The trend for SUVs started in the US with the Jeep Wagoneer in the early 1960s. In the 21st century, SUVs have reached ubiquity in the European market. Now, their popularity is taking hold in China, where consumers prefer the traditional, imposing and box-like design of classic SUVs, such as the Land Rover Defender and Mercedes-Benz G-Class.

The pickup truck – another mainstay of the American auto industry – is also gaining ground in China, with new models homing in on high performance with advanced features and shapeshifting designs.

The next generation of software-defined vehicles boast constant connectivity and over-the-air updates for all software. Appearing alongside local power players like Huawei, European manufacturers showed off innovative intelligence systems specifically aimed at the Chinese market.

Chinese original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) are eager to demonstrate their superiority in every possible area. China’s Xiaomi beating Germany’s Porsche in its own backyard by setting a new record with its SU7 Ultra is a case in point. Meanwhile, multiple super- and hypercars made their Shanghai debut.

Minivans are a major segment in the Chinese automotive market, with Xpeng’s facelifted X9 making a big play for sales thanks to a unique combination of air suspension and rear-wheel steering.