Shanghai Auto Show 2024: Key Takeaways

This year’s 19th annual Shanghai Auto Show showcased a significant number of electric vehicles and vehicles heavily focused on technology. Automakers from China, Europe, and the United States presented their newest models.

The range of vehicles on display spanned all price points. This included more affordable options like the Wuling Hong Guang Mini, a product of a collaboration between SAIC Motor Corp., General Motors Co., and Liuzhou Wuling Motors Co., alongside high-end vehicles such as the Mercedes EQS.

Driver Assistance Systems and Autonomy

Many manufacturers highlighted the advanced features of their driver assistance systems. Some used language implying a potential for full autonomy, contingent upon regulatory approval.

It’s important to note that, despite these advancements, these systems currently do not achieve full autonomy. Other companies focused on promoting the software capabilities integrated into their vehicles.

This trend of emphasizing software has been gaining momentum since the increased prominence of Tesla in the automotive market.

Notable Highlights from the Show

Several exhibits and announcements stood out during the event. Further insights into the Chinese automotive landscape can be found in TechCrunch’s coverage by Rita Liao.

Her reporting details Tesla’s efforts to develop vehicles specifically designed for Chinese consumers. This comes amidst growing concerns regarding the quality of Tesla’s electric vehicles in the region.

The show demonstrated a clear industry shift towards electrification and software-defined vehicles. Innovation in both areas was prominently featured by numerous manufacturers.

Audi's Presence in the Chinese Automotive Market

This year, Audi collaborated with its Chinese manufacturing partners, FAW and SAIC, to unveil a series of new vehicles. Four global debuts were presented, showcasing Audi’s commitment to the region. These included the Audi A6 e-tron concept, a refreshed Audi Q5L, the Audi A7L, and a yet-to-be-revealed SUV concept, designated Audi concept Shanghai.

Production of the Audi Q5L SUV will remain at the Changchun facility operated by the FAW-VW joint venture. Conversely, the Audi A7L limousine, slated for production in 2021, will be assembled by the SAIC Audi joint venture. The Audi A7L is specifically designed for the Chinese market and boasts advanced features.

The Audi A6 e-tron Concept

A displayed Audi A6 e-tron. Image Credits: Wu Kai/VCG via Getty Images

The A6 e-tron concept represents a significant departure from the conventional Audi A6 model. This entirely electric vehicle utilizes Audi’s “Premium Platform Electric,” or PPE platform. This platform will underpin the company’s C- and B-segment vehicles starting in late 2022.

While sharing similar overall dimensions with the existing A6, the A6 e-tron distinguishes itself through its fully electric powertrain. It’s styled as a sportback, characterized by a sloping coupe-style roofline and concise overhangs. The vehicle’s aesthetic is finalized with substantial 22-inch wheels.

The A6 e-tron concept is equipped with dual electric motors, capable of generating a combined output of 350 kW and 590 pound-feet of torque. It incorporates an 800-volt charging system – mirroring that of the Porsche Taycan – and is projected to achieve a range of approximately 434 miles according to WLTP standards.

BYD

Backed by Warren Buffet, BYD has emerged as a significant competitor to Tesla, consistently demonstrating growth in unit sales. The “Han” series, since its introduction last year, has been a key driver of this success.

BYD Han

A BYD Han vehicle is showcased. Image Credits: VCG/VCG via Getty Images

BYD’s Han lineup represents the company’s flagship offering, encompassing three all-electric models and a single hybrid option.

Drawing its name from China’s historical Han dynasty, this luxury electric sedan series began sales in the previous year.

The long-range electric vehicles produced by BYD are capable of traveling approximately 375 miles on a single charge.

Furthermore, the company asserts that its innovative “blade” battery pack design provides a heightened level of safety compared to conventional battery technologies.

Geely Holdings Inc.

This year’s Shanghai Auto Show featured a significant presence from the Chinese automotive group, Geely Holdings Inc., with multiple brands showcased, including a newly introduced marque. Several electric vehicles were presented by Polestar, Volvo Cars, Lynk & Co, Geometry, and the recently launched Zeekr brand.

