Zoomlion and CTP Group to develop aerial work platform facility in Hungary

Zoomlion Heavy Industry Science & Technology Co., Ltd. has unveiled plans to build a smart factory for aerial work platforms in Hungary, marking a significant step in its European expansion strategy. The agreement, signed on February 20, was officially announced at a press conference hosted by Hungary’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade. The project is expected to strengthen Zoomlion’s European market presence, reinforcing its competitive position in the construction and industrial equipment sector.

Why Is Hungary a Strategic Location for Zoomlion?

The new smart factory for aerial work platforms will be constructed in Tatabánya, a city strategically positioned at the crossroads of major European highway networks. This location will allow for streamlined logistics, ensuring efficient distribution across Eastern and Western Europe. The factory will serve as a key manufacturing hub, reducing dependency on imports and providing localized production capabilities to meet the growing demand for high-performance aerial work platforms.

By establishing a base in Hungary, Zoomlion is not only expanding its global footprint but also capitalizing on Europe’s increasing demand for low-carbon, eco-friendly industrial machinery. With sustainability at the core of its investment, the company is integrating advanced automation, intelligent production systems, and environmentally sustainable technologies to manufacture state-of-the-art aerial work platforms.

How Will the Smart Factory Boost the Local Economy?

The construction of this smart factory for aerial work platforms is set to generate approximately 800 local job opportunities, contributing significantly to Hungary’s industrial sector. As part of the investment, Zoomlion will foster partnerships with local supply chain providers, strengthening regional economic activity and enhancing Hungary’s position as a manufacturing hub for industrial equipment.

The company’s localization strategy extends beyond job creation. Zoomlion aims to build a sustainable industrial ecosystem by integrating local suppliers into its advanced manufacturing processes. This initiative aligns with Hungary’s broader economic development plans, which prioritize foreign direct investment, high-tech production facilities, and environmentally sustainable manufacturing.

What Advanced Technologies Will the Factory Utilize?

The smart factory for aerial work platforms will cover approximately 41.18 acres and will be developed in collaboration with CTP Group, a leading European industrial real estate developer. The facility will incorporate intelligent manufacturing technologies, digital automation, and eco-friendly production processes.

By leveraging AI-driven automation, robotic assembly lines, and data-driven manufacturing techniques, the factory will optimize production efficiency while maintaining high safety and quality standards. The investment in low-carbon aerial work platforms aligns with global industry trends that emphasize energy-efficient machinery, ensuring that Zoomlion remains at the forefront of sustainable industrial innovation.

How Does This Fit into Zoomlion’s Global Strategy?

Zoomlion has been actively pursuing an international market expansion strategy, positioning itself as a leader in high-end construction and industrial equipment manufacturing. Over the past few years, the company has established 10 overseas research and manufacturing centers, with products now sold in more than 150 countries and regions. Notably, over 50% of Zoomlion’s revenue comes from markets outside China, reflecting its strong global market penetration.

The investment in Hungary follows a pattern of strategic overseas expansion, where the company prioritizes localized operations. By building manufacturing bases closer to target markets, Zoomlion can improve production timelines, reduce logistics costs, and better tailor its products to regional requirements. The smart factory for aerial work platforms in Hungary is a crucial component of this localized growth model, ensuring that the company remains agile in responding to market demands.

How Has Zoomlion Started 2025 with Record-Breaking Deliveries?

This announcement comes on the heels of a record-breaking start to 2025 for Zoomlion. The company recently completed the delivery of over 10,000 industrial and construction equipment units, valued at US$782 million. This large-scale shipment, dispatched from Zoomlion Smart Industrial City in Changsha, China, underscores the company’s ability to meet surging global demand while reinforcing its leadership in the aerial work platform sector.

Among the shipments were 850 cranes, including the world’s largest 4,000-ton all-terrain crane, which is the only model globally approved for legal operation on public roads. The aerial work platform business also saw significant traction, with over 1,100 units valued at US$41.16 million heading to international markets.

The surge in equipment deliveries highlights Zoomlion’s growing market share, particularly in regions like North America, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia-Pacific. The company’s ability to execute such a high-volume shipment demonstrates its manufacturing efficiency, technological leadership, and strong global demand for its products.

What Does This Expansion Mean for the Aerial Work Platform Industry?

The establishment of a smart factory for aerial work platforms in Hungary represents a major shift in the industry’s manufacturing landscape. As companies seek cost-efficient and sustainable production solutions, investments in localized smart manufacturing are becoming increasingly vital.

Zoomlion’s move to Hungary not only strengthens its European market presence but also sets a precedent for advanced, eco-friendly production facilities in the aerial work platform sector. By adopting cutting-edge automation, AI-driven processes, and sustainable manufacturing practices, the company is shaping the future of industrial equipment production.

With the European market showing a growing preference for low-emission and energy-efficient machinery, Zoomlion’s smart factory for aerial work platforms is poised to be a game-changer. The company’s commitment to technological innovation and global sustainability ensures that it remains a dominant player in the construction and industrial equipment industry.

What’s Next for Zoomlion?

As Zoomlion accelerates its global expansion strategy, the launch of its smart factory for aerial work platforms in Hungary marks a pivotal moment in the company’s growth. By strengthening localized production, investing in advanced manufacturing technologies, and enhancing its European market presence, Zoomlion is well-positioned for continued success.

The combination of record-breaking equipment deliveries, a commitment to sustainability, and a bold global strategy cements Zoomlion’s status as a leading innovator in the industrial and construction equipment sector. As the Hungarian smart factory moves towards operational status, the company’s influence in the European aerial work platform industry is set to expand further, ensuring long-term growth and technological leadership.