Motor event offers key market outlook Chengdu show features technology, overseas growth and competition Around 120 major domestic and international automakers are showcasing about 1,600 vehicles at the Chengdu Motor Show, highlighting the latest developments in electrification and intelligent technologies. The 10-day event, which kicked off on Friday, is the first major A-level auto show in China in the second half of the year and an important indicator of the market outlook for the months ahead. "A wide range of debut models across different segments is displayed, giving visitors and consumers a clear picture of the latest industry developments and market trends," said Liu Guoliang, general manager of Hannover Milano Fairs Shanghai, one of the event's organizers. The show comes as China's auto market undergoes a profound structural shift. Passenger vehicle sales fell 24.3 percent year-on-year to 8.29 million units in the first half of 2026. While sales of traditional fuel-powered passenger vehicles dropped 31.9 percent year-on-year to 3.69 million units, new energy vehicle sales rose 7.3 percent during the same period, with their market share continuing to expand. "China's auto market is experiencing an interplay of ice and fire," Liu said, referring to the contraction of the overall market and the accelerating development of electrified smart vehicles. The changing market is also pushing automakers to compete less on price and more on technology, product value and brand differentiation. The Chengdu show provides a snapshot of the growing technological strength of Chinese automakers. BYD has brought together its Dynasty and Ocean series as well as Denza, Fangchengbao and Yangwang, showcasing fast-charging and advanced driver-assistance technologies. Chery Group is displaying 38 models from all five of its brands, while Great Wall Motor, Geely Galaxy, Hongqi, BAIC, Deepal, Voyah and other Chinese brands are expanding their new energy and intelligent vehicle portfolios.