GASgoo CEO Zhou Xiaoying Speaks on Auto Industry Global Expansion and Rizhao Cluster Development at 2026 Shandong Association for Science and Technology Expert Forum

On June 29, 2026, the “2026 Shandong Association for Science and Technology Think Tank Experts’ Local Visit – Advancing the Initiative to Build Rizhao into a Distinctive New Energy Vehicle (NEV) Industrial Cluster” was held in Rizhao. Over 20 think tank experts and representatives from 12 key enterprises attended the event. Ms. Zhou Xiaoying, CEO and Chief Editor of Gasgoo Auto, was invited to deliver a keynote speech. Ms. Zhou analyzed China’s automotive industry’s global expansion practices and strategies, and based on Rizhao’s specific conditions, she noted that due to limitations in industrial scale, Rizhao alone cannot independently establish a complete automotive industrial cluster. She emphasized the need to deepen industrial collaboration across Shandong Province and strengthen coordination among local governments and industry organizations to address development gaps through deeper integration in mechanisms, innovation, and overseas resources. She pointed out that global annual passenger vehicle sales stand at approximately 90 million units. Amid intensifying competition in mature markets, emerging markets in Asia, Africa, and Latin America still offer double-digit growth potential. While internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles remain dominant, hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) present significant room for growth. Chinese battery makers hold over 70% of the global market share. The pace of electrification varies regionally: NEV penetration in China has surpassed 51.6%, while progress in Europe and North America has slowed due to policy uncertainties, and Southeast Asia has become a focal point for investment attraction by multiple countries. Regarding distinct characteristics of overseas markets, Ms. Zhou explained: Europe favors compact cars and hybrids and relies heavily on established offline dealership networks; Southeast Asia features fierce competition, where Chinese automakers are steadily replacing Japanese brands, with strong demand for MPVs and pickups; Latin America maintains friendly relations with China and prioritizes cost-effectiveness and road adaptability; the Middle East shows remarkable growth momentum, with mid- and large-size SUVs selling well; and in CIS countries, Chinese brands account for more than half of the market but still face challenges related to product localization, policy shifts, and after-sales service. Overall, the Middle East leads in export growth, Europe is showing signs of recovery, and Central and South America are experiencing steady expansion. She highlighted that automakers such as Chery, BYD, and Geely have achieved notable success overseas, offering products across diverse technological pathways, with private enterprises taking particularly proactive steps in internationalization. Key drivers behind China’s automotive exports include the transition toward electrification, localized market demands, policy benefits from the Belt and Road Initiative, evolving cooperation models, and intense domestic competition. Major challenges involve product management, supply chain coordination, building service ecosystems, and navigating trade barriers and cultural differences. Ms. Zhou forecasted that China’s auto exports will exceed 10 million units in 2026, with overseas production capacity surpassing 5.5 million units. She stressed that while China’s supply chain possesses the capability to support the global automotive industry’s transformation, sustainable growth requires shifting from simple product exports to comprehensive “ecosystem-based globalization”—encompassing localized R&D, manufacturing, supply chains, branding, and services. As a leading information and data platform for China’s automotive industry, Gasgoo Auto has long focused on innovation in the intelligent EV sector, committed to connecting global industry resources and fostering collaborative development. Moving forward, Gasgoo Auto will continue leveraging its integrated strengths in think tank research, data platforms, and industrial networking to empower China’s automotive industry in enhancing its global competitiveness and cooperation.