Automakers step up to donate millions of yuan after earthquake

Demonstrating their dedication to social responsibility, automakers are donating millions of yuan to deliver emergency aid, supplies and rescue services in the aftermath of a 6.2-magnitude earthquake that hit Northwest China's Gansu and Qinghai provinces last week.

The earthquake has caused heavy casualties and wreaked havoc on the region's water supply and power, transportation and communication infrastructure. By Friday, more than 10 auto companies combined had donated over 80 million yuan ($11.21 million) to the relief effort.

BYD was the first to extend a helping hand, donating 10 million yuan to the earthquake-stricken areas. Chery made the largest donation of 12 million yuan and its Exeed, Jetour and iCar brands have been engaged in the relief and post-disaster recovery efforts.

Geely Group donated 10 million yuan for the purchase of emergency relief supplies and others.

Great Wall Motor announced a donation of 5 million yuan, along with 15 Tank 300 off-road vehicles and 20 Great Wall Poer pickups.

Great Wall's five major brands — Haval, Poer, Wey, Tank and Ora — also have launched six caring services, including free road rescue, free vehicle inspections and a fast-track insurance claims process.

Chinese startups Li Auto and Nio also made donations of 10 million yuan and 5 million yuan, respectively.

GAC Group donated 5 million yuan and its joint ventures — GAC Honda, GAC Toyota and GAC Hino, along with subsidiary GAC Aion — have initiated emergency rescue service channels for their users.

Meanwhile, BMW China and BMW Brilliance Automotive jointly donated 3 million yuan for emergency rescue and assistance to affected residents, and to provide cold weather protection for rescue personnel.

Mercedes-Benz, in collaboration with its nationwide dealerships, has collected and delivered tons of emergency supplies, including clothing and daily necessities.

Changan Ford has introduced six exclusive care measures for owners whose vehicles were damaged in the disaster, including free road rescue, a green channel for parts supply and a 300-yuan vehicle repair subsidy.

Changan's Deepal brand has introduced three key assistance initiatives for car owners affected by the earthquake: 24-hour rescue, insurance claims support and a 30 percent discount on sheet metal labor costs. It is also offering free vehicle inspections, interior disinfection and exterior vehicle cleaning.

Meanwhile, Dongfeng Motor's Voyah brand delivered care packages for car owners in Gansu, established a 24-hour emergency rescue channel and delivered tents and medicines to the disaster-stricken areas.

Besides taking a lead role in donating to emergency relief, auto manufacturers have organized events to promote culture, education and environmental conservation as part of their corporate social responsibility efforts.