The company, which is backed by French automaker Renault, aims to build a “Made in Hong Kong” brand while creating an EV ecosystem covering design, innovation, production and marketing, So said.
“This approach isn’t about what to build and where to build it,” he said in an interview Friday. “In my opinion, this is about building a brand, and a brand is a combination of culture, art, history and technology.”
He said it will take several months to finalize plans for building and staffing the assembly plant.
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Chinese electric cars face additional import tariffs of up to 38% from the EU
Chinese electric cars face additional import tariffs of up to 38% from the EU
The government-owned HKSTP provides facilities, office space and support to technology companies.
Dirk van Breckel, who has 40 years of automotive design experience and has worked on several Volkswagen models, is currently Biyonka’s Chief Design Officer.
So said the EV startup plans to launch its first production electric vehicle by the end of 2025.
In October 2022, Biyonka launched its first prototype model, the GT Opus 1. The smart cockpit, powered by artificial intelligence, features the world’s first in-car real-time blood pressure monitoring and online “cloud doctor” service. If the driver shows signs of cardiovascular disease, stroke, or fatigue, it will automatically slow down or stop the car to intervene.
“We’re focused on making good cars and good AI systems,” So said. “We’re not looking to mass produce. We’re looking at positioning and branding.”
So said the new assembly line, as well as three other key production processes – stamping, body welding and painting – will be carried out at Beyondka’s production base in mainland China.
Both left-hand drive and right-hand drive models will be assembled at the Hong Kong factory.
So, who also serves as chairman and CEO of Renault’s China operation, said Biyonka will target China and Europe, the two major markets for luxury EVs. Biyonka’s investors include Chinese state-owned automaker Dongfeng Motor.
Hong Kong is in an advantageous position compared to mainland Chinese cities because locally produced cars are not subject to the punitive measures facing Chinese EV makers.
In October last year, Biyonca signed a preliminary investment agreement with Riyadh-based AI Faisaliah Group to jointly explore EV development opportunities in the Middle East.
Due to fierce competition in mainland China, almost all EV companies are currently embroiled in a price war.