Geometry Pro

The 几何A-Pro was unveiled at the 2021 Shanghai Auto Show. Image Credits: Geometry/Geely Holdings

Geely’s brand targeting the mass market introduced an extended-range version of its Geometry A model. Designated the Geometry A Pro, this vehicle incorporates a 150kW battery, enabling a range of 600 km (372 miles) on a full charge. Established in 2019, the brand has, to date, revealed three distinct models.

Currently, the A and C models are available for purchase within the Chinese automotive market. Plans are in place to begin exporting the Geometry C to select international partners later in the year.

Lynk & Co. 05

Image Credits: Geely holdings/Lynk & Co.

A new plug-in hybrid version of the Lynk & Co. 05 was presented by the company. Furthermore, the Scalable Product Architecture, which will underpin future Lynk & Co. models slated for release later this year, was showcased for the first time.

These upcoming products will feature an electrified powertrain.

Polestar 1 Special Edition

The Polestar vehicle display at the 2021 Shanghai Auto Show. Image Credits: Polestar/Geely Holdings

Polestar, Volvo’s electric performance division and a Geely-owned entity, exhibited both the Polestar 1 hybrid electric vehicle and the all-electric Polestar 2. The 2021 Special Edition, finished in matte gold, particularly captured attention.

Although not a fully electric vehicle – being a hybrid – this unique version is noteworthy due to its lightweight carbon fiber reinforced polymer body, dual rear electric motors with torque vectoring, and high-performance components such as Akebono brakes and adjustable Öhlins dampers. The powertrain generates 619 hp and 738 lb.-ft. of torque, offering a WLTP-rated electric range of 60 miles.

The vehicle also boasts a custom matte gold exterior paint, complemented by matching calipers and black wheels.

Volvo XC40 Recharge

A Volvo XC40 is displayed at the Shanghai Auto Show on April 20, 2021. Image Credits: Hector RETAMAL / AFP via Getty

Volvo, committed to selling only pure battery-electric vehicles from 2030 onwards, presented its inaugural all-electric model, the XC40 Recharge, at the show. The company announced that its subsequent EV will be the C40.

Zeekr 001

Zeekr unveiled its first electric vehicle at the 2021 Shanghai Auto Show. Image Credits: Zeekr/Geely Holdings

Finally, Zeekr showcased its flagship – and initial – EV, the Zeekr 001. What defines Zeekr? The name combines “Z” representing Generation Z and “geek,” with a focus on prioritizing software integration.

Zeekr intends to sell its vehicles both online and through experience centers throughout China, with future expansion plans encompassing Europe and North America. The Zeekr 001 features a dual-motor system delivering power to all four wheels, generating 566 lb-ft. of torque and enabling acceleration from 0 to 60mph in under 4 seconds.

The vehicle is estimated to achieve a range exceeding 700 km (434 miles) on a single charge. Zeekr has stated its intention to introduce five new models to the market within the next five years, all built upon Geely Holdings’ dedicated electric vehicle architecture, SEA.

Mercedes

At the Shanghai Auto Show, the German automotive manufacturer presented a selection of vehicles, with particular attention given to the EQB and EQS models. These fully electric vehicles represent an expansion of the company's dedicated EQ product line.

EQB

The new EQB from Mercedes-Benz. Image Credits: Mercedes-Benz

The all-electric, compact SUV was unveiled during the show. Its design closely resembles the GLB, particularly within the cabin, and will initially be available in China this year.

Production of a version for global markets will commence in Hungary, with deliveries to Europe preceding a launch in the U.S. market anticipated in 2022.

Despite its similarities to the gasoline-powered GLB, the EQB incorporates distinct exterior elements. These include a continuous light bar at both the front and rear, aligning with the visual identity of other EQ branded electric vehicles. The EQB also features light-alloy wheels, available in bi- or tri-color schemes up to 20 inches in diameter, some with rosé gold or blue accents. Details regarding the powertrain, driving range, and pricing remain undisclosed by Mercedes.

