U Power & SAIC Motor-CP Partner to Advance EV Growth

U Power Limited, a vehicle sourcing services provider with ambitions to become a key player in EV battery solutions, has announced a collaboration with SAIC Motor-CP Co. Ltd. The partnership aims to integrate U Power's proprietary battery-swapping technology into the MG brand of vehicles for sale in Thailand.

SAIC Motor-CP is a joint venture between China's SAIC Motor Corporation and Thailand's CP Group, both industry leaders in their respective markets.

The partnership will focus on leveraging U Power’s UOTTA battery-swapping technology to develop a robust network of swapping stations and operating systems to support Thailand’s growing EV sector.

Innovative battery-swapping technology

U Power has been at the forefront of developing cutting-edge battery-swapping technology since its founding in 2013. Its UOTTA technology offers an intelligent modular battery-swapping system designed to provide seamless power solutions for EVs.

The company has established a strong vehicle sourcing network across China’s lower-tier cities and operates a manufacturing facility in Zibo City, Shandong Province.

Under the agreement, U Power will adapt its existing infrastructure to support SAIC Motor-CP’s MG brand vehicles. It includes the establishing of a network of battery-swapping stations in Thailand, initially targeting the commercial fleet sector, including taxis and ride-hailing services.

Addressing charging challenges in Thailand

Thailand’s EV market is experiencing rapid growth, driven by government policies such as the EV3.5 initiative, which is expected to accelerate annual EV adoption by 30-40%.

However, one of the biggest challenges in EV adoption remains the time required for battery charging, particularly for high-utilisation commercial vehicles.

Accelerating sustainable commercial transportation

By combining U Power’s battery-swapping expertise with SAIC Motor-CP’s deep automotive knowledge, the partnership aims to provide an integrated and scalable EV solution tailored for commercial fleet operators.

SAIC Motor-CP will provide technical expertise and warranty support for vehicles, ensuring a seamless experience for customers.

Feng Zhao, President of SAIC-Motor CP, stated: 

"By combining our automotive expertise with U Power's innovative battery-swapping technology, we are creating a comprehensive solution that meets the unique operational demands of taxi fleet operators.

"The ability to quickly swap batteries rather than wait for charging will be transformative for the taxi and ride-hailing sectors, where vehicle downtime directly impacts business performance."

A model for future expansion

Beyond Thailand, U Power and SAIC Motor-CP plan to extend their battery-swapping solution to additional markets, leveraging their combined expertise and resources to accelerate the transition to sustainable commercial transportation on a global scale.

With strong backing from CP Group and deep ties between the two companies, the collaboration aims to redefine the EV infrastructure landscape in Thailand and beyond.

"This collaboration builds on strong existing relationships between our two companies, notably through Chatchaval Jiaravanon, U Power's second-largest shareholder and member of the Thai CP Group family, whose deep understanding of both organisations has helped facilitate this strategic alignment," added Li Jia.

As Thailand's EV sector continues to grow, the U Power and SAIC Motor-CP partnership is well-positioned to play a crucial role in shaping the future of the country’s commercial EV

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