EVs attract at Auto China show

EVs of all types – including a “Kiwigogo” flying machine – drew thousands of people to the opening days of the 2020 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition (Auto China) which runs until October 5.

It’s billed as the only major international car show held this year because of the COVID-19 pandemic, with attendees wearing masks and encourage to practice social distancing.

Indeed, the show had initially been planned in April just after the pandemic hit.

At least 90 exhibits feature, including those from major automotive companies along with Chinese start-ups.

Show stoppers include a flying EV named “Kiwigogo” with dual passenger capacity and designed by makers Xpeng Motors to fly between 4.8 metres and 25 metres high.

Xpeng says it’s the first in a series of flying EVs the company is developing, so it’s unlikely to be available to the public soon.

Honda’s show display features the world premiere of a concept EV, and the CR-V PHEV, while Hyundai has its RM20e electric sports car

, the Prophecy EV concept and promotes its Ioniq EV range.

Nio has also announced upgrades to its fast charging service and earlier launched its “Batteries as a Service” (BaaS) model which includes a subscription service for its 70kWh pack.

Vehicle sales – especially EVs – are reported to be rebounding in China following the pandemic.