EQS

Mercedes EQS 580 4MATIC. Image Credits: Mercedes-Benz

Prior to the Shanghai Auto Show, Mercedes-Benz hosted a global debut for its flagship EQ model. The EQS signifies the first all-electric luxury sedan developed under the new EQ brand.

The initial models offered in the U.S. will include the EQS 450+ generating 329 horsepower and the EQS 580 4MATIC producing 516 horsepower. This vehicle is expected to be significant within the Chinese automotive market as well.

This electric alternative to the S-Class is equipped with advanced technology. Specifically, it incorporates 350 sensors to monitor various parameters. These include distances, speeds, acceleration, ambient lighting, precipitation, temperature, seat occupancy, driver eye movements, and passenger speech.

TechCrunch recently had the opportunity to test drive the EQS. Their impressions can be found here.

NIO

NIO showcased the cabin of its premier sedan at the recent automotive exhibition, providing further specifics regarding the ET7, which was first presented in January. The company also declared its intention to establish a network of 100 of its branded power swap stations, alongside supplementary infrastructure.

This infrastructure expansion will encompass 500 charging stations and over 10,000 destination chargers, all strategically located across eight provinces within China.

The Nio ET7 electric sedan was displayed at the 2021 Auto Shanghai on Monday, April 19, 2021. Image Credits: Qilai Shen/Bloomberg via Getty Images

Nio ET7

The ET7 represents NIO’s flagship electric sedan offering. The vehicle’s interior was formally unveiled, with the company characterizing it as a secondary living environment for occupants.

Three distinct earth-tone color palettes are available for the interior: Storm Gray, Sand Brown, and Edelweiss White.

Furthermore, NIO alluded to potential exterior color options, including Sunrise Beige, Luminous Orange, and Arctic Green, complementing the existing Cloud White, Star Gray, Deep Black, and Southern Star finishes.

Equipped with a 150kWh battery, the ET7 achieves an impressive range of 621 miles according to China’s NEDC testing standards.

It’s important to note that NEDC testing is known for yielding optimistic range estimations, and real-world figures under Europe’s WLTP testing protocol are likely to be lower.

NIO also highlighted its NIO Autonomous Driving technology, asserting its capability to “progressively enable a comfortable and secure autonomous driving experience from origin to destination” in various scenarios.

These scenarios include expressways, urban environments, parking situations, and battery swap stations.

However, the phrasing indicates that this functionality remains aspirational and currently falls under the category of driver assistance systems.

Moreover, Chinese regulations mandate that drivers maintain contact with the steering wheel and be prepared to assume control at any moment.

Production of the ET7 is anticipated to commence in the near future, with a market launch planned for the first quarter of 2022.

SAIC-GM

SAIC-GM-Wuling Automobile Co., a collaborative effort involving SAIC Motor Corp., General Motors, and Liuzhou Wuling Motors Co., has recently unveiled its newest vehicle. This is the remarkably affordable Hong Guang Mini EV, priced at under $5,000.

Hong Guang Mini EV

Electric vehicles from Wuling Hong Guang Mini, produced by SAIC-GM-Wuling Automobile Co. Image Credits: Zhe Ji/Getty Images

The Wuling Hong Guang Mini EV, featured prominently in this article, has quickly become a leading electric vehicle choice in China. Over 57,000 units were sold in February alone. Its price point of $4,230 contributes significantly to its popularity.

This lightweight EV is engineered for maximum efficiency, utilizing a minimal number of components. Production occurs at a rapid pace at the Lizhou, Guangxi facility, with a new vehicle completed every minute. The entire manufacturing process, from start to finish, requires approximately four hours.

The base models are designed primarily for basic transportation needs. The vehicle’s interior and mechanical components reflect a simple, yet practical, design philosophy.

The Mini EV’s performance is geared towards city driving. Its top speed is limited to 62 miles per hour. The range per charge is between 75 and 110 miles, making it ideal for short urban commutes.

An upgraded version, costing $5,600, offers features like air conditioning and power windows. This highlights the basic nature of the standard model, which includes an HVAC ventilation system and a standard radio.

