Electric Tricycle and Electric Motorcycle Manufacturers in China: A Complete Sourcing Guide for Importers

📌 This guide is part of our complete resource series for electric vehicle importers. If you are new to the industry and want to understand the full picture — from market assessment to dealership setup — start with our Step-by-Step Guide on How to Start an Electric Motorcycle Business.

1. Why Source Electric Two-Wheelers and Three-Wheelers from China?

China dominates global production of both electric tricycles and electric motorcycles. The global Electric Tricycles market was valued at approximately US$9.68 billion in 2024 and is forecast to reach US$22.56 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 13.0%. Meanwhile, the global electric motorcycle market continues its rapid expansion, with rising demand across Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

In 2025, China’s electric two-wheeler exports exceeded 26.7 million units, with an export value of US$6.829 billion. In the first quarter of 2026 alone, exports reached approximately 7.2 million units, a year-on-year increase of 68.2%.

Electric two-wheelers and three-wheelers have been exported to over 130 countries and regions. From January to April 2026, export value exceeded CNY 168 million, a year-on-year surge of 87.2%.

But why does this matter to you as an importer? It means:

• Mature supply chains – you are not dealing with an emerging industry
• Competitive pricing – economies of scale drive costs down
• Proven export infrastructure – logistics, shipping, and documentation are well-established

This guide walks you through every step of sourcing electric tricycles and electric motorcycles from China – from finding the right manufacturer to verifying their credentials and choosing the right import method.

2. China’s Electric Vehicle Manufacturing Hubs – Where to Look

China’s electric vehicle industry is concentrated in several regional clusters. It is important to distinguish between electric motorcycle (two-wheeler) hubs and electric tricycle (three-wheeler) hubs, as they serve different markets and have distinct supply chain characteristics.

Electric Motorcycle (Two-Wheeler) Manufacturing Hubs

Tianjin – The Northern Giant

Tianjin is one of China’s most important electric two-wheeler manufacturing bases. The city is home to industry giants like Yadea , with its Tianjin base covering 800 mu (approximately 53 hectares) and featuring 24 assembly lines producing electric bicycles, electric motorcycles, and electric tricycles. The cluster also includes major brands such as Emma, Giant, and Fushida , supported by component suppliers like Bafang Electric and Kenda Rubber.

Best for: High-volume production, full product range (electric bicycles, motorcycles, and tricycles), and strong export infrastructure due to proximity to Tianjin Port.

Wuxi (Jiangsu) – “China’s Electric Vehicle Town”

Wuxi’s Xishan District is known as “China’s Electric Vehicle Town” . The cluster produces over 15 million electric vehicles annually. It is home to 64 large-scale electric vehicle manufacturers and 102 parts suppliers, with 6 of the top 10 Chinese EV brands — including Yadea, Tailg , and Xinri  — operating facilities here. The region offers a complete supply chain from upstream lithium batteries and molds to mid-stream assembly and downstream testing and sales — “all core components can be sourced within a 20-square-kilometer radius”. In April 2026, Yadea announced a new global R&D and smart manufacturing complex in Wuxi, with an additional US$300 million investment focused on high-end electric motorcycles, electronic components, and sodium-ion/lithium battery PACKs.

Best for: High-volume production, complete supply chain access, and manufacturers with strong export capabilities.

Taizhou (Zhejiang) – The Component Powerhouse

Taizhou is one of China’s top three electric bicycle production bases, with over 40 electric vehicle manufacturers (including electric bicycles and electric motorcycles) representing one-fifth of all Chinese EV brands. Annual production capacity exceeds 6.5 million units, accounting for 13% of national output. More importantly, Taizhou has over 1,000 parts suppliers, with the country’s strongest supporting capabilities for core components — motors, controllers, and frames — accounting for over 50% of national supply. Within a half-hour drive, you can source virtually any spare part you need.

Best for: Importers who need reliable parts supply, mid-range commuter models, and manufacturers with strong R&D capabilities.

