The 21st Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition is electrifying the automotive world with groundbreaking debuts and industry-shaping announcements. As the event runs until May 2, it has cemented its status as the world’s premier auto show, hosting nearly 1,000 exhibitors over an expansive 360,000 square meters.
Revving Up with Ultra-Fast Charging
Chinese automakers are leading the charge in redefining electric vehicle (EV) technology. XPeng unveiled its latest flagship model featuring a 5C ultra-fast charging AI battery. With XPeng’s S4 supercharging stations, drivers can recharge 420 kilometers of range in just 10 minutes—perfect for quick stops during a busy day.
“We want our users to quickly recharge their vehicles while shopping or grabbing a coffee—completing both tasks in a very short time. This not only boosts efficiency but also saves valuable time,” said Xu Pengfei, product manager at XPeng.
Meanwhile, BYD showcased its cutting-edge flash charging system, delivering 400 kilometers of range in just five minutes with peak power reaching 1,000 kW. The company highlighted that these speeds could eliminate concerns about charging times, making EVs as convenient as traditional cars.
Global Automakers Strengthen Ties with China
The exhibition also spotlighted deepening collaborations between international automakers and Chinese industry leaders. On April 22, the Shanghai Municipal Government signed a strategic agreement with Japanese auto giant Toyota. The plan includes establishing a new energy vehicle company in Shanghai that integrates research and development, manufacturing, and sales. Additionally, Toyota will set up a Lexus-owned factory in Jinshan District, marking a significant investment following Tesla’s Gigafactory.
Toyota executives acknowledged China’s leadership in smart vehicle technology and emphasized the importance of embracing local advancements.
Audi and BMW also unveiled ambitious EV plans. In partnership with FAW, Audi aims to introduce three new energy models in China within three years. BMW chairman Oliver Zipse highlighted breakthroughs in range and cost efficiency, crediting Chinese partners for their pivotal role in advancing electric mobility.
Shaping the Future of Mobility
With over 100 new models unveiled, the Shanghai Auto Show 2025 underscores electrification and AI integration as dominant themes. The event highlights China’s pivotal role in the global automotive landscape and sets the stage for innovative collaborations that will drive the future of mobility.
