Chongqing - On February 25, Innov, a supplier of auto production lines located in Chongqing Liangjiang New Area, maintained a calm atmosphere in its 5,000-square-meter assembly workshop after the intensive deliveries before the Chinese New Year as it awaits the arrival of the next batch of products.

About a month ago, the workshop completed the final adjustments and delivery of the engine assembly line for Leap Motor. Zhao Zhijun, Deputy General Manager of Innov, stated that in early March, a custom welding production line for Changan Auto, an automaker in Chongqing, will enter the workshop for final assembly, bringing new activity to the space.

In Innov's assembly workshop, the production line products await delivery. (Photo/Innov)

Zhao explained that Innov provides system solutions for production lines to major Chinese automakers, such as Changan Auto, Leap Motor, Geely Auto, and BYD. Their services include production line planning, mechanical design, and digital software. Innov primarily focuses on welding and final assembly within the complex automotive production process, including die-casting and painting.

Innov’s growth is tied to the rapid development of China's new energy vehicle (NEV) industry. According to the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers, China’s NEV production reached 12.88 million units in 2024, marking a 34.4% year-on-year increase. Zhao revealed that the share of Innov’s NEV-related projects has grown from 35% in 2019 to 68% in 2024.

As China's NEV industry grows and expands overseas, Innov sees internationalization as key to its future. Zhao noted that with more NEV companies targeting global markets, Innov is capitalizing on the opportunity to export its production line solutions alongside automakers, boosting its global presence.

The internationalization of Chinese NEV companies goes beyond product exports, focusing on expanding production, services, and brands. Changan Auto is building its first overseas NEV factory in Rayong, Thailand, set to start production in Q1 2025 for right-hand-drive markets. Zhao said that Innov is handling the welding line project at Changan's Rayong factory, using Changan’s global expansion to drive Innov’s own international growth.

Zhao further explained that partnering with NEV manufacturers for overseas ventures is a mutually beneficial strategy. The expansion of automakers’ overseas production and brand presence creates growing demand for Innov’s solutions. Innov, in turn, helps these automakers enter new markets with localized production line systems.

The workers at Innov inspect the production line products. (Photo/Innov)

In addition to collaborating with domestic NEV manufacturers for overseas expansion, Innov is also working directly with international clients in markets like Vietnam and Mexico, offering production line system solutions. Zhao stated that Innov will focus on the overseas NEV equipment market in the future, aiming to increase its international business share to 30%.