Guangdong (Jiangmen, Qingyuan, Dongguan) – The Premium & Export Hub

Guangdong leverages its electronics and precision manufacturing expertise to produce higher-end electric motorcycles. Jiangmen is a major motorcycle manufacturing center — in 2025, the city’s motorcycle industry chain achieved a total industrial output of US$4.18 billion, producing 5.43 million units, with exports accounting for nearly one-quarter of China’s total. Key players include Dachangjiang, Daye Motorcycle, Zhufeng Motorcycle, Jianya Motorcycle, and Zhenghao Motorcycle. Qingyuan is home to Yadea’s South China base, with an EV industry cluster valued at US$256 million in early 2025. In November 2025, a new electric motorcycle smart manufacturing base broke ground in Jiangmen, with an annual capacity of 300,000 electric bicycles, electric motorcycles, and electric tricycles.BENLG has established its primary manufacturing headquarters in Dongguan, Guangdong. With over 20 years of electric vehicle manufacturing experience, our Dongguan facility spans 60,000 square meters and produces electric motorcycles, electric tricycles, and electric bicycles for customers in over 65 countries.

Best for: Premium electric motorcycles, smart-enabled models, and manufacturers with strong export experience to developed markets.

Chongqing – The “Fourth Pole” of China’s EV Manufacturing

Chongqing has rapidly emerged as China’s “fourth pole” of electric vehicle manufacturing, following Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Guangdong. In just a few years, multi-billion-dollar EV industrial bases have been established in Yongchuan, Jiangjin, Tongliang, and Dazu. Seven of the top ten electric motorcycle manufacturers — including Yadea, Emma, Tailg, Luyuan, and Xiaodao — have established operations in Chongqing, forming a dense industrial cluster in the western part of the city.

Best for: High-volume production, cost-competitive manufacturing, and access to China’s western market.

Quick Reference – Electric Motorcycle Hubs

Electric Tricycle (Three-Wheeler) Manufacturing Hubs

Jiangsu (Fengxian) – The Tricycle Heartland

Fengxian County in Jiangsu Province is the largest electric tricycle production base in China. The industry has grown from scratch over more than 20 years into a cluster worth over US$4.1 billion, employing more than 100,000 people. Annual production capacity exceeds 5 million units, accounting for over 60% of the domestic market share and 95% of the motor market share. Total exports exceed US$280 million.

Best for: Full product range of tricycles, high-volume orders, and export-ready manufacturers.

Shandong (Linyi, Jining, Dezhou) – Heavy-Duty and Commercial Tricycles

Shandong hosts large-scale facilities producing both consumer and commercial tricycle models. Manufacturers here often have strong vertical integration – motors, batteries, and controllers are produced in-house. Land and labor costs are lower than in coastal provinces.

Best for: Heavy-duty cargo tricycles, industrial-use models, and cost-effective large-scale production.

Hebei – Cost-Effective Tricycle Production

Hebei is home to numerous component suppliers and assembly plants, offering competitive pricing due to low logistics costs and mature local supply chains. The region has a long-standing light electric vehicle industry.

Best for: Budget-oriented tricycle models, high-volume assembly, and quick turnaround times.

Quick Reference – Electric Tricycle Hubs

Dealer takeaway: If you are looking for electric motorcycles, focus on Tianjin, Wuxi, Taizhou, Guangdong, and Chongqing. If you need electric tricycles, focus on Jiangsu (Fengxian), Shandong, and Hebei. Use this knowledge to narrow your search before you start contacting suppliers.

3. Types of Electric Vehicles – Which One Fits Your Market?

Understanding the different types of electric tricycles and motorcycles helps you choose the right product for your target market.

Electric Tricycles

Passenger Electric Tricycle

Designed to carry people – typically 1 driver + 2-4 passengers. Common uses include short-distance public transport, tourist sightseeing, community shuttles, and school pickups.

