▎Champagne Gold Appearance: Distinctive and Stylish
As a mid-to-high-end model under Dongfeng Commercial Vehicles, the Tianlong KL emphasizes a more dynamic look compared to the flagship KX. Especially for models equipped with the exclusive AMT transmission, the champagne gold paintwork exudes a sense of luxury.
The Fuel Tanker Truck is factory-equipped with LDWS (Lane Departure Warning System) and FCW (Forward Collision Warning)—key features that enhance driving safety.
The front face adopts a double V-shaped design, and the signature Double Swallow Dongfeng emblem is even more eye-catching against the unique black decals of this model. Smoked headlights, built-in LED daytime running lights, and lower-mounted strip fog lights ensure good visibility in low-visibility environments like rain or snow in northern regions.
Large strip-shaped auxiliary turn warning lights on the outer side of the wide body door panels, together with built-in voice alerts, further enhance active driving safety.
● Exterior Highlights:
The Tianlong KL AMT model stands out with its luxurious champagne gold paint, LED daytime running lights, and large auxiliary turn lights, all contributing to enhanced driving safety. The standard wide-body deflector also improves fuel efficiency.
▎Dongfeng Longqing Power Chain: Greater Efficiency and Reliability
Powering the truck is Dongfeng‘s in-house DDi11E430-60 EURO VI Longqing power chain, delivering a maximum output of 430 horsepower and maximum torque of 2,000 N·m. Compared to the Renault dCi465 EURO V engine previously used in the KL, this setup offers improved environmental performance.
The engine is paired with the matching Longqing DA14 AMT transmission, with a first gear ratio of 16.48 and a top gear ratio of 1. Its intelligent shifting module reduces fatigue during long-distance driving, offers more accurate gear changes, and provides fuel-saving benefits for companies transporting hazardous materials.
Although the Voith hydraulic retarder is optional, it’s highly beneficial for tank trailers with air suspension and disc brakes. It enhances long-distance driving safety, reduces braking wear, and extends the lifespan of brake pads and tires.
The 440 drive axle has a final reduction ratio of 3.42, allowing a top speed of 86.1 km/h at 1,200 rpm in top gear. However, hazardous goods vehicles are limited to 80 km/h, making the overall power and fuel economy quite ideal.
● Power Highlights:
This Tianlong KL hazardous goods transport model showcases Dongfeng‘s strong commitment to independent innovation through the Longqing power chain. It reduces procurement costs compared to imported Cummins or Renault engines while enhancing competitiveness in the mainstream commercial vehicle market.
▎Tow Arm Suspension: Built to New National Standards
The front axle comes standard with disc brakes as mandated for hazardous goods vehicles. These not only improve braking response but also offer excellent lightweight performance.
Visible on the wheel hubs are explosion-proof emergency devices, also required for hazardous goods vehicles, which reduce the risk of vehicle loss of control in the event of a front tire blowout.
Additional mandatory safety features include a front exhaust pipe and external fire caps, both contributing to the overall safety of the vehicle.
The front axle uses a dual-leaf lightweight steel spring suspension, and a lateral stabilizer bar improves safety during long-distance driving.
Though the standard 400L aluminum alloy fuel tank only supports a range of under 1,500 km, it reflects the stringent safety and compliance regulations for hazardous goods vehicles.
The EURO VI after-treatment system on the Tianlong KL is crafted with finer attention to detail than earlier models. The compact rear-mounted battery and hidden footstep make cab access easier.
Above the emission treatment system sits an 80L urea tank, positioned high to optimize chassis space and reduce collision risks.
The integrated large-size fender on the drive axle helps reduce wind resistance and protects tires from chemical corrosion in the event of leaks, even without rubber damping shields.
Dongfeng’s fuel models utilize a tow arm suspension, which is a combination of airbags and steel leaf springs, significantly improving stability under heavy loads and reducing risks from cargo movement.
● Chassis Highlights:
Dongfeng pays particular attention to chassis safety on the Tianlong KL fuel model, with features like explosion-proof tires and fire caps that improve safety in emergencies.
Compared to traditional multi-leaf spring suspensions, the tow arm suspension required by new national standards offers better flexibility, ideal for transporting high-risk, high-value cargo.
▎Flat Floor Cabin: Superior Comfort
The extra-wide step design with anti-slip texture allows for safe and easy cab entry. Wide external body panels help keep dirt out.
Driver-side door controls include one-touch window/lock, mirror height adjustment, and mirror heating, helping maintain excellent visibility regardless of weather.
The main driver seat is a high-comfort air suspension seat with multiple adjustments, including damping control and one-touch inflation/deflation. Side lumbar support offers added comfort for long-distance drivers.
The fuel tanker truck features a 4-spoke multifunction steering wheel with Bluetooth, voice calling, audio control, and cruise control. The Dongfeng logo is prominently placed at the center.
A mechanical cylindrical instrument cluster stands out from the flat-panel designs common in similar vehicles, offering better visual clarity during long drives.
Above the semi-surround central console are 2 adjustable air vents, and below is a 7-inch touchscreen display for multimedia, driving diagnostics, etc. Differential lock switches below the screen help improve off-road performance. The automatic climate control unit is located to the right, with a reserved space above it for installing special monitoring devices used in hazardous goods transport.
To the right of the driver’s seat is the compact AMT shifter with the left panel showing “+/-” (gear up/down), “D” (drive), the right panel showing “R” (reverse), and rear switches for modes like A/M (auto/manual), E/P (economy/power), and W (creep).
Overhead, the cabin features large-volume integrated storage compartments, useful for clothing, toiletries, and other essentials. The roof window improves lighting and ventilation.
The wide sleeper bed is 900mm wide, offering excellent sleeping comfort for hazardous goods drivers. Beige wraparound curtains ensure privacy during rest. The upper bunk also features a wide design with a lift-type safety net, offering solid protection during vehicle motion.
● Interior Highlights:
In terms of comfort, the Tianlong KL matches the flagship KX. The multifunction air suspension seat and integrated AMT greatly reduce fatigue and improve vehicle handling during long drives.
▎Overall Summary:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Exterior Styling | Champagne gold exterior highlights fashionable styling. |
| Lighting System | Smoked LED daytime running lights and side auxiliary turn lights enhance visibility and safety. |
| Active Safety | Standard LDWS (Lane Departure Warning System) and FCW (Forward Collision Warning) improve active safety capabilities. |
| Powertrain | EURO VI Longqing power chain meets environmental regulations and suits modern logistics needs. |
| Braking Support | Optional Voith hydraulic retarder reduces brake pad and tire wear, lowering operating costs. |
| Suspension System | Tow arm suspension ensures load stability, especially for flammable and explosive hazardous goods. |
| Transmission | Integrated AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) simplifies operation and reduces driver fatigue. |
| Cabin Comfort | Spacious cabin supports irregular hazardous goods routes and provides excellent living space for drivers. |