China's smart vehicles are poised for considerable expansion in international markets, emphasizing the importance of localization, according to Matthias Schubert, executive vice-president of mobility at TUV Rheinland, a reputable third-party testing and inspection organization.

Having been established in China for nearly forty years, TUV Rheinland has intensified its collaboration with local automotive players, as Schubert revealed in an interview with China Daily.

Recent partnerships, including a cooperation agreement with Seres in late May and ongoing dialogues with major manufacturers like BYD and Changan, highlight the growing momentum within the industry.

Schubert elaborated on TUV Rheinland's role, stating their mission is to assist Chinese clients in evolving their operations to capture opportunities beyond domestic borders.

He praised the AITO M9, a vehicle developed in collaboration between Seres and Huawei, noting its sophisticated features and robust safety systems.

Despite the cautious approach to Advanced Driving Assistance Systems in Europe, largely due to privacy and safety issues, Schubert remains optimistic about the global advancement of smart driving technologies.

TUV Rheinland is pivotal in guiding Chinese automakers through the complex regulatory requirements of international markets and aiding in product localization.

Schubert pointed out that understanding compliance needs, conducting both domestic and European testing, and aligning with consumer expectations are crucial components of their support strategy.

While the vehicle market in China shows signs of deceleration, Schubert holds a positive outlook, suggesting that the slowdown is not indicative of a long-term trend.

With a recent expansion of their capabilities, TUV Rheinland opened a new component testing lab in Taicang, Jiangsu province, alongside an acquisition of a lab in Shanghai last year.

Schubert emphasized the quick adaptability and collaborative spirit of Chinese automotive manufacturers, which enhances TUV Rheinland’s engagement with them.

As China's automotive industry transitions towards smart electric vehicles, TUV Rheinland has bolstered its battery testing capabilities, reflecting an industry shift away from traditional combustion engines.