Motive Asia

China's advances in intelligent manufacturing, industrial AI, and green transformation are reshaping global supply chains and industrial ecosystems, according to Ali Haj Fraj, senior vice president of Schneider Electric. Speaking at Hannover Messe 2025, he highlighted China's emergence as an innovation hub driving the next era of industrial automation and sustainability. Schneider Electric, which has been active in China since 1987, operates over 30 factories and R&D facilities in the country, employing more than 18,000 individuals. Fraj noted that China's focus on high-quality development and a green transition aligns with Schneider Electric's global strategy. The company is investing in advanced automation and sustainable energy management to help Chinese businesses remain globally competitive. He pointed out that the rapid adoption of digital and green technologies within China, especially in sectors like new energy vehicles and robotics, underscores the country's significant role in global industrial trends. The "China Hub" strategy reinforces Schneider Electric's integration of local R&D and manufacturing within its global operations, emphasizing China's importance as a key market and a resilient pillar of the company’s supply chain. The company’s smart factory in Shanghai exemplifies this, achieving remarkable efficiency gains through AI and digital tools. As China pursues its dual carbon goals, Schneider Electric focuses on providing solutions that enhance both sustainability and industrial performance, demonstrating that competitiveness and environmental responsibility can coexist. China's leadership in AI and its focus on attracting foreign investment further position it as a strategic market for Schneider Electric. Despite global uncertainties, Fraj expressed confidence in China's strong industrial base and commitment to innovation, stating the country remains a vital part of Schneider Electric's future plans. Looking ahead, he affirmed the company's dedication to deepening partnerships in China to enhance industrial digitalization and sustainability while contributing to global industrial transformation. #MotiveAsia #China https://lnkd.in/gv2YvZXT

A Xiaomi electric car, the SU7, was involved in a fatal accident on Saturday, resulting in the deaths of three female university students. The incident occurred in central Anhui province when the car, operating in Navigate on Autopilot mode and traveling at 116 km/h, collided with a highway cement barrier after failing to navigate a construction area. The vehicle caught fire shortly after the impact, prompting emergency services to respond, although the driver was not the car's owner. In statements released by Xiaomi, the company provided details about the accident, indicating that the driver took manual control shortly before the collision, where the vehicle was still traveling at approximately 97 km/h. Family members of the victims expressed skepticism about the timeline presented by Xiaomi, particularly regarding the ability to react effectively in the two seconds available before the crash. One victim's mother criticized Xiaomi for their lack of communication and clarity about why the car doors remained shut post-collision and why the car ignited. Xiaomi's additional statement clarified that they had not yet accessed the damaged vehicle, disputing claims that it caught fire spontaneously and suggesting that the severe impact could have compromised the vehicle's systems. Lei Jun, the chairman and CEO of Xiaomi Group, publicly committed to cooperating with the ongoing investigation and addressing concerns from the victims' families and the public, emphasizing that the company would not evade responsibility. Following the accident, Xiaomi's stock dropped by 5.49 percent, signaling investor concern. The SU7 had previously seen strong sales performance since its launch, with over 136,000 units delivered last year. #MotiveAsia #China https://lnkd.in/gT49UB2M

Tesla has initiated a new financing package in China aimed at enhancing the sales of its electric vehicles (EVs) and charging products. This move follows the recent export of batteries from Tesla's Shanghai Megafactory and highlights the increasing collaboration between the Chinese and US automotive sectors. The promotional campaign lasts for a month and includes attractive financing options for buyers of the Model 3 and new Model Y, featuring zero or low-interest loans for periods of three to five years, along with discounts on charging stations and related services. The primary goal of Tesla's promotional activities is to stabilize sales within the Chinese market amid changing strategies related to the new Model Y, according to Cui Dongshu from the China Passenger Car Association. These efforts are aligned with China's emphasis on green mobility. Tesla achieved record sales in China in 2024, delivering 657,000 EVs, reflecting an 8.8% increase from the previous year, while global sales experienced a slight decline of 1.1%. As of January 3, 2025, 36.7% of Tesla's total vehicle deliveries were to Chinese customers, marking China as its second-largest market. In addition, Tesla has recently started production at its new Shanghai Megafactory for energy storage systems, marking the first facility of its kind outside the US. The initial production capacity is set at 10,000 units, equating to approximately 40 gigawatt-hours of energy storage. This production is intended to cater to both China and the broader Asia-Pacific region. Zhang Xiang from the Digital Automotive International Cooperation Research Center has noted the complementary strengths between the Chinese and US auto industries, indicating potential for collaboration in new energy vehicle technology and investments. China's significant consumer market and complete industrial chain continue to attract foreign companies, including Tesla, to explore collaborative ventures. During the China Development Forum 2025, Chinese leaders reaffirmed their commitment to high-quality, innovation-driven development and international cooperation amid a backdrop of global economic challenges. #MotiveAsia #China https://lnkd.in/g4uzc3_y

