Changan Auto Chairman Zhu Huarong: Electrification Is Inevitable, But Banning ICE Vehicles Requires Nuance

At the 2026 China Automotive Industry Development Forum, Changan Automobile Chairman Zhu Huarong clearly stated that electrification is an inevitable trend for the automotive industry, predicting that approximately 80% of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle brands will face closures, mergers, or restructuring in the future. However, he emphasized that an abrupt, blanket ban on ICE vehicles could trigger economic turmoil and even pose a risk of deindustrialization. Zhu clarified that he does not oppose the development of electric vehicles; rather, he cautioned that policy implementation must be gradual to avoid severe disruptions to the industrial chain and employment caused by overly aggressive transitions. He added that previous reports claiming he was "against electric vehicles" were taken out of context.