Global automakers are showcasing their latest technology and innovations at the eighth China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai to strengthen investment connections with China, the world’s top electric vehicle (EV) market.
This year’s CIIE Automotive and Smart Mobility Exhibition Area, themed ‘Mobility, Infinity,’ highlights key advancements in intelligent technology, safety innovations, and sustainable mobility solutions.
Japanese automaker Toyota, marking its eighth consecutive year at the CIIE, is showcasing a range of locally driven R&D milestones and joint ventures with Chinese partners. Earlier this year, Toyota revealed plans to establish a fully owned electric vehicle manufacturing plant in Shanghai, and at the expo, the automaker displayed a detailed model of the upcoming facility, which is slated to begin production in 2027.
German automaker Volkswagen Group unveiled its latest advancements at the CIIE, with a standout feature being the ‘3-in-1 Digital Box,’ an interactive display highlighting locally developed technologies that will power the group’s next-generation intelligent connected vehicles from 2026.
Among the models featured were the ID.AURA sedan, the ID.ERA full-size extended-range SUV, and the ID.EVO all-electric SUV.
Audi, Volkswagen Group’s premium brand, presented two all-electric models—the A6L e-tron and E5 Sportback—alongside a classic 1970s Audi 100 Coupe S. Porsche, another group subsidiary, showcased two performance and heritage icons: the new 911 Turbo S, making its Asian debut, and the 1969 911 S Targa.
Volkswagen also revealed a major China-focused initiative: the development of its first self-designed automotive system-on-chip, developed in partnership with Chinese tech firm Horizon Robotics.
German premium automaker BMW Group presented a range of models at the annual event, including the all-new M2 CS Coupe, X7 M60i, i4 M60, i7, the all-electric MINI JCW Monte-Carlo Nights 60th Anniversary Edition, and two BMW Motorrad motorcycles.
Sean Green, president and CEO of BMW Group Region China, noted that the CIIE not only highlights China’s achievements in high-level opening-up but also serves as a key platform for global companies to strengthen collaboration with China in innovation, industrial integration, and shared business opportunities.
British automaker Jaguar Land Rover is showcasing a fusion of heritage and innovation at its booth, featuring landmark models that reflect both British craftsmanship and the future of mobility.
Highlights include the New Defender OCTA, featuring the world’s first 6D Dynamics Suspension. Other notable exhibits are the 1974 State I Royal Review Car, which began the Range Rover’s 50-year role as the British royal ceremonial vehicle, and the 1994 bespoke Range Rover created for the late Queen Elizabeth.
Pan Qing, a member of JLR’s board of management, stated that the company will continue to act as a bridge for economic and cultural exchange between the UK and China, while confirming JLR’s participation in the 2026 edition.
South Korean automaker Hyundai Motor Group is spotlighting its XCIENT hydrogen-powered heavy-duty truck, recently recognized as one of TIME’s ‘Best Inventions of 2025.’ Equipped with the Level 4 SuperDrive system, the truck made its China debut and is promoted as a zero-emissions solution for long-haul logistics.
Meanwhile, Japanese automaker Honda demonstrated a variety of offerings, including motorcycles and automotive technologies. The company highlighted its longstanding commitment to safety by presenting the POLAR III pedestrian collision dummy, the latest version of the world’s first pedestrian dummy, developed in 1998.
Japanese automaker Nissan is also presenting a range of new energy vehicle models, mainly from its joint ventures, including the N7 electric sedan, the N6 plug-in hybrid, and the Frontier Pro plug-in hybrid, all equipped with Huawei’s smart cabin system, Harmony Space 5.
The 2025 edition of the China International Import Expo (CIIE), which runs through November 10, boasts the largest exhibition area in its history and hosts a record-breaking 4,108 companies from 138 countries and regions worldwide.
Since its launch, the CIIE has served as a key platform for global businesses to explore new partnership prospects in China, connecting international firms with the vast potential of the Chinese market.
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