The event spans 380,000 square metres across two venues. It displays more than 1,450 vehicles, including 181 global debuts. This sets a global record for scale.
Crowds flocked to booths on the first trade day. BYD showcased its new generation fast-charging blade EV battery, demonstrated at minus 30°C, achieving a near full charge in nine minutes. At Nio, the ES9 tilted in sync with a humanoid robot. Its full active suspension responded in milliseconds.
Physical AI Redefines Vehicle Intelligence
Intelligent driving technology now centres on physical AI. This lets vehicles perceive, reason, and act in the real world. Cao Xudong, CEO of Momenta, highlighted the R7 reinforcement learning world model. It trains on rare long-tail scenarios in virtual environments. The goal: outperform human drivers in extreme cases.
Exhibitors stress understanding over mere seeing. Systems now form independent judgments in complex situations. XPeng co-developed the UNYX 09 electric sedan with Volkswagen Group. However, Geely’s Lin Jie noted handling needs time and systematic work. Cars must stay responsive yet stable at limits.
The shift moves past feature-stacking. Firms refine core capabilities instead. As a result, intelligent driving technology gains real-world edge.
Ecosystems Reshape Supplier Ties
Integrated exhibitions mark a key change. Suppliers now share main halls with automakers. This fosters co-creation over simple procurement.
William Li of Nio called China’s EV sector one of mutual empowerment. Competition pits ecosystems against each other, not single firms. Chery and Bosch launched a joint programme for 48-volt architecture. They target mass production in China. Dongfeng featured a new model with Huawei’s next-generation Qiankun intelligent driving system and HarmonyOS. It integrates electrical, chassis, and data systems natively.
Moreover, vehicles vary widely. Sporty saloons mix with off-roaders and family MPVs. Makers build edges through user-focused differentiation.
Investors should watch these ecosystems closely. Physical AI and partnerships boost intelligent driving technology. They signal enduring strength in China’s EV plays. Strong supply chains will drive returns as global rivals adapt. Firms like Nio, BYD, and partners lead the pack.
