“All in Auto”: Meizu's Strategic Move into Automobiles with the Backing of Geely and Meizu
Time: Dec 05, 2023Views:

In the current phase of the new energy race, the competition is veering toward the realm of intelligence. In this domain, tech giants like Huawei and Xiaomi evidently hold more advantages.

Recently, Yu Chengdong was fervently promoting Huawei's HarmonyOS Smart Mobility, encouraging more automobile companies to join Huawei's automotive ecosystem to collectively compete in the new energy race. Meanwhile, Xiaomi's first car model is on the verge of release. In this tech-automobile convergence, Meizu, a former rival in the mobile phone industry, has taken new strides by officially venturing into the automotive domain, launching its inaugural custom vehicle under the Meizu brand.

At a press conference, Meizu's Chairman and CEO, Shen Ziyu, reiterated the company's strategic plan and product lines, highlighting the venture into intelligent automobiles, smartphones, and smart eyewear. Meizu's technological edifice now embraces Extreme Star and Flyme Auto, depicted by posters in the Meizu Technology Building proclaiming "All in Auto," signifying the significance held by Meizu within the Geely Group.

Flyme Auto, prior to the launch event, had already made its appearance in the Lynk & Co 08 model. Official data indicates this model’s consistent dominance in the domestic mid-sized plug-in SUV weekly sales chart. According to some bloggers, Flyme Auto's performance in the Lynk & Co 08, specifically as a car infotainment system, has been impressive, displaying smooth operations in intelligent voice interactions and seamless smartphone integration.

Beyond Flyme Auto, Meizu has introduced the open platform "Boundless Intelligent Travel," aspiring to entice more partners to join the platform and share Flyme Auto's capabilities.

Towards the end of the launch event, Meizu unveiled the "One more thing" - the Meizu DreamCar MX. As part of the plan, Meizu, in collaboration with Geely Automobile Group's manufacturing capabilities, will create the inaugural MEIZU DreamCar MX. Meizu enthusiasts will have the opportunity to collectively design its paint, interior, car infotainment themes, and numerous personalized details. The official statement indicates this project will commence in the first quarter of 2024.

For Geely Holdings, now a major shareholder in Meizu, Meizu's diminished presence in the mobile phone industry is outweighed by the potential to fill its own voids in the intelligent cockpit and car infotainment sectors. This move holds significant relevance, especially in the face of Huawei's aggressive push with its HarmonyOS Smart Mobility.

Unlike Huawei's Car Business Unit, which relies on external support, Geely is financially capable. However, catching up in progress time and seizing opportunities will be pivotal in this pursuit.