The Chengdu Motor Show 2025 (often called the Chengdu Auto Show or CDMS 2025) is one of China’s most important automotive exhibitions, especially for EV (electric vehicle) launches and smart car tech. This long-form guide covers everything you need: dates, tickets, opening hours, how to get to Western China International Expo City, where to stay, what to see, and practical tips for expats and au pairs in Chengdu.
Table of Contents
- Chengdu Motor Show 2025 Overview
- Dates, Venue, Hours & Ticket Tips
- How to Get There & On-site Navigation
- EVs, Smart Cars & Big Launches (2025)
- Brand-by-Brand Highlights
- CDMS vs. Shanghai/Beijing Auto Shows
- Where to Stay & Eat near Expo City
- 1-Day & 2-Day Itineraries
- Budget & Money (tickets, food, transport)
- Au Pair / Student Tips: Mandarin & Culture
- Pro Tips: Photos, Safety, Accessibility
- FAQ (SEO-Optimized)
Chengdu Motor Show 2025 Overview
Since its inception, the Chengdu Motor Show has become the barometer of Western China’s auto market. The 2025 edition continues the trend: a strong focus on NEVs (New Energy Vehicles), improved driver-assistance features, and a growing number of international brands showcasing China-first models. If you want a snapshot of where mobility in China is heading over the next 12–24 months, CDMS is the place to be.
- Why it matters: Western China is a fast-growing consumer market, and Chengdu is a strategic hub for EV adoption and smart-city pilots.
- Who should go: car enthusiasts, buyers comparing BYD vs NIO vs XPeng vs Tesla, students, au pairs, and anyone curious about Chinese automotive innovation.
- What’s new in 2025: expanded NEV zone, more AI-powered infotainment, and better charging demos (battery swap, ultra-fast DC charging).
Dates, Venue, Opening Hours & Tickets
Dates
August 29 – September 7, 2025 (media/industry on Aug 29; public days Aug 30 – Sept 7).
Venue
Western China International Expo City (天府新区, Chengdu). Modern, spacious halls with direct metro access and clear English signage in most areas.
Opening Hours
Usually 09:30 – 18:00 on public days. Arrive at opening to beat the crowds (weekdays are quieter).
Tickets
About 60 RMB. The simplest option for foreigners is buying on-site at Entrances 1 & 3. Bring your passport (or a clear photo).
Note: Details may change. Always confirm prices/hours on the official channels before you go.
How to Get There & On-site Navigation
The Expo City sits in Tianfu New Area, connected by metro and major roads. Expect heavier traffic during weekends and opening days.
- Metro: Take Line 1 toward the Expo City stops (look for signs to “Western China International Expo City”). It’s the most reliable option during peak hours.
- Didi/Taxi: Convenient for groups; plan extra time for drop-off queues near the main entrances.
- Rideshare etiquette: Confirm your gate number in the app chat; drivers often ask which entrance you need.
EVs, Smart Cars & Big Launches in 2025
China’s EV push is visible everywhere at CDMS 2025: battery innovation, ultra-fast charging, software-defined vehicles, and playful in-car entertainment.
- EV footprint: The dedicated NEV area is larger than last year, with live demos and charging exhibits.
- Smart features: lane-assist upgrades, voice assistants in English/Chinese, app ecosystems, and advanced maps.
- Autonomy & safety: realistic ADAS (L2–L3) scenarios; look for hands-on experiences at major booths.
If you’re cross-shopping, take notes on range, charging curve, battery chemistry (LFP/NMC), warranty, and software updates. These factors matter more than raw horsepower for daily driving.
Brand-by-Brand Highlights (What to Watch)
BYD
Expect refreshed Dynasty and Ocean lines, strong value, and family-focused SUVs. BYD often shows battery tech demos (Blade battery, heat management, safety tests).
NIO
Premium interiors, battery-swap infrastructure, and software polish. If you’re curious about swap vs. fast-charge, this booth is a must-visit.
XPeng
Focus on driver-assist (navigation-guided pilot), city-driving intelligence, and sleek sedans. Good for tech-savvy shoppers.
Li Auto
Range-extender SUVs remain popular for longer trips in Western China. Spacious cabins and family-friendly layouts.
Geely / Zeekr
Performance-leaning EVs with high-end tech partnerships. Zeekr pushes premium design, charging speed, and sporty handling.
Tesla / International
Tesla, VW, Toyota and others typically show China-market models and software updates; use CDMS to compare after-sales and charging networks.
Tip: Photograph the spec sheets at each booth; it’s the fastest way to compare later.
