autoevolution
 

Huawei Won't Sell Cars Alongside Phones, Will Build Dedicated Stores Instead

Huawei wants to sell cars in dedicated stores 6 photos
Photo: Bogdan Popa/autoevolution/Huawei
SERES SF5 Huawei Smart SelectionSERES SF5 Huawei Smart SelectionSERES SF5 Huawei Smart SelectionSERES SF5 Huawei Smart SelectionSERES SF5 Huawei Smart Selection
Unlike rival Apple, who is building a full car from scratch, Huawei is working together with auto manufacturers to provide them with the necessary software for a new-gen experience behind the wheels.
In other words, Huawei just wants to stick with what it does best, and that’s developing software that will power advanced systems in smart cars.

Thanks to a partnership with SERES, the company's Harmony OS has already debuted in the automotive market. Models sold under the AITO brand already run on Huawei software, but the Chinese tech behemoth is working with a series of other carmakers to expand its presence in the automotive market.

As a result, Huawei is working on one last detail regarding its expansion to the car industry. The company wants to build independent stores to sell cars, and instead of using its existing store chain, it plans to open new locations specifically focused on vehicles.

Huawei is already one of the top names in the tech industry in China (its international presence was significantly reduced after the sanctions announced by the United States in 2019), so it operates a network of more than 1,000 domestic stores. The models it launched with SERES have until now been available in these locations, but the local media now claims that Huawei is planning to move the strategy to the next level.

Huawei will begin with AITO dealers that will operate under its umbrella but will then expand the network as its presence in the auto world includes partnerships with more carmakers, including Chery and JAC.

People familiar with the matter said Huawei is also considering rebranding some old phone stores, especially the ones underperforming and not reaching its sales targets. A decision hasn't yet been made on which stores could end up selling cars instead of phones.

Ultimately, it looks like Huawei's automotive strategy is making good progress despite the company embracing a completely different plan from its local and international tech rivals.

Xiaomi, for example, is building its own electric vehicle from scratch, with the first model to launch in 2024.

At the same time, Apple is also developing a zero-emission car that could see daylight in 2025 or 2026, despite the company remaining completely tight-lipped on this project so far. Apple's first car could use a conventional approach with pedals and a steering wheel, but the company is believed to already be working on a more advanced model that would convert the cabin into a living room. The vehicle would boast full self-driving capabilities and deep integration with other Apple products, including the iPhone. The debut of this new model could take place later this decade, possibly in 2030, if the development goes as planned.
If you liked the article, please follow us:  Google News icon Google News Youtube Instagram
About the author: Bogdan Popa
Bogdan Popa profile photo

Bogdan keeps an eye on how technology is taking over the car world. His long-term goals are buying an 18-wheeler because he needs more space for his kid’s toys, and convincing Google and Apple that Android Auto and CarPlay deserve at least as much attention as their phones.
Full profile

 

Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?

You will only receive our top stories