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Sanyang Motor
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Key Information

Sanyang Motor
Chinese三陽工業股份有限公司
Transcriptions
Standard Mandarin
Hanyu PinyinSānyáng Gōngyè Gǔfèn Yǒuxiàn Gōngsī
Hakka
RomanizationSâm-yòng Kûng-ngia̍p Kú-fun Yû-han Kûng-sṳ̂
Southern Min
Hokkien POJSam-iông Kang-gia̍p Kó͘-hūn Iú-hān Kong-si

Sanyang Motor Co., Ltd. (Chinese: 三陽工業股份有限公司; pinyin: Sānyáng Gōngyè Gǔfèn Yǒuxiàn Gōngsī) (stylized as SYM) is a Taiwanese motorcycle manufacturer headquartered in Hukou, Taiwan. Founded in Taipei, Taiwan in 1954 by Huang Chi-Chun and Chang Kuo An, SYM currently has three major production facilities in Taiwan, mainland China, and Vietnam. SYM manufactures and sells scooters, motorcycles and ATVs under the Sanyang Motor [SYM] brand, while it also manufactures automobiles and mini-trucks under the Hyundai brand.[1][2][3]

History

[edit]

In 1954 Sanyang Electrics was formed to manufacture dynamoelectric light sets for bicycles. It was restructured into Sanyang Industry Co. Ltd. and entered a technical agreement with Honda in 1961 to begin local assembly of motorcycles, the first motorcycle manufacturer in Taiwan (30% local content).[4] In 1969 assembly of small Honda cars (N600, TN360) began. As Sanyang's own motorcycles entered direct competition with Honda's products worldwide, the relationship was terminated in January 2002 and Honda began building cars themselves as Honda Taiwan Co. Ltd.[5] Sanyang instead signed a contract with Hyundai and currently assembles much of their lineup for the domestic Taiwanese market.[6]

Sanyang Industry was renamed as Sanyang Motor Co. Ltd. in January 2015. The company has its main office in the Hsinchu Industrial Park in Hsinchu County, Taiwan. It has a subsidiary in Xiamen city, China, named Xiamen Xiashing Motorcycle Co., Ltd., and another subsidiary in Bien Hoa, Dong Nai, Vietnam, named Vietnam Manufacturing & Export Processing Co., Ltd. (VMEP).

Global operations

[edit]

Sanyang is a strategic partner of the Hyundai Motor Company since 2002. Its subsidiary company Nan Yang Industries Co., Ltd. operates as sole distributor for Hyundai and manufactures Hyundai automobiles and mini-trucks in Taiwan. Sanyang also has ties with international companies like International Truck, Bombardier Recreational Products and Mahindra & Mahindra Limited in India.

In July 2005, Sanyang launched a new range of two-wheelers for sale in the European market. The range includes the GTS scooter (available with 125 cc, 200 cc and 250 cc engines), the MIO scooter (50 cc and 100 cc), and two ATV models: the Trackrunner leisure ATV (200 cc engine), and the 250 cc Quadlander off-roader.

In January 2006, Sanyang signed an agreement with the Kinetic Motor Company of India for a purchase of 2,065,000 equity shares and technical collaboration, which will amount to Sanyang holding an 11.1% (approx.) stake of the enhanced capital of Kinetic Motor Company Limited. With Sanyang taking a minority stake, the management control will be retained with the Kinetic Group. In 2008, the two-wheeler division of The Kinetic Group was taken over by Mahindra, a leading manufacturer of utility vehicles in India.[citation needed]

In 2002, SYM scooters began appearing in the US courtesy of a grey market importer SYM USA from West Palm Beach, Florida. Several hundred units were imported from the UK that were non-EPA, non-DOT certified and a rogue US distribution network developed.

