The 2026 Beijing Auto Show became a stage for joint-venture brands' NEV counteroffensive. JETTA unveiled its first BEV sedan; Buick launched the Zhijing brand covering sedans, SUVs, and MPVs; the Chery-JLR Freelander brand debuted with Huawei ADS 5.0; and Mercedes showed the GLC EV with 700km+ range on the MB.EA platform.

JETTA: First BEV Sedan

JETTA presented its first pure-electric sedan featuring a sloping coupe design. As a sub-brand of FAW-VW, JETTA's value positioning will create new pressure in the 100K-150K yuan segment.

Buick Zhijing: Full-Category Brand

Buick officially launched the Zhijing brand at the show, covering sedans, SUVs, and MPVs. The initial lineup includes the Zhijing E7, Shijia, and L7. This represents Buick's repositioning for the NEV era, targeting upscale family buyers.

Freelander: Three-Party Collaboration

The most notable collaboration was the Chery-JLR Freelander brand, featuring Huawei's ADS 5.0 intelligent driving system. This unique tri-party model combines Chery's electrification expertise, JLR's luxury brand DNA, and Huawei's smart driving technology.

Mercedes GLC EV

The Mercedes GLC EV, built on the new MB.EA platform, offers 700km+ range and 800V architecture. It will compete directly against the BMW iX3 and Audi Q6 e-tron in the mid-size luxury SUV segment.

Overseas Perspective

For buyers in Central Asia and Russia, the JV brands' accelerated electrification in China carries indirect benefits. Intensified competition drives global supply chain upgrades and cost reductions, while market pressure pushes these brands to accelerate product launches in emerging markets. EX1000.COM tracks JV NEV export developments.