Key considerations: Comfort, seating capacity, roof/weather protection, and passenger safety features.

Cargo Electric Tricycle

Designed to carry goods – flatbed or enclosed cargo box. Common uses include last-mile delivery, market transport, agricultural produce movement, and logistics.

Key considerations: Payload capacity, cargo box size, durability, and motor torque for heavy loads.

Leisure Electric Tricycle

A Leisure Electric Tricycle (commonly referred to in China as “休三”) is a compact, low-speed, open-air light electric vehicle (LEV) designed primarily for daily short-distance commuting, elderly mobility, and family errands. Unlike heavy-duty cargo trikes or larger enclosed passenger vehicles, the leisure tricycle focuses on user-friendliness, safety, and maneuverability.

Key considerations: Senior-Friendly Design, Compact and Maneuverable.

Electric Motorcycles

Electric motorcycles in China are broadly classified into three categories based on their frame and riding posture. Each type serves different markets and rider preferences.

Traditional (Straddle )

Traditional electric motorcycles feature a straddle frame with a central fuel-tank-like body (often used for battery storage). The rider sits astride the bike with feet on pegs below. This is the most “motorcycle-like” configuration and is popular in markets where riders are transitioning from fuel motorcycles.

Key considerations: Sporty appearance, better ground clearance, suited for longer-distance commuting, and preferred by riders who want a familiar motorcycle feel.

Best for: Riders upgrading from fuel motorcycles, performance-oriented markets, and regions with longer commuting distances.

Scooter

Scooter-style electric motorcycles have a step-through frame with a flat floorboard. The rider sits upright with feet together on the floorboard. This is the most popular configuration for urban commuting due to its ease of use, storage capacity (under-seat compartment), and comfortable upright riding posture.

Key considerations: Storage space, ease of mounting/dismounting, rider comfort in stop-and-go traffic, and suitability for riders of all ages.

Best for: Urban commuting, food delivery, boda boda services, and riders who prioritize practicality over sporty performance.

Underbone

Underbone electric motorcycles feature a semi-step-through frame with a curved top tube (the “underbone” design). The rider sits with feet slightly forward, and the bike typically has a smaller wheel size than traditional straddle models. This configuration is extremely popular in Southeast Asian markets and is often used for commercial purposes.

Key considerations: Balance between storage and sporty feel, good fuel economy (in fuel versions), and strong presence in southeast Asain markets.

Best for: Southeast Asian markets, commercial delivery, and riders who want a compromise between scooter convenience and motorcycle performance.

Quick Reference Table – Electric Motorcycle Types

Quick Reference Table – All Vehicle Types

Dealer takeaway: Before contacting any supplier, know which type of vehicle your market needs. This will save you time and help you ask the right questions.

4. OEM vs ODM vs Branded – Which Supply Model Should You Choose?

Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers typically offer three supply models. Understanding the differences helps you choose the right one for your business goals.

Branded (Distributorship)

You purchase finished vehicles with the manufacturer’s existing brand and sell them under that brand name.

Pros: Fastest route to market, no brand-building investment, proven product. Cons: Lower margins, no brand ownership, dependent on manufacturer’s brand reputation.

Best for: Dealers who want to start selling immediately with minimal upfront investment.

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer)

The manufacturer produces vehicles according to your specifications – your logo, your colors, your packaging – and you sell them under your own brand name.

Pros: Build your own brand, higher margins, product differentiation. Cons: Higher minimum order quantities, longer lead times, requires market understanding.

Best for: Importers who want to establish a local brand and capture brand value over time.

ODM (Original Design Manufacturer)

The manufacturer both designs and produces the vehicle, and you sell it under your brand. You provide requirements; they handle the engineering.

Pros: Unique product without in-house R&D, faster than developing from scratch. Cons: Less control over design details, higher upfront costs for tooling.

Best for: Importers who want a unique product but lack engineering capabilities.

