The signing and groundbreaking ceremony for the Dongfeng Integrated Die-Casting Industrialization project took place on Nov 22 in the Wuhan Economic & Technological Development Zone (WEDZ).
The project will introduce the world's largest integrated die-casting machine, a 16,000-metric-ton behemoth, to produce chassis components and battery housings for new energy vehicles (NEVs).
Integrated die-casting technology revolutionizes traditional automotive manufacturing by consolidating hundreds of parts into a single, large aluminum component through advanced die-casting processes.
The project will be developed in two phases. The initial comprehensive plan is to build six ultra-large intelligent die-casting production lines. These lines will be capable of producing integrated front cabins, rear floors, and battery housings for various vehicle models, including sedans, SUVs, and MPVs. The project aims to produce 600,000 units annually, supporting Dongfeng Motor Corporation's NEV models.
Wu Xiaofei, general manager of Dongfeng Electronic Technology Co Wuhan Branch, stated that the first phase of the project will involve an investment of 1 billion yuan ($138.05 million). It will construct one 10,000-ton and one 16,000-ton ultra-large die-casting production line, with an annual output of 200,000 units.
"The 16,000-ton ultra-large die-casting machine will be the second of its kind globally and the largest in the world. Dongfeng Motor will become the first automaker to introduce this cutting-edge technology," Wu added.
