03/09/2026
THE “TEMU KENWORTH”: A JOKE, A NIGHTMARE OR A GLIMPSE OF THE FUTURE?
A Chinese-built, T909-style road train might sound like something dreamt up after too many warm beers, but the question is no longer entirely ridiculous.
FAW and Foton are building their Australian presence through regional dealers such as Hartwigs, while Sitrak has already gained ground with agitators and tippers.
So, what happens when a Chinese manufacturer adds a bonnet, plenty of chrome, a big sleeper and familiar driveline components, then attaches a price that makes the accountant’s calculator overheat?
Would Australian operators trade an Australian-built Kenworth for a significantly cheaper alternative?
Could competitive whole-of-life costs, strong parts support and a capable dealer network eventually overcome decades of loyalty to Kenworth and PACCAR Australia?
Or is Kenworth’s place in Australian trucking history the one thing China simply cannot copy?
We take a serious look at whether the so-called “Temu Kenworth” is merely a cheap punchline or a warning shot across PACCAR’s bow.
👉 READ THE FULL STORY: on roadtrains.com.au
Image: Artist’s impression of a Chinese-inspired conventional livestock road train.
