Core Viewpoint - The Japanese automotive industry in China is facing significant challenges, with a notable decline in market share and a strategic shift towards electric vehicles to adapt to the rapidly changing market landscape [1][2]. Group 1: Market Performance - In 2024, Japanese automakers' market share in China dropped to 11.2%, a decrease of 3.2 percentage points from 2023, as domestic electric vehicle brands gained ground [1][2]. - The sales of Japanese brands, heavily reliant on fuel vehicles, have declined for two consecutive years, prompting a consensus among these companies to accelerate their entry into the electric vehicle market [1][2]. Group 2: Electric Vehicle Strategy - Japanese automakers are intensifying their electric vehicle offerings in China, with companies like Toyota and Nissan emphasizing local development and production [2][3]. - The first electric vehicle launched by Dongfeng Honda, the S7, has a starting price of 25.99 million yuan, which was later reduced to 19.99 million yuan to compete with local brands [3]. - By 2027, Honda plans to introduce 10 electric vehicle models in China, while Nissan aims to increase its electric vehicle offerings from 8 to 10 models [3]. Group 3: Local Collaboration and R&D - Japanese automakers are focusing on local partnerships and R&D to enhance their competitiveness in the Chinese market, with Toyota establishing a localized R&D mechanism [4][5]. - Honda is collaborating with Chinese tech companies like Momenta and CATL to leverage local expertise and speed up product development [5]. - Mazda is working with Changan to optimize costs related to electric drive and battery technologies, aiming to enhance profitability through strategic partnerships [5].

Core Viewpoint - The 2025 Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition will take place from April 23 to May 2, showcasing over 100 new car launches and covering an exhibition area of more than 360,000 square meters, marking its 40th anniversary [1][2]. Scale - The exhibition will feature nearly 1,000 well-known enterprises from 26 countries and regions, with over 100 new car debuts [2]. - The total exhibition area exceeds 360,000 square meters, utilizing 13 indoor exhibition halls at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) [2]. - Compared to the 2023 Shanghai Auto Show, the number of passenger car exhibition halls has decreased by one, while the number of halls focusing on automotive technology and supply chains has increased by one [3]. Highlights - Notable product highlights include the Zeekr 9X, touted as the "Hangzhou Bay Cullinan," which is Zeekr's first full-size flagship SUV featuring advanced technology [4]. - Li Auto will unveil its first pure electric SUV, the Li i8, marking its entry into the electric vehicle market [5]. - The revamped Lantu FREE will also be showcased, expected to be a significant model for the brand [5]. - The presence of a humanoid robot from XPeng as a car model is anticipated to attract attention, reflecting trends in the industry [5]. Changes - The 2025 Shanghai Auto Show is expected to have the highest "Chinese content" in its history, with numerous models from brands like AITO, Lantu, and GAC appearing [6]. - This year marks a significant counter-offensive from joint venture automakers in the electric vehicle sector, with brands like SAIC Audi and GAC Toyota showcasing new models [6]. - The number of participating vehicle brands has slightly decreased, with fewer than 80 brands expected compared to nearly 90 in 2023 [6][7]. - Many familiar brands, such as Dongfeng Peugeot and Kia, will not be present, while supply chain companies will occupy nearly 30% of the exhibition space [8].