According to a Bosch press release, the main objectives of this step are to support the local bicycle industry in development and production, flexible and fast delivery times and proximity to the market. Bosch eBike Systems wants to be equipped for global market requirements, above all thanks to optimized logistics, and also sees potential for pedelecs in the Asia Pacific (APAC) markets.

Industry and markets in Asia
Bosch eBike Systems is opening a regional business unit in Suzhou with the aim of strengthening its network with the bicycle industry in Asia. From there, the globally active eBike manufacturers in Taiwan, China and Vietnam are to be supported directly, initially for production and export to Europe and the USA. Established markets such as Japan as well as the new markets of Australia, China and Korea will also be served. "We are delighted that the pedelec has arrived in the Asia Pacific region. The markets offer interesting growth potential and we are convinced that we can also realize the success from Europe in Asia," says Claus Fleischer, Head of Product Division Bosch eBike Systems.

Expanding existing business structures
According to Bosch, it is necessary to have a local presence in order to adequately meet the specific requirements in Asia. The Asia Pacific regional business unit is starting with a team of Bosch experts who bring with them experience from different markets and product areas.

Additional focus
"Until now, our focus in Asia in the eBike sector has primarily been on working with suppliers. Now we are adding logistics and production, as well as sales and service for sales markets in the region. This requires a central point of contact. From Suzhou, we can intensify our collaboration with partners and customers and ensure fast response times and flexible deliveries," says Fouad Bennini, former Head of Product Management and future Head of the Asia Pacific regional unit.

Already active at the site
One of Bennini's main areas of focus will be the implementation of the logistics concept. "Following our successful market entry in America in April, developing the Asian market is the next big step for us. To achieve this, we are relying on a successful logistics concept and the support we have come to expect from Bosch. I am convinced that this will help us significantly on our global path," Bennini continues. Bosch eBike Systems can build on an existing infrastructure: Bosch has been active in the automotive sector at the Suzhou site since 1999.

www.bosch.com