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Paymentology and Change Financial join forces to fast-track next-generation payments in Australia


SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 April 2026 – Paymentology, the leading global issuer-processor, today announced a strategic partnership with Change Financial to accelerate payment method adoption and fintech growth across Australia.

The collaboration combines Paymentology’s cloud-first processing platform with Change Financial’s local BIN sponsorship, regulatory expertise and in-market presence – enabling fintechs, digital banks and programme managers to launch and scale debit, credit and prepaid programmes more efficiently in the Australian market.

Change Financial is a Mastercard Principal Issuer in Australia, providing local scheme connectivity and compliance support. Together with Paymentology’s real-time, multi-cloud processing infrastructure, the partnership creates a streamlined pathway for fintechs looking to enter or expand in the country.

Australia represents one of the world’s most advanced digital payments markets. The national payments market was valued at USD 849.1 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 1.35 trillion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 5.09% between 2026 and 2034. Cards and mobile wallets now sit at the centre of everyday transactions, as digital adoption continues to accelerate. Australians made approximately AUD 160 billion in mobile wallet payments in the past year alone, with billions of transactions recorded annually, highlighting strong demand for digital-first, contactless and mobile-enabled payment experiences.

Minh Ha Truong, Head of Growth Asia Pacific at Paymentology commented: “Australia is one of the most sophisticated payments ecosystems globally, with strong consumer adoption of digital, contactless and mobile-first experiences. By partnering with Change Financial, we’re combining next-generation issuing infrastructure with trusted local BIN sponsorship and expertise, unlocking faster payment method adoption for fintechs and helping them scale confidently in the Australian market.”

Change Financial brings deep experience supporting fintechs and financial institutions through local sponsorship, scheme relationships and programme enablement.

Jennifer Mateer, Chief Commercial Officer at Change Financial added: “We collaborate closely with fintechs and programme managers every day to launch innovative payment solutions with speed and confidence. Our partnership with Paymentology combines our local market expertise with global-scale issuing infrastructure, enabling innovators to accelerate time to market and deliver compelling card payment experiences to Australian consumers and businesses.”

Hashtag: #Paymentology #Fintech

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Paymentology

Paymentology is the leading next-generation issuer processor, empowering fintechs, digital banks and retail banks to effortlessly launch and manage innovative payment solutions on a global scale. The company drives greater customer choice and value through easy-to-use, integrated platforms and services that help clients to disrupt the status quo, accelerate time to market, and achieve growth.

With a superior multi-cloud platform offering a vast global footprint, and enhanced real-time data, Paymentology distinguishes itself as a leader in the payments industry. Its team of payments experts, with deep local market knowledge, operates across 50 countries and 14 time zones, providing 24/7 support. Paymentology is deeply committed to expanding financial inclusion globally, changing lives and positively impacting the communities in which it operates.

For more information, visit .

Atmospheric G2 Secures Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) License

License positions Atmospheric G2 as a compliant, trusted provider amid Japan’s crackdown on unlicensed weather forecasts

MANCHESTER, N.H., Apr. 21, 2026 Atmospheric G2 today announced it has officially obtained a license from the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) to conduct weather forecasting services for Japan under its own corporate name.

The milestone supports Atmospheric G2’s strategic expansion into Japan’s energy markets, enabling the company to provide licensed weather forecasting and meteorological services to Japanese trading firms, utilities, and energy market participants, all while operating under JMA regulatory requirements.

“Securing our JMA license is a critical step in deepening our support for Japan’s energy trading community,” said Todd Navarra, CEO. “Weather drives volatility in power, LNG, renewables, and broader commodities markets. Operating under a JMA license allows us to deliver the trusted, compliant, and high-precision forecasting solutions that Japanese firms require to manage risk and optimize performance.”

Japan is one of the world’s most weather-sensitive energy markets. From typhoon-driven supply disruptions and heavy rainfall impacts to temperature-driven demand volatility and renewable generation variability, accurate meteorological intelligence is essential for trading, procurement, and operational planning.

By earning the JMA weather forecasting license, Atmospheric G2 demonstrates its long-term commitment to Japan’s energy ecosystem and its readiness to support

  • Energy trading and risk management strategies
  • LNG procurement and supply planning
  • Power market demand forecasting
  • Renewable generation forecasting and optimization
  • Extreme weather preparedness and operational resilience

Under Japan’s regulatory framework, organizations conducting weather forecasting services for Japan are required to operate under a JMA license and satisfy defined operational and technical requirements.

