The 91st Paris Motor Show opened in the French capital on Monday, with a record number of Chinese automakers taking part to showcase their latest models and technologies.
The week-long event brings together over 100 exhibitors and more than 60 automakers. A total of 25 Chinese brands, represented by 16 automakers including BYD, XPeng, Changan, Dongfeng and Leapmotor, are taking part in the show, roughly double the number at the 2024 edition.
Serge Gachot, director of the Paris Motor Show, said that compared with two years ago, Chinese automakers are placing greater emphasis on raising brand awareness while stepping up efforts to seek local partners, demonstrating a stronger commitment to the French and broader European markets.
Besides Chinese automakers, European brands including Audi, Citroen, Peugeot, Renault and Volkswagen are also presenting new models and electrification technologies, making electric vehicles, intelligent driving and innovative mobility solutions among the key highlights of this year's show.
For the first time, the Paris Motor Show has introduced autonomous-driving demonstrations for the public. Visitors can learn how the technologies work and ride in vehicles equipped with intelligent driving systems to experience their functions in real-world road conditions.
The event has also expanded its test-drive program, offering around 90 models from 20 automotive brands, including battery electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles. More than 5,000 test drives are planned during the show, allowing visitors to experience the performance and technological features of the latest models.
Held every two years, the Paris Motor Show spans five halls, with 70,000 square meters of indoor exhibition space and an additional 15,000 square meters of outdoor space this year.