World's Largest Beijing Motor Show Opens, Spotlighting Intelligent Driving and Battery Tech

The 'Auto China 2026' (Beijing Motor Show), the world's largest automotive exhibition, has commenced, setting the stage for an intense battle among global and domestic manufacturers. Under the banner of 'The Future of Intelligence,' the show highlights the rapid advancements in autonomous driving and battery technology, crucial battlegrounds in the global automotive industry. With China remaining the world's largest car market, the competition here is particularly fierce, showcasing over 1,400 vehicles, including 181 world premieres.

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We will launch a new car every two weeks.

This year's exhibition is unfolding against a backdrop of significant geopolitical and economic factors. The ongoing US-China tech rivalry casts a shadow, influencing strategies related to Chinese electric vehicles and batteries. Furthermore, a noticeable slowdown in EV demand, often termed 'EV-Chasm,' and the volatility of international oil prices due to regional conflicts, are forcing established players like Volkswagen and Hyundai to re-evaluate their lineups, balancing investments in new energy vehicles with the continued relevance of internal combustion and hybrid models.

From a South Korean perspective, the Beijing Motor Show is a critical barometer for the global auto industry, especially concerning the strategies of major players like Hyundai. Having seen its market share in China decline, Hyundai is using this platform to attempt a comeback, showcasing its latest offerings and commitment to the market. Volkswagen, too, is making ambitious promises, aiming to regain its footing after losing ground to Chinese brands. The show also underscores the dominance of Chinese domestic brands, which now command nearly 70% of the market, largely driven by new energy vehicles (NEVs).

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The SU7, which was the biggest topic of the Beijing Motor Show two years ago, completed the Beijing-Shanghai 1,313 km journey on a single charge with its new model.

However, even within China, the landscape is shifting. Leading Chinese brands like BYD and Geely have experienced significant sales drops this year, attributed to changes in subsidy policies and intense domestic competition. This dynamic presents both challenges and opportunities for international automakers. The Hankyoreh's coverage aims to provide a nuanced view of these complex interplays, analyzing how global trends intersect with China's unique market conditions and technological ambitions.

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The new energy vehicle (NEV) share is leading the sales, accounting for more than 50% of total sales.