In 2003 an official importer, SYM America, organized by the Malaguti USA importer, began operations selling in the Southeast and Puerto Rico. In 2004 Tomos USA negotiated with Sanyang for exclusive sales in the US, but the deal was called off later due to some disagreement on contact details. Sanyang later cooperated with Carter Brothers Mfg. Co. Inc for its sales in the US. Malaguti USA ceased and became Martin Racing Performance and still carried some parts for the DD 50 and Jet Euro 50. In an agreement reached with Carter Brothers Mfg. Co. Inc. the company abandoned the SYM scooter distribution project for the US in exchange for assistance in developing the after-market go kart product and stocking the SYM upgrade lines for Carter Brothers Mfg. Co. Inc.[citation needed]

In January 2006, SYM signed a partnership agreement with Carter Brothers Mfg. Co. Inc. for exclusive distribution rights in the United States of America. Operating out of a 235,000 sq ft (21,800 m2) office-production-and-warehouse facility in the small town of Brundidge, Alabama, 60 miles (97 km) south of Montgomery, Carter Brothers claims to be the oldest and largest continually operating manufacturer of go-karts and off-road buggies in the world. Established in 1936 by the brothers W.W. Carter and Charlie Carter, the company initially specialized in manufacturing agricultural machinery, lawnmowers and personal gardening equipment.

On 12 July 2010, a fire destroyed Carter Brother's main warehouse and manufacturing facility,[7] resulting in the loss of approximately 3,000 unsold SYM scooters.[8] A subsequent investigation by the Alabama State Fire Marshal's Office determined that the cause of the fire was arson.[9]

In March 2011, an official at Carter Brothers Mfg. Co. Inc. made it known to the editor of the Team Symba web blog that the partnership agreement between SYM and Carter Brothers would end as of 1 April 2011.[10] Also in March 2011, Alliance Powersports, Inc. (a subsidiary of Lance Powersports, Inc.) of Mira Loma, California, notified existing SYM dealers that it had signed an exclusive distribution agreement with SYM for the western half of the US.[11]

In July 2014, Walter H. C. Chang was appointed Chairman of Sanyang Motor. He has been taking actions to further strengthen the company's core businesses, optimize sales channels and increase customers' satisfaction.

Models

[edit]
SYM Attila in Ho Chi Minh City
SYM Mio in Durham, North Carolina
SYM GTS EVO 125i at HMS Royal Arthur in Corsham, Wiltshire

Scooters

[edit]

The company has offered, or now offers, the following scooter models:[citation needed]

  • Allo 50, 125 (also called SYM Cello)
  • Attila
  • CLBCU
  • Crox
  • Cinderella/Party 50, 100
  • Citycom 125, 300
  • Cruisym 125, 300
  • Cruisym Alpha 125, 300
  • DD 50 (also called SYM Jolie)
  • DRGBT
  • Duke
  • Euro MX
  • Fancy 50
  • Fiddle
2009 SYM Fiddle II
  • Flash 50
  • Flyte
  • Fugue (also called Tuscany)
  • Free 50
  • GR125
  • Joymax 125, 250, 300 (also called SYM Voyager, SYM GTS and GTS EVO[12])
  • HD
  • Jet
  • Jet 4
  • Jet 14
  • Jet 14 Evo
  • Jet Euro X
  • JetPower
  • Jet S
  • Jet Sport X
  • Jet X (2021-present, also called GPX Drone)
  • Joyride (also called Le Grande in Australia)[13]
  • Jungle
  • Lance Cabo 50/100/150 cc
  • Lance Cali Classic 50/125/150/169 cc (the 169 cc is fuel injected, and marketed as a 200i)
  • Lance Havana Classic 50/125/150/169 cc (the 169 cc is fuel injected, and marketed as a 200i)
  • Lance PCH 50/125/150 cc
  • Lance Soho 50
  • Mask
  • Maxsym 400i, 600i
  • Maxsym TL500, TL508
  • Megalo
  • Mio 50, 100, 115
  • Orbit/Classic
  • Orbit 150
  • PCH 50/125/150/169 cc (the 169 cc is fuel injected, and marketed as a 200i)
  • Pure
  • Pure SR ("Super Race" Version of Pure/Flash 50)
  • Symply
  • Radar-X (Also called Radar 125 in Thailand)[14]
  • Red Devil (also a Michael Schumacher Version available)
  • RS
  • RV250
  • Super Duke
  • Super Fancy 50
  • Shark
  • VS/Excel II
  • Fighter (carbureted, ZR dual disc version and EFI VIP)
  • New Fighter (EFI with STCS intake technology)
  • Xpro series
  • Symphony
  • Symphony 125S
  • Symphony SR
  • Symphony ST (Also called Fancy 125 in Vietnam)
  • Symmetry
  • Z1
  • TTLBT 508
SYM T1

