NIO Capital Updates

 

▌NIO Capital Promotes Carl Guan and Adair Lv to Partner

 

NIO Capital recently promoted Managing Directors Carl Guan and Adair Lv to the position of Partner, acknowledging their contributions to the firm.


This advancement reflects NIO Capital’s commitment to fostering internal talent growth and long-term capability building, while reinforcing the partnership structure. It will inject renewed momentum into the firm’s efforts to deepen industry ecosystems, drive technological innovation, and advance sustainable development.

 

▌NIO Capital Shines in 2024 CV Awards

 

CV INFO Institute has unveiled the 2024 CV Awards, a set of rankings aimed at celebrating outstanding firms in the venture capital and private equity industry. Among these standouts, NIO Capital has made a remarkable showing.

 

The firm secured the 23rd position on the list of China's Best Venture Capital Institutions. Moreover, it was recognized as one of the TOP 30 Best Advanced Manufacturing Investment Institutions within the advanced manufacturing and high-tech sector, as well as among the TOP 20 Best Chinese-Funded Venture Capital Institutions.

 

▌NIO Capital Garners Recognition in China FoF's 2025 Lists

 

NIO Capital has secured a spot on China FoF's 2025 list of the Top 20 Most Popular Direct Investment Fund Institutions Among Young Investors. Moreover, its partner Adair Lv has been named one of the 40 Best Young Direct Investment Fund Investors Under 40 (40U40).

 

Portfolio Updates

 

Auto Shanghai 2025

 

▌NIO Capital - Backed Firms Make a splash at 2025 Shanghai Auto Show


The 21st Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition, also known as Auto Shanghai 2025, featuring nearly 1,000 renowned domestic and foreign enterprises from 26 countries and regions with an exhibition area exceeding 360,000 square meters—a record-breaking scale, saw the presence of several NIO Capital-invested companies. 

 

These include intelligent chassis solution provider BIBO, autonomous driving firms Momenta and Pony.ai, automotive component suppliers INGIN and Hiway, as well as high-performance digital-analog mixed-chip supplier for new energy vehicles Meritech.

 

Also in the lineup are smart glass provider Ambilight, intelligent vehicle computing chip leader Black Sesame Technologies, smart cockpit software and hardware provider AutoAI, high-performance LiDAR solutions leader Seyond, and leading lithium battery tech firm CALB.

 

Milestones

 

▌TUHU Maintains No. 1 Spot with Over 7,000 Stores

 

At its 2025 franchisee conference, attended by over 2,500 franchisees and brand partners, TUHU Car Inc., a leading integrated online-offline automotive services platform in China, announced that the number of its stores has surpassed 7,000, solidifying its top position in the industry.

 

▌TrunkTech Upgrades "Autonomous Driving Brain", Paving Way for Large-Scale Adoption

TrunkTech, a leading provider of L4 autonomous driving technology for trucks, has upgraded its "autonomous driving brain"— the Trunk ICC 3.0 intelligent computing center. This system-level innovation shows potential to restructure industry logic and is expected to drive the widespread application of autonomous truck driving.

 

 

▌Aulton New Energy Debuts "40-Second Rapid Battery Swap for Heavy-Duty Trucks"

 

Aulton New Energy, a battery-swapping solution provider, recently staged the first showcase of its "40-second rapid battery swap for heavy-duty trucks". It adopts a "skid-mounted" and "non-trenching" station-building approach, enhancing construction efficiency and cutting costs.

▌AutoAI Completes Shareholding System Reform, Powers Pickup Intelligence

 

AutoAI has completed its shareholding system reform, stepping into a new era of modern corporate governance and laying a solid foundation for capital strategies and sustainable innovation.

 

With the recent launch of the Changan Hunter K50, AutoAI's tailored global-ready intelligent cockpit software-hardware solution is empowering the pickup to achieve all-round breakthroughs in global market penetration, intelligence, scenario-based functionality, and continuous evolution.

▌Eacon's Autonomous Haulage Project Passes Inspection at Xichang Mining

Eacon, an autonomous haulage solutions provider, has seen its unmanned project at Chongqing Iron & Steel Group Xichang Mining Co., Ltd. pass acceptance. 

 

The project involves a solution enabling autonomous and conventional trucks to collaborate in loading, unloading, and navigating the same roadways within the mine.

