Core Insights - The fuel vehicle market in China is experiencing a temporary recovery despite the rising penetration of new energy vehicles (NEVs) [1][2] - Major automotive companies are adjusting their strategies, with some postponing their plans for full electrification and continuing to invest in internal combustion engine (ICE) technology [2][3] - The profitability of fuel vehicles remains significant for many automakers, influencing their strategic decisions [3][4] Group 1: Market Performance - In May, traditional fuel vehicle sales reached 854,000 units, a month-on-month increase of 2.2%, while NEV sales were 1.095 million units, accounting for 54.7% of total passenger vehicle sales [1] - Regional differences are evident, with the Northwest region showing a 68% ownership rate for fuel vehicles and hybrid models in lower-tier cities outpacing pure electric models by 20 percentage points for 18 consecutive months [1] Group 2: Strategic Adjustments by Automakers - Audi has retracted its plan to cease ICE vehicle development by 2033, reflecting a broader trend among global automakers to maintain a dual-path strategy that includes both ICE and NEV investments [2] - Companies like Great Wall Motors are also adopting a "pan-internal combustion engine strategy," focusing on both hybrid technologies and traditional engines [2] Group 3: Profitability and Cost Considerations - Volkswagen Group reported a total profit of €1.7 billion (approximately 13.4 billion RMB) in China, with over 290,000 vehicle deliveries, of which NEVs accounted for about 6.9% [3] - The supply chain for ICE vehicles is more stable and cost-effective compared to the volatile battery raw material market, which has seen significant price fluctuations [3] Group 4: Policy Environment and Future Outlook - The EU has introduced new CO2 emission regulations, aiming for zero emissions by 2035, while in China, the implementation of the National VI emission standards is still pending, allowing automakers to utilize hybrid technologies in the interim [4] - The recovery of the fuel vehicle market is partly driven by temporary policy incentives, and maintaining existing replacement subsidy policies could sustain market competitiveness, especially in the price-sensitive segment below 150,000 RMB [5]

Core Viewpoint - The 2025 China Rally of the International Rally (referred to as "Huan Ta Rally") officially commenced in Aksu, Xinjiang, marking the return of Great Wall Motors after a 10-year hiatus with a strong lineup of ten factory production vehicles across three brands and three power types [1][4]. Group 1: Company Participation and Strategy - Great Wall Motors previously won the overall championship at the Huan Ta Rally in 2015 and is now participating with its brands Haval, Tank, and Great Wall Pickup, competing in gasoline, diesel, and new energy categories [4]. - The company emphasizes its strategic confidence in product strength and technical foundation, showcasing its commitment to comprehensive research and development across various power systems and market needs [4]. - The "Pan Internal Combustion Engine" strategy was introduced at the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show, aiming to integrate internal combustion engines with electric drive systems to better meet local demands [4]. Group 2: Event Details and Challenges - The 2025 Huan Ta Rally will last for 13 days, covering approximately 4,500 kilometers, with special stages totaling 2,350 kilometers, featuring diverse terrains such as deserts (65%), Gobi (15%), and gravel (20%) [9]. - This rally is recognized as "Asia's most challenging off-road rally," presenting comprehensive challenges to vehicle systems including chassis, power output, thermal management, suspension tuning, and electronic stability [9]. - For Great Wall Motors, the rally serves as a "system-level capability training camp," allowing the collection of extensive real-time data to inform the tuning and iteration of mass-produced models, facilitating a two-way interaction between "event site" and "engineering system" [9].

Core Viewpoint - Great Wall Motors is focusing on a unique strategy that avoids the range-extended electric vehicle (EREV) market, emphasizing its advanced hybrid technology and a commitment to both internal combustion engines and electric drive systems to meet diverse consumer needs [2][6][10]. Product Strategy - Great Wall Motors plans to launch multiple models under the Tank and Ora brands in the second half of the year [1]. - The company has developed a comprehensive hybrid ecosystem through its Hi4 technology, which integrates efficient engines, transmissions, and electric drives [6][8]. - The Tank brand will introduce several 2026 models, including the Tank 400 Hi4-Z, while the Ora brand will release two new electric models focusing on small and compact SUVs [10]. International Expansion - Great Wall Motors has been actively pursuing international markets, with a goal to become "the world's GWM" through its ONE GWM strategy [3][12]. - In 2024, the company achieved significant growth in overseas markets, with revenue reaching 80.26 billion yuan, accounting for nearly 40% of total revenue, and overseas sales increasing by 44.61% to 454,100 units [3][4]. - The company has established over 1,400 overseas sales channels and has sold vehicles in more than 170 countries, with a focus on localizing production and operations [4][12]. Market Positioning - Great Wall Motors is strategically positioning itself to adapt to different international markets, tailoring products to local economic conditions and consumer preferences [13][14]. - The company recognizes a shift in its customer base towards younger consumers, who prioritize experiential value and usage scenarios over traditional factors like brand and price [15].

Core Viewpoint - The 2025 Shanghai Auto Show reflects a shift towards a more serious and technology-driven atmosphere, showcasing the aftermath of a fierce price war and the evolving landscape of the automotive industry [2][3][25]. Group 1: Event Overview - The Shanghai Auto Show, the largest global auto exhibition, opened on April 23, 2025, after a dispute over its hosting rights [2][6]. - This event marks a temporary halt after over 700 days of price wars in the automotive sector [3]. - The layout of the exhibition indicates a consolidation of power among leading companies, with larger displays from firms like Geely and Huawei, while many smaller brands and foreign automakers are notably absent [4][12]. Group 2: International Presence and Engagement - The show has seen an increase in international attendance, facilitated by improved access and visa policies, leading to a more diverse crowd [7][9]. - High-profile executives from global automotive brands are engaging with Chinese manufacturers, indicating a shift towards more equal standing in terms of brand status and technological capabilities [11][12]. Group 3: Technological Trends - Key technological highlights include advancements in fast charging, with companies like Zeekr and BYD showcasing rapid charging capabilities [26]. - The integration of AI and digital technologies is becoming prominent, with many companies announcing the application of AI models in their vehicles [29][30]. - A notable trend is the shift from hardware-focused innovations to software-defined vehicles, reflecting a broader digital transformation in the automotive industry [30]. Group 4: Safety and Regulatory Focus - The event has seen a strong emphasis on safety, particularly in light of recent regulatory changes regarding autonomous driving technologies [35][36]. - Many companies have adjusted their marketing strategies to focus on safety rather than exaggerated claims about autonomous capabilities, reflecting a more cautious approach in the industry [35][36]. Group 5: Market Dynamics and Future Outlook - The 2025 Auto Show signifies a transition into a phase of technological refinement rather than radical innovation, with companies focusing on optimizing existing technologies [39]. - The competition is shifting towards enhancing user experience and safety, as well as addressing consumer demands for personalized vehicle features [41].