U Power Limited, a trailblazer in AI-powered solutions for modern energy grids and intelligent transport systems, has officially launched Southeast Asia’s first operational smart battery-swapping station. Located on Phuket Island, Thailand, the newly unveiled Thailand Station showcases U Power’s proprietary UOTTATM battery-swapping technology.

This significant launch follows the company’s delivery in May 2025 of Southeast Asia’s first taxi fleet equipped with battery-swapping capability. It also marks the inaugural deployment of smart battery-swapping stations under U Power’s strategic joint venture with SUSCO Public Company Limited (BK: SUSCO). Notably, this is the region’s first fully functional 24/7 battery-swapping station tailored specifically for electric taxis and ride-hailing fleets.

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To support this transformation, U Power had earlier collaborated with UNEX EV and CP-MG to deliver its first batch of swappable electric vehicles, which now operate actively across Phuket. The debut of the Thailand Station completes a full-circle ecosystem from swappable EVs to an operational platform setting the stage for a scalable, region-wide business model.

Designed with AI-powered battery-swapping infrastructure, the Thailand Station enables EV drivers to complete battery swaps within minutes. Built to endure Phuket’s tropical weather, the station is resistant to heavy rainfall and humidity. It also integrates seamlessly with U Power’s Battery-bank system, offering an innovative rewards model where drivers earn battery tokens for each swap. As more stations roll out and EV adoption rises, this token-based system is expected to scale significantly.

Johnny Lee, CEO and Chairman of U Power, emphasized the station’s importance: “This launch is a game-changer. We are integrating AI and automation into EV energy infrastructure to build a zero-carbon, scalable model that we can replicate throughout ASEAN, Europe, and South America.”

Driving a Global Data-Driven Energy Network

U Power continues to scale its global vision by advancing its “Vehicle-Station-Cloud-Token” strategy. This framework creates an intelligent, connected energy infrastructure that links mobility energy with digital energy trading. It supports autonomous vehicle adoption and moves the world closer to a fully automated transportation ecosystem.

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Through international collaborations, U Power is actively addressing the pressing challenges of EV energy deployment:

  • U Power is teaming up with Beijing Foton to bring battery-swappable electric trucks and buses to the roads of Southeast Asia, South America, Hong Kong, and Macau — making clean, efficient transport more accessible around the world.
  • In Singapore, the company plans to deploy 5,000 swappable EVs and an equal number of UOTTATM stations, converting 300 MG EP taxis in the process.
  • Macau will see the addition of 5,600 battery-swapping EVs (two- and four-wheelers) through a local agreement.
  • Hong Kong has already welcomed its first smart station in Kwai Chung, with plans to install 55 more to support taxis, buses, and ferries.
  • In Europe, U Power is joining forces with the Portuguese Taxi Association to launch ELMO — a new battery-swapping venture aimed at making electric taxis more convenient and efficient.
  • In South America, Peru is next in line, with a station planned in collaboration with ride-hailing platform Ualabee.

FAQs

1. What is AI-powered battery swapping, and how does it work?

AI-powered battery swapping uses intelligent algorithms and automation to identify depleted batteries, initiate the swap process, and optimize energy efficiency. EV drivers can replace batteries in minutes without manual handling, improving uptime and operational efficiency.

2. Why is battery swapping a better EV energy solution for fleets?

Unlike traditional EV charging, battery swapping cuts down wait times and keeps vehicles on the road — no more long stops or worrying about broken chargers. It’s ideal for high-usage fleets like taxis and ride-hailing services, enabling 24/7 operations with minimal disruption.

3. What makes U Power’s battery-swapping model sustainable?

U Power’s stations are zero-carbon and weather-resistant, and their token-based system incentivizes eco-friendly behavior. Built-in AI keeps energy use to a minimum, helping the whole system run smarter, smoother, and ready to grow.

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