Quick Reference Table

Dealer takeaway: Think about your long-term goals. Do you want to build a brand that lasts, or do you just want to sell products quickly? Your answer determines which model to choose.

5. How to Find Electric Tricycle and Motorcycle Manufacturers in China

Finding the right manufacturer is the first practical step. Here are four proven channels.

Channel 1: B2B Platforms (Best for Getting Started)

B2B platforms are the most accessible starting point for new importers.

• Alibaba (alibaba.com): The world’s largest B2B platform. Search “electric tricycle,” “electric cargo tricycle,” “electric passenger tricycle,” or “electric motorcycle.” Use filters like “Verified Supplier,” “Gold Supplier,” and “Assessed Supplier” to narrow down. Check Transaction Level and past buyer reviews – prioritize suppliers with real export records to your target region.
• Made-in-China (made-in-china.com): Focuses exclusively on Chinese suppliers with stricter certification requirements.
• Global Sources (globalsources.com): Positions itself toward mid-to-high-end products and trade shows.

Channel 2: Industry Trade Shows (Best for Face-to-Face Meetings)

Trade shows let you see products in person, meet factory representatives, and assess professionalism directly.

• China International Motorcycle Trade Exhibition (CIMAMotor): Held annually in September in Chongqing. Covers electric motorcycles and tricycles.
• Canton Fair (China Import and Export Fair): Held in April and October in Guangzhou. Covers all export categories including electric vehicles.
• China (Fengxian) Electric Tricycle Expo: Held annually in Fengxian, Jiangsu – the tricycle industry heartland. The most specialized electric tricycle trade show.
• China International E-Motorcycle Exhibition: Held annually – check local listings for dates and locations.

Pro tip: Before attending, download the exhibitor list from the show’s website. Identify target manufacturers and schedule meetings in advance – don’t just wander the floor.

Channel 3: Direct Sourcing in Industrial Clusters (Best for Serious Buyers)

If you have a clear product requirement and are ready to place orders, go directly to the manufacturing hubs. Use map apps to search “[city name] + electric vehicle factory.”

• Tianjin: High-volume production, full range, strong export infrastructure
• Wuxi, Jiangsu: Complete supply chain, export hub, home to major brands
• Taizhou, Zhejiang: Component powerhouse, mid-range commuter models
• Guangdong (Jiangmen, Qingyuan): Premium, smart, export-oriented
• Chongqing: Cost-effective, high-volume, western market access
• Fengxian, Jiangsu: Tricycle heartland
• Shandong (Linyi, Jining): Heavy-duty cargo tricycles

Pro tip: If you are serious about sourcing, hire a local sourcing agent or translator to accompany you. Many factories do not have English-speaking staff.

Channel 4: Customs Trade Data (Best for Experienced Importers)

Customs data reveals which companies are actually exporting – not just claiming they do. Electric tricycles and motorcycles typically fall under HS Code 8711.60.00 (motorcycles fitted with electric motors for propulsion).

Pro tip: This channel is for experienced importers. If you are new, start with the first three channels.

6. How to Verify a Chinese Manufacturer – A Step-by-Step Checklist

Important: Verifying a manufacturer is not optional – it is essential. Take the time to verify before you place any order.

Step 1: Request the Business License (营业执照)

Ask the supplier to provide a clear photo or scan of their official business license.

What to check:

• Company name (Chinese full name): Must match what you find in official records
• Unified Social Credit Code (18 digits): The unique ID for every Chinese company
• Date of establishment: Longer operating history generally indicates stability
• Registered capital: Note that China uses a contributed capital system – registered capital is not the same as actual paid-in capital
• Business scope (经营范围): Must include “manufacturing,” “production,” or “export” related to electric tricycles or motorcycles

Red flag: If the business scope shows “sales” or “trading” but not “manufacturing” or “production” – the company is likely a trading company, not a factory.

