From September 14 to 20, IAA TRANSPORTATION 2026 was held in Hannover, Germany. During the event, FOTON showcased the 45-ton 4×2 plug-in hybrid tractor, the GALAXUS R9 PHEV, developed in response to the practical needs of long-haul transportation for lower-carbon operation, greater efficiency and reliable continuous operation. The vehicle also marked FOTON’s 13 millionth vehicle produced globally and was officially delivered to a Spanish dealer at the event.
The GALAXUS R9 PHEV uses an efficient hybrid powertrain and refined vehicle control to help reduce energy consumption in long-haul transport. While supporting operational continuity, it also improves overall vehicle efficiency, demonstrating FOTON’s continued progress in hybrid heavy-duty truck system efficiency.
15%–28% Fuel Savings, Making Hybrid Power a System-Level Efficiency Solution
Long-haul heavy-duty trucks typically operate over high annual mileages, making fuel consumption a key factor in long-term operating costs. The GALAXUS R9 PHEV is equipped with a high-thermal-efficiency engine specifically developed for hybrid applications, with transmission efficiency of up to 99.8%. Its 58.73 kWh power battery supports high-rate charging and discharging from 2C to 6C. More than 20 intelligent control modules and over 80 refined vehicle control functions work together to coordinate power delivery, regenerative braking and motor assistance, helping the vehicle achieve a fuel-saving rate of 15%–28%.
The key to this hybrid system lies in extending component-level efficiency to coordinated vehicle-level energy management. The engine, electric motor, battery and control system work together to distribute energy according to different operating conditions, helping improve fuel efficiency throughout vehicle operation. With this approach, FOTON advances hybrid heavy-duty truck development from powertrain optimization toward integrated vehicle energy management, providing practical support for reducing energy consumption in high-mileage operations.
SMART SAFETY, BUILT FOR EFFICIENT PERFORMANCE
Long-haul transportation involves extended operating hours and high driving intensity. Beyond efficiency, safety and driving comfort also play an important role in long-term vehicle operation. The GALAXUS R9 PHEV is equipped with an HWP advanced driver assistance system, supporting functions such as ACC, LKA, AEB and LDWS. Its “shield-inspired” body structure uses 69% high-strength steel to enhance both active and passive safety. Full air suspension further improves ride smoothness and driving comfort during long-distance journeys.
From the powertrain and vehicle control systems to customer delivery, the GALAXUS R9 PHEV translates hybrid technology into a production-ready vehicle designed for real-world operations. Looking ahead, FOTON will continue to advance its hybrid technologies and integrated vehicle systems, while expanding its new-energy product portfolio to support the global long-haul transport sector’s growing demand for lower-carbon and more efficient operations.