German Media: Beijing Auto Show Approaching as German Automakers Gear Up
Forty years ago, Volkswagen Germany stole the spotlight at China's first auto exhibition. In the decades that followed, German automobiles established an unshakable dominance in the Chinese market. However, with the rocket-like development of China's electric vehicles, traditional German automakers have lost their leading position in China. Now, German carmakers are targeting the new generation of Chinese drivers, aiming to stage a comeback in the country.
The 2026 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition (shortened to "2026 Beijing Auto Show") will open this Friday (April 24) and run for 10 days. Over more than three decades, the exhibition has evolved into a crucial platform for global automakers to gain insights into the Chinese market, as well as a window for China's domestic automotive industry to showcase its innovative strength to the world.
This year’s Beijing Auto Show will feature 1,451 vehicles on display, including 181 world premieres and 71 concept cars. Major German automakers—including BMW and MINI, Mercedes-Benz, Mercedes-Maybach, Audi, and brands under the Volkswagen Group—will unveil their flagship models at the event.
Having a vehicle debut at an auto show held in China has become increasingly significant for German automakers. The market share of German-made cars in China has been steadily declining, and news about plummeting sales and profits at major German car manufacturers has repeatedly dominated headlines in German media. According to data from S&P Global Mobility, their sales have dropped by a quarter over five years, falling to 3.9 million units in 2025.
These German companies are now desperately trying to cut losses in response to the fact that China once accounted for one-third of their total sales volume.
Source: DW
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1863093527742464/
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