Kandi Technologies Pushes Into Africa, Southeast Asia and Latin America as Global Expansion Gains Speed
The electric vehicle maker says its off-road vehicle business now serves customers in 35 countries and regions, with Africa emerging as a key growth market.
Kandi Technologies is accelerating its international expansion, betting on growing demand for off-road electric vehicles in emerging markets across Africa, Southeast Asia, Latin America and the Middle East. The company said its products are now available in 35 countries and regions worldwide, marking a significant step in its global growth plans.
The China-based company, known for its electric utility terrain vehicles (UTVs) and golf carts, said it is moving beyond a strategy focused mainly on sales volume. Instead, it is combining order growth with localized branding, dealer networks and after-sales support tailored to each market.
Africa Becomes a Major Focus
South Africa has emerged as one of Kandi's most important markets in Africa. The company has built a network of six authorized dealers there and has invested in local marketing campaigns and product customization designed for regional customers.
Kandi also reported new and repeat orders from both South Africa and Nigeria in recent weeks. In Nigeria, a recreational vehicle dealer placed a follow-up order after introducing Kandi's 1104FQ3 golf cart to local customers. According to the company, customer feedback was positive and demand has continued to grow.
The company said it is now working with its Nigerian partner on plans for a branded showroom and a localized after-sales service network. Both sides are also exploring the addition of civilian-use vehicle models as Kandi seeks to strengthen its position in West Africa.
Expanding Across Tourism Markets in Southeast Asia
Beyond Africa, Kandi is targeting Southeast Asia's tourism, resort and golf course industries. The company believes its range of electric vehicles is well suited for transportation and recreational use in these sectors.
A resort and golf course operator from Laos recently visited Kandi's facilities to test several vehicle models. The company said the customer expressed interest in its golf carts and multi-passenger shuttle vehicles and is evaluating a potential first order.
Building a Presence in Latin America
Kandi is also increasing its presence in Latin America through partnerships with local dealers. The company highlighted activity in Panama and Argentina as part of its effort to establish stronger regional distribution networks.
A Panama-based dealer placed an order after visiting Kandi's production facility and reviewing its off-road vehicle lineup. In Argentina, discussions focused on vehicle customization and potential distribution arrangements for the local market.
Part of a Bigger Five-Year Strategy
The international expansion comes as Kandi rolls out its broader 2026-2030 strategic plan. The company has identified off-road electric vehicles as one of its two core growth engines, alongside battery-swapping equipment and intelligent robotics.
Kandi said it wants to evolve from a traditional vehicle manufacturer into a technology-driven platform company. As part of that effort, it acquired U.S.-based electric off-road motorcycle brand Rawrr in late 2025 and has expanded partnerships in battery-swapping and robotics technologies.
The company reported stronger profitability in 2025, with gross margins rising to 42.6% from 30.8% a year earlier. It also generated $96.8 million in operating cash flow and ended the year with $211.9 million in cash, giving it additional resources to support expansion efforts.
Kandi CEO Feng Chen said the company plans to continue expanding local distribution, after-sales services and brand operations across emerging markets while developing vehicle models tailored to regional needs. The goal, he said, is to increase the contribution of these markets to the company's long-term revenue base.