Lalamove, the prominent logistics and freight platform, is making a leap into electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing with the imminent launch of its brand, DuoLa Auto. The brand’s first model, an all-electric cargo van named “DuoLa Bafang” (多拉八方), is designed to meet the specific needs of the freight industry, emphasising increased carrying capacity and profitability for drivers.
Pre-launch promotions for the DuoLa Bafang have already begun across Lalamove’s media channels, including “Lalamove DuoLa Auto” and “Lalamove DuoLa Official Partner,” featuring an advertising campaign that highlights the vehicle’s “tech-mecha” aesthetic.
Vehicle specifications and design
The DuoLa Bafang is a fully enclosed cargo van with a boxy, functional design. Its front fascia features a large, enclosed panel and vertically arranged rectangular headlights. The headlights incorporate a distinctive “H” shape, likely referencing Lalamove’s Chinese initial. The black front bumper includes an air intake grille, contributing to a modern, robust appearance.
The side profile is equally straightforward, with the cargo area directly behind the driver’s cabin. It features a single sliding door on the left side and a rigid, creased waistline running from front to back.
According to filings with China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), the DuoLa Bafang measures 5095mm in length, 1870mm in width, and 1990mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3300mm. The cargo compartment dimensions are 3085mm x 1705mm x 1485mm, offering a substantial 7.8 cubic meters of volume, nearly one cubic meter more than typical mid-sized vans. The cabin is designed to accommodate three occupants, and the rear features 270-degree swing-out double doors for easy loading and unloading.
Powering the DuoLa Bafang is a 94 kW electric motor. It offers battery options from three suppliers: CATL (43.53 kWh), FinDreams (43.061 kWh), and EVE Energy (41.86 kWh). The vehicle boasts a maximum range of 305 kilometers (190 miles), which is deemed sufficient for urban short-haul deliveries.
Manufacturing strategy: OEM partnership with Changan Kaicene
Given the current restrictions on new EV manufacturing licenses in China, Lalamove has adopted an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) model. The DuoLa Bafang is being produced in partnership with Changan Kaicene, a subsidiary of Changan Automobile. MIIT filings show that Changan Kaicene applied for three models of electric cargo vans visually identical to the DuoLa Bafang, with “DuoLa Bafang” clearly marked on the rear. This indicates that while Changan Kaicene handles manufacturing, Lalamove is likely responsible for the design and technology, evidenced by their ongoing recruitment for automotive engineering positions.
Strategic rationale: tapping into the new energy commercial vehicle market
Lalamove’s foray into EV manufacturing has been in the works for approximately four years, with initial reports surfacing in 2021. The company officially added “new energy vehicle sales” to its business scope in 2023 and stated in its Hong Kong Stock Exchange prospectus that it was exploring new opportunities in electric commercial vehicle research and development.
This move positions Lalamove to capitalise on the new energy commercial vehicle market burgeoning. While the segment already has established players like Foton Zhilan, Geely’s Farizon Xingxiang V, and Wuling Cargo, Lalamove’s primary advantage lies in its extensive platform ecosystem.
With a vast user base and rich operational experience, Lalamove is well-positioned to promote and sell the DuoLa Bafang. The company’s 2024 data reveals that 40% of its platform orders are already fulfilled by new energy vehicles, accumulating 7.4 billion kilometres in mileage. Lalamove has also built a substantial charging network, covering 338 cities with 940,000 charging piles.
Furthermore, Lalamove’s deep understanding of driver needs, derived from millions of monthly orders and 1.68 million active drivers, allows them to design vehicles specifically tailored for the freight industry. Potential incentives like membership discounts and reduced commissions could further attract drivers to the DuoLa Bafang.
Despite the promising outlook, Lalamove faces challenges, including a potentially singular profit model and previous setbacks in its IPO plans. Entering vehicle manufacturing is seen as a crucial strategic move for Lalamove to secure new growth avenues.
About Lalamove:
Lalamove (Huolala 货拉拉 in mainland China) is a leading on-demand logistics and delivery platform that connects users with professional drivers for various delivery needs, ranging from small parcels to large cargo. Founded in Hong Kong in 2013, it has expanded rapidly across Asia and Latin America, offering services such as instant delivery, same-day delivery, and moving services. The platform primarily operates through a mobile application, allowing users to quickly book and track deliveries.
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