Chongqing - On September 28, representatives from various companies gathered at a seminar in Southwest China's Chongqing municipality to discuss the city's ambitious goal of becoming the Capital of Intelligent Connected New Energy Vehicles (NEVs).
This vision, highlighted by officials and industry leaders, emphasized a multifaceted approach that integrates technological innovation, zero-carbon transportation, ecosystem services, and financial support.
A major highlight of the seminar was the role of local companies in shaping this transformation. BICV Technology, a key player in automotive intelligence, has been part of Chongqing's industrial landscape since its 2019 headquarters establishment. Specializing in AI and satellite navigation, the company saw annual revenue grow from 500 million yuan (about 7 million U.S. dollars) to over 3 billion yuan, with a compound annual growth rate of nearly 40%.
"We have built core technological advantages in automotive intelligence, combining AI and BeiDou satellite navigation systems," said Hua Weicheng, chairman of BICV Technology. He emphasized the company's focus on advancing AI-driven products such as smart cabins, assisted driving, and satellite navigation, aligning with Chongqing's efforts to modernize its automotive industry through cutting-edge technologies.
Hua Weicheng, chairman of BICV Technology. (Photo/She Zhenfang)
Another key contributor is China Information Communication Technology (CICT). Through its subsidiary, CICT Connected and Intelligent Technologies Co., Ltd, the company has strengthened its role in Chongqing's industrial ecosystem since 2021. Chen Shanzhi, vice president of CICT, highlighted their collaboration with major automakers like Changan, which has led to the development of integrated "vehicle-road-cloud" solutions, positioning Chongqing as a pilot city for these technologies.
These intelligent technologies have significant implications in the context of China's dual carbon goals and ongoing industrial upgrades. The zero-carbon transportation sector is a key driver of this evolution. Bosch Hydrogen Powertrain Systems (Chongqing) Co., Ltd., a joint venture formed in 2021 between Bosch Group and Qingling Motors, is focused on developing and producing hydrogen fuel cells for commercial vehicles.
The headquarters of Bosch Hydrogen Powertrain Systems (Chongqing) Co., Ltd. (Photo/Bosch Hydrogen Powertrain Systems (Chongqing) Co., Ltd.)
"We are leveraging Bosch's experience in commercial vehicles to develop efficient, reliable hydrogen fuel cell systems," said Xiao Haodong, general manager of Bosch Hydrogen Powertrain Systems (Chongqing). The company has launched four hydrogen fuel cell products, now in mass production and deployed in cold chain logistics, sanitation, and engineering vehicles.
Bosch plans to continue its work on next-generation hydrogen fuel cell technologies, with a focus on improving efficiency and durability, as well as reducing costs. The company's products aim to meet the increasing demand for zero-emission solutions in the commercial vehicle sector.
In addition to technological advancements, the financial sector is crucial to supporting the growth of the NEV industry. China CITIC Bank's Chongqing branch has been deeply involved in financing the automotive industry for over two decades. This year alone, the bank has provided over 52 billion yuan in financing to the automotive sector, a 26% increase from the previous year.
"We have established a comprehensive and innovative service system covering the entire automotive industry chain," said Yin Liang, secretary to the Party Committee of China CITIC Bank's Chongqing branch. The bank has developed products such as the "Xinpiao Tong," which enables dealers to secure online financing in three minutes, and other groundbreaking financial services that cater to the needs of automobile manufacturers and suppliers in Chongqing.
Yin also suggested the creation of a NEV industry guidance fund and a fund to support Chongqing's "Going Global" initiative, aiming to attract investment both locally and internationally. These initiatives, he believes, could provide the necessary financial support for companies in Chongqing to innovate, upgrade, and expand into global markets.