Chengdu vs. Shanghai & Beijing Auto Shows
| Show | Focus | Vibe | Why CDMS 2025? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chengdu Motor Show (CDMS) | West China consumers, EV adoption, smart tech | Buyer-friendly, less corporate than Shanghai | Great to test mainstream EVs and compare value vs. premium |
| Shanghai Auto Show | Global product launches, massive corporate presence | Huge, intense, media-heavy | Top-tier reveals; harder logistics for casual visitors |
| Beijing Auto Show | Policy signals, prestige brands | Formal, capital-city energy | Useful for high-end/luxury watchers |
Where to Stay & Eat near Expo City
Hotels — Luxury
- International chains in Tianfu New Area (pool, gym, business centers).
- Best for delegates or travelers wanting on-site comfort.
Hotels — Mid-Range
- Business hotels near Century City and along Line 1.
- Balance of price, comfort, and easy metro access.
Budget / Hostels
- Hostels or smart budget chains a few stops away on Line 1.
- Book early for the best rates during show dates.
Food & Coffee
- Sichuan hotpot, dan dan noodles, and mapo tofu nearby.
- Plenty of chains and convenience stores in the district for quick snacks.
- For coffee lovers: look for specialty cafés clustered around Century City and new business parks.
1-Day & 2-Day Itineraries (Efficient Routes)
1-Day (EV-Focused)
- Arrive at opening, go straight to the NEV halls (BYD → NIO → XPeng → Li Auto → Zeekr).
- Short lunch near the halls (avoid peak 12:00–13:00 if possible).
- Afternoon: compare international brands and take photos of spec sheets.
- Finish with a charging/tech demo area; ask staff about software update cadence.
2-Day (Balanced)
- Day 1: EV halls + mainstream SUVs/sedans; shortlist models.
- Day 2: Test experiences, premium booths, and accessories (child seats, roof racks, chargers).
- Wrap up with city food tour: hotpot dinner or Jinli Ancient Street stroll.
Budget & Money: What You’ll Spend
| Item | Typical Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ticket | ~60 RMB | Buy at Entrances 1 or 3; bring passport (or photo) |
| Metro (round trip) | ~6–10 RMB | Cheapest and fastest during rush |
| Didi/Taxi (each way) | 25–70 RMB | Depends on distance/time of day |
| Food & drinks | 40–120 RMB | Street food to sit-down options |
| Hotel (per night) | 180–900+ RMB | Budget → luxury; book early |
Payments: most places accept WeChat Pay or Alipay. Visa/Mastercard acceptance varies; cash works for small snacks.
For Au Pairs & Students: Culture + Mandarin Practice
Turn the show into a language and culture day: read spec sheets in Chinese, ask staff basic questions, and compare impressions over dinner with your host family. Car vocabulary is fun and practical (电池 battery, 续航 range, 充电 charging, 安全 safety).
- Thinking of coming to Chengdu as an au pair or student? Explore: Be an Au Pair in China, Learn Chinese in China, Chinese Visa Guide, Is Au Pair in China Legal?.
Apply to be an Au Pair in Chengdu
Pro Tips: Photos, Safety, Accessibility, Apps
- Photography: Allowed in most areas; avoid press-only zones.
- Crowds: Go early; weekdays are best.
- Comfort: Wear breathable shoes; halls are huge (~220,000 m²).
- Accessibility: Elevators and ramps are present; ask staff for nearest accessible routes.
- Apps: Metro app, Didi for rides, WeChat for QR scans, Alipay/WeChat Pay for tickets/snacks.
- Connectivity: Expo Wi-Fi is spotty at peak times; preload maps or save screenshots.
FAQ — Chengdu Motor Show 2025
When is the Chengdu Motor Show 2025?
From August 29 to September 7, 2025. Public days run Aug 30 – Sept 7.
Where is the venue?
At the Western China International Expo City in Tianfu New Area, Chengdu, with direct metro access.
How much are tickets?
About 60 RMB per person. Buy at Entrances 1 & 3. Bring your passport or a good photo of it.
Is the show focused on EVs?
Yes. The NEV zone is one of the largest areas, with BYD, NIO, XPeng, Li Auto, Zeekr and more.
What are the opening hours?
Typically 09:30 – 18:00 on public days, but check official notices close to your visit.
Is it good for families?
Yes — spacious halls, rest areas, and cafés. Keep an eye on kids during peak crowds.
Best way to get there?
Metro Line 1 is reliable during peak hours. Didi/Taxi is fine but allow for entrance traffic.
What should I see if I have only 3–4 hours?
Prioritize the NEV halls and one or two premium booths (e.g., NIO or Zeekr) plus an international brand for comparison.
Final Word
The Chengdu Motor Show 2025 is more than a car expo: it’s a live window into China’s EV future and a great cultural day out in one of the country’s most livable cities. If you’re an au pair, student, or expat in Chengdu, don’t miss it.