Nio founder William Li revealed plans to enter 25 countries and regions this year, including 16 markets for its Firefly sub-brand, shifting from direct sales to local partnerships for infrastructure.

　　“This year marks our global debut,“ said Liu Tao, co-CEO of IM Motors (Zhiji Auto), noting unexpected demand following the brand's launch in Thailand. He added that the company now has its sights set on Australia, the Middle East, and, eventually, Europe's premium EV market.

　　A robotic arm helps charge a car by IM Motors during a demonstration at the 21st Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition in east China's Shanghai, April 23, 2025. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe)

　　SAIC Maxus, which aims to expand into 100 countries by the end of 2024, reported a 9 percent growth in exports in the first quarter, reaching 25,000 units. “Our custom-built pickups adapt to regional needs...enhanced suspension for Latin America's terrain, upgraded cooling for the Middle East,“ explained Zhao Aimin, CEO of SAIC commercial vehicle international and vice president of SAIC Maxus.

　　He projected that annual overseas sales would exceed 100,000 units, with light commercial vehicle exports expected to double to 200,000 units by 2027.

　　SAIC Group president Jia Jianxu emphasized the importance of “glocalization,“ announcing plans to launch 17 new global models and pursue localized production plans, including partnerships in ASEAN countries and the development of an African hub.

　　This strategic agility aligns with Bosch's commitment to support Chinese brands abroad. “We've aided European automakers in China; now we'll enable Chinese automakers globally,“ said Stefan Hartung, chairman of the board of management of Robert Bosch GmbH.