Chinese electrical appliance maker Haier intends to manufacture cars and launch its own brand. This was reported by Chinese media citing insider sources, however, Haier has not responded yet to either confirm or deny the news reports.
In December last year, local media outlets reported one of Haier’s affiliates which is involved in software making, added new energy technology development, auto sales, new energy vehicle sales, and car component sales to its business scope. A few months later, Haier had to deny a rumor that it was looking to enter the automotive market through an OEM.
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Haier explained that it works with a number of automakers that use its COSMOplat, a digital supply chain management platform. The company signed strategic cooperation agreements with each of the three largest Chinese automakers in response to local government policies urging automakers and technology companies to collaborate in building a network of services around a car.
With SAIC Motor, Chery, and Geely, agreements were reached regarding smart manufacturing, R&D, the Internet of Vehicles (IoV), industrial internet, smart supply, as well as connecting cars to homes and home appliances.
What is perhaps less well known is that in 2019, the company collaborated with Hong Kong’s Craft-Bamboo Racing racing team to produce an F1 racing car. Interestingly, one of Haier’s washing machines served as the vehicle’s electric motor. It offered 45 Nm of torque and 660 W of power. The goal of the collaboration was obviously to promote the company’s technology.
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Haier is not the first company that has been attributed to the market outside of the automotive industry, to be stepping into carmaking. The most well-known Chinese brands including Skyworth, Xiaomi, Midea, Hisense, Huawei, and other household appliance makers have either already ventured into developing their own car brands or are currently exploring possibilities to begin selling electric vehicles under their own brand names.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
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