Core Viewpoint - The strategic transformation of multinational automotive companies in China is revitalizing joint ventures, focusing on local R&D and adapting to the fast-paced development of electric vehicles and smart technologies [3][4][5]. Group 1: Investment and R&D Focus - Nearly 70% of surveyed multinational automotive companies plan to increase investments in China by 2025, with over 78% focusing on R&D [3]. - Mercedes-Benz has invested over 10.5 billion yuan in R&D in China over the past five years, emphasizing electric and intelligent vehicle development [4]. - BMW's R&D investment reached a record high of 9 billion euros in 2023, concentrating on new product architectures and battery technology [5]. Group 2: Localized Decision-Making - The shift from "headquarters-led" to "China-first" R&D models allows local teams to have greater decision-making power, significantly reducing development cycles [6][7]. - Nissan's Chinese R&D team now leads vehicle development, shortening the development cycle to 24 months [7]. - Toyota is transitioning decision-making authority for new models from Japan to its Chinese R&D center, enhancing responsiveness to local market needs [7]. Group 3: Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations - Mercedes-Benz plans to invest an additional 14 billion yuan in China, focusing on local partnerships to enhance R&D capabilities [9]. - Nissan is collaborating with Chinese tech companies like Huawei and Momenta to improve its smart driving technologies, with a planned investment of 10 billion yuan over the next two years [10]. - GAC Toyota is partnering with leading tech firms to develop AI ecosystems for smarter vehicle functionalities [10]. Group 4: Market Performance and Adaptation - SAIC Volkswagen's sales reached 523,000 units in the first half of the year, with a 2.3% year-on-year increase, driven by the integration of smart features in traditional vehicles [6]. - Dongfeng Nissan's sales were 530,000 units in the first half, reflecting a 0.3% increase, attributed to its R&D strategy and local team empowerment [7]. - General Motors has turned profitable in the Chinese market, with a 7.6% increase in sales in June, largely due to its accelerated electrification strategy [8].