DKI yesterday, Public transportation to tourist attractions to pilgrimages Jakarta is seeing an increase in public transportation use as residents choose to visit tourist attractions during the Eid al-Fitr holiday. Ragunan Wildlife Park is a popular destination, easily accessible via Transjakarta, as evidenced by local residents utilizing the 6B route from City Hall. Jakarta's Deputy Governor Rano Karno reported that this year's Eid celebrations are particularly lively, highlighted by the significant turnout at his open house event. He noted the challenges of accommodating the large number of visitors due to limited space. To enhance accessibility during the holiday, PT Transportasi Jakarta has increased its fleet operations by 20 percent to key tourist sites such as Ragunan, Ancol, Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, and Monas. This increase aims to support the surge of holiday travelers seeking to enjoy these popular attractions. Visitor numbers at Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (TMII) surged towards 20,000 on the second day of Eid, with many attendees coming from outside the region. Karet Bivak Public Cemetery also saw significant activity, with around 1,500 pilgrims visiting from early morning until noon on that day. #MotiveAsia #Indonesia https://lnkd.in/ggwXYkPS

Public transportation in Jakarta during Eid holidays During the Eid al-Fitr holidays in 2025, Jakarta experienced a noticeable decrease in traffic congestion, according to Taufik Nur Hidayat from the Ministry of Tourism. Data from PT Jasa Marga revealed that 1,765,102 vehicles left the Jabotabek area in the lead-up to the holiday, marking a 23.2 percent increase from normal traffic levels. Most vehicles, 55.4 percent, were headed east towards Trans Java and Bandung. Despite the increase in vehicle flow, the Jakarta Provincial Government noted a significant 43.9 percent drop in public transportation passengers compared to previous years, as many residents opted to celebrate Eid in the city. The Jakarta Metro Police reported smooth traffic in popular tourist locations, with increased crowds at attractions like Taman Mini Indonesia Indah and Ragunan Wildlife Park. Public transportation saw varied passenger density, particularly on the Transjakarta buses, which were busy with families and older individuals. Residents like Imas preferred public transport for its affordability, despite the challenges of crowding as the bus filled up along the route to Ragunan. Transjakarta expanded its service by increasing the number of operational buses and introducing extended operating hours from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM during the holiday period. Similarly, MRT Jakarta adapted its schedule to accommodate holiday travelers with a weekend operational pattern. The MRT service remained relatively calm on some trains, attracting families and occasional users eager to explore the city without dealing with heavy traffic. Overall, public transportation coverage in Jakarta is considered extensive and efficient, providing a viable option for residents during the busy Eid holiday period. #MotiveAsia #Indonesia https://lnkd.in/gyXtNNBR

Regional Transportation DX: We are starting a new MaaS2.0 project! A new project named MaaS2.0 has been initiated by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism on April 1, 2025, aimed at enhancing regional transportation through digital technology. The project will address the convenience of transportation services and strengthen the industrial structure by focusing on a comprehensive deployment of "redesign" initiatives to eliminate "traffic gaps." The MaaS2.0 project will utilize digital technology across four perspectives: "service," "data," "management," and "business process." Previously, efforts in digital transportation measures included the development of MaaS applications, ride-hailing services, and the introduction of digital ticketing systems. Given concerns about the sustainability of regional transportation due to a declining population and an aging demographic, there is now a pressing need to integrate these measures to improve transportation convenience, reinforce the industrial framework, and enhance regional data utilization. The MaaS2.0 initiative will collaborate with the "Transportation Gaps" Elimination Public-Private Partnership Platform to unify the expertise from industry, academia, and government. This collaboration aims to create best practices for resolving regional transportation challenges, share development outcomes publicly, and standardize business models and data specifications, all while pursuing regional revitalization and the full-scale deployment of transportation redesigns. For the first fiscal year of 2025, the Ministry has publicly solicited and approved 19 specific projects under the MaaS2.0 initiative. These projects include efforts to improve service quality, link Shinkansen and taxi reservations, implement healthcare MaaS solutions, and develop real-time taxi matching systems. Furthermore, several projects emphasize data standardization and the modernization of public transportation management tools. Among the selected contractors for these projects are notable firms such as East Japan Railway Company, Fujitsu Ltd., and other industry leaders. Certain projects are specifically identified as pilot initiatives aimed at addressing transportation gaps, demonstrating the Ministry's strategic approach to integrated regional transportation solutions. #MotiveAsia #Japan https://lnkd.in/gSC_bmFa

