Global tech manufacturer TCL has opened a new air conditioner smart factory in Guangzhou, China, as the company celebrates its 100 millionth unit milestone.
The new factory, which represents an investment worth RMB 2 billion (AUD 414.2 million), is expected to have a production capacity of 8 million units per year – roughly one air conditioner every seven seconds.
The complex spans 303 acres and features three fully automated “lights-out” factories that operate 24 hours a day without human intervention, TCL said in its media release.
The site features 15 advanced laboratories and 10 intelligent production lines. At its core, an AI supercomputing centre manages over 2,000 AI agents and numerous industrial robots, enabling fully automated production of key components. The factory’s high-precision heat exchanger production line uses AI to boost efficiency by 41.7%.
Designed with sustainability in mind, the factory is equipped with 50,000 sqm of solar panels and uses an AI-driven energy management system. These features help create a production process that produces almost no waste or emissions, according to the tech company.
“Producing 100 million units is a landmark achievement that reflects the trust of customers worldwide,” said Du Juan, CEO of TCL Industries Holdings. “By using AI and smart technology, we remain committed to enhancing consumers’ quality of life while also contributing to a more sustainable future through energy-saving solutions and eco-friendly design.”
TCL currently maintains 47 research and development centres along with 40 manufacturing bases globally, with operations spanning more than 160 countries and regions. The company currently holds third place globally in air conditioner sales volume.
