The China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai has become a stage for redefining the nation's economic identity, as global brands like BMW showcased cutting-edge technologies developed in partnership with Chinese innovators. At this year's event, BMW's "Neue Klasse" exhibit—featuring next-gen driving systems and advanced battery technology—highlighted a pivotal shift: China's evolution from manufacturing giant to collaborative innovation hub.
"China's supply chains and digital ecosystems are now driving global R&D," said BMW Group Chairman Oliver Zipse, crediting local partners for enabling breakthroughs like the Neue Klasse's cylindrical battery cells. The sentiment reflects a broader trend, with multinationals increasingly leveraging China's engineering talent and tech infrastructure to accelerate product development.
Analysts note that events like CIIE underscore China's strategic focus on high-value industries, from green energy to AI. This transition aligns with the Chinese mainland's push to integrate global supply chains while fostering homegrown innovation—a balance attracting both foreign investors and international research collaborations.