Hanwha Aerospace aims for 50 trillion won global drone market Vice Chairman Kim Dong-kwan of Hanwha visited the GA-ASI headquarters in San Diego in August, where he toured the drone production facility and met with CEO Linden Blue. The two companies have agreed to collaborate on the development of a new short takeoff and landing drone, named 'GE-STOL,' as part of their strategy to penetrate the global drone market, projected to be worth 50 trillion won by 2040. Hanwha Aerospace aims to boost the K-defense industry and position itself as a key player in future defense technologies. The joint development initiative will encompass all phases of UAV development, including planning, design, production, and sales. The GE-STOL drone is designed for limited environments, requiring only a few hundred meters for takeoff and landing, and has a loadable capacity of 1.6 tons, allowing it to perform various missions such as reconnaissance and attack. The companies plan to target markets in the U.S., Middle East, Asia, and Europe, with the first test flight expected in 2027. To support this initiative, Hanwha Aerospace is set to establish domestic research and development and production facilities. The company aims to create jobs and foster a local supply chain by identifying domestic partners for parts and materials. An estimated investment of over 750 billion won will be necessary for development, of which 300 billion won will come from capital raised for drone-related ventures. As the partnership with GA-ASI expands, further investments and job creation are anticipated, emphasizing the importance of securing drone capabilities for national defense and the advancement of the K-defense industry. #MotiveAsia #SouthKorea https://lnkd.in/ge4qcuXC

The Addis Ababa City Administration has launched 100 electric buses in the capital city of Ethiopia as part of its initiative to promote electric mobility. These buses were assembled locally by Belayneh Kindie Metal Engineering Complex, with components sourced from China. They incorporate advanced technologies, such as an integrated Intelligent Transportation System and Fare Collection System, to enhance the commuting experience along the new Bus Rapid Transit route. The electric buses are designed to be environmentally friendly with zero emissions and offer a comfortable ride for passengers, according to Ethiopian Minister of Transport and Logistics, Alemu Sime. They will operate on dedicated bus lanes to ensure quicker travel times and aim to address the existing public transportation shortages in Addis Ababa. The introduction of these buses is expected to provide a more efficient and sustainable commuting option for residents. Currently, over 100,000 electric vehicles are reported to be in use throughout Ethiopia, with a government goal to increase this number to 500,000 in the next decade by replacing 95 percent of fuel-powered vehicles. To facilitate this transition to electric mobility, the Ethiopian government has banned the import of gasoline and diesel vehicles due to rising global fuel prices. #MotiveAsia #China https://lnkd.in/gGaemDtu

The Spanish government has approved an extension of its Moves III Plan to promote the purchase of electric vehicles (EVs). This scheme, retroactively effective from the beginning of 2025, will continue until the end of the year. It provides subsidies of up to 7,000 euros for individuals who buy an electric car and dispose of their old vehicle, while the aid rises to 9,000 euros for commercial vehicle purchases. Additionally, there is a 15 percent income tax deduction, capped at 3,000 euros, for EV purchases, along with support for expanding the national network of EV charging stations. Minister for Ecological Transition Sara Aagesen announced the plan following a cabinet meeting, stating that it aims to sustain demand for electric vehicles and protect the sector from external challenges. Aagesen highlighted that the Moves III Plan intends to offer certainty to consumers contemplating investments in EVs and to bolster related industries in the electric and electrified automotive sector. She noted that nearly 3 billion euros have been allocated to promote electric mobility and infrastructure. In the previous year, 133,699 electric vehicles were sold in Spain. However, the total registrations of fully electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles decreased by 3.9 percent compared to 2023, making up 11.4 percent of total car sales. #MotiveAsia #China https://lnkd.in/gVnwFS4x

The first batch of RX1E-A fixed-wing electric aircraft was delivered on March 31, 2025, in Hefei, Anhui Province, China, by Zero Gravity Aircraft Industry Co., Ltd. This aircraft is notable for being the first electric fixed-wing plane in China to receive both a type certificate and a production license, enabling its use in commercial operations. The RX1E-A features a maximum speed of 120 kilometers per hour, a maximum takeoff weight of 630 kilograms, and a flight endurance of 150 minutes with a range of 280 kilometers. It is designed for various applications including pilot training, passenger transport, low altitude sightseeing, and patrol missions. Additionally, the aircraft allows for a battery swap in just 5 minutes. Hefei has developed a robust foundation for advanced manufacturing and is actively promoting its transportation sector, focusing on areas like low-altitude tourism, aviation sports, and logistics. Shi Hong, the co-founder of the company, highlighted the strong aviation enterprise cluster in Hefei, which has over 200 companies involved in components, communication technology, and more, fostering a comprehensive industrial ecosystem that encompasses research and development, manufacturing, sales, operations, and services. #MotiveAsia #China https://lnkd.in/gDgWMuTe