Chinese automakers counterattack in the heart of German cars! Chinese brands take up 30% of the Paris Auto Show, Volkswagen CEO hurriedly calls for alliance to fight back

What happened: About 20 Chinese auto brands appeared at the 2026 Paris Auto Show, roughly one third of the 60整车 brands, while BMW, MINI and Porsche were absent. Volkswagen returned after 8 years and its CEO called for French-German cooperation. Key numbers: About 20 Chinese brands, double 2024, about one third of 60整车 brands. Why it matters: The show reflects a shift in the competitive position between Chinese and European automakers. Volkswagen's CEO urged France and Germany to cooperate against Chinese competition, while BMW and Porsche stayed away.

About 20 Chinese auto brands appeared at the 2026 Paris Auto Show, roughly one third of the 60整车 brands, while BMW, MINI and Porsche were absent. Volkswagen returned after 8 years and its CEO called for French-German cooperation.

The show reflects a shift in the competitive position between Chinese and European automakers. Volkswagen's CEO urged France and Germany to cooperate against Chinese competition, while BMW and Porsche stayed away.