On January 21, Auto giant Dongfeng brought into operation its 16000-ton die-casting factory, the world’s largest yet. The factory, located in the Wuhan Economic and Technological Development Zone, produced its first-ever product- a battery casing, the company’s presser has shared.
According to the company, the milestone factory houses 16,000-ton and 10,000-ton die-casting dual production lines. It’s the largest capacity one in the world to date. Mass production is expected to start in April 2026. It’s expected that the upcoming models, such as Dongfeng eπ 007, eπ 008, and Voyah Dreamer, will be equipped with components made in this very factory.
The factory will primarily focus on the research, development, production, and sales of ultra-large integrated die-cast structural components for new energy vehicles (NEVs), including battery casings.
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Dongfeng’s 16,000-ton die-casting in Wuhan
Dongfeng’s 16000-ton die-casting improves on the traditional production methods. The company’s modern approach improves the safety of the vehicle’s power battery system, reduces vehicle weight and energy consumption, and increases the driving range of new energy vehicles (NEVs).
The factor spans across an area of 47,000 square meters. Its official construction began in November 2024 and the main factory was ready in August 2025. The investment in the facility stood at $143.6 million. The two 16,000-ton and 10,000-ton die-casting machines stand in the factory grounds with an annual output of 200,000 automotive components, says Dongfeng.
Going ahead, the company plans to increase the output to 600,000 units per year in the second phase after building four production lines.
The company says that the mold of Dongfeng’s 10,000-ton die-casting machine comprises a moving mold and a stationary mold. “When 720℃ molten aluminum is injected into the mold, the molten aluminum quickly fills the mold cavity. Then, the moving mold presses against the stationary mold with a pressure of 10,000 tons. In just two minutes, vehicle battery trays and battery casings can be die-casted into the desired shape.”
As per the company, the machines have been entirely designed and built in China.