Core Insights - The Chinese automotive market is expected to face intense competition in 2026, particularly in the new energy vehicle (NEV) sector, following significant developments in 2025 [1][34] - Major automakers are planning to launch new models in response to the anticipated challenges of 2026, with a focus on advanced driving technologies and competitive pricing [1][34] Company Plans Huawei's Hongmeng Zhixing - Hongmeng Zhixing will launch multiple new models in 2026, including the Wanjie M6, a mid-large SUV priced between 250,000 to 300,000 yuan, and the Zhijie V9, Huawei's first MPV [4][37] - The Wanjie M6 is expected to fill the market gap between the Wanjie M5 and M7, with a length of around 5 meters and a wheelbase of approximately 3 meters [4][37] - The company will also introduce a revamped Wanjie M5 and potentially a new Wanjie M9 L model [4][37] Xiaomi - Xiaomi's YU9, its first range-extended model, is anticipated to be a three-row, six-seat SUV over 5.2 meters long, with an expected price around 300,000 yuan [6][40] - The YU9 is likely to feature an 80 kWh battery pack with a pure electric range exceeding 400 km, aiming to compete directly with models like the Wanjie M8 and Li Auto L9 [6][40] Li Auto - Li Auto's L9 will undergo significant upgrades in 2026, focusing on smart driving, smart cockpit, powertrain, and chassis systems [10][42] - The new model is expected to reach a length of 5.3 meters and will include a new self-developed chip and advanced battery systems [10][42] Leap Motor - Leap Motor plans to introduce five new models in 2026, including the D19, a large SUV over 5.2 meters long, and the A10, a small pure electric SUV [14][45] - The D19 will offer both pure electric and range-extended versions, with the latter featuring an 80.3 kWh battery and a pure electric range of 720 km [14][45] XPeng Motors - XPeng will launch over ten models in 2026, including three super range-extended models in the first quarter [16][47] - The highlight will be a new large SUV, G01, featuring a range-extended powertrain and a battery capacity of 63.3 kWh, with a pure electric range exceeding 400 km [16][47] NIO - NIO plans to release two SUVs, the ES9 and ES7, in 2026, with the ES9 being a flagship model larger than the ES8 [19][49] - The ES7 will be a five-seat pure electric mid-large SUV, expected to be priced around 250,000 yuan [19][49] Volkswagen - Volkswagen's ID.ERA series will debut in 2026, featuring multiple pure electric and hybrid models, including a large SUV with a range exceeding 1000 km [21][50] - The Passat ePro will also be launched, utilizing a new PHEV platform with a 30 kWh battery [21][50] Toyota - GAC Toyota's flagship model for 2026 will be the BZ7, a mid-large pure electric sedan equipped with advanced driving systems and priced around 200,000 yuan [25][52] - The BZ7 will feature a battery capacity of 88.13 kWh, offering a range of up to 710 km [26][52] Nissan - Nissan's NX8 will be a significant model in 2026, featuring an 800V high-voltage platform and a range-extended version with a 1.5T engine [28][53] - The NX8 will have dimensions of 4870 mm in length and will include advanced driving systems [28][53] Audi - Audi's E7X, a mid-large pure electric SUV, will be launched in 2026, featuring a 300 kW motor and a range exceeding 700 km [30][55] - The E7X will also include advanced driving technologies and a high-voltage battery system [30][55] Zeekr - Zeekr's 8X is set to launch in early 2026, focusing on performance with a starting price of around 350,000 yuan [32][57] - The model will feature advanced battery technology and a sophisticated suspension system [32][57] Market Outlook - The 2026 automotive market is expected to be challenging, with potential impacts on consumer purchasing behavior due to increased costs associated with new energy vehicle taxes [58] - The market is poised for significant changes as automakers adapt to evolving consumer demands and competitive pressures [58]