Over 40 New Models Launch Ahead of Beijing Auto Show as Automakers Stagger Releases

Approximately 10 days before the opening of the 19th Beijing International Automotive Exhibition in 2026, dozens of automotive brands unveiled more than 40 new models, averaging over three launches per day, with some days seeing as many as six or seven debuts. On April 22 alone, at least seven automakers—including Harmony Intelligent Mobility Alliance (HIMA), Smart, Avatr, Buick, Arcfox (BAIC), Cadillac, and BMW—held launch events, introducing more than 10 new models. Most were all-new vehicles, such as the Smart #6 EHD, Smart #2 concept car, Buick ZhiJing E7, and Cadillac KaweiDe. Avatr launched a derivative model, the Avatr 06T. BMW and HIMA simultaneously introduced both all-new and next-generation models, including the long-wheelbase Neue Klasse BMW iX3, Neue Klasse BMW i3, global debut of the all-new BMW 7 Series, official market launch of the Shangjie Z7 and Shangjie Z7T, Aito M6, and pre-sales for the Zhiji V9 and next-generation Aito M9. Beyond new vehicles, several companies also announced significant strategies or technologies ahead of the show. On April 21, Changan Automobile revealed plans to integrate its Avatr and Deepal brands, targeting combined annual sales of 1.5 million units in the mid-to-high-end segment by 2030. On the same day, CATL unveiled its third-generation Shenxing ultra-fast-charging battery, claiming it can charge from 10% to 98% in just 6 minutes and 27 seconds. Brands participating in this wave of “pre-show launches” spanned foreign automakers (e.g., BMW, Volkswagen, Volvo), traditional Chinese自主品牌 (e.g., Chery, Geely, BYD), and new-energy startups (e.g., Leapmotor, ONVO, IM Motors, XPeng). Their announcements covered all-new models, derivatives, mid-cycle updates, generational replacements, and core technologies across mainstream market segments. For example, between April 15 and 16, Volvo launched three updated models in a single day—the ES90, EX90, and XC70—while Leapmotor D19, IM LS8, and XPeng’s GX technology event were also concentrated during this period. This “staggered launch” strategy is not unique to this year’s Beijing Auto Show. Similar patterns emerged ahead of major auto shows in Shanghai, Chengdu, and Guangzhou in 2025, with numerous popular models and new brands opting to debut before the exhibitions. The 2026 Beijing Auto Show will cover a total exhibition area of 380,000 square meters, featuring 1,451 vehicles—including 181 world or China premieres and 71 concept cars. Exhibitors include international brands like BBA (BMW, Benz, Audi), Toyota, and Lexus; traditional Chinese automakers such as FAW Hongqi, Dongfeng, and Changan; and new-energy players like HIMA, NIO, XPeng, Li Auto, Xiaomi, Zeekr, and Leapmotor. Analysts note that automakers are shifting launch timing—either earlier or later—to avoid information overload during the show, which could dilute media and consumer attention. This approach also gives consumers time to research and compare options, improving purchase decision efficiency. Consequently, auto shows are evolving from primary platforms for new model debuts into centralized showcases for already-launched vehicles.