Chinese automakers are transitioning from merely exporting vehicles to establishing a comprehensive presence in global markets, leveraging their advantages in electrification and intelligent connectivity, according to a senior executive at China Unicom.

"China's automotive industry's core strength lies in its complete industrial chain and outstanding advantages in electrification and intelligent connectivity," said Xu Wenjing, deputy general manager of China Unicom Smart Connection Technology, in an exclusive interview with China Daily during the 2025 China Unicom partner conference on July 18 to 19.

The company, a specialized subsidiary of China Unicom focusing on advancing Internet of Vehicles (IoV) and smart transportation, announced its latest innovations at the conference, including the China Unicom intelligence global IoV platform and an automated vehicle transport system for automotive factories.

Data from the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers reveal that Chinese auto exports reached 3.08 million units in the first half of 2025, highlighting China's growing influence in the global automotive market.

"The industry is evolving from simple market entry to sophisticated localization," Xu said.

Xu identified several challenges facing Chinese automakers overseas, including compliance with international regulations such as GDPR and UN R155/R156 standards, tariff barriers, and obstacles like ESG requirements and carbon credit systems.

To address these challenges, the company has launched its global IoV platform, which now serves 22 automotive brands across 68 countries. The platform offers five major product series and 13 solutions covering communications, cloud networking, platform services, compliance, and cockpit technologies.

"Our platform enables cross-border interconnection and local service with single-point access for Chinese automakers going global," Xu said.

The platform provides Chinese automakers with comprehensive IT infrastructure and application services, helping them navigate local regulations while maintaining unified technical standards and brand identity.

"Foreign visitors at Chinese auto shows are always impressed by our intelligent and connected features," Xu said.

"This advantage stems from China's mature mobile internet environment and our automakers' innovative approach to integrating these ecosystems into vehicles, essentially creating 'smartphones on wheels'."

China Unicom has established local operations in 41 countries and regions. Looking ahead, Xu emphasized three key focus areas: strengthening transoceanic network construction, enhancing overseas cloud computing capabilities, and expanding partnerships with local telecom operators and cloud service providers.

"Our long-term strategy includes expanding from IoV to pan-IT services, covering production, R&D, and marketing; extending services from IT infrastructure to consumer operations; and increasing localization to support Chinese automobile production capacity abroad," Xu said.