Upcoming stricter regulatory measures are expected to underscore the importance of operating under a JMA license, particularly for overseas providers distributing Japan-targeted forecasts.

With the license secured under the Atmospheric G2 corporate name, the company can provide compliant weather forecasting and meteorological services to Japanese trading firms, utilities, and energy market participants.

This achievement strengthens Atmospheric G2’s competitive position in the Japanese market and reinforces its broader global mission: delivering actionable weather intelligence that enables energy and commodity market participants to make smarter, faster decisions in an increasingly volatile climate environment.

Fore more information about Atmospheric G2, please visit AtmosphericG2.com.

Atmospheric G2 is a global weather intelligence company delivering advanced forecasting, analytics, and decision-support solutions to energy, commodities, and enterprise clients worldwide. Combining proprietary modeling, deep meteorological expertise, and advanced analytics, Atmospheric G2 helps organizations anticipate risk, optimize operations, and turn weather volatility into strategic advantage.

Contact:
Cyrena Arnold
+1-603-421-6922 
ca@atmosphericg2.com

Gastops Launches FluidSIGHT™ Real-Time Oil Condition Monitoring System

OTTAWA, ON, April 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Gastops, a global leader in intelligent condition monitoring solutions, today announced the launch of FluidSIGHT™, a real-time oil condition monitoring system designed to provide continuous insight into engine health across marine and industrial applications.

FluidSIGHT™ is now available for deployment, enabling operators to move from periodic oil sampling to continuous, real-time monitoring. Installed directly in the oil line, the system provides immediate visibility into oil condition, contamination, and wear – helping detect issues earlier, reduce unplanned downtime, and support more efficient maintenance planning. By bringing laboratory-grade oil analysis onboard, FluidSIGHT™ eliminates delays associated with traditional oil sampling and lab testing, giving operators faster access to the information they need to act.

“FluidSIGHT™ makes critical insights available in real time, directly where decisions are made,” said Shaun Horning, CEO at Gastops. “It enables operators to identify developing issues earlier, prioritize maintenance more effectively, and operate with greater confidence.”

Early deployments across marine applications have demonstrated the system’s ability to detect changes in oil condition and emerging issues in real time, supporting improved reliability and operational efficiency.

Designed for ease of integration, FluidSIGHT™ can be retrofitted to a wide range of engine types and installed on in-service assets with minimal disruption. Gastops is currently engaging with early adopters across the marine sector and expanding deployment opportunities.

Gastops will be showcasing FluidSIGHT™ at Booth G13 during Singapore Maritime Week 2026 (April 21-23).

About Gastops

Gastops is the world’s leading provider of intelligent condition monitoring solutions used in Aerospace, Defence, Energy, and Industrial applications to optimize the availability, performance, and safety of critical assets. We offer peace of mind to our customers with innovative online monitoring sensors, at-line analysis, complex modeling and simulation, world-class laboratory testing, engineering, design, and MRO services that predict performance to enable proactive operating decisions. We have been providing powerful insights into the condition of critical equipment since 1979. Gastops is the intelligence inside what moves you.

www.gastops.com

Media Contact: media@gastops.com, 1 (613) 744-3530

Hata Completes US$8 Million Series A Financing Led by Bybit

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, April 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Hata, Malaysia’s only dual-licensed digital asset exchange, today announced the closing of a USD 8 million (approximately RM31.6 million) Series A funding round led by Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, alongside several prominent global family offices. The fundraise marks the beginning of a deep strategic collaboration between the two companies, one that goes beyond capital and signals a shared commitment to growing Malaysia’s digital asset ecosystem responsibly and at scale.

From left to right: David Low (CEO of Hata), Ben Zhou (CEO of Bybit),  Darien Ng (CSO of Hata)
From left to right: David Low (CEO of Hata), Ben Zhou (CEO of Bybit), Darien Ng (CSO of Hata)

“Malaysia is a strategically important market for Bybit, with one of the most digitally engaged populations in Southeast Asia and strong long term potential for digital asset adoption. We see Hata as the right partner to help serve Malaysian investors through a compliant and regulated platform. By combining Hata’s local market leadership with Bybit’s global strengths in technology and product innovation, we hope to accelerate the growth of Malaysia’s digital asset and tokenised real world asset ecosystem.” said Ben Zhou, Co-founder and CEO of Bybit.

