Lanzhou selected as pilot city for auto market reform

USA TODAY published a feature on Skydream, a Chinese smart RV brand. The company has developed an integrated platform based on an electric skateboard chassis, incorporating driver assistance, energy management, and smart home systems. Its lineup includes three types of trailers: all-terrain, lightweight road, and off-road. The first production model is expected to launch in the second half of 2026 in Australia, New Zealand, and North America.

Authorities in Suzhou, Jiangsu province, have announced the opening of five RV campsites in scenic areas of the region. The campsites include themed zones, water sports, and lake views. Discounts for 2026 graduates are available, and the sites are equipped with electric and water hookups.

Chinese manufacturer Yuejie has introduced the R5 model, a B-class (van-based) motorhome. The vehicle is positioned as a new energy vehicle. Detailed specifications and pricing have not yet been disclosed.

VALA Group (2051.HK) delivered 564 vala electric campers in Q1 2026, capturing 60% of China's electric camper market. The company uses an asset-light model: co-development with OEMs (BAW,瑞驰, Wuling, SAIC Maxus) and a product development cycle 4-5 times shorter than traditional automakers. Unlike Xiaomi, which is only testing a pop-up roof on a prototype, VALA already mass-produces models with a slanted pop-up roof that allows entry into underground parking garages.

The China Association of Automotive Journalists proposed leveraging the RV segment to stimulate automotive culture and consumption in Zhengzhou, which was selected as a pilot city for auto circulation reform. According to the association, China registers about 10,000 motorhomes annually, with a total fleet of 300,000 units — far below the US market (50,000 annual sales, 13 million units). The expert noted that developing camping infrastructure and easing RV usage rules could drive tourism and related industries.

In 2025, China registered 23,616 RVs, up 24.5% year-on-year. Self-propelled motorhomes accounted for 83.13% of the market (19,632 units). The SAIC Maxus V90 held a 28.5% market share, driven by its B-class flexibility (length under 6 m, height under 3 m, C1 license, 6-year inspection exemption). It offers a 2.0T diesel (130 kW, 420 N·m) or plug-in hybrid (total 280 kW, 30 kWh battery). The factory provides official conversion documentation for legal modifications.