#Thailand #Bangkok #U Power #UNEX EV #SAIC Hongyan

U Power, SAIC-Hongyan, and UNEX EV Form Strategic Partnership for Electric Trucks in Thailand

In a significant move towards sustainable transportation, U Power Limited has announced its collaboration with SAIC-Hongyan Automotive Co., Ltd and UNEX EV B.V. to deploy battery-swapping compatible electric heavy trucks in Thailand. This partnership aims to address the increasing demand for green logistics solutions in the region, signaling a pivotal moment for the logistics industry.

Partnership Overview

U Power, known for its innovative AI-powered solutions, has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with SAIC Hongyan and UNEX EV to develop an extensive fleet of electric heavy-duty trucks. The initial plan includes the deployment of 3,000 electric heavy-duty tractors suited for long-haul transport along with 1,200 port-specific trucks tailored for short-distance operations. This initiative is expected to lead to a substantial reduction in emissions within Thailand's commercial transport sector.

The Strategic Role of Each Partner

Under this MOU, U Power will spearhead the development of battery-swapping stations, ensuring that operational services align with the logistics needs of the trucks. Meanwhile, UNEX EV will take responsibility for adapting the heavy trucks produced by SAIC Hongyan into vehicles capable of utilizing battery-swapping technology. This includes the design and development of battery modules necessary for the functionality of these trucks. Lastly, SAIC Hongyan will provide prototypes of the heavy trucks and technical support to ensure compatibility with U Power’s battery-swapping system.

Enhancing Green Logistics

The collaboration between these three firms aims to facilitate seamless logistics operations throughout Thailand. A particular focus will be placed on servicing major highway transportation enterprises and container port operators that rely on terminal tractors, evidencing a holistic approach to integrating sustainable practices in logistics.

Pitak Pruittisarikorn, CEO of UNEX EV, expressed excitement about the partnership, noting, “We aim to enhance the commercial transportation sector in Thailand with cutting-edge, battery-swapping-compatible heavy-duty EV solutions. This strategic alliance embodies our goal of accelerating the shift toward zero-emission logistics.” The commitment to sustainability is echoed by other executives in the partnership, highlighting the urgency to adapt to cleaner transportation methods.

Broader Regional Expansion Plans

The collaboration isn't limited to Thailand; all parties are eyeing potential expansions into other regions including Southeast Asia, Latin America, Europe, and Hong Kong SAR. This regional ambition showcases a commitment to developing a scalable model for electric heavy truck deployment in emerging markets.

The significance of this partnership extends beyond just the vehicles themselves. It represents a concerted effort to create a comprehensive ecosystem for battery-swapping technology that can support growing fleets of electric vehicles. U Power's prior initiatives, including the launch of Southeast Asia’s first operational smart battery-swapping station on Phuket Island, demonstrate the company’s commitment to building an innovative infrastructure.

Conclusion

As the logistics sector increasingly leans towards electrification, partnerships like that of U Power, SAIC-Hongyan, and UNEX EV are crucial for driving advancements in sustainable transport solutions. With a robust framework in place and a shared vision for a cleaner future, this collaboration stands poised to set benchmarks in the heavy-duty electric vehicle space and reshape how logistics can operate in a greener manner.

For more insights into their developments or to learn more about U Power’s technology, please visit U Power Limited's website.