AAAE: New markets ahead for Taiwanese auto firms

CHINA may be seen as Asia’s powerhouse for automobile manufacture, but Taiwan quietly supplies 10 out of 11 Chinese car-makers with components, including 75 per cent of the parts required for a Tesla car.

Taiwan is now heading rapidly towards creating a ‘smart vehicle industry’ comprising electric vehicles, autonomous vehicles and all the interlacing hardware and software technology, said the senior trade officer of the Taiwan Trade Centre, Anthony S.H. Tung.

Speaking to GoAutoNews at the Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo in Melbourne this week, Mr Tung said the new technology was something now in focus by most of Taiwan’s 3000 automotive and allied industry companies.

He said he was at the Expo to represent Taiwan’s external Trade Development Council, which functions in a similar way to the Taiwan Trade Commission.

“So, we represent Taiwan as a whole,” he said.

“This Expo is similar to a Taiwan pavilion. We have 10 exhibitors here and showing products from rally autotronics, a range of motorcycle parts, right through to the electric tricycle and bicycle (parts).

“We can supply everything from an oxygen sensor or a pressure sensor, right through to suspension parts and even leather upholstery.”

Mr Tung said his organisation was actively promoting a trade show in Taiwan called Taipei Empire.

“It has been around in Taiwan for about 35 years and although many people outside of Taiwan may not have heard of it, it is an important show for automotive manufacturers, buyers and sellers,” he said.

“It was in hibernation in the past year, but it is available for viewing online. The site has a ton of information and a virtual site as well that has interactive displays on the latest products.

“It also has up to 700 exhibitors so there’s something available for every business,” he added.

About 75 per cent of automotive parts and components made in Taiwan are exported, mainly to the US (43 per cent), Japan, China and the UK.

The auto industries account for about three per cent of Taiwan's gross domestic product, with about one third from the parts and component manufacturing sector.

Taiwan is regarded as one of the few markets with a sophisticated, multi-tier EV supply chain that integrates with global V supply chains.

Mr Tung said the range of products available through the trade centre covers the range of parts and accessories, including cars and motorcycles. 

He said it also has car charging systems for EVs, such as the Delta charger that is made in Taiwan.

Delta was instrumental in establishing fast chargers for EVs in New Zealand in 2017 and now has chargers in the north and south islands.

Delta installs EV chargers and has a partnership with Mitsubishi and Stellantis’ PSA Groupe.

Taiwan Trade Centre Sydney’s website is http//:sydney.taiwantrade.com