Avatr 12: CATL, Changan and Huawei create new electric saloon
The Beijing motor show is just around the corner, and it promises to be an exciting event for car enthusiasts. The show, which hasn’t taken place since 2019, will feature unveilings from both domestic and global manufacturers, making it one of the most important motor shows in the world.
European manufacturers will have a strong presence at the show, with Mercedes set to launch the new electric G-Class. Mini will also be making its public debut with the long-awaited Mini Aceman, while Volkswagen will unveil the Smart #5, a Tiguan-sized crossover.
But Chinese firms will undoubtedly steal the show, with a wave of electric and hybrid cars expected to be showcased. BYD will be launching a new electric pick-up, and GWM will introduce the Ora 07, a saloon-shaped stablemate to the 03 hatchback.
BMW will also be present at the show, giving visitors a glimpse of its Neue Klasse SUV concept. This concept previews the future design of BMW’s electric SUVs and serves as a preview for the next-generation iX3.
BYD, one of the world’s largest car makers, is set to enter the light commercial vehicle market with a new mid-sized truck to rival the Toyota Hilux. The prototypes have already been spotted in China and are expected to be offered as hybrids or plug-in hybrids.
Another exciting Chinese offering is the GWM Ora 07, which features a swooping, retro-inspired design reminiscent of the Porsche Panamera. It is expected to offer rear- or four-wheel drive options and impressive performance figures.
Mercedes-AMG will also have a presence at the show with the GT 63 S E Performance. This plug-in hybrid version of the four-seat super-coupé packs a punch with its twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 engine and rear-mounted electric motor.
Mercedes-Benz is set to unveil the G580 with EQ technology, an electric G-Class with four motors, one on each wheel. The electric G-Class will be produced by Magna Steyr in Austria and will feature a modified version of the steel ladder-frame chassis used by combustion models.
Mini will showcase the Aceman, the replacement for the Mini Clubman. The Aceman remains true to the funky concept we first saw in 2022 and is expected to offer impressive power and performance.
Smart’s largest model yet, the Smart #5, will also make its debut at the show. This Volkswagen Tiguan-sized crossover will feature the same SEA underpinnings as its smaller siblings, the #1 and #3.
Zeekr, a three-year-old Chinese car manufacturer, will launch the Mix, a model set to rival the Volkswagen ID Buzz. The Mix will feature a battery developed in partnership between CATL and Geely and is expected to make its official debut in Beijing.
With all these exciting reveals lined up, the Beijing motor show is definitely an event to look forward to. Whether you’re interested in electric vehicles or simply love cars, there’s something for everyone at this prestigious show. So mark your calendars and get ready for some impressive unveilings!