Karaoke in the car? China’s new wave of gadget-laden electric vehicles

China’s carmakers are competing to turn their vehicles into digital entertainment hubs, offering everything from film projectors to VR features

A new wave of Chinese-developed EVs is hitting the market equipped with everything from voice-activated artificial intelligence (AI) assistants, to headlights that double up as film projectors and karaoke systems. Some even feature immersive digital cockpits with integrated virtual reality technology.

“Intelligent features are propelling sales because of young Chinese drivers’ willingness to embrace new technologies,” said Zhao Zhen, a sales director at Shanghai-based dealer Wan Zhuo Auto.

“More importantly, Chinese carmakers, technology firms and auto component suppliers are able to respond to market demand quickly and their in-vehicle entertainment facilities are becoming more affordable to consumers.”

The Chinese auto industry’s collective effort to create more autonomous, intelligent EVs has helped China’s brands stand out from their global competitors, according to consultancy AlixPartners.