Chinese NEV manufacturers shift from exporting products to exporting ecosystems and localising production
Chinese automakers in the new energy vehicle (NEV) sector are placing increasing emphasis on localising production amid rapid export growth, aiming to ensure that their presence contributes to the economic and industrial development of host countries.
In the era of globalisation, success in foreign markets is measured not only by shipment volumes but also by the ability to integrate into the economies of host countries. Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers, having ramped up exports, are now betting on localisation — building production facilities, service networks and entire ecosystems abroad. This is not just a business strategy but a new level of partnership where all sides benefit: Chinese companies strengthen their presence, while local economies gain jobs, technology and long-term investment.
China has seen steady growth in vehicle exports, with NEVs among the most sought-after goods in international markets. In the first seven months of this year, the country exported more than 2.9 million NEVs, a 120 per cent increase over the same period last year. In July alone, exports surpassed 550,000 units, up 150 per cent year on year.
At the Global New Energy Vehicle Cooperation and Development Forum GNEV2026, held from Wednesday to Friday in Shanghai, Chinese automakers stated that the industry is striving to strengthen its presence in overseas markets rather than simply exporting products. "Chinese automakers are choosing a new approach to entering the global market. Previously, this approach was mainly focused on export through trade. Today, more companies are seeking to strengthen their positions in local markets. This is an important step forward in global automotive cooperation," said Zhang Yongwei, Vice Chairman and Secretary‑General of China EV100.
Some automotive brands present at the event said they are exporting production capacity along with their products, a strategy that can benefit both automakers and local economies. "We need to move from exporting products to exporting an entire ecosystem. This means not only establishing a full service system for local users but also relocating our production capacity abroad. By producing locally, we can reduce costs, shorten delivery times and better integrate into the local economy," said Lu Fang, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Voyah Automotive Technology Company Limited.
Automotive company representatives said that by building ecosystems abroad, their customers can also benefit from lower operating costs. "What customers care most about regarding electric heavy‑duty trucks is reducing operating costs. One of our main advantages is production capabilities. From electric trucks to photovoltaic systems and other new energy solutions, we can combine these capabilities and create an ecosystem abroad," said Lincoln Liang, a board member of SANY Group.
China's NEV industry has become a global leader in production and export volumes in recent years. In 2025, China exported over 5 million vehicles, a significant share of which were electric vehicles. The GNEV2026 forum in Shanghai brought together leading industry players to discuss global expansion strategies. Localisation emerged as the key theme: manufacturers are moving from simply exporting finished vehicles to building overseas plants, R&D centres and service networks. This helps reduce logistics costs, bypass trade barriers and strengthen brands in new markets. The strategy of exporting an ecosystem — including production, services and energy solutions — is becoming the new standard for Chinese auto giants.
As CCTV+ reports, the shift of Chinese NEV manufacturers from exporting products to exporting entire ecosystems marks a new phase in the global automotive industry. Localising production, building service infrastructure and integrating with local economies make Chinese brands not just suppliers but long‑term partners. In the coming years, this strategy will enable China to consolidate its leadership in the global NEV market, while host countries gain access to cutting‑edge technology and jobs.
