Western carmakers will fight back against domestic rivals in China this week, launching new software and intelligence capabilities in vehicles produced with local partners as they attempt a comeback in the world’s largest car market.
The country’s annual auto show, held in Shanghai this year, will provide the first real test for overhauled strategies. Volkswagen, Toyota and others have adopted “in China for China” plays to win back consumers who have shifted to more affordable and tech-packed electric vehicles from homegrown brands.
Mercedes-Benz will launch its electric CLA model in China later this year, with its central “brain” being an operating system developed with its local research and development team. The car will have improved driving range and charging speeds and more advanced autonomous capabilities.