The automobile industry in Taiwan is connected in several directions at once. This is the production of passenger cars, spare parts, and electronics for cars. Moreover, their assembly does not play a decisive role in the country’s economy, although about 3 thousand companies are associated with the automotive industry there. Hotai Motor, China Motor Corporation, Yulon Nissan Motor, and Honda Taiwan head the rating. In addition, local industrialists are actively investing in electric models. Not surprisingly, 75% of Tesla’s employees are Taiwanese residents.
What are the Taiwanese automobile brands?
The automotive industry in Taiwan is quite developed, although it is not the locomotive of the local economy. The major brands are Hotai Motor, Yulon Motors, Luxgen, Yulon GM, China Motor Corporation, Chin Chun Motors, Kuozui Motors, Ford Lio Ho, Honda Taiwan, Her Chee, SYM Motors, Formosa Automobile, Ta Ching Motor, and Prince Motors.
Hotai Motor
It is a conglomerate founded in 1947. Its activities involve the manufacturing, advertising, and selling of automobiles and automobile parts. Lee Ho Huang founded it and supplied small cars and cars under the Toyota and Lexus brands.
It also manufactures a range of large vehicles, including trucks, including the Toyota and Hino brands. However, unlike similar structures, the company has two subsidiaries dealing with auto insurance, auto parts, and auto leasing. In other words, this manufacturer dominates all areas of the automotive industry.
Yulon Motors
This is one of the largest automobile manufacturers in Taiwan. It assembles passenger cars under Nissan’s license. Until 1992 (when the company was formed in 1953), this manufacturer had the name Yue Loong, after which it was shortened to Yulon. Today, the company is among the four leaders of the Taiwanese automobile market. It forms a holding company with several brands: Yulon Rental, Carnival Industrial Corporation, Yulon Financial, Yulon-Nissan Motor, and others.
In 2010, the organization created the Luxgen brand to sell its cars. It also sells several Nissan and Renault series. The Nissan lineup is particularly wide, which includes the March, Verita, Sentra, Teana, Serena, and X-Trail models.
Luxgen
This company produces cars under the brand launched by Yulon and is 100% owned by the parent company. It forms a single structure called Dongfeng with the Chinese automaker Dongfeng Yulon. Luxgen supplies the PRC market with several modifications of passenger cars—S5, S3, U5, U6, 7 MPV, and 7 SUV. The company is headquartered in the Miaoli district.
Yulon GM
The structural division of Yulon and General Motors no longer exists today. It dissolved in 2012, although it once successfully sold Cadillac, Buick, and Opel vehicles. The company also designed and assembled the Buick Excelle and Buick Lacrosse. After a poor rating that led to financial collapse, the partnership between the Taiwanese and American companies was terminated, and the joint venture was dissolved.
China Motor Corporation
Taiwan’s Taipei-based CMC produces well-equipped and modern Mitsubishi and Daimler Chrysler vehicles. It is also their main supplier overseas, offering modernized models for export. In 2021, its lineup included a wide range of Mitsubishi passenger cars: the Zinger (based on the Challenger platform), Space Gear, Savrin, Grunder (Asian modification of the Galant series), and Lancer. Since 2006, an extensive line of Chrysler cars has been produced. The company has a lot of experience as it has been in the market since 1969.
Chin Chun Motors
This automotive organization began its operations in 1991 in Taoyuan, which is still located today. It is a partnership formed by Chinfon Huanyu and Volkswagen AG. Also, Chin Chun Motors is a subsidiary of the Chinfon Group. It currently manufactures Hyundai commercial vehicles in Taiwan.
Kuozui Motors
This Taiwanese automaker specializes in the production of Toyota vehicles. The list includes many series such as Yaris, Zace, Wish, Camry, Altis, and Vios. In addition to assembly, it also deals with passenger car sales and after-sales maintenance. The company began as a subsidiary of Hino Motors and Hotai Motor. In the 1980s, it spun out of them and became an independent entity. But in 2008, Hotai Motor and Toyota increased their stakes in Kuozui Motors, gaining a controlling interest.
