In brief
The 10th German‑Chinese Automotive Congress convened in Wolfsburg with about 600 representatives, underscoring the need for tighter ties amid rapid industry transformation. Leaders from both nations stressed electrification, AI, and beyond‑vehicle collaborations. A related International Suppliers Fair hosted 45 Chinese automotive suppliers.
The 10th German‑Chinese Automotive Congress opened in Wolfsburg on Friday, 30 October, with roughly 600 delegates from China and Germany discussing how to deepen cooperation amid a fast‑changing automotive industry.
Both sides highlighted electrification, digitalisation, artificial intelligence in manufacturing and vehicles, and autonomous driving as the main drivers of the sector’s transformation. In the opening remarks, Olaf Lies, Minister‑President of Lower Saxony, said the congress sends a strong signal that German‑Chinese liaison should be intensified, while Thomas Schmall, CEO of Volkswagen Group Technology, urged companies to keep dialogue alive and build solid partnerships.
Liu Minqiang, Director‑General of China’s Ministry of Commerce investment promotion agency, countered that competition accelerates industry upgrading, empowering consumers with better products and services. Consul General Lin Dong in Hamburg added that the bilateral cooperation has moved beyond full vehicle production to include batteries, intelligent connectivity, and technological innovations.
The congress followed the International Suppliers Fair opened earlier on Tuesday, where 45 Chinese automotive suppliers exhibited. The fair reinforced the theme of expanded cooperation across the supply chain.
Some reports referred to the gathering as the “China‑Germany Automotive Conference.” This alternate naming was not confirmed by Xinhua and remains unverified.
Observers note that the event reflects the broader shift toward electrified, AI‑driven vehicles, and that both governments view the partnership as essential to stay ahead of global competitors.
As the automotive landscape evolves, industry players in Wolfsburg signal that coordinated efforts between China and Germany will shape the future of mobility.