Motorcycles

[edit]

SYM 250

  • Bonus MB125A
  • Wolf 125/150/300
  • Wolf Classic 125/150
  • T1 150
  • T2 250
  • T3 280
  • RV 1–2
  • XS125-K[15]
  • Wolf SB 250NI
  • Husky 125

SYM 278

  • NH-T 280/300 (called also as Dafra NH-300 in Brazil)

SYM 185+

  • VF 185
  • NH-T 190/200 (Trazer)
  • NH-X 190/200

SYM 125

  • VF 125
  • NH-T 125
  • NH-X 125

Cubs

[edit]
SYM Outback 700

ATVs

[edit]
  • Outback 700
  • Track Runner
  • QuadLander
  • Quadraider 600cc

Light Trucks and Vans

[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Sanyang Motor

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Sanyang Motor Co., Ltd. (SYM) is a Taiwanese specializing in the manufacture of , scooters, and automobiles, founded in as a producer of bicycle generator lights and evolving into the island's first manufacturer through a 1962 joint venture with Motor Co., Ltd. of . Headquartered in , , , and listed on the under code 2206, SYM employs approximately 2,300 professionals and operates with a global strategy emphasizing production in , collaboration in , expansion into markets, and worldwide distribution to over 90 countries. The company's predecessor began operations in Taipei's , initially focusing on electric machinery before shifting to two-wheeled vehicles under the SYM brand, which became synonymous with reliable, affordable mobility solutions. In 2015, Sanyang Industry Co., Ltd. rebranded to Sanyang Motor Co., Ltd. to streamline its focus on core automotive businesses, adopting a new and the slogan "Engine of Life | Enjoy Riding." Key milestones include establishing subsidiaries in , , , and for localized production and sales, as well as implementing the ISO-14001 in 1998 to underscore its commitment to sustainability. SYM's product lineup encompasses a diverse range of motorcycles—including mopeds, scooters, cubs, and on-road bikes—alongside automobiles produced in partnership with Hyundai Motor Company under the Hyundai brand, and emerging electric vehicle initiatives in collaboration with CPC Corporation, Taiwan. The company invested 500 million dollars in 2002 to establish an advanced R&D center, which supports innovations in vehicle design, environmental technologies, and automated manufacturing processes. Recognized as a leader in Taiwan's motor industry, with a 40.9% market share in 2024, SYM continues to prioritize quality, as evidenced by its receipt of the Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) Award of Excellence for superior equipment maintenance and operational efficiency, and the unveiling of the PE3 hybrid electric scooter in 2025.

History

Founding and early expansion (1954–1980)

Sanyang Motor traces its origins to 1954, when its predecessor, the Sanyang Electric Machinery Plant, was founded in , , initially focusing on the production of dynamoelectric light sets for bicycles. This small operation, starting with just a handful of employees, laid the groundwork for what would become a key player in Taiwan's emerging sector. The company was formally restructured and incorporated as Sanyang Industry Co., Ltd. on , 1961, amid Taiwan's push toward import-substitution industrialization, which emphasized local assembly to reduce reliance on foreign imports and foster domestic capabilities in . In 1961, Sanyang entered into a technical collaboration agreement with , enabling the local production of small motorcycles, beginning with the Super Cub C100 model. This marked Taiwan's first motorcycle manufacturing operation, starting with knockdown assembly kits exported from and incorporating 30% local content as mandated by government policy to promote technological transfer and development. The first motorcycles rolled off the assembly line in 1962, rapidly scaling production and establishing Sanyang as a pioneer in the island's two-wheeled vehicle sector, which played a vital role in providing affordable transportation during Taiwan's economic takeoff in the . By the mid-1970s, annual output exceeded 300,000 units, reflecting the industry's contribution to export-oriented growth and employment in the post-war recovery era. Sanyang expanded its scope in 1969 by signing another technical agreement with for automobile assembly, inaugurating a dedicated plant to produce models such as the N600 passenger car and TN360 mini-truck—the first Honda vehicles manufactured outside . This diversification aligned with Taiwan's broader industrialization strategy, which encouraged progression from assembly to higher-value amid rising local content requirements that reached 75% by 1970. Around the same time, Sanyang began assembling scooters, further broadening its product range and solidifying its position in the local market through incremental technological localization and workforce training.

