The 29th Chengdu Motor Show is preparing to open with a conspicuous gap in its exhibitor line-up: more than 20 automotive brands have confirmed they will stay away.
As one of China’s most important major motor shows in the second half of the year, the event has long served as a useful barometer for the direction of the country’s car market. This year’s absences may attract almost as much attention as the vehicles on display.
Ultra-Luxury Brands Lead the Retreat
Bentley, Porsche, Lamborghini, Rolls-Royce and Maserati are among the ultra-luxury marques that will not attend, leaving a sizeable part of the traditional premium line-up missing from the show floor.
The pullback extends to a second group of luxury brands. Lexus, Genesis and Infiniti are also absent, further narrowing the presence of established international premium manufacturers at an event once viewed as an important showcase for western China.
Joint-Venture Carmakers Also Stay Away
The list is not limited to the luxury market. Dongfeng Nissan, Dongfeng Honda, Chevrolet and Yueda Kia have also opted out of the show. Several of the missing brands will be absent for a second consecutive year.
The broad range of withdrawals gives this year’s Chengdu event a different tone before the doors have even opened. The show remains a major fixture on China’s automotive calendar, but the companies choosing not to attend have become part of the market signal it is expected to provide.