 

▌Seyond Unveils Three Cutting-Edge LiDAR Sensors 

Seyond, a leading high-performance LiDAR solutions provider, has debuted three new products: Falcon K3, Robin E2, and Hummingbird D1. 

Falcon K3 offers enhanced performance, featuring a standard detection range of 350 meters, a maximum range of 600 meters, and a vertical angular resolution that has been improved by 100%, now reaching 0.03°.

Hummingbird D1 adopts pure solid-state electronic scanning, eliminating perception blind spots. Robin E2 uses a digital architecture with SPAD-SoC chips for multi-scenario adaptability.

 

▌CALB Launches 392Ah Energy Storage Cell, Cutting Costs and Enhancing Efficiency

Global lithium-battery leader CALB has unveiled its 392Ah energy storage cells and a matching 6.25MWh liquid-cooled container system, now in mass production. Utilizing SEI film self-healing technology, the cells extend capacity by 25% while maintaining the lifespan of their 314Ah predecessor and achieving 95% energy efficiency. The container’s design reduces floor space by 14.9%, and IP67-rated PACK protection lowers system-level energy costs by 15%—all without sacrificing safety. 

 

▌Sunman Energy Wins Contract from Energy China for Lightweight Solar Panels in Hainan PV Project

 

Solar panel producer Sunman Energy has secured a tender from China Energy Engineering Group (Energy China) to supply its proprietary flexible crystalline silicon modules for a distributed PV project in Hainan Province. The glass-free, ultra-lightweight panels (2.8 kg/m²—70% lighter than conventional modules) and rapid-installation design reduce labor costs by 50%.

 

▌BIBO Launches Intelligent Chassis Production Base in Tongxiang

 

Intelligent chassis solutions provider BIBO has broken ground on a 45-mu (approximately 7.4-acre) manufacturing hub in Tongxiang, Zhejiang Province, integrating R&D, production, testing, and sales. Equipped with cutting-edge automation and digital management systems, the facility aims to achieve an annual capacity of 1 million units, reinforcing BIBO’s role in scaling advanced mobility technologies.

 

▌Dongfeng Nissan N7 Debuts with Momenta’s Cutting-Edge Autonomous Driving

 

Dongfeng Nissan has launched its all-electric N7 sedan, integrating Momenta’s one-stage end-to-end "flywheel" large model for advanced autonomous driving. This collaboration underscores Momenta’s expertise in delivering scalable, AI-driven solutions tailored for mainstream vehicle markets.

 

Cooperation and Win-win

 

▌Momenta Accelerates Global Auto Partnerships, Equipping 130+ Models with Autonomous Driving Tech

 

Autonomous driving firm Momenta expanded strategic ties with seven major automakers at the Shanghai auto show, including deeper collaborations with GM Buick, FAW Toyota, Honda China, Cadillac, SAIC Audi, and IM Motors, alongside a new agreement with SAIC Volkswagen. These partnerships will deploy Momenta’s autonomous driving system across over 130 mass-produced vehicle models, reinforcing its role as a pioneer in scalable, AI-driven solutions for global markets.

 

 

▌Pony.ai and Tencent Cloud Forge Strategic Partnership to Expand Robotaxi Ecosystem

Autonomous driving firm Pony.ai has partnered with Tencent Cloud to integrate Robotaxi services into WeChat and other apps, advancing L4-level autonomous vehicle development. The collaboration will focus on cloud services, mapping, cybersecurity, and smart cockpit ecosystems to diversify Robotaxi offerings and operational scenarios.

▌Seyond and UISEE Partner to Advance Autonomous Logistics with LiDAR-Powered Airport Shuttles and Delivery Robots

 

High-performance LiDAR developer Seyond has formed a strategic alliance with autonomous driving firm UISEE to deploy advanced LiDAR solutions for autonomous logistics, including airport shuttles and UISEE’s UiBox delivery robots.

 

▌PCG Power, China Fortune Land, and Xiaomai Xinneng Unveil Strategic Alliance for Smart Industrial Energy Solutions

 

Comprehensive energy management provider PCG Power has formed a strategic partnership with China Fortune Land Development Co., Ltd. and Xiaomai Xinneng to pioneer a "business and investor attraction + industrial park development + new energy" model. The collaboration will deliver integrated smart energy services tailored for industrial parks.