Honda partnership and diversification (1981–2002)

During the 1980s, the -Sanyang joint venture evolved from primarily local assembly operations to more advanced capabilities, with providing technical assistance that enabled Sanyang to incorporate key technologies for production and frame . This progression allowed Sanyang to increase local content in vehicles, transitioning toward full production of Honda-licensed models while building internal expertise in component fabrication. By the late 1980s, Sanyang invested approximately NT$150 million annually in , leading to the launch of its first independent model, the Fengsu 125 cc scooter in , which marked a shift toward under the partnership's framework. Diversification efforts intensified in this period, with Sanyang expanding beyond motorcycles into automobiles under 's guidance, including the assembly of models like the and Civic. In the , the company ventured into all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) as part of broadening its two-wheeler portfolio, leveraging Honda's designs to enter off-road segments. By the , this scope extended to light trucks and related automotive products, supporting Taiwan's growing domestic and regional demand for versatile vehicles. These moves were complemented by the introduction of the SYM brand identity in the early 1990s, used for independent models and exports to differentiate Sanyang's offerings from pure Honda licensees. Major milestones in the 1990s included the lifting of Honda's export restrictions in 1991, which spurred significant international growth; by 1995, Sanyang's exports exceeded 500,000 units annually, accounting for about 30% of its total sales, primarily directed to Asian markets like for re-export to . Further contract revisions in 1994 reduced dependency by limiting payments to used patents, fostering greater autonomy. These developments positioned Sanyang as a key exporter to and initial forays into , enhancing its global footprint while still tied to . However, internal challenges emerged, including strains in the amid rapid expansion and from other assemblers, which pressured production standards and contributed to erosion. In 1981, 's supply of one-generation-older models to Sanyang intensified competitive disadvantages, prompting the company to accelerate independent R&D. These tensions culminated in the termination of the 41-year partnership due to contract disputes, particularly Sanyang's refusal of 's demand for greater board control; sales in had plummeted 44% to around 20,000 units in 2001, partly as Sanyang positioned itself as a rival through its SYM-branded products. subsequently established its own subsidiary to regain direct market oversight.

Post-Honda era and Hyundai alliance (2003–present)

Following the termination of its long-standing partnership with in early 2002, Sanyang Industrial Co. signed a strategic alliance with to assemble Hyundai-branded vehicles for the Taiwanese and regional markets. This partnership positioned Sanyang as a key player in Hyundai's global manufacturing strategy, focusing on the assembly of commercial vehicles such as the mini-trucks, which helped stabilize operations and diversify beyond motorcycles amid the post-Honda transition. By leveraging its existing manufacturing expertise, Sanyang began producing Hyundai models locally, contributing to a gradual recovery in revenue and market presence through the mid-2000s. In July 2014, Walter H.C. Chang was elected as Chairman of Sanyang Motor, initiating efforts to refocus on core competencies in two-wheeled and four-wheeled vehicle production. This leadership shift culminated in January 2015, when the company was renamed Sanyang Motor Co., Ltd., signaling a renewed emphasis on its and automobile businesses while streamlining non-core operations. Under Chang's guidance, the firm demonstrated determination to enhance innovation in vehicle design and , marking 2015 as a pivotal turning point for operational efficiency. Post-2015 strategic initiatives included optimizing sales channels and bolstering , particularly in electric vehicles, through ventures like a 2018 collaboration with for EV battery technology commercialization after nearly a of groundwork. These efforts supported resilience during challenges, exemplified by the 2020 launch of the Maxsym TL500 flagship scooter, which debuted globally amid the as a symbol of continued product innovation and market adaptation. By 2024, these strategies drove record annual revenue of NT$65.7 billion, a 1.8% increase year-over-year, reflecting sustained growth in core segments. In 2025, Sanyang further strengthened through an equity buyback program, announced in April 2025 and completed in June 2025, repurchasing 5,693,000 shares for TWD 392.69 million.