Ford Lio Ho
The automaker Ford Lio Ho was founded as a Ford passenger car assembly plant in Taiwan. From the mid-1980s through the 1990s, it handled cars based on the Mazda 626 and 323. These were intended by Ford Motor Company to be delivered to Asia-Pacific countries and were known as the Telstar, Ford Laser, and Explorer. The current lineup is much broader and includes adapted Mazda and Ford models. The company was founded in 1972. Only 70% of the shares are owned by Ford, with the rest held by Lio Ho investors.
Honda Taiwan
This plant is wholly owned by the Japanese conglomerate Honda Motor Co., Ltd. He founded it in 2002 when local firms broke off cooperation with him. As a result, the foreign company built a personal enterprise, where it set up production of its CR-V and Accord series cars (in 2003), Civic (in 2006), and Fit (in 2008).
Her Chee
This company focuses on producing small SUVs – compact side-by-side all-terrain vehicles- in Taiwan. Also, there are ATVs, scooters, and motorcycles among Taiwanese manufacturers. The company’s full name is Her Chee Industrial, which indicates its specialization in the industrial field without independent development.
SYM Motors
Sanyang Motor Co., Ltd. was established in 1954. It was founded in Taipei by entrepreneurs Chang Kuo An and Huang Chi-Chung. The company is headquartered in Hsinchu County and has three factories in Taiwan, China, and Vietnam. Its main product range consists of ATVs, motorcycles, scooters (under the SYM brand), mini trucks, and cars (under the Hyundai brand).
Formosa Automobile
The automobile company, founded in 1996, came into being after purchasing the factory of the bankrupt Sanfu Motor Co., Ltd. It was financed by Formosa Plastics Group, after which it began assembling Daewoo cars from 2003 to 2006. It produced various other models under its brand name, Formosa. In 2004, it abandoned it due to financial losses. To recover, the company tried to partner with Skoda but also failed. So now it only has a line to produce Dutch DAF trucks.
Ta Ching Motor
This Taiwanese company, founded in 1989, assembled Subaru cars. Its main industrial sites were located in the city of Pingtung. The company also developed a unique sedan, Subaru Justy. In 2002, the manufacturer ceased operations.
Prince Motors
The initiator of the creation of this firm was a politician and businessman, Hsu Sheng-fa. It was founded in 1965. Initially, it was engaged in the assembly of passenger and commercial vehicles, being a key supplier of Japanese trucks, Mitsubishi Kato and Komatsu. Since 1971, Prince Motors Co. has manufactured Nissan Homer vehicles. After the contract with that corporation ended, the company entered into a long-term agreement with Isuzu and Suzuki, locating the assembly line in New Taipei (Tucheng District). But in 2011, the Taiwanese company went bankrupt.
Thunder Power
Thunder Power is a modern brand of electric cars positioned as a future car. High speed, energy-consuming batteries, noise-absorbing interiors, and innovative design characterize them. The Thunder Power logo is large and unusually located in the place of the front grille. The badge is shaped like an oval diverging over water and consists of three elements stylized in shiny metal.
Tobe
This is a proprietary brand of the Taiwanese automaker Yulon Motor Company, which produces inexpensive superminis. Passenger cars have been produced in Miaoli city since 2009. The Tobe logo has a circular shape with an orange center, on which the brand name is placed. It is made in lowercase font and arranged in two rows. Like the frame, the lettering has a metallic texture and a shiny surface.
CMC
The abbreviation of this Taiwanese automaker and distributor stands for China Motor Corporation. The company has been around since 1969 and is based in Taipei City. The current CMC logo has been in use since 2015. It is made as a horizontal rhombus, divided by a vertical stripe into two identical triangles, and supplemented with a blue name at the bottom.
FAQ
What car brand is made in Taiwan?
One of the leading car brands in Taiwan is Luxgen. It focuses on producing innovative, technology-driven vehicles, including electric and hybrid models.
Innovative Technology:
- Luxgen vehicles have advanced technology, including driver assistance systems, intelligent safety features, and connectivity options.
- The brand focuses on electric and hybrid vehicles, contributing to the market for sustainable transportation solutions.
Popular Models:
- Luxgen U6: A compact SUV is known for its stylish design, spacious interior, and advanced technology.
- Luxgen S3: A sedan offering a comfortable ride, modern features, and competitive pricing.
- Luxgen M7: A multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) combining practicality with luxury and numerous high-tech features.