 

▌CALB Deepens Strategic Partnership with XPENG AEROHT, Exclusively Powering Next-Gen Flying Cars

 

Leading lithium battery technology provider CALB has expanded its strategic collaboration with XPENG AEROHT, a pioneer in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicles. Following its exclusive supply of power batteries for XPENG AEROHT’s "Land Aircraft Carrier X3" (a modular flying car), CALB will continue as the sole battery supplier for the firm’s next-generation aircraft models, advancing sustainable urban air mobility.

▌SINPRO and DiDi Autonomous Driving Forge Strategic Partnership for Advanced Robotaxi Sensing

 

Auto-grade environmental perception solutions provider SINPRO has partnered with DiDi Autonomous Driving to integrate its 4D imaging radar technology into DiDi’s front-mounted, mass-produced L4 Robotaxi fleet. The collaboration will equip each vehicle with multiple SFR-2K radar units, enabling 360º omnidirectional environmental sensing and all-condition object recognition to enhance safety and efficiency in autonomous ride-hailing.

 

▌AlphaESS and Nankai University Establish Joint Research Center for Smart Energy Storage

 

Solar energy storage solutions provider AlphaESS has partnered with Nankai University to launch a joint research center for smart energy storage, bridging industry expertise with academic research to drive collaborative innovation.

 

▌Standard Robots Inks Strategic Pact with Advanced Tech Application Center in Shenzhen to Drive Industrial Embodied AI

 

Industrial robotics developer Standard Robots has signed a strategic cooperation agreement with the International Advanced Technology Application Promotion Center (Shenzhen). As one of the first industrial embodied robotics firms and technology providers to join, Standard Robots will collaborate with the center to establish an industrial embodied intelligence innovation consortium.

 

Going Global

 

▌Newrizon Inks Strategic MOU with UAE Conglomerate for Electric Commercial Vehicles

 

Electric commercial vehicle manufacturer Newrizon has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with a leading UAE-based global conglomerate, outlining strategic cooperation and procurement plans. 

 

The partnership aims to enhance operational efficiency, expand market reach, and drive innovation in logistics sector.

 

 

▌Pony.ai Among First to Secure Luxembourg’s Robotaxi Testing Permit, Partners with Emile Weber

 

Autonomous driving company Pony.ai has been granted one of Luxembourg’s inaugural Robotaxi testing permits, positioning it as a pioneer in the region’s self-driving taxi trials. The company will partner with local mobility firm Emile Weber to expedite the rollout of driverless taxi services, leveraging Pony.ai’s L4 autonomous technology and Emile Weber’s local operational infrastructure.

 

▌Eacon, Norton Gold Fields, and Thiess Collaborate to Build International Smart Mining Benchmark in Australia

Autonomous haulage solutions provider Eacon has joined forces with Norton Gold Fields and mining contractor Thiess to pioneer intelligent mining in Australia. The trio will integrate Eacon’s autonomous driving technology with the partners’ operational expertise to deploy driverless transport systems at Norton Gold Fields’ mine sites.

▌United Winners Showcases Cutting-Edge Laser Solutions at electronica China

Laser welding equipment provider United Winners made a splash at electronica China, unveiling industry-specific solutions for automotive electronics, connectors, laser soldering, plastic welding, and battery applications (including 3C, coin cells, and soft-pack batteries).

 

▌INFY Power Unveils Liquid-Cooled Powerhouse at ESIE2025 Energy Storage Expo

 

Energy storage innovator INFY Power debuted its groundbreaking all-in-one liquid-cooled converter at the 13th Energy Storage International Summit & Exhibition (ESIE2025), alongside its Blue Ozean integrated liquid-cooled energy storage system, 11kW V2G (Vehicle-to-Grid) charging piles, and modular energy storage solutions.

 

▌AICT Selected as Hong Kong’s Key Enterprise, Expands Global Tech Footprint

 

Smart transportation solutions provider AICT has been designated a priority enterprise by the Hong Kong government, which will offer one-stop support for R&D, product adoption, market access, and talent acquisition to accelerate its growth. 

 

The company also joined 61 other Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei-Xiongan innovators in signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to develop in Hong Kong at the 2nd “Hong Kong World Youth Science Conference”. 

 

Additionally, AICT formalized a partnership with the China, ASEAN Accelerate Digital Cooperation platform in Nanning, Guangxi—a flagship project of the “Digital Silk Road”—to drive cross-border AI collaboration in Southeast Asia.

