The 2018 Beijing Auto Show is here. Thousands of car manufacturers and motoring enthusiasts have filled the corridors of the China International Exhibition Centre for the dazzling event. A total of 1,022 cars are here on display. We count 174 new energy vehicles, including 124 made by Chinese companies.

Manufacturers are putting a major focus on electric cars for China, now the largest EV (Electric Vehicle) market in the world. Last year, over 777,000 EVs were sold in China, a year-on-year increase of 53 per cent. As a result of the strong growth in the industry, China has also seen a surge of start-up EV makers.

Visitors view a displayed concept car of Wey brand at the 2018 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition.

"Look at what has happened in China for this industry. It's really amazing. A lot of brands popped up," said Ding Qingfen, vice president of external affairs for Byton, a start-up EV company based in Nanjing China, "And look at the capital market. They are so crazy for the market." Byton is a new player with the ambition to take on large EV manufactures like Tesla. As China pushes for all-round opening up with import tariffs to be lowered on automobiles, expect to see more EV innovations competing for the attention of China's car owners.

Visitors view a displayed concept car of Byton brand at the 2018 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition

"China is more open. This is very good for us, which means more fierce competition and more quality products," Ding said.

The auto show will run until May 4.