Overview of the Auto Show - The 28th Chengdu International Auto Show was held from August 29 to September 7, 2025, showcasing over 1,600 vehicle models from nearly 120 brands, focusing on new technologies and products in the automotive industry [6][7]. Key Highlights - A total of 104 key models were monitored at the show, with 33 debut models. Chinese brands accounted for over half of the key models, followed by European brands. New products made up 46% of the models, with SUVs representing 62.5% of the body types, and sedans at 33.7%. Notably, 75% of the key models were electric vehicles [2][7][11]. Product Trends - The color design of vehicles is evolving towards diversification, personalization, and eco-friendly technologies. Several models featured unique color schemes that reflect brand positioning and innovative craftsmanship [9][10]. - The pickup truck segment saw significant innovation, with many manufacturers showcasing new models that emphasize powertrain technology, smart features, and user experience. Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly prominent in the pickup market [11][12]. Technological Innovations - Manufacturers are focusing on range-extending power systems, with several companies presenting new models equipped with batteries over 40 kWh, achieving pure electric ranges exceeding 300 km [12][13]. - The evolution of vehicle interiors is marked by advancements in interactive experiences, transitioning from passive to active engagement, with future developments expected to include multi-modal interactions [14][15]. Featured Models - The Zeekr 9X features a dual 8295 smart cockpit and a 900V hybrid architecture, with a price range of 479,900 to 569,900 yuan [17]. - The new AITO M7 showcases a complete redesign, increased dimensions, and a new pure electric version, with a range of 700 km [19]. - The Lantu Zhi Guang L, set to launch in Q4 2025, features a 1.5T PHEV system and a pure electric range of 410 km [22]. - The NIO ES8, with a starting price of 308,800 yuan, offers a luxurious interior and advanced driving assistance systems [30]. Market Dynamics - The auto show reflects a shift in consumer preferences towards electric and hybrid vehicles, with significant advancements in technology and design aimed at enhancing user experience and environmental sustainability [2][11][12].

Core Insights - The Chinese pickup truck industry is experiencing significant growth in global markets, with exports surpassing domestic sales for the first time, indicating a strong export momentum [2][4][5] Group 1: Export Performance - In July, domestic pickup sales were 20,157 units, a year-on-year decline of 6.5%, while exports reached 22,948 units, marking a year-on-year increase of 12.9% [2] - From January to July, total domestic pickup sales were 158,140 units, down 4.1% year-on-year, while exports totaled 180,467 units, up 27.6% [2][3] - Major brands like Great Wall and SAIC Maxus showed strong export figures, with Great Wall exporting 35,340 units in the first seven months, a 63.77% increase year-on-year [3] Group 2: Market Potential - The pickup market is projected to reach over 1 million units in domestic demand by 2030, with total sales (domestic and export) potentially hitting 2 million units [4] - The pickup truck segment is seen as a new blue ocean for the Chinese automotive industry, with ongoing policy support and market demand driving growth [4][5] Group 3: Competitive Advantages - Chinese pickup trucks are gaining recognition for their quality and performance in overseas markets, particularly in regions like South America, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia [8][9] - The shift towards electric and hybrid pickups is creating new opportunities, as global markets are increasingly favoring environmentally friendly vehicles [10][14] - The export of diesel pickups remains strong, while electric pickups have seen a dramatic increase in demand, with a year-on-year growth of 186.18% in July [13] Group 4: Industry Trends - The trend towards electrification and smart technology in pickups is accelerating, with all major manufacturers introducing electric models [11][14] - The competitive landscape is evolving, with Chinese brands positioned to capitalize on the global shift towards greener vehicles, as traditional brands lag in their transition [8][10]

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the robust growth and evolving dynamics of the pickup truck market in China, emphasizing the strong performance of domestic manufacturers, particularly in the context of both traditional and new energy vehicles. Group 1: Overall Market Analysis - In May 2025, the national pickup production reached 52,000 units, a year-on-year increase of 21%, with cumulative production from January to May at 255,000 units, up 23.4% [2] - The pickup market sales in May 2025 were 52,000 units, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 14% but a month-on-month decline of 10%, indicating a high level compared to the past five years [2][12] - The pickup market is primarily driven by demand in the Southwest and Northwest regions, which accounted for approximately 45% of total demand in May 2025 [2][21] Group 2: Export Performance - In May 2025, pickup exports reached 29,000 units, a year-on-year increase of 23%, with cumulative exports from January to May at 132,000 units, up 47% [3][14] - The export share of pickups in total sales rose from 45% in 2024 to 55% in May 2025, indicating a strong international market presence [3][14] Group 3: New Energy Pickup Development - New energy pickup sales in 2024 were 21,000 units, a significant year-on-year increase of 170%, with May 2025 sales at 8,000 units, up 503% year-on-year [4][19] - Cumulative sales of new energy pickups from January to May 2025 reached 34,000 units, reflecting a staggering growth of 1038% [4][19] Group 4: Manufacturer Analysis - Great Wall Motors continues to dominate the domestic pickup market with nearly 50% market share, while other manufacturers like Jiangling, Zhengzhou Nissan, and Isuzu maintain strong positions [31][32] - The competitive landscape is characterized by a few leading manufacturers, with Great Wall Motors, BYD, and Jianghuai showing significant growth in both domestic and export markets [29][34] Group 5: Regional Sales Dynamics - The pickup market is primarily concentrated in small cities and rural areas, with recent growth in demand from these regions, particularly in the Southwest and Northeast [41][42] - Major cities like Shenzhen have shown strong performance in new energy pickups, while traditional fuel pickups face challenges in larger urban markets [27][40]

