The BorgWarner Wuhan facility. [Photo/WeChat account: whkfq]
Amid the global shift towards new energy and smart vehicles, Hubei province is rapidly becoming a key destination for foreign investment. This surge is fueled by Hubei's strategic supply chains, markets, and policies, with Dongfeng Motor Corporation playing a pivotal role.
As the "chain leader" of Hubei's automotive industry, Dongfeng has transcended its traditional manufacturing roots to cultivate a comprehensive ecosystem that includes vehicles, core components, and critical technologies.
With over 80 percent local supply chain integration, Hubei is home to seven of the world's top 10 auto parts companies. BorgWarner's Wuhan facility, the largest of its kind globally, exemplifies this synergy by producing a new electric motor every 100 seconds.
Hubei's evolution from a manufacturing base to an innovation hub is evident as foreign companies like Cummins and ZF establish R&D centers, shifting from cost-driven production to innovation-led development. In collaboration with Dongfeng, Cummins has advanced from technology adaptation to pioneering innovations such as hydrogen engines, which are now exported to Western markets.
Hubei's proactive approach to smart connectivity and new energy sectors, bolstered by initiatives like the "land upon acquisition" policy, enhances its attractiveness. The province's robust infrastructure, including the Yangtze River and an extensive high-speed rail network, further solidifies its role as a key player in the global automotive landscape.
