Yiche News – According to media reports, three informed sources revealed that HarmonyOS Smart Drive (HSD) subsidiaries—Zhijie, Shangjie, and Xiangjie—are currently preparing to establish brand-exclusive sales networks under the lead of their respective partner automakers. This shift signifies a restructuring of operational roles, with sales and after-sales services no longer being entirely managed by Huawei.
HSD evolved from Huawei’s earlier “Smart Select” collaboration model with Seres. As partnerships expanded, the model was upgraded in November 2023 into the HarmonyOS Smart Drive ecosystem alliance. Under this framework, Huawei’s consumer business unit held decisive authority over product design, definition, quality control, and sales, while vehicles were primarily sold through Huawei’s retail channels or dedicated HSD networks.
A representative from a Huawei partner automaker noted that OEMs remain the brand owners and primary parts purchasers, making Huawei’s full control over sales and service “counterintuitive.” The adjustment aims to clarify responsibilities. Another partner emphasized that transferring sales leadership to automakers could enhance their operational enthusiasm.
Notably, Huawei founder Ren Zhengfei reportedly advocated for partner automakers to take the lead in overseas expansion for HSD brands. Industry observers interpret these moves as Huawei’s renewed commitment to its “no car manufacturing” strategy, reinforcing its role as a technology and ecosystem enabler.