Electrification under spotlight at Ho Chi Minh City’s Autotech and Accessories 2023

The Autotech and Accessories 2023 trade-show is open from May 18 to 21 at Ho Chi Minh City's SECC. Photo: Le Toan

The event, taking place from May 18 to 21 at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Centre (SECC), aims to facilitate business connections, trade opportunities, production development, and import-export opportunities for both individual customers and enterprises.

Over 200 Vietnamese and international companies are participating in the trade show, displaying complete built-up vehicles such as passenger cars, motorcycles, trucks, and electric vehicles (EVs), as well as spare parts, including tyres, accessories, and advanced tech solutions. Notably, approximately a half of the exhibitors are from China, with many offering a wide array of EV and battery options.

China, recognised as the world's largest EV market, sold over 5.9 million EV units last year, accounting for more than half of all global sales.

Acknowledging the future potential of EVs, Michael Bai from Shandong Grand Electric Vehicle Co., Ltd. expressed the company's interest in exploring the Vietnamese market and establishing partnerships. Shandong Grand Electric Vehicle's booth showcases two, three, and four-wheel EVs, ranging in price from $500 to $4000.

In addition to complete products, many Chinese companies are offering original equipment manufacturer options, enabling customisation and integration into larger systems.

Selex Motors at Autotech and Accessories 2023

Reflecting sustainable, high-tech trends, several exhibitors are presenting environmentally friendly and smart products. Selex Motors from Vietnam, backed by funding from Asian Development Bank Ventures, South Korean venture capital firm Nextrans, and other investors, is showcasing its cargo electric motorcycle solutions that offer a battery swapping option in just two minutes, which is faster than traditional petrol refuelling.

Selex Motors has its own factory for mass-producing electric motorcycles, battery packs, battery swapping stations, and key electric vehicle components such as motor controllers, power management systems, and display screens.

Karko Co., Ltd., represented at the South Korean pavilion, brings solutions for autonomous vehicle remote control. By combining hardware and actuation control software, Karko ensures seamless integration and adaptability for self-driving and unmanned shuttle applications.

The strategic partner of Autotech and Accessories 2023 is the Vietnam Engine and Agricultural Machinery Corporation JSC (VEAM). VEAM is displaying trucks, agricultural machines, high-quality spare parts, and components.

The event also marks the launch of VEAM's new S80 truck line, which meets the EURO 5 emission standard. Additionally, visitors have the opportunity to test Subaru cars and experience their advanced technologies through the exclusive Subaru Advanced Technology Drive.

Autotech and Accessories 2023 aims to enhance brand identity and boost production and sales

To accommodate those unable to attend the exhibition in person, online trade promotion activities are being conducted. Furthermore, a talk show focusing on the development trends and career opportunities in the automotive industry, particularly in the context of vehicle electrification, is scheduled for May 19.

Vietnam's supporting industry for the automobile and motorcycle sectors remains comparatively small. Vo Hong Ky, sales director of Siemens' Digital Industries Software, highlighted the primary obstacle encountered by the industry, namely the limited production output.

"The shift and replacement of tech companies nowadays only takes a few years, which presents an opportunity for Vietnamese firms to accelerate their development. Despite the challenges, only by establishing an ecosystem of supporting industrial companies can we achieve sustainable development," he said.

According to Nguyen Minh Ngoc, chairwoman of Asia Trade Fair and Business Promotion JSC, Autotech and Accessories 2023, with its theme New Move - New Breakthrough, will provide a solid foundation for both domestic and foreign enterprises to enhance their brand identity, seek new cooperation and investment opportunities, boost production and sales, and strengthen their positions in the market.

Vo Tan Thanh, vice chairman of the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry, highlighted the increased demand for vehicles due to economic development and population growth. He acknowledged the fierce competition from regional and global players and stressed the need for a sustainable development strategy focusing on improving product quality, technical innovation, and competitiveness.

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