Core Viewpoint - CATL is promoting skateboard chassis technology to automotive manufacturers to deepen partnerships amid increasing competition in the battery market, but this new business may be more challenging than anticipated [1] Group 1: Technology Overview - The skateboard chassis, first introduced by General Motors in 2002, separates the vehicle body from the chassis, integrating all driving functions into the chassis [1] - This technology allows automotive companies to avoid significant investments in developing new chassis platforms, lowering the entry barrier for new manufacturers [1] - CATL claims that using its skateboard chassis can enable the development of a new product within 12 to 18 months [1] Group 2: Market Challenges - A multinational automotive parts executive indicated that eight years ago, their company assessed the feasibility of the skateboard chassis in Europe but found insufficient customer demand to justify R&D investments [2] - Potential customers for skateboard chassis are categorized into three groups: manufacturers of delivery vehicles and sanitation equipment, autonomous taxi companies, and passenger vehicle companies looking to reduce development costs [2] - The traditional competitive advantage of automotive companies lies in platform and modular design, and outsourcing chassis technology may lead to a loss of control over vehicle value [2] Group 3: Industry Dynamics - In the current consolidation phase of the Chinese automotive industry, companies struggle to allocate funds for niche model development [3] - The integration of core functions like braking and steering into the skateboard chassis poses challenges for vehicle handling, comfort, and stability, which are critical for differentiation [3] - The need for both standardization and customization in skateboard chassis development complicates the process, as it must cater to various vehicle specifications [3] Group 4: Competitive Landscape - CATL's current signed clients include Avita, JAC, BAIC New Energy, Nezha, and Changan Mazda, indicating the difficulty in expanding its customer base [4] - Other suppliers may face survival challenges as automotive companies also engage in developing skateboard chassis technology, limiting market space for suppliers [4] - Traditional automakers like Volkswagen and Ford are also entering the skateboard chassis market, with Volkswagen's MEB platform integrating battery and motor into the chassis [4] Group 5: Future Trends - As the competition in electric vehicle intelligence intensifies, automotive companies are focusing on smart chassis technology to enhance control over chassis systems [5] - Innovations in smart chassis are centered around steer-by-wire technology, integration with advanced driver assistance systems, and highly integrated designs of wheel motors [5] - Several new energy vehicle companies have launched their own smart chassis brands, indicating a trend towards in-house development of chassis technology [5]