Auto China 2025 opened on Friday and runs until May 3, with more than 1,400 vehicles on display, according to multiple reports. The show, one of the largest auto exhibitions in the world, highlights the rapid advancement of Chinese automotive technology, particularly in electric and hybrid vehicles. While some reports put the vehicle count at more than 1,450, the discrepancy is likely due to rounding or different counting methods.
Among the standout debuts is the Zeekr 8X, a large, long-range plug-in hybrid SUV priced around £40,000, according to major media reports. The vehicle features an innovative parking system that allows it to drive itself out of a tight space if the owner waves at it. Additionally, the Zeekr 8X can tilt upwards up to 80mm before a side collision to protect passengers, a safety feature that underscores the brand's focus on occupant protection. The Zeekr 8X's availability date has not been announced, and its safety ratings are not yet known.
When you're driving on the highway, you fall asleep, or if you feel unwell and can no longer control the vehicle, the system can detect the situation, pull over automatically and alert emergency services. Many people who have tried it say it's amazing.
The Denza Z, a four-seater electric supercar GT, was also unveiled at the show. According to major media, it boasts over 1000bhp and a 0-62mph time of less than two seconds. In a notable marketing strategy, the Denza Z will debut in Europe first before going to China, signaling the brand's ambition to compete in the global luxury EV market. The exact price of the Denza Z has not been disclosed.
XPeng showcased its GX model, a six-seater SUV with third-row seats that can lie completely flat, according to major media. The company's founder and CEO, He Xiaopeng, described the vehicle's advanced safety system: "When you're driving on the highway, you fall asleep, or if you feel unwell and can no longer control the vehicle, the system can detect the situation, pull over automatically and alert emergency services. Many people who have tried it say it's amazing." Meanwhile, Yijing, a joint venture between Dongfeng Motor Corp. and Huawei, showcased the X9 six-seat SUV, which features a next-generation Qiankun intelligent driving system and a HarmonyOS cockpit developed by Huawei, according to major media.
It just reinforces that the Chinese — whether in EVs, batteries, intelligent driving — are setting the pace for all these important sectors.
Battery technology took center stage with BYD showcasing a new generation of its fast-charging 'blade' EV battery that can achieve near full charge in nine minutes, according to major media. CATL also unveiled a new version of its 'Shenxing' battery that can be charged from 10% to 98% in about six-and-a-half minutes. The production timeline for the CATL Shenxing battery has not been announced.
The SAIC/HIMA Z7, an electric car that closely resembles the Porsche Taycan, was also presented. According to major media, it starts at 219,800 yuan (approximately 296,422 SEK). The Z7 Max variant has a single rear motor with 360 hp and an 81 kWh battery, with a range of 730 km (CLTC). A wagon version called Z7T, resembling the Taycan Cross Turismo, is priced from 229,800 to 309,800 yuan. How the Z7 compares in performance to the Porsche Taycan remains unclear.
According to The Independent - Main, Tu Le, managing director of Sino Auto Insights, described the show as reinforcing that Chinese companies are setting the pace in EVs, batteries, and intelligent driving. Chris Liu, senior analyst at Omdia, told the same outlet that China has become one of the fastest-moving markets for deploying and iterating new vehicle technologies, giving consumers early access to some of the most advanced features.
The Zeekr 8X's availability date has not been announced, and its safety ratings are not yet known. The Denza Z's exact price remains undisclosed. The production timeline for the CATL Shenxing battery is also unclear. These unknowns highlight the rapid pace of development in China's auto industry, where new models and technologies are often announced before full commercial details are finalized.