 

▌AlphaESS Crowned "Top Energy Storage Manufacturer" at Australia’s Smart Energy Expo

 

Solar energy storage solutions provider AlphaESS unveiled its latest innovations—including the STORION-M50 industrial-commercial system, SMILE-M5 residential solution, and flagship SMILE-G3 home energy storage system—at the Smart Energy Council Conference and Exhibition in Australia. Meanwhile, the company was awarded the "SunWiz Top ESS Manufacturer 2024" title by Australia’s leading energy market research firm, SunWiz, in recognition of its technological leadership and market impact in the region’s booming storage sector.
 

Honors

 

▌XREAL Wins Prestigious 2025 Edison Gold Award for AR Innovation

AR glasses designer and manufacturer XREAL has clinched the 2025 Edison Gold Award for its XREAL X1, the world’s first spatial computing chip tailored exclusively for AR glasses. The Edison Awards, established in 1987, recognize breakthroughs in innovation and is judged by a panel of over 3,000 global experts, including leading academics, industry pioneers, and cross-disciplinary visionaries.

 

 

▌CALB Wins "Golden Panda Award" for Top Battery Sales in New Energy Logistics Sector

 

CALB, a leading new energy enterprise specializing in lithium battery technology, has been awarded the Golden Panda Award for ranking among the top three battery providers for the new energy logistics vehicle sector. The accolade is based on actual sales/installations and market feedback.

 

▌RT Hightech Approved for Hubei Provincial Postdoctoral Innovation Base

 

RT Hightech, a leading producer of lithium battery materials, has been authorized to establish a Postdoctoral Innovation Practice Base in Hubei Province. The initiative will strengthen collaborations with top universities and research institutes globally, accelerating R&D synergies, technological innovation, and talent development in the lithium battery sector.

 

▌Momenta Wins FAW Toyota’s "Technology Development Fengcai Award"

 

Autonomous driving tech leader Momenta has been honored with the "Technology Development Fengcai Award" by FAW Toyota, recognizing its contributions to advanced driver-assistance systems and autonomous vehicle innovation. 

▌Yunchuang Zhixing Wins "2024 Most Promising Robotics Firm in Suzhou" Award

 

Autonomous sanitation vehicle developer Yunchuang Zhixing has been recognized as "2024 Most Growable Robotics Enterprise in Suzhou" by the Suzhou Robotics Industry Association.

 

▌BIBO and Rhino Named to Forbes China’s "Top 100 Most Investable Startups" List

 

Intelligent chassis solutions provider BIBO and autonomous driving chipmaker Rhino have been selected for Forbes China’s "Top 100 Most Investable Startups 2024", a ranking co-organized with Westdene Capital to spotlight innovative, high-growth ventures. 

 

▌SINPRO Named to "Auto Industry Investment Potential List"

 

SINPRO, a startup specializing in automotive-grade environmental perception solutions, has been recognized on the "Auto Industry Sci-Tech Innovation Investment Potential List", compiled by CATARC Information Technology. The ranking was assessed by a panel of dozens of industry experts from the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers, CATARC, and leading investment firms.

 

▌Meritech Wins "2025 Innovative Automotive Chip Award"

 

Meritech, a leading supplier of high-performance digital-analog mixed chips for new energy vehicles, has been awarded the "2025 Innovative Automotive Chip Award" at the "2025 China Automotive Chip Industry Innovation Achievements" ceremony, co-hosted by the China Automotive Chip Industry Innovation Strategic Alliance and China Electronics News. The recognition highlights Meritech’s C³ Lync SerDes chip series, specifically its serializer (M66S68) and deserializer (M65Q68), which enable ultra-fast data transmission in autonomous driving and connected vehicle systems.

 

▌United Winners Wins "2024 Hydrogen Energy Equipment Smart Manufacturing Leader" Award at SOLARBE Event

 

United Winners, a leading supplier of laser welding equipment and intelligent manufacturing solutions, has been awarded the "2024 Hydrogen Energy Equipment Smart Manufacturing Leader" prize at the SOLARBE Awards, organized by Hydrogen Discovery. The recognition celebrates the company’s outstanding contributions to technological innovation, market adoption, and industry advancement in the hydrogen energy sector.