Kuehne+Nagel and Changan partner on EV battery and spare parts logistics for European aftermarket

Kuehne+Nagel and Chinese carmaker Changan Automobile have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to develop EV aftermarket logistics, including battery logistics and end-of-life battery solutions, for BEVs in the European market.

The deal will develop spare parts logistics services and battery logistics services for EVs across the UK, Germany, the Netherlands, Italy, Spain and France, using Kuehne+Nagel’s 22,000 sq m automotive campus in Helmond, the Netherlands, as its strategic European distribution hub.

“With our extensive expertise in automotive logistics and strategically located facilities in Europe, we can deliver reliable supply chain solutions to support Changan Automobile’s ambitious growth plans,” said Gianfranco Sgro, executive vice-president of Contract Logistics and Integrated Logistics, Kuehne+Nagel. “Our network and experience provide a strong foundation for helping emerging brands from China and Asia expand into new markets.”

The announcement follows a trend of Chinese EV manufacturers making inroads in Europe’s automotive supply chains. At the beginning of the year, Changan Automobile announced that its joint venture (JV) with Mazda will export its Mazda 6e EV to Europe this year, despite EU tariffs on Chinese EV imports. Changan and Mazda have had a JV for 20 years, mainly making Mazda vehicles for the Chinese market domestically in Nanjing. Now, the JV will be making the 6e model for European export.

In a statement announcing the MoU, Yin Yi, managing director of the Europe business unit at Changan Automobile said: “We are proud to start this collaboration with Kuehne+Nagel, which will enhance our supply chain capabilities and ensure efficient distribution across Europe. This aligns with our Vast Ocean Plan strategy, which is committed to global growth and excellence.”