BILBAO, Spain, May 21 (Xinhua) -- A BYD electric car has been meticulously dismantled on the floor of a laboratory, its components displayed as if undergoing an autopsy of this cutting-edge vehicle. This process highlights the intense scrutiny that electric vehicles are subjected to, particularly as the automotive industry has embarked on a journey towards innovation and sustainability.

According to Daniel, a technician at the Automotive Intelligence Center (AIC) located in Zamudio, just outside Bilbao, this approach to reverse engineering represents the pinnacle of the field. It encapsulates the collaborative spirit within the automotive sector, particularly in regards to integrating insights from various companies and nations to foster collective advancement.

The AIC stands as a paradigm of how strategic partnerships — both public and private — are harnessing research, market knowledge, and innovation to propel the development of next-generation automotive technologies. Supported by the Bizcay Provincial Council and various local and international entities, AIC empowers its partners through a blend of research, industrial advancement, and entrepreneurial ventures.

In recent years, the center has formed robust collaborations with several Chinese enterprises, including automotive giants like BYD, SAIC Motor, BAIC Group, and Chery Motors. Additionally, partnerships extend to suppliers such as Hasco Group and Donghua, as well as energy companies like Gotion and battery manufacturer Hithium, underlining a significant cross-border exchange of innovation in the sector.

Raquel Pinan, the Internationalization Manager at AIC, emphasized the importance of fostering mutual benefits, particularly in a commercial context that has resonated well within China's auto industry. She indicated that both Spanish and Chinese firms are finding common ground to their collective advantage as they seek to identify shared interests.

Pinan recognizes China's advancements in vehicle electrification and aims to assist Chinese manufacturers in optimizing their operational capabilities. She mentioned that it is crucial for these companies to adapt to market specifics and local values in order to thrive in international arenas, thus working to align value chains with European standards.

The maritime and industrial heritage of the Basque region, and particularly Bizcay, has played a pivotal role in AIC's integration into the local ecosystem. Historically, Bizcay has been influential in sectors such as mining, iron production, and shipbuilding, which can be attributed to its longstanding history of exploration and innovation.

Pinan alluded to the region's cultural legacy of exploration, referencing figures such as Juan Sebastian Elcano, known for completing the first circumnavigation of the globe. This spirit of adventure and inquiry continues to inspire the current workforce as they strive to innovate and collaborate within the automotive industry.

The automobile sector is characterized by a collective agenda aimed at enhancing cooperation among its many players. While there are formidable companies involved, no single entity possesses all the requisite capabilities, thus opening avenues for AIC to serve as a collaborative facilitator, benefitting Biscay's industrial landscape.

Examining the disassembled BYD vehicle, Daniel remarked that the manufacturer employs a "very intelligent strategy" to deliver high performance at a competitive cost. He noted the dual motor system and the enhanced safety features of the battery, which contrast sharply with those found in other electric vehicle models.

By dissecting the vehicle, the AIC team discovered that BYD has a unique approach compared to its competitors — while the vehicle may present challenges in terms of repair, its assembly is straightforward, and the product quality is commendable.