The 2025 Shanghai Auto Show kicked off on Wednesday in Shanghai, the metropolis in the Chinese mainland, showcasing cutting-edge low-carbon and intelligent mobility solutions. Over the next 10 days, nearly 1,000 globally renowned automakers and supply chain enterprises from 26 countries and regions will transform the event into the largest edition in its history.
Data-driven insights reveal that over 70 percent of the roughly 1,300 vehicles on display are new energy models, with more than 100 debuts set to make their global or regional premieres. Overseas dealers from 100+ countries and regions have traveled to Shanghai, highlighting the city's role as a hub for sustainable automotive innovation.
A standout feature is the inaugural Automotive Technology and Supply Chain Pavilion. Nearly 50 domestic and international technology, semiconductor, and chip companies are making their first appearance, demonstrating breakthroughs that span the entire industry chain.
Before the show opened, Toyota Motor Corp. announced a strategic cooperation agreement with the Shanghai municipal government to build a wholly owned electric vehicle plant. The 14.6 billion yuan investment will focus on research, production, and sales of Lexus EVs and batteries. Tatsuro Ueda, chief executive officer of China Region and chairman of Toyota Motor (China) Investment, said the move aims to "showcase the competitive strengths of China's new energy vehicle industry chain to the world" and extend Chinese technology globally.
Veteran automaker Volkswagen is also leaning into the Chinese market. With over 40 years of presence, the brand is displaying more than 50 models and plans to launch 30+ new models for the China region over the next three years. Stefan Mecha, CEO of Volkswagen China Passenger Cars Brand, noted that deep local insights allow the company to "scale innovations and bring them back to our global business."
In the battery sector, Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited (CATL) unveiled dual-core structure technology that splits a single battery into two independent energy zones, each optimized with different materials to maximize performance and lifespan.
Beyond vehicles and batteries, the show features intelligent connectivity, advanced safety and security systems, and automotive financial services. Running until May 2, the expo offers a glimpse into a sustainable, tech-driven future on the roads – and beyond.
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2025 Shanghai Auto Show highlights low-carbon, intelligent mobility
cgtn.com
