Motorcycle exhibition showcases cutting-edge tech

A visitor gets to grips with a model on display at the China International Motorcycle Exhibition in Chongqing. (LUO BIN/FOR CHINA DAILY)

China, the world's largest motorcycle producer and market, is witnessing rapid technological development in the industry, with Chinese products becoming more high-end and intelligent, experts said on the sidelines of the China International Motorcycle Exhibition in Chongqing.

The exhibition, held in Chongqing's Liangjiang New Area from Friday to Monday, attracted 877 companies and more than 70 global motorcycle and electric vehicle brands, exhibiting cutting-edge technologies from countries such as China, the United States, Italy and Germany. The exhibition featured over 3,000 vehicle models, including cruisers, scooters and electric bicycles, with 50 new models revealed during the event, according to its organizing committee.

The annual exhibition, first held in 2002, has become a leading platform for fostering exchange and collaboration in the motorcycle industry, and for showcasing the latest products and technologies.

Experts said that technological innovations such as the use of intelligent systems, electrification and networking are rapidly transforming the domestic motorcycle industry, which is increasingly shifting toward high-end and personalized development.

"The motorcycle industry is currently developing rapidly in terms of intelligence," said Li Bin, the vice-president of the China Chamber of Commerce for Motorcycles.

For example, he said, many domestic motorcycles have been equipped with internet of vehicle systems. They transmit data including vehicle movement, engine operation and instrumentation to a platform, enabling human-computer interaction and providing various services to customers.

Wang Minhao, a guest speaker from Beijing who is a motorcycling internet influencer with over 1 million followers, said: "Motorcycles are no longer just a tool, but a 'big toy' that symbolizes a lifestyle. Nowadays, more and more people are opting for high-performance motorcycles to chase their dreams."

Wang said intelligent motorcycles are developing rapidly, with flagship adventure models now equipped with automotive-grade adaptive cruise control.

Wang views the integration of intelligence in adventure, modern street and touring motorcycles positively due to the enhanced comfort and convenience it offers.

"The integration of smart technology into motorcycles will reduce the barrier to entry for riders and greatly enhance comfort," he said.

In the first half of this year, 9.5 million motorcycles were produced and sold in China, accounting for approximately 30 percent of the global market.

Southwest China's Chongqing, known as the "City of Motorcycles", is celebrated as the most motorcycle-friendly city in the country.

A key manufacturing hub for motorcycles in China, the municipality is also striving to establish a global center for the motorcycle industry.

According to the Chongqing Economic and Information Commission, Chongqing exported approximately 2.21 million motorcycles in the first half of this year, securing the top position in the country.

Motorcycle production in Chongqing is projected to exceed six million units this year — more than 2 million of them electric — with a production value exceeding 100 billion yuan ($14.09 billion).

The city is home to 43 motorcycle manufacturers and over 400 large-scale parts suppliers. It has established a comprehensive production capacity capable of manufacturing 10 million motorcycles and 20 million engines a year, along with complete production capabilities for major components like frames and instruments.