Corporate Structure

Headquarters and manufacturing facilities

Sanyang Motor's headquarters is located at No. 3, Chung Hua Road, Hukou Township, , , serving as the central hub for administrative, research, and development operations. The facility was established following the company's relocation to the after its incorporation in 1961, with significant expansions in the early 2000s to accommodate growing production and R&D needs. The primary manufacturing facility in , situated near the headquarters in , specializes in the production of two-wheelers, including scooters and , utilizing advanced assembly lines for engines, , and final vehicle integration. In , Sanyang operates the Xiashing Motorcycle Co., Ltd. plant in , established in 1992 as a with China Credit Enterprise (CCRE) to target Asian markets, focusing on , electric vehicles, and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) with dedicated production lines for components and assembly. Similarly, the Vietnam Manufacturing & Export Processing Co., Ltd. (VMEP) facility in Bien Hoa, Dong Nai Province, was founded in 1992 and expanded in 2007 with a $70 million investment to boost capacity for Southeast Asian demand, emphasizing scooter and ATV assembly. Across these sites, Sanyang Motor achieves an annual production output exceeding 1 million two-wheelers, supported by integrated assembly lines that handle high-volume of scooters, cubs, motorcycles, and ATVs while maintaining quality standards for both domestic and export markets. In 2025, Sanyang invested in upgrading its headquarters and hub to strengthen the global , integrating data from international production bases for enhanced R&D and flexibility in development.

Subsidiaries and organizational changes

Sanyang Motor Co., Ltd. maintains several key subsidiaries to support its operations in design, research and development, domestic sales, and international manufacturing. Nova Design Co., Ltd., a wholly owned holding 19,080,000 shares, functions as the primary design and R&D arm, focusing on for , scooters, and related vehicles, with Ying-Feng Chiu serving as its chairman. Xiashing Motorcycle Co., Ltd. (also known as Xiashing Motorcycle Co., Ltd.), an indirect owned at 89.78% through Nanyang Industries Co., Ltd., specializes in the manufacturing and sales of , electric vehicles, agricultural vehicles, and all-terrain vehicles, primarily for the Chinese market; it was established in 1992 as a and accounted for 13% of Sanyang's purchases in 2024 (NT$4,324,406 thousand). Vietnam Manufacturing and Export Processing Co., Ltd. (VMEP), a majority-owned established in 1992, operates manufacturing facilities in for scooters and , supporting export processing and technology transfers under agreements like VIPO 18-21 (2022–2027); Sanyang holds approximately 67.1% ownership as of 2024. Beyond these core subsidiaries, Sanyang holds a 11.1% equity stake in India's Kinetic Motor Company, acquired in 2006 through the purchase of 2,065,000 shares for Rs 13.63 , enabling technical collaboration and localized scooter production under the SYM brand. Significant organizational changes occurred in the mid-2010s under new leadership. In July 2014, Walter H.C. Chang was appointed chairman, succeeding prior management and initiating strategies to strengthen core businesses, optimize sales channels, and reduce operational costs amid post-Honda partnership challenges. In 2015, the company renamed itself from Sanyang Industry Co., Ltd. to Sanyang Motor Co., Ltd. (abbreviated SYM), streamlining its branding to emphasize its primary focus on production and marking a strategic pivot toward global leadership. Sanyang's governance structure features a board of 11 directors, including 4 independent directors such as Chung-Chuan Shih and Chen Chiang, with dedicated and committees to ensure oversight and diversity policies. Post-2020, the board has prioritized , establishing an ESG Promotion Committee, obtaining certifications like ISO 14001:2015 (valid 2022–2025) and :2018 (valid 2024–2027), and publishing annual ESG reports; in 2024, this included NT$372 million in environmental investments and reductions in to 49,224.411 tCO₂e.

