JD.com crosses into car manufacturing, partnering with industry giants GAC Group and CATL to create a “national people’s car.”
On October 14, during the 2025 JD 11.11 Surprise Open Day, JD.com officially announced its collaboration with Contemporary Amperex Technology Limited (CATL) and GAC Group to jointly develop a high-quality new energy vehicle aimed at mainstream consumers.
According to the announcement, JD’s “National People’s Car” will begin internal testing and public test drives at the end of October, with an official launch on November 9, exclusively available for purchase on JD’s platform. The company says the car will be built to global standards and designed to “truly meet the needs of users.” Key details such as the model type, technology route (whether plug-in hybrid, extended range, or pure electric), and specifications will be revealed during the Double 11 (Singles’ Day) shopping festival, serving as both a product unveiling and a marketing buildup for the major annual event.
In this three-way partnership, JD.com will leverage its data analytics and supply chain network, integrating its digital ecosystem with CATL’s expertise in battery technology and battery-swapping infrastructure. Together, the three companies aim to promote a fully intelligent upgrade across the entire automotive value chain—from manufacturing to user experience—allowing customers to enjoy a “buying a car is as easy as buying a phone” one-stop shopping experience.
The JD app already features a dedicated activity page, where users can submit their preferences for vehicle design, price range, and configurations. In addition to a standard version, buyers will also be able to customize their cars with flexible option packages, reflecting a new trend of personalized vehicle purchasing.
In China’s fiercely competitive new energy vehicle market, JD.com’s entry marks another significant cross-industry move. Companies like Xiaomi and Huawei have already set precedents: Xiaomi entered the auto industry in 2021 and launched the SU7 in 2024, quickly gaining market traction through its strength in smart technology; Huawei, meanwhile, has empowered automakers like Seres, Chery, BAIC, JAC, and SAIC through collaboration models that blend tech with manufacturing.
Now, with JD.com joining forces with GAC and CATL, this partnership could bring a new model of innovation and consumer engagement to China’s NEV industry—combining cutting-edge technology, flexible customization, and e-commerce efficiency to redefine what a “national car” can be.
