A prominent insider in Germany's automotive sector has expressed optimism about future cooperation between German carmakers and Chinese firms in the research and development of smart vehicles.
Michael Bose, head of Internationalization at the Automotive Berlin-Brandenburg e.V. -- the leading industry network for the mobility sector in Germany's Berlin-Brandenburg region, told China Global Television Network (CGTN) in a recent interview that the United States' sweeping tariffs on foreign auto imports, including European vehicles, have prompted German carmakers to rethink their global expansion strategies.
In an uncertain global trade environment, he highlighted that the Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition (Auto Shanghai), which held its 21st edition from April 23 to May 2 this year, provides a much-needed platform for global automakers to engage with each other and build partnerships.
"Currently, we are confronted with an economic war and a trade war between China and the United States. Both of these markets are important for the German automotive industry. What people are thinking about now is what strategy to adopt in a region like China to address this new situation. Auto Shanghai 2025, held a few weeks ago, demonstrated new ways of cooperation and research and development cooperation models, which might be able to resolve some of the problems in other markets," he said.
Bose noted that leading German car brands, such as Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz, clearly saw through the Auto Shanghai 2025 where the global auto industry would be headed, which is toward electrification and greater intelligence.
He added he could foresee the integration of German engineering and production technology with Chinese innovations in the manufacturing of smart automobiles.
"We also see that we have made a very good start in Shanghai, whether it is Audi's strategy in China or Mercedes-Benz's performance. So, I pay more attention to German cars. But there is no doubt that in the future, there will be more integration in the development of smart vehicles, platforms and ecosystems. I hope German engineering technology and production technology will be integrated with China's intelligent systems in vehicles," Bose said.
German auto sector eyes collaboration with China in smart vehicle innovation
German auto sector eyes collaboration with China in smart vehicle innovation
German auto sector eyes collaboration with China in smart vehicle innovation