Global Operations

Key markets and distribution networks

Sanyang Motor, known as SYM, maintains its strongest presence in , where it leads the domestic scooter market with a 43.7% share as of September 2025. The company sold 28,091 scooters in in October 2025 alone, capturing 43.4% of the market and solidifying its position as the top two-wheeler brand. This dominance stems from its long-standing base and focus on innovative, affordable models tailored to local preferences. In , SYM operates through its subsidiary Xiashing Motorcycles Co., Ltd., established in in 1992, which handles manufacturing and exports of motorcycles, electric vehicles, and agricultural vehicles. This facility supports regional distribution and contributes to SYM's broader Asian footprint by producing for both domestic Chinese sales and exports. represents a key growth area, with a particular emphasis on and . In , SYM's Vietnam Manufacturing and Export Processing Co., Ltd. (VMEP), founded in 1992, produces and sells motorcycles, targeting the niche scooter segment amid a competitive market dominated by Japanese and Taiwanese brands. For , SYM holds an 11.1% stake in Kinetic Motor Company since , enabling market entry and distribution of scooters through this partnership to leverage emerging demand. SYM's distribution networks span multiple continents, facilitated by official distributors and subsidiaries. In the United States, operations are managed through Alliance Powersports Inc. since 2011, which handles nationwide sales of scooters and motorcycles from its base in Mira Loma, California. In Europe, SYM entered the market around 2005 and established direct subsidiaries in Italy and Germany to oversee imports, sales, and after-sales services. Additional distributors cover Central America, South America, Africa, Oceania, and other Asian countries, ensuring broad global reach for its two-wheeled products. The company's sales strategies prioritize emerging markets while reinforcing as a central export hub. In , SYM upgraded its global approach to strengthen Taiwan's role in coordination and platforms, aiming for over 750,000 annual global sales. This includes enhanced exports from Taiwanese facilities, which recovered to pre-pandemic levels by mid-, supporting distribution to and beyond.

International partnerships and joint ventures

Sanyang Motor established a significant alliance with in 2002, focusing on the co-production and distribution of Hyundai vehicles tailored for Asian markets. Through its Nan Yang Industries, Sanyang manufactures Hyundai automobiles and mini-trucks, including models like the Porter light commercial vehicles and , leveraging its manufacturing expertise to support Hyundai's regional expansion. This partnership has enabled Sanyang to diversify beyond two-wheelers into the automotive sector, producing vehicles that meet local demands while adhering to Hyundai's quality standards. Historically, Sanyang maintained a long-standing collaboration with from 1961 to , during which it licensed Honda's technology to produce motorcycles and scooters, laying the foundation for its growth in the industry. Beyond this, Sanyang has formed partnerships with Bombardier Recreational Products to develop all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), enhancing its offerings in recreational off-road products. In , Sanyang collaborates with on production, combining local market insights with Sanyang's engineering capabilities to manufacture scooters and motorcycles. Additionally, ties with International Truck support the development of utility vehicles, integrating heavy-duty components for commercial applications. Key joint ventures include the establishment of Xiashing Motorcycle Co., Ltd. in 1992, a collaboration between Sanyang and CCRE Group, which focuses on manufacturing , electric vehicles, and in to serve domestic and export markets. In , Sanyang operates through Sanyang Motor Company Limited (SMV) and a 2025 strategic partnership with Vietnam Manufacturing and Export Processing Co., Ltd., involving joint production of parts, exclusive distribution, and supply agreements to bolster regional operations. These ventures have expanded Sanyang's production capacity and market penetration in . In recent developments, Sanyang's participation at the 2025 exhibition in showcased new models like the NH-R 300 and JAPARDO 300, drawing inspirations from technology-sharing in its international partnerships to advance electric and adventure vehicle innovations. This event underscored ongoing collaborative efforts to integrate global tech trends into Sanyang's product lineup.

