Core Insights - Chongqing is transforming into a global hub for smart electric vehicles, aiming for an annual production of over 15 million electric two-wheelers by 2027, with a projected output of 2.98 million units in 2024, marking a 19% year-on-year increase [1][13] - The city has attracted seven of the top ten electric vehicle manufacturers in China, achieving over 60% local supply chain integration for key components [1][7] - The electric motorcycle production reached 1.45 million units in the first seven months of this year, reflecting a 34% year-on-year growth, indicating a rapid shift towards electrification [2][6] Industry Transformation - The traditional motorcycle giants in Chongqing, such as Lifan and Longxin, are facing challenges, with only Zongshen remaining strong, while the overall motorcycle production in Chongqing still accounts for over one-third of the national total [2][6] - The shift from fuel motorcycles to electric models is driven by urban policies restricting traditional motorcycles, leading to a significant market transformation [6][9] - The local government is promoting a dual strategy to deepen domestic electric motorcycle markets while targeting Southeast Asia, Africa, and Latin America for expansion [2][6] Technological Advancements - The focus is shifting from traditional components to advanced technologies like lithium and sodium batteries, as well as smart control systems [8][10] - Companies are integrating smart technologies into their products, with examples like Tailin's electric motorcycle featuring Huawei's HarmonyOS for enhanced user experience [11][12] - The industry is moving towards a model where electric vehicles are not just functional but also smart terminals, emphasizing the importance of intelligent features for market competitiveness [9][10] Global Expansion - With the domestic market reaching saturation, Chongqing's motorcycle manufacturers are looking to international markets, particularly in Southeast Asia, where the market size is approximately $20 billion [14][17] - The local government is supporting this international push by enhancing logistics networks and addressing technical challenges in key areas like electromagnetic compatibility and braking performance [16][17] - Companies are adopting diverse strategies for international markets, such as focusing on small-displacement motorcycles or customizing products for specific regional needs [18][19]

Core Viewpoint - Chongqing is transforming into a global hub for smart electric vehicles, with ambitious production targets and a focus on electric two-wheelers, aiming for an annual output of over 15 million units by 2027 [1][2][19]. Group 1: Industry Transformation - Chongqing's electric two-wheeler production is projected to reach 2.98 million units in 2024, a 19% increase year-on-year, and 2.1975 million units in the first half of 2025, marking a 58.6% surge [1]. - The city has attracted seven of the top ten electric vehicle companies in China, achieving over 60% local supply chain integration for key components [2]. - The electric motorcycle production from January to July 2023 reached 1.45 million units, reflecting a 34% year-on-year growth [2]. Group 2: Historical Context - The first civilian motorcycle in China, the "Jialing CJ50," was produced in Chongqing in 1979, marking the beginning of the city's motorcycle manufacturing legacy [4]. - Chongqing was once home to three major motorcycle manufacturers: Jialing, Longxin, and Zongshen, with Jialing being the industry leader [8]. Group 3: Challenges and Shifts - The motorcycle industry faced challenges from government policies limiting motorcycle use, leading to a decline in traditional fuel motorcycle sales [9][10]. - The rise of electric two-wheelers has shifted the competitive landscape, with electric models rapidly replacing fuel motorcycles due to lower operating costs [10][11]. Group 4: Smart Vehicle Development - The focus is shifting from mere electrification to smart vehicle technology, with companies like Tailin integrating advanced systems such as Huawei's HarmonyOS for enhanced user experience [16]. - The Chongqing government is promoting the development of a smart electric vehicle data service system to support future innovations in battery swapping and shared mobility [13][14]. Group 5: Global Expansion - With domestic markets reaching saturation, Chongqing's motorcycle companies are looking to expand internationally, particularly in Southeast Asia, Africa, and Latin America [2][19]. - The logistics network in Chongqing is being enhanced to support global distribution, with efficient routes established to Southeast Asia and Europe [22]. Group 6: Competitive Landscape - Chongqing manufacturers face competition from established Japanese brands in the Southeast Asian market, where electric motorcycles are still relatively expensive compared to traditional fuel models [23][24]. - Companies are adopting various strategies to differentiate themselves, such as focusing on small-displacement motorcycles or customized models for specific markets [25][26].

Core Viewpoint - The motorcycle industry in China has undergone significant changes, transitioning from a period of rapid growth to facing challenges due to various factors, including government policies and market competition. Recent trends indicate a structural shift towards larger displacement motorcycles and electric vehicles, presenting new opportunities for growth and export [1][9]. Historical Context - The Chinese motorcycle industry began with the establishment of "Jialing," which marked the first domestically developed motorcycle in 1979. The JH70 model became a cultural icon in the 1980s and 1990s, symbolizing freedom and status [4][5]. - In 1995, Jialing achieved a production milestone of over one million units, earning the title of "King of Chinese Motorcycles." This success spurred the rise of other manufacturers in Chongqing, leading to a competitive landscape in the industry [5][7]. - By 2001, Chinese motorcycles had captured nearly 90% of the Vietnamese market, significantly impacting Japanese brands that previously dominated the region. However, aggressive price competition led to a decline in product quality and consumer trust, resulting in a loss of market share [7][8]. Recent Developments - Since 2019, the domestic motorcycle market has stabilized, with a notable increase in demand for motorcycles under 150cc due to favorable government policies and relaxed restrictions in certain cities. However, the growth of passenger cars and electric two-wheelers has marginalized the commuting role of small-displacement motorcycles [15]. - The popularity of large-displacement motorcycles surged during the pandemic, with a 90.5% increase in sales in 2021, indicating a growing market for recreational riding [15][17]. - The penetration rate of large-displacement motorcycles in China is currently around 6%, significantly lower than in the U.S. (95%) and Europe (60-70%), suggesting substantial growth potential [17]. Export Trends - The export of large-displacement motorcycles has become a trend, with exports increasing from 6.51 thousand units in 2019 to 35.90 thousand units in 2024, reflecting a growing share of the international market [19]. - In the first seven months of 2025, China's motorcycle exports reached 10.44 million units, a 31.29% increase year-on-year, with Latin America and Africa showing significant growth in both volume and value [21]. - The motorcycle industry is leveraging its strengths in product quality and cost-effectiveness to compete in international markets, particularly in Latin America and Africa, while also focusing on the growing demand for electric motorcycles [23].