The Series A round builds on Bybit’s earlier participation in Hata’s USD 4.2 million seed round, deepening a relationship that now extends into strategic collaboration. The round also saw participation from several global family offices with a strong focus on Southeast Asian technology and financial markets.

Hata will deploy the proceeds across three key areas on its platform, including strengthening its liquidity on its platform, accelerating user growth through its marketing and ecosystem initiatives and jointly developing innovative digital asset products tailored for Malaysians with Bybit.

“This partnership with Bybit marks a defining moment for Hata and for Malaysia’s digital asset industry. Bybit’s decision to lead this round and partner with us strategically is a strong validation of our belief that crypto should be built the right way, with proper licensing, rigorous compliance, and an unwavering commitment to investor protection. Together, we will combine Hata’s regulated local platform with Bybit’s global expertise in technology and product innovation to expand what is possible for Malaysian users.” says David Low, CEO of Hata.

For more information about Hata and its latest developments, visit the official Hata page to be part of Malaysia’s journey into the evolving world of digital assets.

About Hata

Hata is Malaysia’s leading dual-licensed digital asset exchange, providing a secure, compliant and accessible platform for investors to buy, sell and custody digital assets. Founded by Malaysians, Hata operates under licenses from the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) and the Labuan Financial Services Authority (LFSA), ensuring full regulatory compliance and robust security standards for users in Malaysia and globally.

Since its launch in May 2023 through the end of 2025, Hata has established itself as Malaysia’s fastest-growing homegrown digital asset exchange, with more than 209,000 registered users. In 2025 alone, Hata processed RM1.04 billion in transaction volume, reflecting strong platform activity, while its assets under custody (AUC) have accumulated to RM86.3 million since launch to the end of 2025, peaking at RM115 million in September 2025 before broader market corrections.

Built on the principles of trust, transparency and technology, Hata is committed to setting new standards in Malaysia’s digital asset ecosystem while expanding access to safe, compliant and affordable crypto trading across the region.

In 2025, Hata expanded its product suite with the launch of Staking, beginning with Solana (SOL), enabling users to earn rewards while contributing to blockchain network security. Together with its Auto-Invest (DCA) feature, Hata continues to introduce innovative tools that empower Malaysians and institutions to build sustainable, long-term digital wealth.

Visit hata.io to learn more.

About Bybit

Bybit is the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving a global community of over 70 million users. Founded in 2018, Bybit offers a comprehensive suite of products including spot and derivatives trading, staking, copy trading, and institutional services. Renowned for its regulated custody, deep liquidity, and innovative product development, Bybit is committed to bridging the gap between traditional finance and decentralised finance across global markets.

Kia Explores ‘Resonance of Opposites’ with Two New Exhibitions at Milan Design Week 2026

  • Kia Global Design presents dual exhibitions under the theme ‘Resonance of Opposites,’ guided by the evolved ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy
  • ‘Journey of Reflection’ at Museo della Permanente explores the emotional and introspective foundation of Kia Design’s cultural values
  • ‘Journey of Projection’ at Salone dei Tessuti showcases the outward expression of Kia’s vision through six landmark concept vehicles
  • Exhibitions run from April 20 to 26 during Milan Design Week

MILAN and SEOUL, South Korea, April 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Kia Corporation (Kia) celebrates the opening of two distinct exhibitions at Milan Design Week 2026, marking a new chapter in the brand’s evolution as a global design leader. Centered on the theme ‘Resonance of Opposites,’ the exhibitions represent the latest expression of Kia’s evolving ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy.

Kia’s Journey of Reflection exhibition at the Museo della Permanente in Milan.
Kia’s Journey of Reflection exhibition at the Museo della Permanente in Milan.

Which exhibitions will Kia showcase at Milan Design Week 2026?

