The PakWheels team attended the first day of the Shanghai Auto Show 2025, showcasing a massive lineup of futuristic electric vehicles (EVs), plug-in hybrids, and concept cars from top Chinese and global brands. The event revealed technology that could redefine mobility in Pakistan. Here’s a summarized walkthrough of what was seen:
Opening Highlights & First Impressions
Haval’s Electric and Hybrid Lineup
Haval had one of the most impressive and crowded stalls at the show, showcasing a full range of electric and hybrid SUVs that may soon be introduced to the Pakistani market. The main highlight was the Haval Max, a 100% electric SUV with a bold front design featuring a closed-off grille. Its minimalist yet futuristic styling made it clear that this was a next-gen EV.
A particularly anticipated model was the Haval H6 GT, which was confirmed to arrive in Pakistan this year. The Haval’s Land Rover-inspired car featured rear LED lights that closely resemble the Defender, a high roofline with functional roof rails, and a white and grey dual-tone interior. The attention to detail was stunning, with carbon fiber accents, a retractable center console, and a unique gear selector resembling an aircraft throttle. The panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated seats, and rotating infotainment screen added to the premium feel.
The same car also came with aluminum and piano black 20-inch wheels, and several trims showcased matte grey and dual-tone exterior finishes. Multiple color options and off-road-focused trims, featuring mud-terrain tires, roof carriers, and travel bag setups, were also on display.
Haval’s Tech
Haval took this opportunity to educate the audience on its HI4 hybrid technology. With animated displays, the brand explained how energy is transferred from the battery to the motor to the wheels, how regenerative braking works, and how the system intelligently switches between full-electric and hybrid modes. Green color in the animation indicated battery use, red indicated engine power, and a mix of blue and red indicated hybrid drive.
This emphasis on efficiency and innovation shows that Haval is not only ready for global competition but is also well-positioned for future markets like Pakistan, where plug-in hybrids could serve as a bridge to a complete EV transition.
GWM Wey MPV
GWM Tank Series
The GWM Tank lineup was a major highlight, offering some of the most rugged and luxurious off-road SUVs at the show.
- Tank 300: Available in both electric and gasoline variants, it retains its tough off-roader DNA with modern upgrades. The electric version, in particular, had a smooth matte finish with blacked-out wheels and rugged design elements.
- Tank 400: A more aggressive-looking SUV, Tank 400 was showcased in both gasoline and hybrid variants. The model had a very futuristic stance with bold character lines, a raised roofline, stylish black wheels, and off-road-focused accessories like roof racks and spare tire carriers. It also featured BF Goodrich all-terrain tires, perfect for hardcore off-roading.
- Tank 500: This SUV is already known in Pakistan and globally. The display model was an electrified version, evident from the green and white logo, which symbolized 100% EV. It had a premium finish, heavy off-road gear, 360-degree cameras, ventilated seats, stitched leather interiors, and wooden trims, giving it a highly luxurious yet capable feel.
- Tank 700: The showstopper from GWM, the Tank 700 had a massive road presence, resembling luxury SUVs like the Mercedes G-Wagon in size and proportions. Equipped with a powerful 4.0L V8 engine, this monster featured 22-inch wheels, black chrome accents, a panoramic sunroof, an Alcantara-finished roof liner, and a plush leather interior.
It had height control, multiple driving modes, a head-up display, and a premium Harman Kardon sound system. The design used black chrome instead of traditional chrome for a more modern appeal. Despite its huge size, the vehicle’s premium finish, including carbon fiber trims and wood accents, impressed everyone at the show.
Poer Pickup Trucks
GWM’s Poer truck lineup was another exciting reveal at the show, offering a glimpse into how capable and versatile future pickups can be. Several variants were showcased, highlighting both ruggedness and luxury.
2.4T Diesel
One of the highlights was the Poer 2.4T Diesel, aimed squarely at off-road enthusiasts. It came with aggressive off-road modifications like large all-terrain tires, a camping rig on top, and additional lighting setups. The truck’s design was muscular and imposing, ready to tackle the harshest terrains.
2.0L PHEV
Another significant model was the Poer Plug-in Hybrid version, offering a powerful combination of a 2.0L engine with an electric motor. The hybrid variant produced around 400 horsepower and a massive 750 Nm of torque, while also offering an EV-only range of 110 km. This makes it perfect for both city drives and long adventurous off-road trips.
