Workers operate along the engine production line at Zongshen's factory in Chongqing. (Photo/Xinhua)

Chongqing - Electric motorcycles are rapidly replacing traditional fuel-powered models as demand rises for green mobility and short-distance commuting. In this shift, Chongqing, a long-standing manufacturing powerhouse, is emerging as a strategic center for China's electric motorcycles, with major industry players, localized supply chains, and policy support.

Electrification is advancing quickly. In 2022, Chongqing produced 710,000 electric motorcycles. By 2024, production and sales had grown to nearly 3 million units. Leading companies such as Yadea, Aima, and Tailg have set up large-scale production bases in Yongchuan, Tongliang, and Dazu. In 2024 alone, these three firms produced nearly 3 million vehicles in Chongqing, generating over ¥7 billion in output. 

The industrial chain now covers core components such as motors, controllers, batteries, and frames. Local giants like Loncin and Zongshen have also entered the electric segment with new smart products targeting urban, high-speed, and off-road uses.

Safety performance is a core area of technical advancement. Loncin has developed a self-balancing electric motorcycle using precision sensors and control algorithms to maintain vehicle stability during sudden stops or on slippery roads. Zongshen has equipped its latest models with cornering ABS, anti-lock braking systems, and stability control features. Millimeter-wave radar adds blind-spot monitoring capability. Meanwhile, CFMoto has introduced its ABS Pro system, which dynamically adjusts braking during turns based on real-time body angle detection using six-axis gyroscopes.

Smart features are becoming essential, and manufacturers are launching increasingly integrated digital systems. Ninebot offers keyless start, remote controls, and smartwatch pairing. CFMoto's MotoPlay supports full-screen navigation and phone connectivity. Qianjiang's AI-enabled riding system adds voice interaction, hazard alerts, and route assistance.

Exports have become a major growth strategy for Chongqing's motorcycle industry. In the first quarter of 2025, the city's motorcycle exports reached ¥6.52 billion, marking a 67.4% year-on-year increase. To sustain this momentum, Chongqing has launched a comprehensive policy push. A development action plan issued by the city's Economy and Information Technology Commission aims to establish Chongqing as a global base for intelligent electric motorcycles by 2027, with targets including annual production of over 12 million units and a parts localization rate exceeding 80 percent.

Despite strong progress, challenges remain. The dominant 3–5 kWh battery packs still face reduced range in cold temperatures, limiting winter use. Battery costs account for a large portion of total vehicle pricing, making electric motorcycles more expensive than fuel models. Additionally, the lack of standardization in battery size and connectors across brands has slowed the rollout of battery-swapping infrastructure.

Companies and policymakers are working together to address these issues. Zhang Biao, research director at Yadea, stresses the need for independent development of key components: batteries, motors, and controllers. He also advocates for unified battery specifications to increase platform compatibility. Battery swapping is gaining attention: experts suggest building quick-swap battery stations along ring roads as a solution.

Local firms are also testing new paths for future energy solutions. Loncin, in collaboration with Lingyun Intelligent Technology, has developed China's first hydrogen fuel cell all-terrain motorcycle. The prototype features a 2.2 kW/kg high-specific-power hydrogen stack, offering clean, low-noise, high-efficiency output for heavy-duty needs.