[Preface] Accelerating the transformation of new and old momentums to boost economic transformation and upgrading with improved quality and efficiency. Recently, city passenger ships equipped with the Weichai-Baudouin engines were put into operation in New York. By successfully entering into the North American high-end market, Weichai has taken a solid step in transformation and upgrading.
[Text] In downtown New York City, Manhattan and Brooklyn on both sides of the Easter River are facing severe traffic pressure. The New York City Government has set up a city ferry between the two districts. The project was launched in 2016 and the first 10 ships were officially launched recently. These "water buses" are now the first choice for many citizens to travel.
[Actual Sound] Luan Encheng, general manager of Weichai-Baudouin (Weifang) Company
"All the engines assembled on these ships are MADE IN CHINA. The world famous engines like Caterpillar and Cummins are made in the United States. It is really very, very difficult for Chinese products to enter the United States market."
[Text] The Weichai-Baudouin engines equipped on these "water buses" have worked more than 18 hours a day since they were put into use, and their power, performance and economic indicators exceed customer expectations. The United States is the most stringent country in terms of engine technology and environmental protection standards. Thus, the entering into the United States market marks that Weichai engines have reach top international standards.
[Actual Sound] Pryor Paul, distributor of New York Shipping Power Co., Ltd.
"Customers are very satisfied with product performance, services and ease of use, our team is also looking forward to better market performance of Weichai-Baudouin."
[Text] In order to layout in the international market, Weichai acquired Baudouin, a French
marine engine manufacture, in 2009, and set up a global R&D and sales platform. Its annual output and sales increased from less than 100 units at that time to 1500 units now.
[Actual Sound] Molz, general manager of Weichai -Baudouin (France) Co., Ltd.
"Baudouin is a century-old enterprise, which has been operating in Europe, the Mediterranean coast and North Africa, without entering the United States market. The merger of Weichai has greatly enhanced the influence of Baudouin in the North American market.
[Text] In the first five months of this year, Weichai's domestic and foreign businesses achieved an operating income of 86 billion yuan, an increase of 80% over the same period of last year. Over one-third of its overseas businesses have now been profitable.