Journey of Reflection, Museo della Permanente: This exhibition invites visitors into the inner world of Kia Design, unfolding through three core cultural characteristics to offer a sensory journey shaped by designers’ perspectives, attitudes, and the reflective processes from which ideas are formed:

  • Cultural Vanguard – A dynamic light installation fills the space with continuously shifting waves of color, inviting visitors to observe and reflect as overlapping streams of light symbolize how diverse perspectives come together to shape new culture.
  • Creative Risk-Takers – An interactive spatial installation of canyon‑like forms and shifting terrain responds to visitor movement, encouraging active exploration and expressing the spirit of creative risk‑taking through physical engagement and discovery.
  • Relentless Innovators – A serene, cavernous space where slowly shifting light and color visualizes the passage of time, inviting visitors to pause, reflect, and experience the inner focus that underpins continuous innovation.

Journey of Projection, Salone dei Tessuti: Extending the reflections formed through ‘Journey of Reflection’ into present and future realities, this exhibition illustrates how Kia’s philosophy is realized through product design. The space features a curated display of six concept vehicles – EV2 (Begin), EV3 (Explore), EV4 (Create), EV5 (Connect), EV9 (Embrace), and the Kia Vision Meta Turismo (Imagine) – each representing a distinct stage in Kia’s evolving design strategy.

What has Kia leadership said about the 2026 Milan exhibitions?

Karim Habib, Executive Vice President and Head of Kia Global Design, said:
“Our presence in Milan this year marks a pivotal moment for Kia Design – a moment where inner reflection and outward expression converge along a single axis. ‘Resonance of Opposites’ is more than an exhibition; it marks a milestone in our journey – a reflection of our growth and our commitment to shaping a more sustainable future through curiosity and thoughtful, continuous innovation.

“By uncovering the journey from our designers’ inward explorations to the tangible expressions represented by our concept lineup, we invite audiences to experience how our philosophy inspires and lives through every creative decision we make.”

For more information, visit the Kia Global Media Center for more.

Lorex for Business Launches X Series: AI-Powered Security for Modern Businesses

TORONTO, April 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Today, Lorex Technology announced the launch of the new X Series, a line of AI-powered security cameras and Network Video Recorders (NVRs) designed for professional security applications. The X Series combines high-performance video surveillance with AI-powered analytics, helping businesses not only capture critical evidence, but also gain insights to improve security, operations, and day-to-day decision-making.

X Series: A Comprehensive Lineup for Every Business Environment
X Series: A Comprehensive Lineup for Every Business Environment

As AI continues to reshape how businesses operate, security systems are evolving beyond basic monitoring. The X Series brings together reliable wired hardware, AI-powered analytics, and the new Lorex Connect app into a single, connected system that helps businesses monitor, manage, and respond in real time.

Built for both installers and business owners, the X Series is designed to be easy to deploy, scalable, and reliable in demanding environments. From retail stores and warehouses to gyms, convenience stores, and construction sites, it combines dependable performance with AI-driven capabilities to support and improve a wide range of business operations.

“At a time when businesses are facing more complex operational and security challenges, the X Series represents a shift from passive monitoring to intelligent protection,” said Steve Hong, VP, Global Sales and Marketing at Lorex Technology. “We’re enabling businesses not just to see incidents, but to understand, respond, and even prevent them.”  

X Series: Clear Visibility and Proactive Protection

The X Series delivers high-performance video surveillance designed for demanding environments. Combining crystal clear 4K video with proactive deterrence, it provides clear, reliable footage while helping businesses actively prevent incidents before they occur. 

X Series: AI-Driven Security and Business Intelligence

Beyond video surveillance, the X Series uses AI to help businesses better understand and manage their environments. By analyzing activity in real time, it provides actionable insights that improve security, support faster response to incidents, and enhance day-to-day operations. From identifying people, vehicles, and behaviors such as loitering and line crossing to delivering insights through people counting and heat mapping, it enables a more proactive and informed approach to security and operations. 

Lorex Connect: A Unified Platform for Control and Insight

At the center of the X Series is the Lorex Connect app, providing instant access to your system from anywhere. It enables businesses to monitor live and recorded footage, receive intelligent real-time alerts, and view multiple cameras at once, helping them stay connected, respond faster, and maintain control at all times.

