Lalamove is taking a significant step forward in diversification as it prepares to enter the electric vehicle (EV) market, marking the launch of its new brand, DuoLa Auto. The model’s initial prototype, the all-electric DuoLa Bafang cargo van, is engineered to cater specifically to the logistics industry’s demands, prioritizing enhanced load capacity and increased profitability for operators.
Pre-launch promotions for the DuoLa Bafang are underway across Lalamove’s multimedia platforms, accompanied by “Lalamove DuoLa Auto” and “Lalamove DuoLa Official Partner,” which features a campaign showcasing the vehicle’s striking “tech-mecha” design.
The DuoLa Bafang is a fully enclosed cargo van boasting a box-like shape that exudes functionality and purposefulness. The exterior design features a prominent, enclosed grille and vertically aligned rectangular headlights, creating a striking first impression. The distinctive “H”-shaped headlight design appears to pay homage to the company’s Chinese roots. The sleek black entrance bumper features an aerodynamic air consumption grille, lending a modern, robust aesthetic to the overall design.
The cargo area is straightforwardly positioned directly behind the driver’s compartment. The sleek design features a solitary sliding door on the left-hand side, complemented by a rigid, creased waistline running seamlessly from front to back.
According to filings with China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), the DuoLa Bafang has dimensions of 5095mm in length, 1870mm in width, and 1990mm in height, with a wheelbase measuring 3300mm. With its spacious cargo compartment measuring 3.08 metres in length, 1.705 metres in width, and 1.485 metres in height, this vehicle offers an impressive volume of approximately 7.8 cubic metres – a significant 0.8 cubic metre increase over the average mid-sized van’s capacity. The cabin is engineered to comfortably house up to three individuals, featuring a unique rear design with 270-degree swing-out double doors that facilitate effortless entry and exit.
The DuoLa Bafang electric bicycle features a powerful 94 kW motor. The vehicle offers a range of battery options from three leading manufacturers: 43.53 kWh from CATL, 43.061 kWh from FinDreams, and 41.86 kWh from EVE Power. With a maximum range of 305 kilometres (190 miles), this vehicle is well-suited for urban courier duties due to its sufficient capacity for frequent, shorter trips.
Given the current constraints on new EV manufacturing permits in China, Lalamove has opted for an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) model. The DuoLa Bafang is jointly produced by Bafang and Changan Kaicene, a prominent automotive subsidiary of Changan Car. According to MIIT filings, Changan Kaicene has designed three visual models of electric cargo vans closely resembling the DuoLa Bafang, with the “DuoLa Bafang” logo prominently displayed at the rear. As the partnership between Changan Kaicene and Lalamove suggests, the latter is likely to take charge of designing and providing the technological expertise for the venture, given its recent hiring spree for automotive engineering roles.
Lalamove’s move into electric vehicle manufacturing has been under development for approximately four years, with whispers of its plans emerging in 2021. In 2023, the corporation expanded its business remit by officially incorporating “new electric vehicle sales” into its operations, further solidifying this strategic direction through a notable mention in its Hong Kong Stock Exchange prospectus, where it also hinted at exploring fresh opportunities in the realm of electric industrial vehicle research and development.
This strategic move enables Lalamove to capitalize on the rapidly emerging power industrial vehicle market, solidifying its position as a pioneer in this space. While existing players like Foton Zhilan, Geely’s Farizon Xingxiang V, and Wuling Cargo have already gained traction, Lalamove’s competitive edge stems from its comprehensive platform ecosystem, which offers a distinct value proposition to customers.
With a vast global customer footprint and substantial operational resources at its disposal, Lalamove is uniquely poised to effectively market and showcase the DuoLa Bafang to a massive audience. The corporation’s 2024 data reveals that its fleet has accumulated a staggering 7.4 billion kilometers of mileage. Lalamove has built an extensive charging network, covering 338 cities and boasting over 940,000 charging stations.
Furthermore, leveraging insights gained from processing hundreds of thousands of monthly orders and engaging with over 1.68 million active drivers, Lalamove has developed a profound comprehension of driver requirements, enabling the company to craft vehicles specifically tailored to meet the unique demands of the logistics industry. Considered incentives such as streamlined membership rates and diminished commissions could further entice drivers to opt for the DuoLa Bafang.
Despite the encouraging prospects, Lalamove confronts hurdles, including a distinctive revenue model and previous setbacks in its initial public offering (IPO) plans. By venturing into automobile manufacturing, Lalamove is poised to unlock fresh opportunities for growth and expansion.
Lalamove, the leading on-demand logistics and supply platform, seamlessly connects customers with experienced drivers for a diverse range of delivery needs, spanning from small parcel shipments to large cargo transport. Established in Hong Kong in 2013, the company has experienced rapid growth across Asia and Latin America, offering clients a range of logistics solutions including expedited, same-day, and cross-border transportation services. The platform primarily functions through a mobile application, enabling users to quickly book and track deliveries.
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