The international automotive industry is undergoing a massive transformation. China’s Geely has just launched 11 additional satellites to strengthen communication networks for smart vehicles. This step underlines their ambition to build an integrated ground-space mobility ecosystem. At the same time, major players such as Dongfeng, BYD, and Stellantis are facing market pressures, restructuring strategies, and global uncertainties.
Dongfeng Restructures Its Business
Dongfeng Motor Group announced plans to delist all of its shares from the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. The company will shift its focus by making its electric vehicle unit a separate publicly listed entity, while its conventional business remains private. This strategy signals a clear commitment to strengthening its position in the fast-growing EV market. It also allows greater flexibility in developing battery technology and sustainable mobility innovations.
Geely Builds Satellite Constellation
Through its subsidiary Geespace, Geely carried out its fourth satellite launch on August 9, 2025. A total of 11 satellites were deployed into low Earth orbit using a Smart Dragon-3 rocket from a sea platform near Shandong Province. This brings the number of active satellites to 41, moving closer to their goal of 72 by the end of 2025.
The launch is more than just a technological showcase. It represents a critical foundation for Geely’s smart cars. The satellite network has demonstrated nearly perfect communication success rates, with network availability above 99 percent. This ensures reliable connectivity even in areas without cellular networks. The system supports high-precision navigation, emergency communication, and real-time software updates.
BYD Builds Its Own Shipping Fleet
BYD is taking a different approach by building the largest roll-on/roll-off shipping fleet for car exports. Six massive vessels have already been prepared for distribution to Europe, Brazil, and Mexico. With this move, BYD reduces dependence on third-party logistics providers. The company has set an ambitious goal of making 50 percent of its sales overseas by 2030. This positions BYD as a stronger global contender, standing toe-to-toe with Tesla.
Global Automotive Crisis
Not every manufacturer is prepared for such rapid change. Stellantis, for example, was forced to scrap its ambitious “Dare Forward 2030” strategy after recording billions of euros in losses. Meanwhile, Ford is trying to hold its ground by strengthening services for commercial fleets, while BYD continues to dominate with competitive pricing and more efficient battery technology. Many automakers still lack comprehensive long-term strategies, leaving them vulnerable to growing financial pressure.
European Market Shifts
In Europe, the automotive finance sector is also under pressure. A recent court ruling significantly reduced compensation liabilities in mis-selling cases, cutting the estimated cost from tens of billions of pounds to less than half. This decision has opened the door for consolidation and new acquisitions in an automotive finance market valued at over £80 billion. Major banks and private equity investors are now eyeing opportunities in a sector that is seen as more stable than before.
The Future of the Auto Industry
These developments show that the global auto industry is no longer just about engines or batteries, but also about infrastructure. Geely, with its satellite network, is pioneering global connectivity for smart cars. BYD is focusing on export logistics for efficiency, while Dongfeng is restructuring its business to put EVs at the center of its growth strategy.
The future of the automotive industry will be shaped by adaptability. Automakers that quickly embrace new trends, invest in supporting infrastructure, and align their strategies with market realities will thrive. Those that lag behind risk being left out of the fast-moving transformation.
Ultimately, the international auto business is entering a new era, where vehicles depend not only on engines and wheels but also on satellites, global supply chains, and interconnected digital ecosystems.
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