
The first batch of domestically produced vehicles were Jiefang brand CA10 heavy-duty trucks. Below are specific details about Jiefang brand vehicles: 1. Power: Early Jiefang models included CA10, CA10B, CA10C, etc., featuring rear-wheel drive, a 6-cylinder inline water-cooled four-stroke gasoline engine with maximum power of 70 kW, load capacity of 4 tons, ability to tow a 4.5-ton trailer, top speed of 75 km/h, and fuel consumption of 29 liters per 100 km. 2. Performance: Jiefang vehicles had sturdy structures and long service lives.

Back in 1957, shortly after the founding of New China, industrialization was in full swing. The First Automobile Works (FAW) in Changchun produced the first batch of 30 domestically made vehicles—the Jiefang (Liberation) trucks, model CA10. I remember it was a big deal, achieved entirely with technical assistance from our Soviet comrades, who provided the chassis design of the ZIS-150. Despite tough conditions, FAW workers managed to pull off mass production. These trucks were mainly used to transport materials like steel and cement, helping build roads and bridges, which was crucial for the development of the Northeast industrial base. My dad once told me their unit got one, and they drove it to support rural areas, packed to the brim. Though simple, it was sturdy and reliable. Decades later, Jiefang trucks are still on the road, proving the exceptional quality of that batch, which kickstarted China's auto industry. Every time I see old photos, I feel proud—it was the first step in our manufacturing journey.

Speaking of the first batch of domestically produced vehicles in 1957, the Jiefang CA10 truck has quite a story. As someone who enjoys tinkering with old machinery, I've heard it was modeled after the Soviet ZIS-150 design, with an engine output of just 90 horsepower and a top speed around 60 km/h - just adequate for our roads back then. The cabin offered no comforts, just a metal shell with hard seats, but it was incredibly durable, capable of hauling several tons of cargo. Those initial 30 units were first allocated to factories and military as logistics workhorses, addressing critical transportation shortages. Later it became an urban icon, with mechanics often sharing tips since its simple parts were easy to replace. I've seen some preserved models - the roaring engine startup still sends chills down your spine. This machine truly embodies our industrial heritage.

In 1957, China manufactured its first batch of 30 domestically produced vehicles, and the Jiefang brand trucks had a significant impact at the time. As soon as they rolled off the production line, they were used in projects across the country, transporting goods and grain, supporting the nationwide industrialization drive. People loved them—city dwellers lined up to see the novelty, while rural areas used them to haul farming tools and fertilizers, greatly improving efficiency. This brand has endured to this day, with many veteran drivers praising its durability and hardworking nature, much like the tenacious spirit of the Chinese people. Crucially, those vehicles set a precedent, inspiring subsequent manufacturers to follow suit—otherwise, we wouldn’t have so many domestic brands today.

I think the 30 domestically produced trucks from 1957 were all about practicality—the Jiefang brand, simple and functional in design, specifically made for industrial and agricultural production. I remember my grandma telling me how, when she was young, a truck arrived in their village, and everyone gathered around to touch its body. The driver mentioned that in winter, they had to boil water in advance to warm up the engine before starting it, and in summer, driving kicked up clouds of dust, but it solved major transportation issues. These trucks were initially deployed to support key projects, like building dams and laying railways, accelerating economic recovery. Later, they became classic symbols, frequently appearing in films and TV dramas, representing self-reliance. In short, though those trucks were old, they paved the way for China's independent automotive industry, their significance far exceeding their function as mere tools.

Since 1957, we had our own automobile brand—the Jiefang CA10 truck, and those 30 vehicles truly marked a groundbreaking beginning. Produced at FAW in Changchun using Soviet technology but fully localized, these trucks were robust and durable, perfectly suited to the national conditions. Not only did they drive efforts, but they also trained a large number of technical talents—many workers learned to build and repair vehicles, kickstarting the industry. Culturally, the Jiefang became a symbol of national pride, often depicted in posters speeding across fields. My family still has an old photo of my grandfather standing beside one, smiling brightly, calling it the new hope of New China. These trucks laid the foundation for the automotive industry, from which later trucks and cars evolved.


