BUSINESS

Large EV Boom in China Fuels Calls for Weight-Based Auto Tax

Published: Apr. 14, 2026 1:15 p.m. GMT+8

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Nio's SUV model, the ES9. Photo: Nio Inc.

Chinese automakers are aggressively expanding their lineups of large electric vehicles (EVs) to meet growing consumer demand, sparking industry debates over a potential weight-based consumption tax to curb the trend.

Automakers are accelerating the release of large models to secure higher prices and stronger profit margins. Zeekr Intelligent Technology Holding Ltd. plans to launch its large 8X sport utility vehicle in April, following Nio Inc.’s recent launch of its flagship ES9 and ahead of Li Auto Inc.’s anticipated release of the new-generation L9 in the second quarter.

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Explore the story in 30 seconds

Chinese automakers (Zeekr 8X in April, Nio ES9, Li Auto L9 in Q2) expand large EVs for higher profits amid strong demand.
Demand from multi-gen households, Gen X buyers, intelligent driving; three-row models popular for decade per CPCA's Cui Dongshu.
CPCA warns large EVs increase energy use, congestion; industry discusses weight-based consumption tax proposal.

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Who’s Who

Zeekr Intelligent Technology Holding Ltd.: Zeekr Intelligent Technology Holding Ltd. plans to launch its large 8X sport utility vehicle in April, following Nio’s ES9 and ahead of Li Auto’s new L9.

Nio Inc.: Nio Inc. recently launched its flagship ES9, a large electric SUV, amid Chinese automakers' push for bigger EVs to capture higher prices and profits.

Li Auto Inc.: **Li Auto Inc.** plans to release its new-generation L9, a large three-row SUV, in Q2 2025, amid a boom in spacious EVs driven by multi-generational families and intelligent driving tech. (38 words)

Ries Strategy Positioning Consulting: Zhang Yun, global CEO of Ries Strategy Positioning Consulting, stated at an April 12 forum that future vehicles will serve as mobile spaces for work, relaxation, and entertainment, fueling demand for large EVs with premium in-cabin features.

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