Core Viewpoint - The July 2025 "Pickup First Influence Index" shows a significant decline in overall scores for pickup brands, indicating a competitive landscape where mid-tier brands are increasingly vying for consumer attention during the traditional sales off-season [1][4][18]. Ranking Summary - The top ten pickup brands in July 2025 are Changan, Great Wall, Zhengzhou Nissan, Radar, Jianghuai, Ford, Jiangxi Isuzu, JMC, Foton, and SAIC Maxus, with a total score of 1432, reflecting a month-on-month decline of 13.00% and a year-on-year decline of 0.14% [1][3]. - Changan and Great Wall maintain their positions at the top, but their scores have noticeably decreased, while the competition among mid-tier brands has intensified, with small score differences indicating potential volatility in rankings [4][18]. Performance and Marketing Activities - In July, no new models were launched, but brands focused on showcasing product performance through various marketing activities, emphasizing technical capabilities and real-world testing [7][9]. - Zhengzhou Nissan launched a new off-road technology brand "ZNA LAB," highlighting its advanced performance features, including a hybrid system capable of 800 Nm torque and 320 kW power output [7]. - Radar's EM-P pickup completed a significant challenge at Mount Everest, demonstrating its capabilities in extreme conditions and setting a benchmark for electric pickups [9]. - Jiangling's off-road version of the pickup was showcased at the Azerbaijan Energy Week, enhancing brand recognition in international markets [11]. Social Responsibility and Community Engagement - Pickup brands are increasingly integrating social responsibility into their marketing strategies, with several brands actively participating in disaster relief efforts during heavy rainfall in July [13][17]. - Changan sponsored the 2025 Hulunbuir Chenqi One-Year Horse Endurance Race, successfully merging product promotion with local cultural events [15]. - Great Wall donated 5 million yuan for flood relief efforts, while other brands like Zhengzhou Nissan and Jianghuai also engaged in community support initiatives [17]. Market Outlook - Despite the off-season, the pickup market shows resilience, with brands expected to ramp up marketing efforts as the traditional sales peak approaches [18].

Core Insights - The Chinese automotive industry is increasingly forming a "matrix" to expand overseas, showcasing a vibrant push at the 21st Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition [1] - The exhibition attracted nearly 10,000 foreign exhibitors, indicating strong international interest in Chinese automotive products [1] - Chinese brands are shifting from being relatively unknown to gaining significant recognition in international markets, as evidenced by the sales performance of brands like MG in the UAE [1] Group 1: Company Strategies - Chery Automobile plans to focus on urban premium markets with a diverse energy portfolio, including fuel, hybrid, and electric vehicles, targeting left-hand drive markets initially and transitioning to right-hand drive markets later [2] - NIO aims to enter 25 countries and regions this year, with a focus on forming a brand "matrix" and collaborating with local partners to establish sales and service networks [2] - SAIC Commercial Vehicle's overseas sales reached 25,000 units in Q1, a 9% year-on-year increase, with plans to expand to 100 countries by the end of the year [3] Group 2: Market Trends - The trend of "customizing" vehicles for global markets is becoming a focal point for Chinese automotive exports, with SAIC Group launching a new overseas strategy that includes 17 new models tailored to regional regulations and preferences [4] - The export of Chinese vehicles, particularly electric vehicles, is experiencing significant growth, with total exports reaching 1.42 million units in Q1, a 7.3% increase, and electric vehicle exports at 441,000 units, a 43.9% increase [4] - The introduction of foreign investment is aiding Chinese automotive companies in their global expansion efforts, as noted by Bosch Group's chairman [5]