China’s premier auto show kicked off in Beijing on Thursday with major players showcasing their latest electric vehicles (EVs), signaling the country’s swift transition to an all-electric era, with no turning back.
This year’s event boasts a record 117 new model debuts, up from 93 last year in Shanghai, with a total of 278 new energy vehicles (NEVs) set to be unveiled, seven more than the previous year, according to organizers.
The show, running until early next month, coincides with a significant milestone in April, where NEVs accounted for over 50% of all cars sold in China, as reported by auto associations. A year-long price war has fueled sales growth, prompting automakers to introduce newer, more affordable models and promotions to stay competitive.
William Li, founder and CEO of Chinese EV manufacturer Nio, emphasized the prevailing interest in electric and intelligent technologies at the Beijing auto show, stating, “There is no doubt about the future of EVs; it’s happening right now.”
BYD, known as the world’s largest EV maker, showcased its premium brands Yangwang and Denza, aiming to shift away from its low-cost image. It also introduced the Ocean-M, a sleek rear-wheel-drive hatchback priced competitively between 150,000 to 200,000 yuan ($20,699 to $27,598), targeting China’s burgeoning middle class and undercutting mainstream EV prices in other markets.
