Carmakers have been pursuing more advanced production methods as automotive electrification continues. Chinese EV brand Neta announced that it will start developing a die-casting machine of over 20,000 tons with Hong Kong-headquartered LK Technology, aiming to reduce the time and costs of manufacturing.
Neta, owned by China-based Hozon Auto, said on December 18 that it has signed a strategic agreement with LK Technology to develop the die-casting machine, claiming to be the world's largest. The EV company will also purchase multiple large, innovative die-casting equipment from LK Technology.
According to an announcement, the duo will form a joint venture for the effort and establish a demonstration base in Anhui, China.
Neta said EV makers have been competing for the integrated die-casting technique, which is essential for building skateboard chassis. Chinese carmakers like Aito, Nio, Xpeng and Li Auto have invested in the production method.
According to Neta, most automakers use die-casting machines between 6,000 and 9,000 tons. For example, Tesla and Aito adopt a 9,000-ton machine while Zeekr uses 7,200-ton equipment. The one Neta and LK Technology will build is expected to be the largest in the world.
Neta aims to sell over one million EVs worldwide by 2026. CnEVPost reported that the automaker will expand to more than 50 markets and target overseas sales of 100,000 cars by 2024. The investment in die-casting will help the company approach the goal.
Neta said that compared to the traditional production method, integrated die-casting reduces the number of car components and production costs. The technique can cut the time required for making chassis from one to two hours to less than two minutes. It also reduces the weight of the vehicle body.
Tesla has adopted "gigacasting" to build its vehicles, prompting other automakers, including Hyundai, Ford, and Toyota, to work on the technique. In September, Toyota showcased its gigacasting equipment to the media at its Myochi plant in Japan. Nikkei Asia reported that the machine can produce one-third of a car body in roughly three minutes. The complicated process used to take hours. Toyota plans to use the technique to build a new EV scheduled to launch in 2026.
