Nanjing, China — Industrial Automation News

Global industrial automation leader ABB has announced plans to establish its second drives products manufacturing base in China, with Nanjing identified as the strategic location. This development marks a significant step in strengthening ABB’s localized production capabilities and expanding its footprint in one of the world’s most dynamic industrial automation markets.

The new facility is expected to focus on the production, assembly, and integration of low-voltage and medium-voltage drives, supporting industries such as manufacturing, energy, transportation, and infrastructure. Once operational, the Nanjing base will enhance ABB’s ability to deliver faster lead times, improved customization, and stronger technical support for customers across China and the broader Asia-Pacific region.

Strategic Expansion In China’s Industrial Core

China remains one of ABB’s most important global markets, particularly in the field of smart manufacturing, energy efficiency, and industrial digitalization. The decision to establish a second drives production base reflects the company’s long-term strategy of deepening local manufacturing and supply chain resilience.

Nanjing, as a major industrial hub in Eastern China, offers strong advantages in terms of logistics, engineering talent, and access to downstream manufacturing industries. These factors make it a suitable location for high-value industrial equipment production.

Enhancing Drives Technology Localization

The new base will support ABB’s portfolio of industrial drives, which are widely used to control motor speed and optimize energy consumption in industrial processes. With increasing demand for energy-efficient automation solutions, localized production is expected to improve responsiveness to market needs and accelerate product innovation cycles.

Industry analysts expect that the facility will also integrate advanced digital manufacturing technologies, aligning with global trends in Industry 4.0, predictive maintenance, and intelligent production systems.

Impact On Industrial Automation Market

The establishment of the Nanjing drives base is likely to have a broader impact on China’s industrial automation supply chain. It will strengthen ABB’s ability to serve sectors such as:

• Smart factories and discrete manufacturing
• Renewable energy systems
• HVAC and building automation
• Heavy industry and process control

This expansion further intensifies competition among global automation providers while also accelerating technological upgrades across the domestic industrial ecosystem.

Outlook

As global manufacturing continues to shift toward localized and resilient supply chains, ABB’s investment in Nanjing reflects a broader industry trend. The facility is expected to play a key role in supporting sustainable industrial development and advancing energy-efficient automation solutions in China.