17th Shanghai Auto Culture Festival set to kick off

The 17th Shanghai Auto Culture Festival set to kick off in Shanghai’s Jiading district from March 21 to April 25, aligning with the Formula 1 Chinese Grand Prix.

Organized under the guidance of the Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism, and co-hosted by the Jiading District People’s Government and Tongji University, with support from Shanghai Jiushi (Group) Co Ltd., the festival aims to use the 75th anniversary of the F1 Grand Prix as an opportunity to promote Shanghai’s automotive culture on a global scale.

The event will consist of 25 activities categorized into four themes: the opening ceremony, “World Speed”, “Shanghai Window”, and “Jiading Highlights”. These sections will integrate motorsports, exhibitions, cultural showcases, and lifestyle experiences, offering a diverse automotive celebration.

The opening ceremony will take place on March 23 at the Shanghai International Circuit, coinciding with the commencement of the F1 Chinese Grand Prix.

The “World Speed” segment will highlight motorsports events, including the 2025 China Karting Championship Shanghai Station and the 2025 CTCC China Touring Car Championship. The “Shanghai Window” section will host themed events like the Checkered Flag Carnival, while “Jiading Highlights” will present exhibitions on Shanghai’s historical and cultural connection with automobiles.

According to Yang Yibin, chairman of Shanghai Juss Sports Development Group, the F1 Chinese Grand Prix weekend from March 21 to 23 will not only deliver exhilarating racing action but will also feature the F1 Academy race for the first time in China.

The F1 Academy, launched in 2023, is dedicated to female drivers, and this year’s festival will showcase China’s first F1 Academy female driver, Shi Wei, in her debut race in Shanghai.

Yang also mentioned that the Checkered Flag Carnival, a key event linked to the F1 race in China, will be held over eight days at both the Shanghai International Circuit Water Plaza and the International Cruise Terminal in Hongkou district, creating an immersive experience with dual-location viewing and interactive city events.

“At this venue, racing fans can watch live broadcasts of the F1 races from Australia and China, while enjoying a mix of entertainment, gourmet food, and exclusive merchandise shopping,” Yang explained.

Shao Gang, director of Anting town, Jiading district, introduced an innovative giant car model at Water Plaza, featuring interactive wheel hub screens for real-time engagement. The model’s interior includes a multi-purpose leisure area, offering experiences such as music clubs, 3D visual shows, and AR racing, reflecting advancements in smart car interiors.

The festival also extends the F1 experience beyond the circuit by integrating it with commercial areas, shopping fairs, car sales promotions, and online shopping events. Attendees can benefit from lucky draws, giveaways, and pop-up stores, boosting consumer engagement.

Chen Ye, director of Jiading district’s commerce commission, stated that initiatives like auto-show subsidies, free parking, and Volkswagen loyalty rewards are planned to encourage greater participation in the festival.

Wang Chao, deputy director of Jiading district, highlighted Jiading’s importance as China’s automotive hub, emphasizing its role as a center for motorsports, car culture, and technological innovation.

“We are committed to strengthening the ‘Auto Jiading’ brand, enhancing its global reputation, and positioning Jiading as a key player on the international stage,” Wang said.