Shanghai (ZXZC)- On October 19, 2023, Foton Motor's Vice President, Mr. Ma Rentao, and Piaggio's CEO, Mr. Michele Colaninno, inked an agreement in Beijing, marking the commencement of a new venture in electric commercial vehicle development. Both parties will collaborate to develop new energy products and enter the high-standard European Union market, jointly offering electrification solutions for the European light commercial vehicle sector.

Photo credit: Foton Motor

In a bid to meet the unique demands of intra-city transport, Foton Motor and Piaggio will jointly craft two new electric commercial vehicle models. These vehicles will boast compact dimensions coupled with the capability to carry at least one tonne of cargo. Production of these innovative products is scheduled to take place at Piaggio's factory in Italy, with plans to expand across major European markets by the end of 2024.

These two upcoming vehicle models signify not only the fruits of this collaboration but also herald the integration of advanced active and passive safety systems, including cutting-edge Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). These achievements are set to be seamlessly integrated into electric and conventional fuel-burning vehicles, further enhancing urban transport safety.

Since their partnership's inception in 2018, Foton Motor and Piaggio have achieved significant milestones in the European light commercial vehicle sector. In 2021, the duo introduced the NP6, their first cooperative city light commercial vehicle, to the European market. To date, over 22,000 units have been exported. The newly-forged agreement is a testament to the strengthening strategic relationship between both companies.

Apart from the collaboration with Piaggio, Foton Motor is progressively enhancing its operational structure, sales network, and service presence throughout Europe, said the automaker.