U Power and Whale Logistics partner to deploy 1,000 battery-swapping heavy-duty trucks in Thailand
Type: Partnership · Technology: Transport · Country: Thailand · Capacity: 1000 trucks · Announced: 2026-03-13
U Power will supply 1,000 battery-swapping heavy-duty electric trucks and charging infrastructure to Whale Logistics for nationwide deployment in Thailand. This establishes a critical electric logistics network,.
Analysis
The deployment of 1,000 battery-swapping heavy-duty trucks in Thailand by May 2026 represents a significant cross-border collaboration to electrify highway logistics. This strategic partnership, formalized in December 2025, brings together Australia-based Whale Logistics, Spain's UNEX EV for charging infrastructure, and China's SAIC Hongyan as the truck supplier. The initiative specifically targets enhanced operational efficiency through quick battery swaps, addressing a key challenge for heavy-duty EV adoption in long-haul transport. The phased rollout, commencing with prototype testing before the first batch delivery, indicates a methodical approach to integrating this advanced transport solution.
Key points
- Deployment of 1,000 battery-swapping heavy-duty trucks in Thailand.
- Involvement of Australia-based Whale Logistics and Spain-based UNEX EV in a Thailand-focused transport deal.
- First batch of heavy truck tractors expected for production and delivery by May 2026.
- SAIC Hongyan Automotive, a Chinese heavy-duty truck manufacturer, supplying the vehicles.
Counterparties
- SAIC Hongyan Automotive (Supplier)
- U Power (Partner)
- UNEX EV (Partner)
- Whale Logistics (Partner)