Volkswagen Group CEO Oliver Blume highlighted the strategic value of competition with Chinese automakers during the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show, calling rivals like BYD “a challenge that drives improvement.” The executive emphasized China’s role as a laboratory for automotive innovation during an interview with CGTN’s Wang Tianyu.
“Competition and collaboration with local players are essential to stay relevant in this dynamic market,” Blume stated, underscoring the German automaker’s partnerships with domestic tech firms and battery suppliers.
As the Chinese mainland accounts for nearly 40% of Volkswagen’s global deliveries, Blume reaffirmed plans to expand R&D capabilities in smart driving and EV technologies through joint ventures. The CEO also addressed global supply chain uncertainties, advocating for “open markets and technology exchange” amid shifting trade policies.
Industry analysts note increasing synergy between traditional automakers and China’s electric vehicle frontrunners, with battery standardization and autonomous driving platforms emerging as key areas of cross-industry cooperation.