Interior-wise, the Poer trucks offered surprisingly premium cabins for pickups. Leather-wrapped interiors, large infotainment screens, heated seats, and multifunctional steering wheels were standard. The rear seats were spacious and comfortable, making long-distance travel enjoyable and fatigue-free.
GWM had also showcased a modified Poer built for rally and adventure purposes, complete with reinforced suspension, rooftop tents, additional water tanks, and off-road survival gear. This truck underlined the brand’s focus on not just utility but also lifestyle and exploration.
In Pakistan, where the pickup truck culture is growing rapidly, these Poer trucks — especially the hybrid and diesel options — could be a game-changer, offering a unique combination of performance, efficiency, and rugged capability.
Neo EV Lineup
- Full-width interior screens
- Concealed door handles
- 22-inch wheels
- Autonomous driving features
- Rear entertainment setups with “sky lounge” configurations
GWM ORA & FireFly EVs
ORA brought a fresh retro vibe to Pakistan with the ORA 3 and displayed the ORA GT at the show. The ORA 3, particularly, stood out with its vibrant, lively color options — something not often seen in Pakistani car choices, where people generally stick to black or white. Its design was a modern take on the classic Volkswagen Beetle, offering a nostalgic yet contemporary look.
Inside, the car offered a welcoming, stylish interior with a combination of light grey, peach, and chestnut brown shades. The layout was minimalistic but packed with features. A large panoramic sunroof, dual screens for infotainment and driver information, and sporty bucket seats were key highlights. It was clear that this EV was designed with urban lifestyle and youth appeal in mind.
Performance details were not heavily discussed, but it was confirmed that the ORA 3 is fully electric, emphasizing both sustainability and style. The three-ring headlight design and smooth rear fenders brought a modern-retro charm that would surely attract many if launched in Pakistan.
The FireFly, another compact hatchback displayed by GWM ORA, carried a sportier, racier look with neon accents and a track-inspired interior. It featured OMP bucket seats, a sequential gearbox setup for track racing, and aerodynamic bodywork for better stability at speed.
BMW Highlights
- New 4 Convertible
- M235i Gran Coupe
- M5 (Plug-in Hybrid)
- XM and 840i Convertible
- i7 M70 and standard i7
These vehicles came with carbon fiber roofs, Harman Kardon sound, ambient lighting, and dual-tone interiors. The M5 had quad exhausts and a fully functional diffuser.
Mini Cooper Electric Lineup
- Mini Cooper EV
- Convertible
- JCW (John Cooper Works) Edition
- Countryman Edition
They carried forward the classic Mini look but with futuristic lighting and interiors. Union Jack tail lights and panoramic sunroofs were notable.
Omoda & Jaecoo
Changan Concepts
Changan’s showcase at the Shanghai Auto Show 2025 was all about futuristic designs and electric innovations. Several models stood out, hinting at the company’s significant ambitions in the electric vehicle space.
- Changan Kio 7: This D-segment crossover was displayed in blue, white, and black colors. It featured a frameless glass design, concealed door handles, and a highly modern interior with a rotating screen that adjusts towards the driver or passenger. Additional features included a head-up display, wireless charging, and a panoramic moonroof (of the non-opening style).
- The Changan Avatar 12 Was Displayed in a striking red color, looking futuristic with a full-glass roof and cameras replacing the side mirrors. The interior boasted a full-width LED screen across the dashboard, showcasing premium tech features like radar sensors integrated for advanced driver assistance.
- Changan Uni-V: A sporty and stylish electric sedan featuring a scale-patterned grille, black alloy wheels, concealed door handles, and a minimalist, all-black interior. A welcome feature was the panoramic glass roof, along with a retractable rear spoiler for improved aerodynamic efficiency.
- Changan CS75 Plus: A mid-size SUV equipped with three large screens inside — a digital driver display, a central infotainment screen, and a passenger screen. It featured a panoramic sunroof, Alcantara material finishes, and concealed handles, giving it a modern and upscale feel.
- Changan Flying Car Concept: One of the most futuristic highlights was Changan’s flying vehicle concept. Inspired by drone designs, it featured multiple propellers and a smart cabin with twin screens. While exact speed and height capabilities weren’t shared, it represented Changan’s vision of future mobility.
Across its lineup, Changan heavily used matte finishes, piano black trims, and intelligent driving aids, aiming to position itself strongly in the growing electric and autonomous vehicle segments.
iCar & Other Funky EVs
Conclusion
Stay tuned to PakWheels for more updates from the show!
