The 21st Changchun International Auto Expo kicked off on Saturday in Changchun, Jilin province, attracting around 1,100 vehicle models, including over 300 new energy varieties, from 124 domestic and foreign automakers.

During the 10-day event, major manufacturers such as China FAW, BMW and Mercedes-Benz boasted offerings with high specifications, with 85 percent of booths featuring international A-level vehicles.

The main exhibition area of the expo covered a total of 170,000 square meters and was divided into seven major zones, including independent and new energy brands, luxury brands and automotive service products.

Outdoor areas included special vehicle displays and interactive experience zones.

There were also two sub-venues, hosting events such as the automotive culture and car sports activities.

Hongqi, a sub-brand of China FAW Group, presented 17 products from its three major sub-brands at the expo, among which the Golden Sunflower brand made its debut in Changchun, showcasing top-tier Chinese luxury.

Combining Hongqi's top-notch craftsmanship and millennia of Chinese civilization, the Golden Sunflower brand has created several classic vehicles such as the ultra-luxury full-size SUV Guoyao, top-tier luxury flagship sedan Guoli and ultra-luxury executive sedan Guoya.

During the event, visitors can enjoy a direct discount subsidy of 3,000 yuan ($413) when purchasing any Hongqi vehicle, further meeting consumers' pursuit of a better life, the company said.

"I have attended almost every auto expo in past years," said local Zheng Daming. "My biggest takeaway is that the expo is constantly upgrading, which is not only reflected in the venue but also in the increasing cultural connotations. From classic car parades, RV exhibition areas, and Red Flag carnivals in previous expos to the night activities this year, each event has left a deep impression on me."

This year's auto expo also focuses on fields such as autonomous driving solutions, operating systems, chips, LiDAR and batteries, thus showcasing cutting-edge technological achievements and the latest developments in the industry, and injecting new vitality into Changchun's auto sector, said the local government.

As a major automotive event in China, the Changchun International Auto Expo has been a platform for brands to showcase their development achievements, supporting Changchun's ambition to build itself into an international automotive city.

It has contributed new insights into the innovation and development of Changchun's automotive culture, injected new momentum into the transformation and upgrading of China's automotive industry, and played a crucial role in driving automotive industry growth and boosting local economic development.

In addition, a series of innovative and enriching activities — such as roundtable meetings, high-level conferences and fan carnivals — will be held during this year's expo.

On Saturday, the 21st Changchun International Auto Expo High-level Conference was held at the Northeast Asia International Expo Center, attracting industry leaders and experts to delve into how the Chinese automotive industry can lead globally, actively embrace technological progress, look ahead to future development and adapt to market changes.

Cui Dongshu, secretary-general of the China Passenger Car Association, stated that at this year's expo, the diverse display of plug-in hybrids, pure electric and gasoline-powered vehicles, especially domestic new energy vehicles represented by China FAW, has overcome challenges with impressive results.

"The Northeastern car market is embracing a new era of energy transformation," he said. "I believe the expo is not only a visual feast but also a catalyst to boost consumer confidence and stimulate consumption."