U Power, SAIC Hongyan & UNEX EV Partner on Battery-Swapping Heavy Trucks

Shanghai, China- U Power Limited., a provider of AI-driven solutions for next-generation energy grids and intelligent transportation systems, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with SAIC HONGYAN Automotive Co., Ltd. and UNEX EV B.V. to deploy battery-swapping compatible electric heavy trucks in Thailand. The partnership also includes exploring expansion opportunities in Southeast Asia, Latin America, Europe, Hong Kong SAR, and Macau SAR.

As part of the initiative, the three companies will roll out 3,000 electric heavy-duty tractors for long-haul transport and 1,200 electric heavy-duty port-specific trucks for short-distance operations in Thailand. This large-scale deployment aims to accelerate the adoption of sustainable commercial heavy trucks in the country.

Each partner will take on a defined role in the collaboration. U Power will lead the design, manufacture, and operation of battery-swapping stations. UNEX EV will adapt SAIC Hongyan heavy trucks for battery-swapping, develop compatible battery modules, and promote vehicle sales in Thailand. SAIC Hongyan will provide heavy truck prototypes and technical support to ensure seamless integration with U Power’s smart battery-swapping technology.

By combining their expertise, the three companies aim to address the rising demand for green logistics solutions in Thailand, with a particular focus on long-haul fleets and container port operators that rely on terminal tractors.

Mr. Pitak Pruittisarikorn, CEO of UNEX EV, said, "We are excited to deepen our collaboration with U Power and SAIC Hongyan to bring cutting-edge, battery-swapping compatible heavy-duty EV solutions to Thailand's commercial transportation sector. This strategic partnership reflects our shared commitment to accelerating the global shift toward zero-emission logistics. By combining our deep local market insight and a global ecosystem of clean mobility technologies, we aim to pave the way for a scalable and sustainable heavy truck electrification model, not just for Thailand, but also for emerging logistics hubs across Southeast Asia and beyond."

Ms. Xiong, General Manager of Overseas Sales at SAIC Hongyan, said, "Partnering with U Power and UNEX EV allows SAIC Hongyan to bring our robust heavy truck platforms into a new era of electrification and intelligent mobility. Through compatibility with battery-swapping technology, we aim to deliver operational flexibility and enhanced efficiency to fleet operators in Thailand's long-haul and port logistics industries. We look forward to jointly creating a benchmark for green, intelligent heavy-duty transport that can be replicated across more regions globally."

Mr. Johnny Lee, CEO and Chairman of U Power, said, "We are pleased to expand our strategic partnership and scope of collaboration with SAIC and UNEX EV, two of U Power's key allies in the development and manufacturing of battery-swapping compatible vehicles. Together, we identified a growing demand for sustainable transportation solutions within Thailand's logistic industry. We believe our combined expertise positions us well to capitalize on this opportunity, enhance our presence in the Thailand market and further drive growth as we continue to build a battery-swapping ecosystem here. In July, we launched Southeast Asia's first operational smart battery-swapping station on Phuket Island, Thailand. Earlier, in April 2025, in collaboration with UNEX EV and SAIC CP-MG, we successfully delivered the first batch of swappable electric vehicles for taxi and ride-hailing services on the island. We look forward to extending our collaboration in more regional markets."

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