New Car Reveals and Auto Shows: Munich, Tokyo, Shanghai — 2026-09-18
The automotive industry is currently split between the commercial vehicle focus of IAA Transportation in Hannover and the upcoming consumer spectacle of the Paris Motor Show. Key developments include the world premiere of the Skyworth Z9 electric truck with Level 4 autonomy in Germany, while Stellantis prepares a massive display of nine concept cars for Paris. In Japan, Mitsuoka has revealed the first images of its new sports car ahead of its November launch.
New Car Reveals and Auto Shows: Munich, Tokyo, Shanghai — 2026-09-18
Top developments
Skyworth Z9 Electric Truck World Premiere at IAA Transportation
At the IAA Transportation show in Hannover, Chinese manufacturer Skyworth unveiled the Z9, a heavy-duty electric truck featuring Level 4 autonomous driving capabilities. The 6x4 semi-truck utilizes two electric motors and represents a significant push by Chinese automakers into the European commercial vehicle market. This premiere highlights the growing trend of integrating advanced autonomous technology directly into heavy logistics vehicles, challenging traditional European diesel dominance.
Stellantis to Display Nine Concept Cars at Paris Motor Show
Stellantis announced it will showcase more than 60 vehicles at the upcoming Paris Motor Show (October 12–18), with a specific focus on nine new concept cars from eight different brands. The lineup includes iconic brands like Alfa Romeo, which is expected to use the event as a "direction signal" for its future design language rather than a direct launch event for a production model. This extensive display aims to demonstrate the group's comprehensive mobility vision across its diverse portfolio.
Mitsuoka Reveals First Images of New Sports Car
Japanese boutique manufacturer Mitsuoka opened a teaser website on September 17, revealing the first design details of its all-new sports car. The vehicle is scheduled for an official announcement on November 26, with purchase applications opening the following day. This move signals Mitsuoka's continued commitment to niche, retro-inspired performance vehicles in the Japanese market.
Chinese Heavy Trucks Challenge European Market at IAA
German media outlets are closely monitoring the aggressive expansion of Chinese commercial vehicle manufacturers like FAW and BAIC FOTON at the IAA Transportation. These companies are leveraging their success in the passenger EV sector to introduce electric and hybrid heavy trucks to Europe, often equipped with high-level autonomous driving features. This strategic shift is seen as a direct threat to established European truck makers, particularly as emissions regulations tighten.
Local view
German trade press, including AUTO BILD and autohaus.de, is framing the IAA Transportation not just as a vehicle showcase, but as a critical juncture for the survival of diesel engines in the commercial sector. AUTO BILD reporters highlighted the Tesla Semi and Kia's new electric vans as key highlights, noting the rapid shift toward electrification in last-mile delivery and heavy transport. Meanwhile, autohaus.de emphasizes that the "muscle show" of electromobility is making the transition away from internal combustion engines easier than previously predicted for van operators.
In Japan, Car Watch and webCG are focusing on the niche revival of sports cars and the strategic timing of Mitsuoka's reveal, viewing it as a counter-trend to the mass-market EV shift. The Japanese press is also noting the global impact of Mitsubishi's recent Pajero world premiere, which continues to dominate coverage despite being announced earlier in September.
Context & numbers
- Paris Motor Show Dates: October 12–18, 2026.
- Stellantis Exhibit Size: Over 60 vehicles, including 9 concept cars from 8 brands.
- IAA Transportation Focus: A significant portion of exhibitors are showcasing electric vans and heavy trucks, marking a clear decline in diesel-centric launches compared to previous years.
On the radar
- Mitsuoka Official Launch: The new sports car will be officially presented on November 26, 2026, with orders opening November 27.
- VW ID. Polo GTI Market Launch: Volkswagen has confirmed that the near-production concept shown earlier is slated for market launch in autumn 2026, with preliminary consumption figures of 14.4–16.4 kWh/100 km.
- Alfa Romeo Direction Signal: Watch for specific design cues from Alfa Romeo's Paris concept that may hint at the next generation of production models, rather than immediate sales.
This content was collected, curated, and summarized entirely by AI — including how and what to gather. It may contain inaccuracies. Crew does not guarantee the accuracy of any information presented here. Always verify facts on your own before acting on them. Crew assumes no legal liability for any consequences arising from reliance on this content.
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