Group 1: Overall Market Analysis - The national pickup truck production in April 2025 reached 52,000 units, a year-on-year increase of 18.8%, while the sales for the same month were 50,000 units, up 14% year-on-year, marking a historical high for April [2] - The pickup truck market is primarily driven by demand in the Southwest and Northwest regions, which accounted for approximately 48% of total demand in April 2025 [2] - The overall pickup truck market is showing signs of recovery post-pandemic, with a notable increase in domestic demand despite challenges in the real estate sector [8] Group 2: Export Performance - In 2024, the total pickup truck exports reached 233,000 units, representing a growth rate of 76%. In April 2025, exports were 24,000 units, up 20% year-on-year [3] - The export share of pickup trucks in total sales was 45% in 2024 and remained high at 44% in April 2025, indicating strong international demand for Chinese-made pickups [3][11] - Major players like Great Wall Motors, Changan, and JAC have significantly increased their export volumes, with some companies achieving over 50% of their total sales from exports [3] Group 3: New Energy Pickup Trucks - The sales of new energy pickup trucks in 2024 reached 13,000 units, a year-on-year increase of 59%. In April 2025, sales were 2,000 units, up 127% year-on-year [4] - The new energy pickup market is expected to grow rapidly, driven by increasing consumer interest and the introduction of models like the Geely Radar electric pickup [4][14] - The overall trend indicates a shift towards electric pickups as a viable alternative to traditional fuel vehicles, with significant growth potential in both domestic and international markets [4] Group 4: Regional Market Characteristics - The primary sales regions for pickups are in the Southwest and Northwest, with these areas showing strong demand due to economic activities centered around agriculture and construction [17] - The market in Eastern regions has not seen significant growth, while the Central and Southern regions are also lagging behind in terms of pickup sales [17] - The demand for pickups in urban areas is gradually improving, particularly with the introduction of electric and passenger-oriented models [17][19] Group 5: Manufacturer Performance - Great Wall Motors continues to dominate the domestic pickup market with nearly 50% market share, while other manufacturers like JAC and Changan are also performing well [20][22] - The competitive landscape is characterized by a few strong players, with Great Wall leading and others like JAC and Zhengzhou Nissan maintaining solid positions [20][22] - The export performance of manufacturers such as SAIC Maxus and Changan has been notably strong, contributing to their overall growth in the pickup segment [24]

Core Insights - The Chinese pickup truck market is experiencing a shift towards electrification, with companies like Geely Radar leading the charge in introducing new energy pickup models, including plug-in hybrids [2][4] - The current market for pickups in China is constrained by regulatory challenges, limiting their growth potential compared to other vehicle categories [2][3] - The penetration rate of new energy vehicles in the pickup segment is only 6%, indicating significant room for growth compared to the truck market's 20% [3][4] Market Dynamics - The overall sales of pickups in China for 2024 are projected to be 516,000 units, accounting for less than 2% of total vehicle sales [2] - In contrast, the North American market has a pickup market share of approximately 20%, highlighting a disparity in market acceptance [2] - Geely Radar has positioned itself as a leader in the new energy pickup market, with its electric models showing promising sales figures [5] Technological Trends - The first quarter of 2025 saw a 180% year-on-year increase in new energy pickup sales, with March alone witnessing a 220% growth [4] - Experts are divided on the optimal powertrain for pickups, with some advocating for plug-in hybrid technology due to its efficiency and adaptability to various driving conditions [6][7] - The development of intelligent and comfortable features in pickups is becoming increasingly important as manufacturers aim to enhance user experience [3][8] Consumer Preferences - The demand for pickups is evolving, with a growing interest in outdoor and recreational uses, which is driving the need for versatile and capable models [3][8] - The majority of pickups in China are used for work or dual-purpose applications, with only a small percentage being used for leisure [10] - Companies are focusing on creating products that meet specific consumer needs, such as load capacity and ease of maintenance [9][10] Future Outlook - Geely Radar plans to expand its product lineup to include various models targeting different market segments, including commercial, family, and outdoor adventure vehicles [10] - The company is also exploring international markets where electric vehicle infrastructure is more developed, such as Central America and Southeast Asia [10] - The overall trend indicates a shift towards more sustainable and versatile pickup solutions, aligning with global automotive trends [3][10]