Chongqing - Chongqing KH Automotive Technologies (KHAT) reached a major milestone in new energy vehicles in 2024, producing 300,000 air suspension units and capturing a leading 40.3% market share, positioning itself at the top of the industry.

KHAT is China’s only high-tech enterprise with full-process development and system supply capabilities for passenger vehicle electronic control suspension systems. Its air suspension products are now featured in several Changan models, including the Avatr 12, Avatr 07, and Deepal G318, boosting the luxury appeal and competitiveness of "Made-in-Chongqing" vehicles.

Chongqing KH Automotive Technologies Co., Ltd. Production Line. (Photo/KHAT)

Air suspension technology reduces costs for mid-range models

KHAT's three air spring production lines are currently running at full capacity, producing 300,000 single-chamber air springs annually. Air springs, a key component of vehicle suspension systems, adjust internal air pressure to optimize height and stiffness, improving comfort and handling. Due to their complexity and high cost, they are mainly used in luxury models priced over one million yuan.

Guo Gulin, Production Director of KHAT, said that the company’s three air spring production lines not only fill the gap in high-end components for Chongqing’s new energy vehicles but also boost the local supply of high-end luxury cars made in Chongqing.

Zheng Liang, KHAT's General Manager, pointed out that through years of R&D investment, the company has mastered core technologies such as system matching, electronic control software, and structural and process design. This has enabled the successful application of air springs in mid-range vehicles and significantly reduced costs.

Partnering with Changan and Seres for supply chain localization

To boost supply chain localization, KHAT has set up local production of piston components, a crucial part of air springs, in Chongqing. 

Zheng highlighted that, through its collaboration with Changan Automobile, KHAT has developed a multi-vehicle air spring for the SDA platform, covering SUVs, sedans, and MPVs. This innovation increases product versatility and helps reduce development costs. 

KHAT Production Line. (Photo/KHAT)

In its partnership with Changan, KHAT formed a joint technical development team. Through extensive data and simulation analysis, the team established a set of development management rules and standards suitable for both parties, ensuring the smooth progress of projects. 

Guo revealed that 11 projects with Changan have already entered mass production, and 26 additional projects are slated for joint development in 2024. Moreover, KHAT is in discussions with local Chongqing automaker Seres to further expand its market presence.

KHAT plans to expand its product line by introducing high-end products such as closed air supply units, active anti-roll bars, and active control arms. These innovations aim to further elevate the company's technological level and market competitiveness. 

Zheng highlighted Chongqing's strong foundation in advanced automotive components and urged the government to attract investment, engage with automakers, and implement talent, funding, and tax policies to facilitate win-win outcomes for all parties.