Around 160 supplier representatives attended the Knorr-Bremse Supplier Summit China, where the company set out plans to deepen localisation, which it says will support cost efficiency, faster ramp-ups and the introduction of new technologies.
Knorr-Bremse is expanding its network of local suppliers in China and plans to further increase its annual procurement volume in the country, as the company seeks to strengthen localisation across its rail and commercial vehicle businesses.
The plans were announced at the Knorr-Bremse Supplier Summit China in Suzhou, which brought together around 160 senior representatives of suppliers and supplier partners, alongside representatives from business and politics. The company said greater localisation, combined with China’s pace of innovation, is intended to help accelerate the introduction of new technologies.
Localisation central to supply chain strategy
Marc Llistosella, CEO of Knorr-Bremse AG, said: “China is a global pace-setter for speed, scale and technological excellence. Localisation is a decisive success factor for cost efficiency, rapid ramp-ups and resilience. That is why we are systematically expanding our strategic supplier relationships. Local development requires strong local suppliers with a high level of engineering expertise. This interplay lays the foundation for our continued growth – in China and worldwide.”
Held under the theme “Leading Technologies for Future Growth”, the summit saw Knorr-Bremse procurement executives discuss the company’s further localisation plans with Chinese suppliers, including growth opportunities for suppliers and expanded collaboration on both domestic and global projects.
China has the world’s largest high-speed rail and metro networks and the largest commercial vehicle market, and leads globally in new energy vehicle (NEV) trucks.
Localisation is a decisive success factor for cost efficiency, rapid ramp-ups and resilience.”
Rail freight cooperation with CARS
Knorr-Bremse has 15 locations in China, generated revenue of more than €1 billion there in 2025 and has an annual procurement volume of around €500 million in the country, which it describes as an important centre for innovation, production and supply.
The company recently signed the China Freight Cooperation Program with CARS, China Railway’s innovation and technology centre, in Beijing. The programme focuses on digital solutions, driver assistance systems and advanced braking technologies, with the aim of improving the safety, efficiency and performance of rail freight in China.
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