BEIJING – A content creator from North Carolina is offering international tourists an exclusive glimpse into China’s advanced automotive technology that remains unavailable to American consumers.
Ethan Robertson, 34, led a group of visitors from Australia, New Zealand, the United Arab Emirates and other countries through the Beijing Auto Show, which kicked off Friday. The tour showcased expansive exhibition floors filled with electric SUVs, pickup trucks and cutting-edge concept vehicles that highlight China’s growing influence in the global automotive market.
Robertson co-founded Wheelsboy, a YouTube channel focused on Chinese automotive content for English-speaking viewers. Tour participants were immediately struck by three key features: affordable pricing, sophisticated technology, and extensive vehicle options.
During a stop at one display, Robertson demonstrated a premium electric SUV from Leapmotor, backed by Stellantis, featuring expansive screens and a rear-seat refrigerator.
“You’re looking at a car that’s maybe $30,000 and that car is fully equipped,” he explained. “Whereas $30,000 barely gets you into any electric vehicle or hybrid” in the United States.
The dramatic price gap explains why Robertson’s predominantly American viewership responds with both amazement and disappointment.
“Our comment section is full of people saying things like, ‘I can’t believe the government won’t allow them to sell this car in my country,’” Robertson shared with Reuters.
John Cordell, a 77-year-old retired heating and ventilation engineer from New Zealand, was particularly drawn to a bright yellow Deepal S07 midsize crossover during the tour.
“First of all, I was attracted to the color,” Cordell noted. However, the vehicle’s appeal extended beyond aesthetics. He highlighted the cabin design, heads-up display technology, screen interfaces, and comprehensive camera systems.
Cordell participated in the two-day experience, priced at $399 per person, alongside his brother-in-law and son. He currently drives a Chinese-made BYD Atto 3 electric vehicle in New Zealand and emphasized technology as a key attraction. “Everything is very well engineered,” he observed.
Andrew Pertsoulis, a 62-year-old former performance coach from Sydney, was most impressed by the futuristic cabin environments. “It’s what separates them,” he said, describing how the large displays and technology-rich interiors made him feel like he had “stepped into a new generation of vehicle.”
Robertson, who currently resides in China, noted that American viewers’ attitudes toward Chinese automobiles have evolved significantly during his six years covering the sector. Initial perceptions of poor quality and imitation designs have shifted toward recognition that many manufacturers are now leading innovation in battery technology, software development, and charging capabilities.
Robertson, who began learning Chinese during his undergraduate studies, occasionally faces accusations of corporate or government sponsorship due to his channel’s positive coverage. His YouTube platform has attracted 210,000 subscribers, though he maintains independence from both commercial and political interests.
Growing numbers of Americans are developing interest in China’s automotive sector. Lei Xing, American co-host of the China EVs & More podcast, acknowledges the industry’s complexity with over 100 manufacturers. “I get lost,” Lei admitted.
While Lei doesn’t anticipate rapid entry of Chinese brands into the U.S. market due to current political tensions, he believes these vehicles will eventually reach American consumers. “It’s a matter of time,” Lei predicted. “I know in my life I’m going to be able to buy a Chinese EV.”
