The Poster News APP:

Could you please elaborate on the development of the new-energy vehicle (NEV) industry in the first three quarters of 2023? A newly released work plan for promoting stable growth of the automobile industry (2023-2024) set a target for annual sales. What measures will the MIIT take next to promote high-quality development in this sector? Thank you.

Tao Qing:

Thank you for your questions. In the first three quarters of 2023, China's NEV industry maintained a robust growth momentum, with joint efforts made by all relevant parties. First, the scale of the production and sales have further expanded. As Mr. Zhao just said, the production and sales of NEVs surged 33.7% and 37.5% in the first three quarters, respectively. The sales of new NEVs accounted for 29.8% of all new automobiles. Second, technology improved rapidly. The single-unit energy density of mass-produced power batteries reached 300 Wh/kg. The average battery range of pure electric passenger cars exceeded 460 kilometers. L2 and above self-driving vehicles accounted for more than 40% of total passenger cars. Third, brand competitiveness surged. In the first three quarters, new energy passenger cars of domestic brands accounted for 80.2% of such cars sold in the domestic market. China's NEV exports reached 825,000 units, up 110% year on year. Fourth, the supporting environment continuously improved. A total of 6.278 million charging piles and 3,460 battery swapping stations were built. More than 10,000 power battery recycling service outlets were set up. Over 20,000 kilometers of roads were designated for testing intelligent connected vehicles (ICVs), and the total test mileage exceeded 70 million kilometers.

Next, we will fully implement the decisions and plans of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, as well as a 2021-2035 plan for the development of the NEV industry. Meanwhile, we will improve work measures and strengthen interdepartmental coordination so as to promote the high-quality development of the NEV industry.

First, we will improve mechanisms and strengthen coordination. We will act upon the spirit of this year's State Council executive meeting, leverage the role of the inter-ministerial coordination mechanism for the new energy vehicle industry's development, and coordinate the advancement of technological breakthroughs, widespread adoption, and infrastructure construction. We will accelerate the development of electrification, connectivity, and intelligence.

Second, we will continue to expand the domestic market. We will expedite formulating and adjusting technical requirements for tax exemptions and reductions when purchasing new energy vehicles. Initiatives will include launching pilot projects in public areas for comprehensive vehicle electrification and starting pilot programs for the access and on-road testing of intelligent connected vehicles. Additionally, we will aggressively promote the use of new energy vehicles in rural areas, solidifying the foundation of our domestic market.

Third, we will strengthen the development of supporting infrastructure and foster environmental support. We will put into practice the guiding opinions issued by the General Office of the State Council on building a high-quality charging infrastructure system, ensuring it aligns with the charging requirements of new energy vehicles. City-level demonstrations will be undertaken for "vehicle-road-cloud integration." Moreover, we will cultivate a robust system for the recycling and utilization of power batteries, amplifying our ability to safeguard vital resources.

Fourth, we will establish a comprehensive assurance system. We will expedite the formulation and revision of standards for electric vehicle and power battery safety, autonomous driving, operating systems, and other areas. We will reinforce production access management and oversee both in-process and post-process stages, guaranteeing the fundamental safety of new energy vehicles. This will inspire confidence in consumers to purchase and utilize them. Thank you.