Chinese AI-based logistics company, Westwell, has chosen Hong Kong as its global headquarters as part of its expansion plans. The company, which specializes in designing AI chips and developing autopilot control systems for autonomous vehicles in the logistics industry, will also establish a research center in the city. Westwell’s strategic affairs vice-president, Kay Yang Ming, cited Hong Kong’s strategic location, well-established infrastructure, and international finance center status as reasons for choosing the city. Some of Westwell’s major clients, such as Hutchison Port Holdings and China Merchants Ports, are also based in Hong Kong.
To facilitate its move, Westwell received support from the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises (Oases), an organization that aims to attract high-potential enterprises from industries such as AI and fintech to Hong Kong. At an upcoming opening ceremony, the new headquarters will be inaugurated by Westwell executives and government officials from the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, and the Under Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry.
Westwell launched its flagship product, the Q-Truck, in 2018. This autonomous, battery-powered commercial vehicle has gained traction in the overseas market, with collaborations in Thailand’s Laem Chabang Port and the Port of Felixstowe in the UK. The company, valued at 7 billion yuan (US$973 million), raised funds through five rounds of fundraising last year, attracting investors such as China-based Essence Securities and InnoStar Venture under the Shanghai-based conglomerate Fosun Group.
Currently employing over 700 staff, Westwell plans to collaborate with Hong Kong universities and research institutes to enhance research and application of AI and autonomous driving technology. Although discussions have taken place with the University of Hong Kong and the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, concrete plans have yet to be finalized.
Westwell’s future plans include expanding into “semi-closed loop” environments, such as autonomous transport between airports and logistics parks. While the company has conducted extensive research into autonomous driving ecosystems worldwide, it has not disclosed specific details about potential partners.
Being situated in Hong Kong positions Westwell to take advantage of business opportunities arising from the government’s efforts to support research and development, accelerate digital transformation, and upgrade industrial infrastructure. Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu outlined plans in October 2023 for the introduction of an autonomous transport system by 2025. This system will carry passengers along the Airport City Link connecting the Airport Authority Hong Kong’s Skycity complex and the Hong Kong Port Island of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge. The city also hosts various innovation centers and incubation programs, with the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation offering tax incentives and support measures to attract innovative companies.
By choosing Hong Kong as its global headquarters, Westwell is strategically positioning itself for international expansion and collaboration with local institutions to further advance AI and autonomous driving technology. The company’s decision highlights Hong Kong’s reputation as a hub for innovation and technology in the logistics industry.
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