Step 2: Verify on the National Enterprise Credit Information Publicity System (NECIPS – 国家企业信用信息公示系统)

The National Enterprise Credit Information Publicity System (NECIPS) is the official government database managed by the State Administration for Market Regulation of China. It is the primary authoritative source for verifying the registration status of Chinese companies.

How to use it:

1. Open the website (interface is in Chinese only)
2. Enter the company’s full Chinese name or Unified Social Credit Code in the search box
3. Enter the verification code and click search
4. Review the results – check the following:

Pro tip: NECIPS requires Chinese-language searches – ask the supplier for their full Chinese name, not just the English version. If you cannot find any record, or if the information does not match what the supplier provided – this is a strong warning sign.

Step 3: Cross-Verify with Third-Party Business Information Platforms

While NECIPS is authoritative, its interface is Chinese-only and information updates may have delays. Use third-party platforms for supplementary verification.

• Qichacha (企查查 – qcc.com): Integrates multiple data sources including company registration, judicial records, intellectual property, and more. Supports both Chinese and English search.
• Tianyancha (天眼查 – tianyancha.com): Similar functionality, with multi-layer ownership structure transparency and risk alerts.

These platforms can reveal:

• Shareholder information and ownership percentages
• Actual controlling persons
• Related companies (parent companies, subsidiaries)
• Legal litigation records
• Bidding and procurement history

Pro tip: A complex ownership structure with many related companies is not necessarily a red flag – large groups often have this. However, if a “factory” has only one shareholder, registered capital of only a few thousand dollars, and was established less than a year ago – be cautious.

Step 4: Request Export Records and Client References

A capable factory will have verifiable export history.

Ask for:

• Export customs declarations from the past 12-24 months (sensitive pricing information can be redacted)
• Major export markets and approximate volumes
• Client case studies similar to your target market
• Client references (optional – some suppliers may not share due to privacy)

Red flag: If a supplier claims to “export to many countries” but cannot provide any documentation, or if the client cases provided are clearly fabricated (vague company names, unclear countries) – proceed with caution.

Step 5: Request Samples or Video Factory Inspection

Before placing a large order, see the actual product.

Minimum requirement: Request a real-time video of the production floor – not a pre-recorded promotional video. Look for assembly lines, quality control processes, and finished goods inventory.

Advanced requirement: Order a sample unit – pay for the sample and shipping, have one unit shipped to your country. Seeing and touching the product is more reliable than any spec sheet.

Highest requirement: Visit the factory in person, or hire an independent inspection company (such as SGS, TÜV, or Intertek) to conduct a factory audit on your behalf.

Red flag: If a supplier refuses video inspection, refuses sample orders, or refuses third-party inspection – any one of these is a warning sign. Capable factories are not afraid of being inspected.

7. How to Evaluate an Electric Vehicle Manufacturer – 5 Key Criteria

Once you have identified potential suppliers and verified their basic credentials, evaluate them against these five criteria.

1. Factory Certifications

Certifications demonstrate a manufacturer’s commitment to quality and compliance.

• ISO 9001: Quality management system certification – a basic indicator of systematic quality control
• CE or EEC certification: Required for European markets – indicates the vehicle meets EU safety standards
• CCC (China Compulsory Certification): Required for sales within China
• DOT certification: For North American market compliance

What to ask: “Which certifications do you hold? Can you provide copies?”

2. Production Capacity and Scale

Capacity determines whether the supplier can meet your order volume and timeline.

• Factory area and number of employees
• Annual production capacity
• Number of production lines
• Whether they have an in-house R&D department

What to ask: “What is your monthly production capacity? How many units can you produce per month for a buyer like me?”

3. Quality Control System

A robust QC system prevents defects and ensures consistency.

• Incoming material inspection
• In-process quality checks
• Final inspection before shipping
• Whether they accept third-party inspection

What to ask: “What is your QC process? Do you accept third-party inspection before shipping?”

4. Customization Capability (OEM/ODM)

If you want to build your own brand, customization is essential.

