Chinese officials are urging global cooperation to advance the development of the new energy vehicle (NEV) sector, which has gained significant momentum worldwide. The call came from Wan Gang, president of the China Association for Science and Technology, during the annual China EV 100 Forum held in Beijing. Wan emphasized China’s commitment to expanding high-level opening-up to promote global efforts in electric, smart, and low-carbon development. He also proposed deepening cooperation between nations via bilateral or multilateral organizations like the World New Energy Vehicle Congress.
Xin Guobin, vice-minister of industry and information technology, also stressed the importance of cross-regional and cross-industry cooperation in the NEV sector, which he said is “global in nature.” China plans to build a market-oriented, law-based, and international business environment and strengthen cooperation with different countries in NEV technologies, trade, standards, and legislation.
The NEV sector has seen impressive growth globally, with sales exceeding 10 million units in 2022, a 63.6 percent increase from the previous year. More than half of these sales took place in China, making it a significant driver of the sector. Mary Warlick, deputy executive director of the International Energy Agency, expects China to continue playing this role, with global NEV sales expected to reach at least 30 million by 2030.
While most of the current NEV sales in China come from local brands such as BYD, international carmakers are also stepping up their efforts. BMW, for instance, plans to present its largest-ever lineup of NEVs at the Shanghai auto show in April and offer 11 electric models in China this year, its largest market worldwide. Shao Bin, president of BMW China Automotive Trading Co, expects around half of the company’s global sales to be NEVs by 2050. Volkswagen, China’s best-selling international carmaker, is also investing heavily in e-mobility with its Chinese partners and aims to electrify most of its portfolio in the country by 2030.
As the NEV sector continues to grow, global cooperation and collaboration will be essential for ensuring its continued success. China’s commitment to open and win-win cooperation provides an encouraging example for the world to follow.
