A lead designer from a Chinese automaker shared with Automotive Business Review that concept cars at previous auto shows mainly served to highlight future design trends. Now, however, they are expected to be feasible for mass production. This change was especially noticeable at the 2026 Chengdu Auto Show, where multiple concept cars clearly outlined their paths to mass production. For example, Nissan stated that two plug-in hybrid SUV concept cars would reach mass production within a year. Zeekr brought to life the "Xuanjia Thunder Racing Car," a design created by a 6-year-old, and Avatr announced that design features from its VISION XPECTRA concept car would be incorporated into production models by 2027. This strategic pivot by automakers mirrors broader industry shifts: as price wars subside, concept cars are evolving from mere "showpieces" to "strategic teasers," allowing for swift realization through precise designs to gain an edge in the new energy and smart vehicle markets.