U Power-Foton Motor: In a milestone step set to drive the electrification of commercial transport forward at turbocharger speed. U Power, the trailblazer for battery-swapping technology. It has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Beijing Foton, a Foton Motor subsidiary. This partnership will incorporate U Power’s high-speed battery-swapping technology. Into Foton’s electric commercial vehicles for targeted international markets. Its potential for a new generation of operating efficiency for fleets.
U Power-Foton Motor: Partnership at a Glance
- Announcement Date: July 2025
- Firms: U Power (battery-swapping technology), Beijing Foton (commercial EV production)
- Focus Vehicle: Heavy trucks, buses, and vans
- Target Markets: Southeast Asia, South America, Hong Kong SAR, Macau SAR
Technology and Implementation
Central to this partnership is U Power’s UOTTA battery-swapping system. A technology that enables commercial EVs to swap spent batteries. With fully charged ones within a mere three minutes. The system is scalable and vehicle-class agnostic, supporting minibuses to heavy trucks. The tie-up will also involve the creation and deployment of battery-swapping stations. These can integrate Foton’s vehicles into U Power’s growing battery-bank network.
U Power-Foton Motor: Data-Driven Collaboration
Beijing Foton will share in-depth vehicle performance information. To inform continuing optimization of the battery-swapping system. Such as battery health, charging cycles, and capacity. This data-sharing program should cause ongoing improvements in both vehicle and battery. Performance to increase reliability and lifespan.
Johnny Lee, CEO & Chairman, U Power. “This partnership marks a significant step in our mission to build a global battery-swapping ecosystem. By joining forces with Foton, we’re not just expanding our reach. We’re setting new benchmarks for efficiency and sustainability in commercial transport.”
Industry Impact and Reactions to U Power-Foton Motor
- Market Expansion: With Foton’s remarkable export history. More than 153,000 new energy vehicles delivered worldwide in 2024. The alliance is poised to accelerate battery-swapping technology adoption in markets. Where commercial vehicles are essential to economic activity.
- Operational Efficiency: Battery swapping solutions solve two key fleet issues. Range anxiety and vehicle downtime. By facilitating quick turnaround, operators can achieve optimal asset utilization.
- Sustainability: Battery refurbishment and reuse in a central location enable a circular economy. Minimizing waste and prolonging battery life cycles.
Industry watchers have praised the partnership as a game-changer. Particularly in developing economies where strong charging infrastructure is still maturing. The rapid-swap model is viewed as a realistic solution for high-usage fleets. Such as logistics, public transport, and urban deliveries.
ELCTRIK Speaks
The MoU paves the way for pilot implementations and field trials of swappable battery EVs.With charging infrastructure in the next few months. The two companies have indicated a willingness to move toward more comprehensive cooperation. As the ecosystem grows, with more announcements forthcoming for rollout timelines and commercial products.