Toyota

The automotive manufacturer, Toyota, has announced plans to launch a total of 15 all-electric vehicles worldwide by the year 2025. This expansion will include seven models specifically under the new Toyota bZ brand. The bZ brand was initially presented to the public at the Shanghai Auto Show.

Toyota bZ4X

Displayed at the 19th Shanghai Auto Show on April 20, 2021, the Toyota bZ4X is pictured. Image Credits: (Photo by Hector RETAMAL / AFP via Getty Images)

While currently existing as a concept vehicle, the Toyota bZ4X represents a significant step forward for the company. Unveiled at the Shanghai Auto Show, this concept marks the beginning of a completely new all-electric vehicle series from Toyota.

Toyota’s newly established bZ brand – signifying “beyond zero” – will utilize a dedicated vehicle platform. This platform is designed for flexibility, accommodating various sizes and design configurations. Recognizing the challenges of independently developing such a diverse range, Toyota is collaborating with partners possessing specialized expertise.

Specifically, Subaru was enlisted to co-develop the bZ4X. Additional partners contributing to the bZ line include BYD, Daihatsu, and Suzuki.

Production of the Toyota bZ4X is slated to occur in both Japan and China. Toyota anticipates initiating global sales of this model around the middle of 2022.

Volkswagen

During the Shanghai Auto Show, the German automotive manufacturer unveiled its third electric vehicle under the ID brand. This particular model has been specifically engineered for consumers in the Chinese automotive market.

VW ID 6

Volkswagen showcased the fully electric ID.6 CROZZ and ID.6 X at the 2021 Shanghai Auto Show. Image Credits: Volkswagen

The VW ID.6 will be offered in two distinct variants: the ID.6 CROZZ and the ID.6 X. Production of the ID.6 CROZZ will take place in northern China, while the ID.6 X will be manufactured in the southern region.

This ID branded model represents Volkswagen’s most generously proportioned offering to date. It provides seating capacity for as many as seven passengers.

The vehicle is available in four different configurations. It boasts a maximum range of up to 588 km, as measured by the China NEDC standard.

The ID.6 is designed to cater to the growing demand for spacious and environmentally friendly vehicles within China. It represents Volkswagen’s commitment to the electric vehicle market in this key region.

Both the ID.6 CROZZ and ID.6 X share the same underlying electric powertrain and battery technology. However, they feature unique exterior and interior styling cues to appeal to different customer preferences.

Xpeng

During the Shanghai auto show, Xpeng unveiled its third vehicle model, designed to enhance its advanced driver assistance system through the integration of lidar technology.

Xpeng P5

The XPeng Inc. P5 electric vehicle was showcased at the 2021 Shanghai Auto Show. Image Credits: Qilai Shen/Bloomberg via Getty Images

The Xpeng P5 represents the Chinese manufacturer’s third vehicle offering, and it stands out as one of the first to incorporate a natively integrated lidar sensor.

According to the company, the dual sensors, positioned on either side of the sedan’s front fascia, are capable of detecting and classifying various objects, including pedestrians, vehicles, bicycles, and scooters, irrespective of environmental conditions or lighting levels.

He Xiaopeng, Xpeng’s chairman and CEO, has stated that the P5 is the company’s most sophisticated and technically challenging model to date.

The combination of lidar sensors and advanced software aims to deliver a highly capable driver assistance system, moving the automaker closer to achieving full automation.

Despite the robustness of this sensor and software suite, the vehicle does not currently offer full self-driving capabilities.

As previously reported by TechCrunch’s Liao, Xpeng’s Navigation Guided Pilot system is comparable to Tesla’s Navigate On Autopilot.

This system facilitates automated lane changes, highway on-ramp and off-ramp navigation, overtaking maneuvers, and responses to sudden lane intrusions – a frequent occurrence on China’s roadways.

However, it’s important to note that drivers are still required to maintain their hands on the steering wheel.

Xpeng’s long-term goal is to achieve Level 4 autonomy within the next two to four years, though the realization of this ambition will be contingent upon evolving regulatory frameworks.