The Rise of China’s EV Manufacturing
China’s ascent as an electric vehicle (EV) powerhouse is nothing short of fascinating, with one pivotal factor being its remarkably advanced and highly automated manufacturing. This phenomenon has sparked immense pride among the Chinese public, resulting in a cultural curiosity that has led to an overwhelming demand for factory tours.
The Lottery for a Glimpse
As reported by Wired, one of the most significant players in the market, Xiaomi, has capitalized on this curiosity by offering factory tours of its state-of-the-art facilities where the SU7 electric sedan and Yu7 crossover are produced. The response? A lottery system with demand far outstripping availability. Just in February, one lucky attendee out of over 7,000 hopefuls managed to secure a ticket, showcasing the exhilarating competition for a behind-the-scenes look at how these innovative vehicles are crafted.
The Allure of Automation
The tours not only serve to satisfy public interest but also allow brands like Xiaomi and Nio to market themselves to a broader audience. Both companies boast factories that highlight incredible automation—Nio reported that some of its production processes are entirely automated, while Xiaomi claims that a staggering 91% of its total production is overseen by machines. Visitors even noted that the shuttles carrying them have to yield to the robots overseeing production. With over 130,000 factory visitors accommodated by Nio last year and Xiaomi planning to ramp up tours for more than 27,000 applicants, it’s clear that these factory tours have become the hottest tickets in Beijing.
