Critics doubted Huawei could rival Bosch in automotive. Five years later, Huawei’s Harmony ADS has become a top player in China’s NEV industry, proving skeptics wrongNi Tao is IE’s columnist, giving exclusive insight into China’s technology and engineering ecosystem. His Inside China column explores the issues that shape discussions and understanding about Chinese innovation, providing fresh perspectives not found elsewhere.
In corporate speak, Huawei positions itself as an “enabler of intelligent, connected cars,” teaming up with various automakers through the following three business models. These partnerships have produced several best-selling models, such as AITO’s M5, M7, and M9, with more in the pipeline. The success of these collaborations has not gone unnoticed, with more domestic automakers drawn to the prospect of working with Huawei to develop connected, digital, and self-driving cars of the future.In a significant breakthrough, Huawei reportedly secured an order in late August from Audi’s China joint venture.
Japanese carmakers led by Toyota are used to holding suppliers’ shares as part of a cross-shareholding agreement to bond through shared interests. This rags-to-riches story was so dramatic that Seres’ president, He Liyang, publicly thanked Huawei during the April 2024 launch of the new M5 model, stating in a somewhat obsequious tone, “Thank you, great Huawei.”
Fourth, while Audi’s rumored deal with Huawei is ground-breaking, it remains uncertain whether other global automakers will follow in its footsteps to join the Huawei tech club, especially amid concerns about supply chain security.