In brief
Around 600 delegates from China and Germany gathered in Wolfsburg on October 30, 2026, to explore deeper collaboration amid rapid industry transformation. Leaders highlighted electrification, digitalization, artificial intelligence, and autonomous driving as key drivers, urging partnerships beyond vehicle production into batteries and technology. The congress followed the International Suppliers Fair that showcased 45 Chinese suppliers.
On October 30, 2026, the 10th German‑Chinese Automotive Congress convened in Wolfsburg, Lower Saxony, bringing together approximately 600 representatives from China and Germany. The event, held in front of the Volkswagen Group headquarters, served as a forum where leaders, engineers and investors debated how to deepen cooperation amid a rapidly transforming automotive sector.
Participants had the opportunity to interview industry figures and visit exhibition halls that showcased the latest in electrification, vehicle digitalisation, and artificial intelligence. Plenary sessions highlighted the convergence of battery technology, sensor data processing and autonomous‑driving algorithms. Many delegates noted that the pace of change demands new joint ventures that extend beyond vehicle assembly to include shared R&D facilities and supply‑chain alliances.
Lower Saxony Minister‑President Olaf Lies said the congress signals that German‑Chinese collaboration must deepen because the industry is undergoing its biggest technological upheaval. He added that electrification, digitalisation and artificial intelligence are shaping the future and that dialogue must continue to secure robust partnerships.
Volkswagen Group Technology CEO Thomas Schmall urged participants to maintain dialogue and build reliable, solid partnerships. He emphasised that stronger cooperation on supplier links and tech transfers could help both sides stay competitive in the face of shifting consumer expectations.
Director‑General of China’s Ministry of Commerce Investment Promotion Agency Liu Minqiang said that competition accelerates industry upgrades by pushing companies to deliver better products and services. He urged firms to concentrate on technology enhancements and the refinement of their commercial offerings.
Consul General Lin Dong of China in Hamburg added that cooperation now goes beyond vehicle production to cover batteries, intelligent connectivity, and technological innovations. He also mentioned the International Suppliers Fair that preceded the congress, where 45 Chinese suppliers displayed components and systems to German automakers.
The International Suppliers Fair, held from Tuesday to Thursday, attracted 45 Chinese automotive suppliers and showcased advanced battery modules, AI‑driven manufacturing solutions and connected‑car technologies. Participants reported that the fair provided a platform for cross‑border collaboration and idea exchange.
Experts emphasised that battery chemistry research and efficient energy management systems are pivotal for reducing vehicle weight and extending range. Discussions also covered integration of 5G connectivity for real‑time vehicle diagnostics and the deployment of shared autonomous‑driving data sets between German and Chinese manufacturers.
Industry insiders anticipate that the momentum from the congress will translate into joint research centres, shared testing facilities and co‑development agreements that span from micro‑chip design to vehicle software platforms. The goal is to create a seamless ecosystem that allows both nations to respond swiftly to evolving policy standards and market demands.
The Lower Saxony government has earmarked over €200 million in incentives for collaborative R&D projects that bridge Chinese battery manufacturers with German automotive firms. In addition, the Ministry of Commerce announced a new scheme to facilitate joint venture formation and streamline regulatory approvals between Shanghai and German industrial hubs.
