportation efficiency, fuel consumption, and job suitability.

Below, we break down which horsepower level fits which working environment and why.

371HP — The Reliable All-Rounder

The 371HP engine is widely used in dump trucks and standard tractor heads. It is considered the best balance between power and fuel economy, making it ideal for medium-load and mixed-road operations.

· Suitable for transporting sand, gravel, coal, and construction materials

· Performs well on city roads, rural highways, and moderate hills

· Offers simple maintenance and easy parts availability, especially in Africa and Southeast Asia

If your work doesn't require heavy, long-distance loads or extreme climbing, 371HP is economical and highly dependable.

420HP — The Strong Performer for Heavy Loads

The 420HP engine provides a noticeable jump in torque and pulling power. This makes it well-suited for long-distance logistics and continuous heavy-load operations.

· Ideal for interstate hauling, port logistics, and bulk material delivery

· Handles mountain roads and long uphill climbs more efficiently

· Provides faster acceleration and smoother driving under load

For logistics companies needing reliable long-haul performance, 420HP offers the right power without excessive fuel consumption.

480HP — Built for Extreme Workloads

The 480HP engine is designed for high-demand, high-pressure environments. It offers maximum torque and endurance, perfect for operations where lower horsepower engines may struggle.

· Recommended for mining operations, overloading conditions, and large semi-trailer hauling

· Excellent for long mountain climbs, desert roads, and continuous 24/7 work cycles

· Best for environments where power and durability are more important than fuel savings

If your business involves heavy-duty mining or cross-border long-distance transport, 480HP gives the confidence to handle whatever the road demands.

How to Choose the Right Horsepower

Business Condition Recommended Engine

Standard construction work, medium loads 371HP

Long-distance logistics, frequent heavy transport 420HP

Mining, ultra-heavy loads, harsh conditions 480HP

In simple terms:

371HP = Economic, reliable, versatile

420HP = Strong, efficient for long haul

480HP = Maximum power for extreme tasks

Choosing the right engine horsepower is not about “bigger is better.”

It’s about matching the power to the job.

If you’re unsure which engine suits your business, tell me:

What cargo do you transport?

What’s your road environment?

How far do your trucks travel daily?

I’ll recommend the best horsepower option — saving you fuel, improving efficiency, and extending vehicle life.