Die Welt: China's technological progress will leave Europe behind. The German newspaper Die Welt issued a warning regarding the Shanghai Auto Show, expressing concern that China's technological progress would leave Europe behind. The report pointed out: future cars will be able to communicate, drive autonomously, and even fly. Such vehicles are already on the roads in China. This is not only the case at the world's largest auto show currently being held in Shanghai this week. It is also happening on the streets. Autonomous cars in city centers are becoming the norm. Voice commands answered by artificial intelligence have long been part of daily life. The next step will be to make the charging speed of batteries as fast as filling up a tank of gas, which takes about five minutes. The impression given by the Shanghai Auto Show is that China is living in the future, while Germans have missed their chance. In fact, technological development there is progressing rapidly. Many young car brands continuously introduce new features to the market and fiercely compete for the most modern technology and the lowest prices. Millions of customers enthusiastically try out new products in their everyday lives. Germany and Europe seem to be stuck in a deadlock. In Germany, new products (not just cars) must undergo years of development and approval processes. Many customers prefer familiar technology over new systems. Meanwhile, the government restricts economic growth as much as possible through more regulations, taxes, and complex administrative procedures. This situation is not coincidental. National decisions are made by the majority coalition elected in parliament rather than by the leader of a single political party. This makes the country slow-moving but reflects the social reality: for most Germans, leisure is more important than work. The skepticism towards new technologies is not limited to electric vehicles. However, innovative companies that stand out in the market need an environment eager for progress. They need a country capable of achieving this. It is also not feasible for Europe to continue moving slowly. Otherwise, the scenario once described by Carlos Tavares, who has long served as a car manager and CEO of Stellantis, will threaten us: if the automotive industry dies, Europeans will only be able to offer coffee to tourists. This must not happen. German car manufacturers are currently fully restructuring their factories in China. They have every opportunity to keep up with the times. In Europe, they also need to accelerate, and better politics and proactive citizens provide them with conditions. However, Europe must have the willingness to move forward. Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1830501608794243/ Disclaimer: This article represents the views of the author.