X Series: A Comprehensive Lineup for Every Business Environment

X5 4K PoE Fixed Cameras (Bullet & Turret)

Delivers top-tier surveillance with the most advanced AI capabilities, built for environments where visibility, awareness, and prevention are critical. Featuring real-time 4K at 30 FPS and True AI Color Night Vision (AI-ISP), it provides smooth, clear video with enhanced detail, helping capture more accurate evidence at any time of day. Combined with Advanced Deterrence, including a built-in siren, white-light illumination, red and blue strobe lights, and 2-way talk, it not only records incidents but actively helps prevent them by drawing attention and discouraging unwanted activity in real time.

X3 4K Motorized Varifocal Cameras (Bullet & Turret)

Along with 4K video and Color Night Vision, the X3 delivers added flexibility through its motorized varifocal lens, allowing users to remotely adjust the field of view using its 4× optical zoom to capture detail at a distance without sacrificing image quality. With built-in white-light deterrence and audio capabilities, including two-way talk on bullet models and listen-in audio on turret models, it adds an extra layer of awareness and control.

X PTZ 4K Dome Camera with 30× Zoom

Equipped with 4K resolution and 30× optical zoom, it enables operators to monitor large areas and capture fine detail from a distance. With pan, tilt, and zoom capabilities, it supports active monitoring by allowing users to follow movement and respond to activity in real time. Built for wide-area coverage, it is ideal for environments where visibility and control across large spaces are critical. 

X Series Network Video Recorders (NVRs)

Provide secure, centralized recording and system management across deployments of all sizes. Built to support advanced and evolving AI analytics, they enable smarter monitoring, improved awareness, and more informed decision-making for businesses. Available in 8, 16, and 32-channel configurations.

Together, the X Series combines reliable hardware with AI-powered intelligence, helping businesses move beyond monitoring to smarter, more proactive operations. Now available on pro.lorex.com.

About Lorex Technology

Lorex is a leading provider of smart security and monitoring solutions, with over 30 years of experience delivering reliable video surveillance across North America. Founded in Canada, Lorex offers a comprehensive ecosystem of solutions for both residential and commercial applications. Lorex for Business, its professional division, supports security installers, integrators, and business owners with scalable, professional-grade systems that combine proven reliability with intelligent features to enhance visibility, streamline operations, and support growing businesses.

To learn more, visit Lorex.com. 

Standard Energy Showcases Vertically Integrated PV Supply Chain at SOLARTECH INDONESIA 2026, Serving Clean Energy Markets in the United States, India, Europe, Southeast Asia and Worldwide

JAKARTA, Indonesia, April 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Standard Energy (STDARD), a trusted global clean energy solutions provider, announces its participation in SOLARTECH INDONESIA 2026, from April 22–24, 2026, at the Jakarta International Expo.


The company will host a showcase at Booth A1F2-01, presenting its end-to-end integrated PV supply chain solutions and global delivery system to partners worldwide.

Showcasing Integrated Value Chain Expertise

As a platform for the solar industry in Southeast Asia, the exhibition enables Standard Energy to deepen engagement with regional partners. The company provides stable, efficient, and customizable supply chain solutions that address diverse market needs—from quality compliance and low-carbon certification to delivery efficiency and cost optimization for projects worldwide. This is supported by its fully integrated PV manufacturing chain covering wafers, cells, and modules, the global”One Headquarters with Six Centers”operational layout, and key international certifications including ISO, CE, UL, BIS and Intertek,which collectively ensure reliable performance and smooth market access worldwide. Building on this global foundation, Standard Energy’s local manufacturing and service capabilities in Indonesia enable faster delivery and enhanced support for customers across Southeast Asia, while also strengthening its service to the U.S., Indian, and European markets.

Reliable Global Supply, Backed by Scale

Our supply chain spans Indonesia, Laos, the Philippines, and the United States, with a total PV capacity of 11.5 GW. This includes 3 GW of silicon rod and 3 GW of silicon wafer capacity in Indonesia. Additionally, we possess a dedicated aluminum frame production capacity of 15 GW. At the exhibition, we will showcase our integrated supply chain strengths, global delivery system, and tailored service capabilities to support the global energy transition.

Committed to Global Partnerships

“Standard Energy is committed to being a trusted global partner in the clean energy transition. By integrating the PV supply chain, we deliver efficient, end-to-end solutions worldwide,” said a company representative. “We look forward to connecting with customers and partners from the U.S., India, Europe, Southeast Asia, and beyond to advance the broader adoption of solar energy.”

