When people talk about global leaders in intelligent manufacturing, names from the U.S., Germany, and Japan often come to mind. But over the past decade, one name from China has been climbing—quite literally—into the international spotlight: Zhejiang Dingli Machinery Co., Ltd., more commonly known as Dingli.
Ranked 3rd in the world in the field of aerial work platforms (AWPs), Dingli has become a powerful symbol of China’s leap from “Made in China” to “Intelligently Made in China.”
A Humble Beginning in Zhejiang
Dingli was founded in 2005 in Deqing County, located in Zhejiang Province, an eastern coastal region long known for its manufacturing heritage and entrepreneurial spirit. What started as a local machinery company with limited scale has since transformed into a globally recognized enterprise with cutting-edge research, advanced production facilities, and a growing international footprint.
The company specializes in the design, development, and production of aerial work platforms—machines that are essential in construction, maintenance, logistics, and warehousing industries. These platforms are used to safely lift workers and materials to elevated workspaces, making them indispensable in modern infrastructure development.
From “Manufacturing” to “Smart Manufacturing”
One of Dingli’s greatest strengths lies in its commitment to intelligent manufacturing. Unlike traditional manufacturing firms, Dingli heavily integrates automation, robotics, data analytics, and digital design tools throughout its production chain.
In its state-of-the-art smart factory, robots assist with welding, precision cutting, and painting, while big data and AI tools are used to streamline logistics and quality control. The result? A production system that is not only efficient and scalable but also flexible enough to handle highly customized orders from clients around the world.
In 2021, Dingli completed the Phase II expansion of its intelligent factory, further boosting its capacity to meet growing global demand. This is not just a factory—it’s a showcase of what China’s next-generation manufacturing looks like.
Global Recognition and International Reach
Dingli’s rise is not confined to domestic success. Over the years, the company has made significant inroads into overseas markets. Its products are now exported to more than 80 countries, including high-standard regions like Europe, North America, and Australia.
To strengthen its international presence, Dingli has acquired or partnered with foreign companies, ensuring its products meet the strictest safety and quality standards globally. One of the key milestones in its international strategy was the acquisition of 25% shares of Magni Telescopic Handlers SRL, a high-end equipment manufacturer based in Italy. This move gave Dingli access to world-class R&D capabilities and expanded its product portfolio.
In 2023, Dingli was officially ranked third globally in the AWP industry, behind only a couple of long-established Western giants. This was not only a proud moment for the company, but also a major milestone for China’s high-end equipment manufacturing sector as a whole.
Innovation as a Core Value
At the heart of Dingli’s success is a relentless drive for innovation. Each year, the company invests a significant portion of its revenue into research and development. It currently holds over 400 patents, including many for fully electric and hybrid aerial platforms—an area that is gaining momentum due to environmental concerns and tighter regulations on emissions.
In 2019, Dingli introduced a line of all-electric scissor lifts and boom lifts, which offer zero-emission, low-noise operation—perfect for indoor and urban work environments. This forward-thinking approach has positioned the company as a leader in sustainable equipment design.
In addition, the company is exploring AI-assisted fault detection, remote monitoring, and autonomous navigation for future generations of aerial platforms. It’s not just making machines—it’s shaping the future of safe, smart work-at-height technology.
Human Capital and Culture
While automation plays a big role in Dingli’s factories, the company has never overlooked the power of human capital. It has built a culture that values skill development, long-term employment, and team innovation. From engineers and product designers to marketing experts and after-sales service teams, Dingli’s people are the backbone of its global success.
The company also partners with universities and technical institutes to cultivate new talent and keep the innovation pipeline flowing. It’s this blend of tech and talent that gives Dingli its edge—not only within China, but on the global stage.
Facing the Future with Confidence
Looking ahead, Dingli is not resting on its laurels. The company is planning further expansions, including new R&D centers and production bases, while doubling down on green innovation and smart mobility. It aims to strengthen its position in emerging markets like Southeast Asia, South America, and the Middle East.
Moreover, as the world continues to prioritize safety, efficiency, and sustainability in construction and maintenance, Dingli’s smart, electric-powered platforms are perfectly poised to meet the demand.
A National Symbol of Global Competence
In a way, Dingli’s story mirrors the broader transformation of Chinese manufacturing. From labor-intensive factories to smart, sustainable, and high-tech enterprises, China is evolving—and companies like Dingli are leading the way.
Dingli is not just making machines that reach new heights—it’s helping China itself reach new heights in global industrial reputation.
Summary:
Zhejiang Dingli, born in China, has grown into a world-class intelligent equipment manufacturer, now ranked 3rd globally in aerial work platforms. With innovation at its core and smart manufacturing as its backbone, Dingli represents the new face of “Made in China” — one that’s intelligent, green, and globally competitive.