• Logo customization (brand name on the vehicle)
• Color customization
• Packaging customization
• Minimum order quantity for custom orders

What to ask: “What is your MOQ for OEM orders? Do you have a design team?”

5. After-Sales and Spare Parts Support

A low purchase price means nothing if spare parts are unavailable and customers cannot get repairs.

• Spare parts packages available with each order
• Technical documentation and assembly guides (especially important for CKD orders)
• Warranty policy
• Remote technical support

What to ask: “What spare parts do you recommend we stock? What is your warranty policy?”

8. CKD vs Fully Built – Which Import Method Saves You More?

Your choice between CKD (Completely Knocked Down) and fully built units affects import duties, shipping costs, and local assembly requirements.

Fully Built (CBU – Completely Built Unit)

The vehicle is fully assembled at the factory and shipped as a complete unit. Ready for sale immediately upon arrival.

Advantages: Fastest time to market, no assembly required, simpler logistics. Disadvantages: Higher import duties in most countries, higher shipping volume (fewer units per container), no local assembly value-add.

Best for: Importers who want to start selling immediately and do not have assembly capabilities.

CKD (Completely Knocked Down)

The vehicle is disassembled into parts and shipped in multiple boxes. Assembly is done at the destination country.

Advantages: Lower import duties (parts are often taxed at lower rates than complete vehicles), lower shipping volume (more units per container), creates local jobs, may qualify for local assembly incentives.

Disadvantages: Requires assembly capability and space, longer time to market, more complex logistics.

Best for: Importers who have assembly capabilities or want to reduce import duties and build local value-add.

Real-World Duty Comparison

In May 2026, Kenya’s President announced a complete import duty waiver (0%) for the first 100,000 imported EVs (including electric two-wheelers) to accelerate the country’s e-mobility transition, further enhancing the financial viability for importers. Electric vehicles in CKD form are classified under HS Code 8711.60.00. In many African markets, import duties on electric vehicles range from 5% to 25% depending on vehicle type and value.

Dealer takeaway: Research your target country’s tariff structure before deciding. In many markets, the duty savings from CKD more than offset the additional assembly costs. For a deeper look into this fast-growing region, read our analysis of the Top 5 Three-Wheeler Brands in East Africa and the rise of electric tuk tuks to understand your local competition and market trends.

Quick Reference Table

9. Final Checklist – Before You Place Your Order

Use this checklist before committing to any order:

• ☐ I have identified which type of electric vehicle my market needs (passenger/cargo/leisure tricycle or traditional/scooter/underbone motorcycle)
• ☐ I have researched my target country’s import duties and confirmed whether CKD or fully built is more cost-effective
• ☐ I have shortlisted at least 3 candidate factories and obtained quotes and samples
• ☐ I have verified the factory’s business license and checked it on NECIPS (gsxt.gov.cn)
• ☐ I have cross-checked the factory on Qichacha or Tianyancha for legal records
• ☐ I have confirmed the supplier’s export history and client references
• ☐ I have confirmed MOQ, lead time, and payment terms
• ☐ I have confirmed OEM/ODM customization details (if applicable)
• ☐ I have confirmed spare parts availability and warranty policy
• ☐ I have arranged third-party inspection or a factory visit (if budget allows)

10. Conclusion

Sourcing electric tricycles and electric motorcycles from China does not have to be complicated – but it does require the right approach. Start with a clear understanding of your market, choose the right supply model, evaluate manufacturers carefully, and plan your import strategy around tariff advantages.If you wish to learn more about how to work with shipping companies and navigate customs clearance, we recommend reading our comprehensive guide: How to Import Electric Bikes, Scooters & Mopeds from China – A Complete Dealer’s Guide.

If you are looking for a reliable partner, BENLG has been manufacturing electric tricycles, electric motorcycles, and two-wheelers for over 20 years. We support OEM/ODM projects, offer both fully built and CKD options, and export to over 65 countries. Contact us to discuss your specific needs.