Products

Scooters and cubs

Sanyang Motor, commonly known as SYM, offers a diverse lineup of scooters and cubs tailored for urban mobility and everyday in . The company's scooters emphasize practicality, combining compact designs with reliable performance for city environments. Core models include the GTS series of maxi-scooters, designed for comfortable urban with engines ranging from 125cc to 300cc, featuring spacious storage and ergonomic seating for longer rides. The Mio series, available in 50cc to 125cc displacements, prioritizes , achieving up to 110 miles per gallon in testing, making it ideal for short-distance travel and budget-conscious users. Additionally, the Maxsym line, such as the TL500 model launched in 2020, caters to adventure-oriented riders with its 465cc parallel-twin engine, adjustable windscreen, and robust chassis for mixed on-road use. In the cubs category, SYM produces compact models like the Jet and series, which are lightweight and highly maneuverable for navigating congested Asian streets. The Jet 14 200i, for instance, incorporates a 169cc fuel-injected and 14-inch wheels for agile handling, while the 4 200i adds retro styling with LED lighting and a spacious under-seat compartment for practicality. These cubs typically weigh under 300 pounds, enhancing their affordability and ease of use for daily errands or novice riders in urban settings. SYM's scooters and cubs feature lightweight aluminum frames and continuously variable transmissions (CVT) for smooth acceleration without gear shifting, paired with systems and ceramic-coated cylinders to improve efficiency and reduce emissions. These design elements contribute to low and eco-friendly operation, aligning with the needs of high-density traffic in n cities. SYM holds a dominant position in the Taiwanese scooter market and ranks as the seventh-largest global scooter manufacturer with annual sales exceeding 540,000 units in 2024, primarily driven by demand in .

Motorcycles and ATVs

Sanyang Motor, known as SYM, offers a range of motorcycles designed for diverse riding styles, with models emphasizing reliability and accessibility in the mid-displacement segment. The CRUISYM 300 blends and scooter elements, functioning as a hybrid model for urban and light touring applications. Launched in in 2022 with updates showcased at , it features a 278.3 cc with 19.1 kW output, ABS braking, and full LED lighting for enhanced safety and visibility. This model, weighing 194 kg with a 760 mm seat height, accommodates two riders and offers practical storage, appealing to European markets focused on versatile daily mobility.

Automobiles and utility vehicles

Sanyang Motor's entry into four-wheeled vehicle production stemmed from its 2002 strategic partnership with , enabling local assembly and distribution in through subsidiary Nan Yang Industries Co., Ltd. This alliance, formalized to revive Sanyang's automobile operations after severing ties with , began yielding locally produced Hyundai models in 2003, focusing on compact and commercial vehicles suited to Asian urban and needs. Key Hyundai-assembled models include the Porter mini-trucks, introduced as light commercial vans since 2003 to support 's delivery and small business sectors, alongside small cars like the Elantra and multi-purpose vans such as the Staria for passenger and cargo transport in Asian markets. These vehicles are produced at Sanyang's facilities in , with adaptations for local regulations including right-hand drive configurations for export to Southeast Asian countries like and the . In addition to standard gasoline variants, Sanyang has explored utility vehicles under the SYM branding, developing custom light trucks and vans for commercial applications, including hybrid and electric models such as the Inster EV tested in Taiwan to meet emerging environmental standards.

Electric vehicles

SYM has expanded into electric mobility with initiatives in collaboration with CPC Corporation, Taiwan. Key models include the EE1 electric scooter, featuring a 25 kW motor and up to 62-mile range on a single charge. In 2025, SYM unveiled the hybrid PE3 range extender system for electric scooters, addressing battery limitations with a gasoline generator for extended range. These developments support sustainable urban transport in Asia and beyond.

