China Opens Car Chip Testing Hub Amid Nexperia Disruptions

China has opened its first state-backed automotive chip testing centre in Shenzhen, a move seen as part of its push for tech self-reliance as global chip supplies face new pressure from the Nexperia dispute, CarNewsChina has reported.

The new facility was jointly developed by China Reform Holdings and the China Automotive Technology and Research Center and is equipped with 13 laboratories and over 80 testing systems. 

It offers a one-stop verification hub for vehicle-grade chips, covering areas like intelligent driving, infotainment, safety, and power semiconductors.

Officials said the platform will fully initiate the localisation process of high-end car chips, streamlining verification and cutting reliance on multiple external testing institutions. 

It also aims to establish unified standards for China’s growing auto chip industry.

The launch comes as tensions rise over Dutch-based chipmaker Nexperia, owned by China’s Wingtech Technology. 

The Netherlands recently seized control of the company under a 1952 law after the U.S. expanded export restrictions on Chinese-linked firms. 

Following the move, Nexperia’s factory in Dongguan scaled down production, sparking fears of supply disruptions for global automakers like Nissan, Honda, and Volkswagen.

Industry watchers say the Shenzhen centre highlights Beijing’s determination to strengthen its chip supply chain and reduce exposure to foreign sanctions. 

The facility is also part of broader efforts by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology to boost local chip production and safeguard critical manufacturing sectors.

With the Nexperia fallout threatening to ripple across global car production, China’s latest move signals a clear message. It wants to take control of its automotive chip destiny and be less vulnerable to geopolitical shocks.