China's automotive sector is undergoing a transformative shift, moving beyond hardware specifications to prioritize user-centric design and intelligent ecosystems. Industry leaders at the 2025 World Smart Industry Expo emphasized that success now hinges on delivering meaningful value rather than overwhelming consumers with excessive technology.
Three years ago, vehicles averaged 300 functions – a number that ballooned to 30,000 by 2023. 'Users actually need maybe 20,' remarked Guo Gang of the China Society of Automotive Engineers, highlighting the industry's recognition of quality over quantity.
The new strategy focuses on:
Active AI systems anticipating driver needs
Subscription-based premium features
Hybrid computing models balancing privacy and performance
Chongqing University's Li Wenbo advocates for localized data processing combined with cloud-based analytics, addressing growing concerns about data security in smart vehicles.
Autonomous driving faces a critical trust challenge. Geely's Zhang Zhenxing demonstrated progress through rigorous real-world testing across 34 scenarios, from heavy snow conditions to aggressive traffic simulations. 'Transparency builds confidence,' he noted, emphasizing the need for public participation in validation processes.
As Chinese automakers expand globally, institutions like the China Merchants Testing Vehicle Technology Research Institute provide crucial support in navigating international regulations and standardization efforts.