Market Presence:
- Luxgen primarily targets the Taiwanese market but expands internationally to compete with global car manufacturers.
Other Taiwanese Automobile Manufacturers
Yulon Motor:
- Produces vehicles under various brands through joint ventures and partnerships with international companies.
Ford Lio Ho:
- A joint venture between Ford Motor Company and local Taiwanese partners, producing Ford vehicles for the domestic market.
China Motor Corporation (CMC):
- Known for manufacturing Mitsubishi vehicles under license and developing its brand.
Sanyang Motor:
- Produces a range of vehicles through partnerships, including motorcycles and scooters under the SYM brand and cars.
Kuozui Motors:
- Founded by Hino Motors, Toyota vehicles are produced in Taiwan.
Formosa Automobile Corporation:
- Engages in the manufacture and sale of various types of vehicles.
Honda Taiwan:
- Produces Honda vehicles tailored to the Taiwanese market.
What is Taiwan’s best-selling car brand?
The best-selling car brand in Taiwan is Toyota, with the Toyota Corolla Cross holding the top spot for the third year in a row:
Features:
- Design: The Corolla Cross combines an SUV’s practicality with a crossover’s compactness, making it suitable for urban and suburban settings.
- Performance: It offers a smooth, comfortable ride, efficient fuel consumption, and reliable performance. The hybrid variant appeals to eco-conscious buyers.
- Safety: The Corolla Cross has advanced safety features, including Toyota Safety Sense, which ensures a secure driving experience.
- Technology: Modern connectivity options and a user-friendly infotainment system enhance its appeal to tech-savvy drivers.
Market Impact:
- The success of the Toyota Corolla Cross has significantly boosted Toyota’s dominance in the Taiwanese automotive market. Its ability to meet diverse consumer needs solidifies its leading position in Taiwan.
Does Taiwan produce automobiles?
Yes, Taiwan produces automobiles. In the first half of 2023, automobile production in Taiwan increased by 14.7%, reaching 139,000 units.
Major Manufacturers:
- Yulon Motor: One of Taiwan’s largest automobile manufacturers, producing local brands and joint ventures with international companies.
- Luxgen: A subsidiary of Yulon Motor focusing on innovative and technology-driven vehicles, including electric and hybrid models.
- China Motor Corporation (CMC): Known for manufacturing Mitsubishi vehicles under license and developing its brands.
- Sanyang Motor produces a range of vehicles, including motorcycles and scooters under the SYM brand and cars through partnerships.
- Kuozui Motors: Founded by Hino Motors, Toyota produces vehicles in Taiwan.
- Formosa Automobile Corporation: Engages in manufacturing and selling various types of vehicles.
- Honda Taiwan: Produces Honda vehicles tailored to the Taiwanese market.
- Ford Lio Ho: A joint venture between Ford Motor Company and local Taiwanese partners, producing Ford vehicles for the domestic market.
Taiwan’s automobile production is rising, with local manufacturers making significant contributions to domestic and international markets. The industry’s focus on innovation, particularly in electric and hybrid vehicles, positions Taiwan as a key player in the future of automotive manufacturing.
Why are cars so expensive in Taiwan?
Cars in Taiwan are expensive due to several factors, primarily high taxes and tariffs. These costs significantly increase the price of vehicles compared to other markets, such as the USA. Here are the main reasons why cars are so expensive in Taiwan:
High Taxes and Tariffs
- Import Duties
- Commodity Tax
- Value-Added Tax (VAT)
Other Factors
- Limited Market Size
- Transportation and Logistics
- Currency Exchange Rates
The high cost of cars in Taiwan is primarily due to high taxes and tariffs. Import duties, commodity tax, and VAT all increase prices. Factors such as limited market size, transportation and logistics costs, and currency exchange rates increase the cost. As a result, the same car models are much more expensive in Taiwan than in the USA, almost doubling in price.
Where are Luxgen cars made?
The cars are made in Taiwan by Yulon Motor Co., Ltd., a leading Taiwanese automotive company. Before 2020, the brand produced vehicles in China through a partnership with Dongfeng Yulon Motor Co., Ltd., a joint venture with Dongfeng Motor Corporation. This collaboration expanded their market and manufacturing abilities.
With production focused in Taiwan, the brand uses its engineering and technology skills to create vehicles for local and international customers.