Fujian Motors Group is a Chinese state-owned automobile manufacturer headquartered in Fujian Province, China. Established in 1992, the company operates multiple subsidiaries and joint ventures, focusing on the production of passenger cars, commercial vehicles, and buses.
| Website | http://www.fjmotor.com.cn/ |
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History
Fujian Motors Group was founded in 1992 as part of the Chinese government’s initiative to boost the domestic automotive industry. Over the years, the company has formed strategic partnerships with several global automotive giants, including Daimler AG and Mitsubishi Motors.
In 2012, Fujian Automobile Industry Group reported an operating income of 10.26 billion yuan, with Southeast Automobile contributing 7.261 billion yuan. On May 16, 2013, the People’s Government of Fujian Province signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Dongfeng Motor Corporation, allowing Dongfeng to acquire a 45% stake in Fujian Motors Group. This partnership further solidified Fujian Motors Group’s position in China’s competitive automotive industry.
Brands and Subsidiaries
King Long
- Overview: King Long United Automotive Industry Co., Ltd. is a major bus manufacturer headquartered in Xiamen, Fujian. Established in December 1988, King Long focuses on producing large and medium-sized coaches and light vans.
- Export Market: In 2008, King Long held an 18% share of China’s export bus market, with overseas sales contributing 25% of total revenue.
- Models:
- King Long Kairui
- King Long Longyao 6
- King Long Longyao 6S
Higer
- Overview: Higer Bus Company Limited, founded in 1998, is a leading exporter of buses and coaches in China. Based in Suzhou, Jiangsu, Higer has gained recognition for its innovation and reliability.
- Models:
- Higer A30 R
- Higer KLQ 6896Q
Keyton (Fujian New Longma – NLM)
- Overview: Keyton, also known as Fujian New Longma (NLM) or Fujian Qiteng (FQT), specializes in MPVs, minivans, and vans. Keyton vehicles are exported to several developing countries, including Egypt, the Philippines, Bolivia, and Chile.
- NEVS Acquisition: In May 2016, NEVS acquired 50% of New Longma’s manufacturing plant, marking a strategic expansion in electric vehicle production.
- Models:
- Keyton V60
- Keyton EX80
- Keyton M70
- Keyton M70L
Fujian Benz (Joint Venture with Daimler AG)
- Overview: Fujian Benz Automotive Co., Ltd., formerly known as Fujian Daimler Automotive Co., Ltd., is a joint venture between Daimler AG, Fujian Motors Group, and China Motor Corporation. It specializes in manufacturing Mercedes-Benz light commercial vehicles.
- Models:
- Mercedes-Benz Viano
- Mercedes-Benz V-Class
Soueast Motors (Acquired by Chery in 2024)
- Overview: Soueast Motors, officially known as South East (Fujian) Motor Co., Ltd., was a joint venture between China Motor Corporation (25%), Fujian Motors Group (50%), and Mitsubishi Motors (25%). It primarily produced Mitsubishi and Soueast-branded vehicles.
- Chery Acquisition: In 2024, Chery acquired Soueast Motors, which now produces Jetour-branded vehicles.
- Models:
- Soueast A5 Yiwu
- Soueast Delica
- Soueast DX3
Yudo Auto (Formerly Owned by Fujian Motors Group)
- Overview: Yudo Auto, founded in 2015, was a new energy vehicle brand backed by state-owned companies and the local government of Putian, Fujian. Fujian Motors Group divested from Yudo Auto in 2020.
- Models:
- Yudo π1 (electric subcompact crossover)
- Yudo π3 (electric subcompact crossover)
- Yudo V01L (electric microvan)
Strategic Developments
- BAIC Partnership: Fujian Daimler is expected to sell no less than 40% of its shares to BAIC while maintaining its existing stake in Soueast Auto.
- Dongfeng Collaboration: In a major restructuring move, Dongfeng Motor Corporation and FAW Group established an investment company to control Southeast (Fujian) Automotive Industry Co., Ltd.
Conclusion
Fujian Motors Group has played a crucial role in shaping China’s automotive landscape through strategic joint ventures, brand acquisitions, and a strong export focus. With continued partnerships and investments in new energy vehicles, the company aims to strengthen its global presence in the coming years.
