China

Back in the spotlight

This year, the Auto China motor show in Beijing was held despite the coronavirus pandemic 

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nstead of the original April date, one of the world’s largest motor shows took place from 26 September to 5 October, and ŠKODA AUTO was also on site. The carmakers presented a total of 785 cars over more than 200,000 m2 at the Beijing Exhibition Center, where Auto China is held every two years (alternating with Shanghai). The event included 82 world premieres.

Golden KAROQ

ŠKODA presented its entire model series in Beijing, from the RAPID, OCTAVIA and SUPERB to the wide range of five SUVs, one of which was introduced in its modernised 2021 version: The compact KAROQ, which has had a 50 mm longer wheelbase since the start of sales on the Chinese market in 2017, has become even more attractive thanks to further improvements to its configuration. The modernised version, which visitors at the motor show saw in a unique gold colour intended only for this occasion, has already headed for pre-sale. The car builds on its advantages, which include a rich and functional configuration, as well as high-quality workmanship. Customers can now opt for an electric rear door or perforated leather seats.

Awards from the Group

During the car show, Volkswagen Group China handed out traditional PR awards. ŠKODA China PR & Communications and SAIC ŠKODA PR won with a newsletter, the participation of Chinese journalists in the world premiere of the OCTAVIA and the cooperation between various departments in launching the new SUPERB. Luděk Vokáč

The success of Czech design

Ahead of the motor show, ŠKODA AUTO had organised a special “Inheritance and Innovation” workshop for local journalists. Designers Chen Zhixiong and Miroslav Jaskmanicki presented the Czech carmaker’s design tradition and its supporting elements by drawing inspiration from Czech crystal, among others. They also indicated future trends that should further underline the youthful and dynamic appearance or emphasize emotions. Following the workshop, Chinese media published more than 1,500 articles.

Demanding Chinese customers

The Chinese market is recovering from the coronavirus crisis. ŠKODA AUTO is striving to meet its specific requirements to the maximum extent. What are they like?

Chinese customers prefer AT

Our customers in China prefer automatic transmissions. “Convenience and easy operations play a significant role when purchasing cars”, says Xiaofan Yang of ŠKODA China. The reason for this choice is the traffic congestions in big cities, where it is easier and smoother to drive with an automatic transmission.

Gas engines ahead of diesel

Customers traditionally prefer cars with a gas engine. “Because of history and people’s way of thinking, they often associate diesel engines with tractors or other agricultural machinery”, explains Yang. In addition, Chinese authorities do not support diesel engines as they try to reduce air pollution.

The electric era has arrived

Last but not least, e-mobility is strongly supported. Because combustion drives do not have as long a tradition here as elsewhere in the world, the transition to e-cars is easier. “In the second quarter of 2020, China accounted for 49 percent of the global alternative drive car market”, adds Yang.

Newcomers at full speed

There are currently more than 150 automotive brands in the country. Several new players are emerging and focus mainly on the modern technologies that customers require and quickly gain their attention. Traditional carmakers like ŠKODA AUTO have to be fast in responding to their pace.

Great future ahead

Although China has been the world’s largest car market for many years, less than 20 percent of the people in the country own a car. “China’s economic power is growing, and we can expect its car market to have great potential”, adds Yang.