Innovations and Developments

Technological advancements

Sanyang Motor has pioneered engine technologies that enhance efficiency and rider comfort, notably through the development of fuel-injected i-Start systems. The company's Z.R.S.G. (Zero-Resistance Starter & Generator) system, introduced as Taiwan's first fully electric zero-impedance start mechanism for medium-sized engines, utilizes the to directly drive the , enabling smooth, vibration-free starts while reducing idling fuel consumption by integrating seamlessly with for optimal performance in scooters. This innovation has been applied across small and medium-displacement scooters, contributing to lower emissions and improved fuel economy without compromising power delivery. Additionally, Sanyang has advanced electric powertrains, exemplified by e-SYM prototypes such as the PE3 hybrid concept, which employs a range-extender combining electric with internal engines to address battery range limitations, achieving over 50% reductions in fuel use and carbon emissions compared to traditional setups, as demonstrated in its unveiling with an aluminum-ion battery extended-range . In terms of safety features, Sanyang Motor began integrating advanced systems across its models in the to elevate rider protection. Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS) were first incorporated into select scooters around 2012, preventing wheel lockup during emergency stops on varied surfaces, and have since become standard in higher-end lines like the ADX series. Traction Control Systems (TCS), utilizing wheel speed sensors to detect and mitigate slippage—reducing it by up to 30% on wet or gravel roads—were introduced in models such as the Joyride 300 around 2020, enhancing stability during acceleration. Full LED lighting, including headlights, taillights, and turn signals, has been progressively adopted since the mid- for improved nighttime visibility and energy efficiency, as seen in the Jet X 125 and similar urban commuters. Sanyang Motor's R&D initiatives underscore a commitment to streamlined innovation, with its Nova Design subsidiary—established in to foster independent product development—playing a pivotal role in creating modular platforms that accelerate vehicle engineering. These platforms enable reusable components for diverse models, significantly cutting design iterations. Since 2022, the company has utilized a shared frame and engine strategy, integrating platforms to centralize and unify quality, which has shortened cycles from 18 months to as little as 8 months, allowing faster adaptation to market demands. Sustainability efforts at Sanyang Motor align closely with 's green policies, including stringent emissions regulations and EV incentives under the nation's net-zero roadmap. The company has shifted toward low-emission engines, such as Euro 5-compliant four-stroke units with electronic that boost power while curbing pollutants, as detailed in their fuel-efficient series developed since 2022. In EV battery technology, collaborations with , , have yielded innovations like aluminum-based (Aph ePower) and lithium-ion ternary batteries, with pilot production of the latter in 2025 and mass production planned for 2026 to support electric scooters and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, directly supporting 's goal of 20% electric adoption by 2030. These advancements reflect Sanyang's broader environmental declaration emphasizing pollution prevention and resource recycling.

Recent models and financial performance (2021–2025)

In 2022, Sanyang Motor launched the SYM CRUISYM 300, a multifunctional maxi-scooter designed for urban, sport, and adventure use, featuring a Euro 5+ compliant , full LED lighting, keyless ignition, and an adjustable windshield, with initial rollout targeting European markets to capitalize on demand for versatile two-wheelers. By 2025, the company introduced the SYM MMBCU 125, a compact urban crossover scooter powered by a 125cc liquid-cooled delivering 9 kW of power, equipped with traction control, ABS, 100% LED lighting, and 28 liters of under-seat storage for enhanced city mobility. At 2025 (November 4–9), SYM unveiled several nature-inspired models, including the TTLBT crossover adventure bike, JEPARDO, and JOYRIDE 300 maxi-scooter, emphasizing innovation in smart mobility and emotional consumer connections. Financially, Sanyang Motor achieved a revenue peak of NT$65.6 billion in 2024, reflecting a 1.8% year-over-year increase driven by strong two-wheeler sales and Hyundai vehicle distribution. In 2025, the company completed an equity buyback program announced on June 23, repurchasing shares to optimize capital structure and support a dividend payout ratio aligned with its NT$3.03 per share distribution from 2024 earnings. Amid a global two-wheeler market recovery, SYM reported 540,000 units sold in 2024—a slight 2.8% decline from the prior year but with targeted growth in electric vehicles (EVs), including a new S-segment EV launch in Q4 2025 and expanded hydrogen fuel cell models, contributing to cumulative 2025 revenue of NT$48.0 billion through September. Strategically, Sanyang Motor upgraded its 2025 global approach to emphasize expansion across over 96 countries, enhancing partnerships with OEM clients like and while integrating data from three production bases for unified quality standards. The company reinforced as its core hub and R&D center in , maintaining a 43.7% domestic market share as of September 2025 and leveraging flexible supply chains for consistent global output. R&D timelines were shortened to eight months through platform sharing, including integrated frame-engine designs and cross-industry EV collaborations like the PE3 for hybrid powertrains, focusing on fuel-efficient, low-emission technologies such as aluminum and lithium-ion batteries. Post-pandemic, Sanyang adapted its by centralizing parts distribution for improved and resilience against disruptions, while addressing raw material fluctuations and geopolitical risks through diversified sourcing. Looking ahead, the company plans 2025 market expansions via showcases and hybrid strategies to navigate regulatory uncertainties, aiming for over 750,000 global motorcycle units and elevating Hyundai to a top-four position in Taiwan's automotive sector.

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