China
2026.06.26 10:36 GMT+8

Supply chain expo: Car chip race intensifies as AI debuts

Updated 2026.06.26 10:36 GMT+8
Gong Zhe

A sedan with an "AI box" sign is displayed at the Intel booth during the CISCE in Beijing, China, June 23, 2026. Qu Bo/CGTN

More vehicle AI solutions made their debut at the China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) in Beijing, as chipmakers compete for a larger share of China's vast car market.

This year's CISCE introduced a dedicated AI zone for the first time, presenting the full chain from data and computing power to real-world applications.

US companies topped the list of foreign exhibitors for a fourth consecutive year. Nvidia, Intel, Qualcomm and other major American firms demonstrated deep partnerships with Chinese companies across AI, semiconductors and smart vehicles. Nvidia showcased 39 demos and more than 110 partners at its booth, while Qualcomm displayed an ArcFox electric vehicle equipped with its Snapdragon Ride Flex SoC (system-on-a-chip).

At the Intel booth, a Chang'an Automobile fitted with an AI computing module drew attention. Built on Intel's Core Ultra processor, the device adds a third computing layer beyond infotainment and autonomous driving systems. Gao Yu, general manager of Intel's PRC Technical Enablement Group, described it as a "third domain" with around 100 TOPS of edge computing power, enabling real-time safety alerts and voice interaction without cloud connectivity.

The device uses a plug-and-play design – just two cables for power and internet – allowing older vehicles to upgrade their AI capabilities without replacing the car. Intel has secured more than 130 edge AI design engagements as of mid-2026.

"The Chinese and US economies are integrated and interdependent," James Zimmerman, chairperson of the American Chamber of Commerce in China, told Global Times. "The theme of this year's CISCE is a reflection of what is needed between the US and China moving forward: openness, connectivity and synergy."

This year's CISCE brings together 676 companies from 85 countries, with a dedicated AI section showcasing edge-to-cloud ecosystems.

The expo runs through Friday at the China International Exhibition Center in Beijing's Shunyi District, with six supply chain zones covering digital technology, advanced manufacturing, smart vehicles, clean energy and other sectors.

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