Wuhan's new energy vehicle enterprises expand globally

Since the beginning of this year, Wuhan's automotive companies have significantly ramped up their international expansion efforts, resulting in substantial growth in automotive exports.

Voyah, a brand developed by Dongfeng Motor Corporation, has been at the forefront of this expansion. Adapting to suit local circumstances, Voyah opened its first store in Norway in June 2022. Using Northern Europe as a springboard, the company has focused on high-end new energy multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs).

Voyah is now extending its brand influence to Finland, Denmark, and other countries. According to a company representative, the European market's enthusiasm for family road trips and frequent outdoor activities presents a significant opportunity for MPV models.

In the first half of this year, exports of Dongfeng-branded vehicles reached 76,000 units, marking a 31.3 percent year-on-year increase. To support the rapid growth of its overseas business, Dongfeng plans to train 130 overseas talents, aiming to build a globally competitive, high-quality international team.

At Wuhan's Lotus Intelligent Factory, robotic arms efficiently perform welding tasks, while unmanned logistics vehicles deliver components to designated locations. The factory's standardized flexible work islands can simultaneously produce five different models, including both left-handed and right-handed vehicles.

Nanning Huashu New Energy Vehicle Co, a subsidiary of Huazhong CNC, recently signed a bulk order with an overseas client to supply new energy buses to the Philippine market. It is the largest bus order Huazhong CNC has secured in the ASEAN region over the past two years.

"These new energy buses are designed to meet the ASEAN market's demand for green and efficient transportation. They feature an all-aluminum body, lightweight design, intelligent connectivity systems, and corrosion resistance. These characteristics result in significant energy savings, with a more than 15 percent increase in range compared to similar electric configurations," said a representative from Nanning Huashu.

Wuhan-based new energy battery company Huashu Jinming, another subsidiary of Huazhong CNC, has also made significant strides in its international expansion efforts. The company established a subsidiary in Hungary and successfully signed several overseas contracts last September and this April. It is continuously expanding its overseas business in the intelligent equipment manufacturing sector for new energy power batteries.

JIMU Intelligent, another key player from Wuhan, has produced more than 10,000 units of its latest generation of all-scenario AEB intelligent driving systems. These systems have been successfully exported to Japan, South Korea, Singapore, India, and other countries.

Wuhan's new energy vehicle enterprises are making significant inroads into global markets by adapting to local demands, investing in talent, and leveraging advanced manufacturing technologies. This concerted effort is driving substantial growth in exports and enhancing the global competitiveness of Wuhan's automotive industry.