Core Insights - The global smart driving industry is transitioning from "technology validation" to "scale commercialization" by 2025, driven by regulatory advancements in major markets and decreasing costs of key components like LiDAR [1] - Consumer demand for advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) is significantly increasing, with younger consumers leading the acceptance of new technologies [1][5] Group 1: Consumer Demand Trends - A survey by AutoPacific indicates a notable increase in demand for semi-autonomous driving features, with 43% of respondents expressing interest in hands-off driving for highway use, a significant rise from 2024 [2] - The demand for rear automatic emergency braking has also reached 43%, highlighting the growing consumer trust in limited scenario autonomous driving [2] - The acceptance of advanced features is further evidenced by the inclusion of six new functionalities in the top 15 demand list, such as adaptive cruise control and fully-autonomous driving [4] Group 2: Demographic Shifts - The median age of survey respondents has decreased to 39 years in 2025 from 44 years in 2024, indicating a younger demographic is driving the demand for ADAS and safety technologies [5] - Generation Y and Z consumers show a higher demand and acceptance for smart driving technologies, viewing them as essential vehicle capabilities rather than optional features [5] Group 3: Market Dynamics - Despite the rising demand for advanced driving technologies, traditional features like all-wheel drive and blind spot monitoring remain critical in purchase decisions, with over 60% of respondents considering them essential [7] - Emerging features, while attractive, are not yet seen as must-haves, with only 33% of consumers listing hands-free highway driving as essential [7] - Brands offering high-demand, scarce features may gain a competitive edge, but must be cautious as consumers are only willing to pay for technologies they have become reliant on [7] Group 4: Safety as a Priority - The increasing consumer demand for autonomous and assisted driving features underscores that safety is the primary driver for technology adoption, surpassing convenience [8] - The younger buyer demographic is expected to accelerate the technological iteration of these features, potentially establishing them as new competitive advantages for brands [8]

Core Viewpoint - The renewal of Berndt's contract for three more years indicates Volkswagen Group's commitment to its strategic restructuring in China and emphasizes support for localized development in the Chinese market [1][4]. Group 1: Leadership and Management - Berndt has been with Volkswagen Group since 1993 and has held various management positions, including CEO of Volkswagen brand and Group representative [1]. - Since August 1, 2022, Berndt has served as Chairman and CEO of Volkswagen Group (China), overseeing all operations and brands within the region [1]. Group 2: Strategic Developments - The restructuring of management in China aims to grant greater autonomy to the region, reinforcing Volkswagen's leadership in the dynamic Chinese automotive market [1]. - The new management structure, led by Berndt, focuses on integrating brand technologies and accelerating innovation tailored for the Chinese market [1]. Group 3: Product and Technology Innovations - At the Shanghai Auto Show, Volkswagen unveiled three concept models specifically designed for Chinese customers, showcasing a new design language and innovative technology [3]. - The launch of an advanced driver assistance system, developed by CARIAD and CARIZON, highlights Volkswagen's technological capabilities in the competitive Chinese market [3]. Group 4: Sales Performance and Future Plans - In the first half of 2025, Volkswagen Group delivered 1.31 million vehicles in China, with a notable monthly delivery of 247,000 units in June, reflecting a 9% year-on-year increase [4]. - Starting from the second half of 2025, the group plans to deliver a new generation of smart connected vehicles, including over 20 new models by 2026 and approximately 50 models by 2030, with a focus on electric vehicles [4].