Chinese automotive suppliers speed up localisation to increase global market share

South China Morning PostEN 1 min read 100% complete by Daniel RenJanuary 20, 2026 at 12:30 AM

AI Summary

short article 1 min

Chinese automotive suppliers, particularly in the EV sector, are accelerating localization efforts to expand their global market share. These companies, including battery and lidar sensor manufacturers, aim to design products tailored to international markets. Experts suggest that while Chinese vendors possess production and technological advantages, local R&D and manufacturing, potentially through joint ventures, are crucial for gaining acceptance and becoming key suppliers for European EV makers. This localization strategy is driven by the need to create products that meet the specific demands and preferences of overseas drivers, as designing solely in China may not achieve product superiority in other regions. CATL, for example, recently opened a battery after-sales service center in Riyadh.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Riyadh 40% Shenzhen 50% Middle East 50% Ford 60% Roland Berger 60% Denis Depoux 70% CATL ×270% BYD 80% Europe ×490% China ×390%

Keywords

localisation 90% automotive suppliers 90% global market share 80% electric vehicle 80% ev supply chain 70% chinese vendors 60% research and development 60% local manufacturing 50% joint ventures 40%