When automotive executives in the U.S. and Europe discuss electric vehicles, they often speak about the future. They prepare for a world where gasoline is fading. But in China, that future is already reality.
The China EV revolution has arrived—and it’s accelerating. Chinese automakers lead in battery tech, charging speed, autonomous driving, and vehicle software. The shift isn’t subtle anymore. It’s bold, visible, and global.
Back in 2023, at the Shanghai Auto Show, China stunned the world. It was the first major industry event after strict pandemic lockdowns. The message was clear: the students had surpassed the teachers. For years, Chinese brands learned from giants like Volkswagen and General Motors. Now, they’re outpacing them.
Today, nearly 70% of global plug-in vehicle sales happen in China. Chinese consumers are leaving gasoline—and legacy brands—behind.
That’s why we’re at the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show, reporting directly from the source. I’m here with Kevin Williams, a veteran journalist and one of the first to sound the alarm on China’s EV lead.
We’re guests of Zeekr, part of the Geely Group, which also owns Volvo, Lotus, and Polestar. Zeekr’s EVs are already making waves in Europe. We’ll be test-driving their latest models this week, along with vehicles from several other breakthrough brands.
So, what’s next for China’s auto industry? And can traditional automakers catch up—or will they fall further behind?
We’ll explore that all week on InsideEVs and across our social channels—YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, X, and more. If there’s anything specific you want us to cover, let us know in the comments or drop me an email.
This week promises to be eye-opening—for us, and possibly for the rest of the global auto industry too.