On-site Business Engagement

Throughout the event, the Standard Energy team will host one-on-one business meetings and dedicated discussions on supply chain collaboration. Industry partners are invited to visit the booth for in-depth conversations and exploring partnership opportunities.

About Standard Energy

Founded in 2019, Standard Energy is committed to being a trusted global provider of clean energy solutions. The company has established a strategic layout of “One Headquarters With Six Centers”, covering six countries and regions: Singapore, the United States, Taiwan (China), the Philippines, Indonesia, and Laos. In 2026, the company will reach a PV manufacturing capacity of 11.5 GW and an aluminum frame production capacity supporting 15 GW of PV modules. Standard Energy’s core products include 182/210mm large-sized silicon wafers, PV cells, high-efficiency PV modules, and BIPV (Building-Integrated Photovoltaics).

Contact

Email:info@stdard-energy.com

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/StandardEnergyForSolar

Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/company/standardenergyforsolar

China claims global auto sales lead from Japan, sets sights on quality

BEIJING, April 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — A report from People’s Daily

In a significant shift for the global automotive industry, Chinese automakers sold nearly 27 million vehicles worldwide in 2025, surpassing Japan’s approximate 25 million sales. This marks the first time China has ended Japan’s 25-year reign as the global sales leader.

The milestone is underscored by three Chinese companies now ranking among the world’s top ten automakers. Notably, BYD secured its position as the global leader in new energy vehicle (NEV) sales for the fourth consecutive year.

The shift has sparked a wave of online comparisons: Nokia watching Apple’s rise, or Kodak facing the digital revolution.

However, the rise of Chinese automakers is not simply a story about volume. It signals a generational transformation in the global auto industry, driven by strategic foresight and sustained innovation.

Often described as a “crown jewel” of modern industry, the automotive sector is a key indicator of a country’s manufacturing strength.

In the early 20th century, Ford pioneered assembly-line production, shifting the industry’s center from Europe to the United States. In the 1970s, following the oil shocks, Japanese automakers built global dominance on fuel efficiency and lean production. By 1980, Japan had overtaken the United States, and since 2000, companies like Toyota, Honda and Nissan set the pace.

Now, momentum has shifted decisively towards China.

As global decarbonization efforts accelerated, Chinese automakers moved quickly into electrification and intelligent technologies. This led to rapid advancements in areas like battery technology, large in-car displays, and urban automated driving systems (like Navigation on Autopilot – NOA).

Meanwhile, segments of the Japanese auto industry deliberated over the pace of transition, debating whether electric vehicles would fully supplant hybrids.

This divergence in approach led to a widening gap. By 2025, NEVs accounted for nearly 60 percent of China’s auto market, compared with less than 3 percent in Japan.

China’s rise reflects a long-term strategic vision, not an overnight success. NEVs were designated a national high-tech R&D priority as early as 2001.

Over more than two decades, policies ranging from purchase subsidies to charging infrastructure development, alongside sustained technological breakthroughs and market cultivation, have laid a solid foundation for the industry.

Furthermore, China’s comprehensive industrial chain and vast domestic market provided fertile ground for the rapid innovation and large-scale deployment of NEVs.

This well-integrated ecosystem, encompassing upstream sectors like advanced materials, accelerated battery breakthroughs and enabled significant economies of scale.

This industrial clustering not only fosters coordinated innovation but also significantly reduces costs and shortens development cycles. Some estimates suggest Chinese automakers can develop a new electric vehicle in about 18 months — more than twice as fast as many Japanese counterparts.

An analyst at Japan’s Mizuho Bank attributed this to a combination of advanced technology, cost advantages and rapid R&D capabilities.

Yet, scale does not equate to strength. Despite a sharp drop in net profit in 2025, Toyota continues to generate higher per-vehicle profit — around 17,000 yuan ($2,470) — than its Chinese competitors.

Having secured the title of “volume champion,” Chinese automakers now face the challenge of becoming “quality champions.” Key hurdles remain: building stronger brand premium, navigating regulatory headwinds such as carbon tariffs and data security reviews in Europe and the United States, making charging as seamless as refueling; and advancing autonomous driving from promise to reality.

Each milestone reveals new challenges. However, one fact is undeniable: China’s auto industry has moved to the center of the global stage. Its focus is shifting beyond speed and scale to pursuing long-term excellence and enduring quality in the new energy era.