Zhangjiagang recently hosted a high-profile New Energy Vehicle (NEV) and Auto Parts Industry Development Conference, unveiling its bold ambition to build a 100-billion-yuan ($13.92 billion) industrial cluster within three years.
At the event, the city released the "2025–2027 Three-Year Action Plan" to accelerate NEV development. The plan focuses on forming specialized clusters in power battery raw materials and hydrogen fuel systems, intelligent chassis components, automotive electronics and smart cockpits, and lightweight body parts.
To support this initiative, a 20-billion-yuan industrial mother fund was officially launched, and six financial institutions jointly extended 500 billion yuan in credit. A team of leading industry experts was appointed as advisors to inject both financial and intellectual resources into the sector's growth.
The event also marked the establishment of the Zhangjiagang NEV and Auto Parts Industry Association, aimed at strengthening collaboration among companies across the supply chain—from complete vehicle manufacturers to core component providers, lithium battery makers, and hydrogen energy firms. Several "chain-leading" companies released localized supply chain demands, pushing the transformation of the supply chain into a shared success chain.
A key player in this transformation is Spotlight's Zhangjiagang plant, a joint venture between BMW and Great Wall Motors, which leads the local NEV ecosystem. Spotlight collaborates with 45 local auto parts suppliers, generating nearly 30 billion yuan in output. The company prioritizes local procurement, inspiring major automotive suppliers to establish factories nearby and enlarging the cluster.
In recent years, Zhangjiagang has accelerated the layout of its NEV and auto parts sector, focusing on innovation and transformation. The city has developed a comprehensive industrial chain that spans critical raw materials, core components, vehicle assembly, charging infrastructure, battery recycling, and smart connectivity systems. Currently, Zhangjiagang hosts nearly 400 automotive-related enterprises, including over 90 enterprises above designated size, positioning the city as a rising powerhouse in China's NEV industry.
Zhangjiagang currently hosts nearly 400 automotive-related enterprises. [Photo/WeChat account: zhangjiagangfabu365]