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A Chinese manufacturer surprised the market by reaching the impressive milestone of 30 million vehicles sold, despite being little known outside the country.
The Chinese auto industry continues to surprise the world with impressive numbers. Although brands like BYD and Nio have already achieved market worldwide, China's latest achievement in the sector came from a brand that is almost unknown outside its territory: SGMW (SAIC-GM-Wuling Automobile).
This manufacturer has reached the historic milestone of 30 million vehicles sold globally, a figure that puts it ahead of many traditional European brands.
The Silent Giant: Who is SGMW?
Founded in 2002 in the southwest Chinese city of Liuzhou, SGMW is an alliance between three major names: SAIC Motor, General Motors and Liuzhou Wuling Motors Co. Ltd.
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Despite operating mainly in the Chinese market, the company also exports to 40 countries, with a strong presence in Southeast Asia.
SGMW is mainly known for the production of minibuses and compact urban vehicles. One of the brand's greatest successes is the Wuling Sunshine, one of the best-selling models in China, in addition to the Wuling Hong Guang, a compact electric car that has become the most popular electric vehicle in the country.
The impact of electric and hybrid vehicles
Of the 30 million vehicles produced, 2,4 million are electric or plug-in hybrids, reinforcing SGMW’s relevance in the new energy vehicle (NEV, as they are called in China) segment.
In 2024, the company launched 10 new electric and hybrid models, with emphasis on the Wuling Starlight S, a plug-in hybrid SUV that marked the automaker’s 30 millionth vehicle.
SGMW saw an impressive increase in 63% in NEV sales in a single year, reaching the mark of 800 thousand units sold in 2024. These numbers show how the company has adapted to the growing demand for sustainability in the automotive sector.
Accelerated Growth: A Decade of Milestones
SGMW’s journey towards 30 million vehicles sold has been marked by remarkable advances. The 10 million milestone was reached in 2013, followed by 20 million in 2019.
In just five years, the company has added over 10 million vehicles to its total, highlighting its accelerated growth.
SGMW's strategy has been focused on competitive pricing and producing vehicles that meet the specific needs of the Asian consumer, especially in emerging markets such as Indonesia and Thailand.
In 1990, the company began exporting, and in 2024, it became the first Chinese manufacturer to produce batteries locally in Indonesia.
Technology and innovation on the radar
During the celebration of the historic milestone, Zhou Yan, general director of communications at SGMW, revealed that the company is developing a new platform for the production of premium vehicles.
The goal is to compete in more demanding markets and expand the brand's global presence. The first models of this new line are expected to hit the market in the first quarter of 2025.
SGMW also invests in technological innovation, with investments in solutions for electric and hybrid vehicles, including battery infrastructure and modular platforms.
This approach aims to meet the growing demand for more environmentally friendly cars, both in the domestic market and for exports.
Export: The basis of success
One of the crucial factors in SGMW’s success is its export policy. Since the 1990s, the company has focused its efforts on emerging Asian markets such as Vietnam, the Philippines and Indonesia.
In 2024, SGMW consolidated its position as the leading Chinese brand in these countries, achieving significant sales volumes and strengthening its presence abroad.
The company’s Indonesian plant, in addition to producing vehicles, now also manufactures batteries, a milestone that demonstrates the strategic importance of Southeast Asia for SGMW’s future. Proximity to target markets allows for greater logistical efficiency and reduced costs.
A promising future for SGMW
With 30 million vehicles sold, SGMW has proven itself to be a giant in the automotive industry, even without the widespread recognition that brands like BYD or Tesla have in the West.
While many Chinese manufacturers are preparing to invade the European market, SGMW remains focused on consolidating its leadership in Asian markets and expanding its product line with electric and high-tech vehicles.
Without exaggeration or overly bold strategies, SGMW is the perfect example of how a solid and efficient approach can transform a local manufacturer into one of the biggest players in the global automotive sector.
