China Auto Daily丨Auto Trade Soars 32.1% MoM, Driven by $20.15B Exports

CAAM: Auto Imports/Exports Hit $23.82B in March, Up 32.1% MoM  

China’s automotive trade totaled $23.82 billion in March 2025, a 32.1% month-on-month rebound though down 0.2% year-over-year, per China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM) data released on May 7. Exports drove growth at $20.15 billion (+38.9% MoM, +8.4% YoY), while imports fell to $3.67 billion (+3.8% MoM, -30.4% YoY). Q1 2025 cumulative trade reached $65.14 billion (-4.6% YoY), with exports accounting for $55 billion (+4.6% YoY) amid intensifying overseas expansion by Chinese EV makers.  

Geely Proposes ZEEKR Privatization at $25.66 Per ADS  

Geely Automobile Holdings announced a $25.66 per American Depositary Share (ADS) offer to acquire remaining ZEEKR Intelligent Technology shares—a 13.6% premium over its May 6 NYSE close. The privatization aligns with Geely’s "Taizhou Manifesto" strategy to consolidate R&D, supply chains, and branding under unified control. Post-transaction, Geely aims to accelerate ZEEKR’s global EV rollout, leveraging synergies with Volvo and Lotus technologies.  

2025 Avatr 12 Launches from RMB 259,900 (USD 35,900) with Triple-Lidar ADS  

Avatr unveiled the 2025 12 EV sedan on May 7, offering six trims between RMB 259,900 (USD 35,900) and RMB 419,900 (USD 58,000) with limited-time discounts. The model features Huawei’s QIANKUN ADS 3.0 autonomous system, deploying three lidars for 300° coverage and centimeter-level precision. Standard tech includes full-scenario parking assist, collision avoidance up to 150 km/h, and valet parking (VPD) via Huawei’s CAS 3.0. The 12’s 800V architecture enables 15-minute 30-80% fast charging, targeting premium sedan buyers disillusioned with Tesla Model S refresh delays.  

*(Exchange rate: RMB 7.2375 = USD 1)*