Phuket, Thailand – April 30, 2025 – U Power Limited (Nasdaq: UCAR), a global leader in a global leader in green smart energy grid innovation, announced that its Thai subsidiary, USWAP Co., Ltd., has successfully delivered 21 battery-swapping-enabled MG EP vehicles to Auto Drive EV Public Company Limited, a leading mobility service provider in Thailand, through a strategic partnership with Sumitomo Mitsui Auto Leasing & Service (Thailand) Co., Ltd. The vehicles will be deployed to enhance sustainable taxi operations across the island of Phuket, a world-renowned tourist destination. This landmark transaction marks the deployment of Southeast Asia’s first fleet of battery-swapping taxis, setting a new benchmark for sustainable transportation in the region.
The vehicles are equipped with U Power’s proprietary UOTTA fully automated battery-swapping technology, showcased at the 2025 Bangkok International Motor Show. This system enables a full battery replacement in just 3 minutes, ensuring minimal downtime for taxis, maximizing operational efficiency, and uninterrupted service for passengers.. The deployment aligns with Thailand’s EV 3.5 Policy, which aims to subsidize EV adoption and establish a nationwide charging/swapping network by 2027.
A Model for Sustainable Tourism
Phuket, a hub for international tourism, faces growing demand for efficient and environmentally responsible transportation. The deployment of battery-swapping fleet will not only improve air quality but also position the island as a leader in adopting smart EV solutions. The battery-swapping infrastructure, supported by U Power’s network, ensures operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness for Auto Drive’s taxi operators.
Johnny Lee, CEO of U Power Limited: “This delivery is not just a milestone for USWAP but a leap forward for Southeast Asia’s EV transition. By partnering with Sumitomo Mitsui Auto Leasing and Auto Drive, we are proving that battery-swapping technology can revolutionize urban mobility while aligning with Thailand’s carbon neutrality goals.”
Representative of Sumitomo Mitsui Auto Leasing & Service (Thailand): “Our financing model bridges the gap between cutting-edge technology and market accessibility. This project exemplifies how financial innovation can drive sustainable development in the EV sector.”
Dr. Akaranun Ariyasripong, Chairman of Auto Drive EV Public Company Limited, revealed, “The integration of U Power’s vehicles into Auto Drive’s fleet reinforces our commitment to delivering up to 2,000 electric taxis within 2025 and reducing carbon emissions in key tourist cities. The partnership includes comprehensive support for battery-swapping infrastructure, operational management, and financial services.”
This initiative establishes Thailand as a leading hub for EV innovation in ASEAN. USWAP is expanding its battery-swapping network across key urban centers and major transportation routes, with a focus on commercial applications including taxis, trucks, and logistics fleets. As Thailand's EV market continues its rapid growth, U Power's technology provides solutions to critical energy replenishment and grid stability challenges.
