The commemorative event marking the 70th anniversary of the rollout of China's first automobile is held in Changchun, Jilin, on July 13. [Photo provided to gojilin.gov.cn]

A commemorative event marking the 70th anniversary of the rollout of China's first automobile was held in Changchun, Jilin province, on July 13, bringing together more than 20 leading Chinese automakers, including SAIC, Dongfeng, BYD, Xiaomi, NIO, Xpeng, Li Auto and SERES, to celebrate a landmark in the nation's automotive history.

On July 13, 1956, the first Jiefang CA10 truck rolled off the assembly line at China FAW, ending the era in which China was unable to manufacture automobiles independently. The achievement followed the founding of the First Automobile Works in Changchun in 1953.

Despite their limited experience and in the face of numerous technical challenges, thousands of builders completed the project in just three years, overcoming key hurdles in areas such as heat treatment and engine manufacturing.

Named Jiefang, meaning "Liberation", the truck became a symbol of China's industrial development, supporting major national projects.

Several of Hongqi's new production models are displayed during the ceremony. [Photo provided to gojilin.gov.cn]

Over the past seven decades, China FAW has evolved from a single truck manufacturer into a diversified automotive group with multiple vehicle brands. Today, the company is accelerating innovation in next-generation mobility.

During his speech at the ceremony, Qiu Xiandong, chairman of China FAW, said that throughout its long course of development, China's automotive industry has consistently followed a set of sound development principles: prioritizing technological innovation as a strategic driver, advancing reform and opening up, putting talent at the heart of development, and fulfilling its social responsibilities. He said these efforts have fostered an enduring entrepreneurial spirit defined by a commitment to serving the nation through industrial development, pursuing self-reliance and independent innovation, embracing openness and cooperation, striving for excellence, upholding craftsmanship, and promoting teamwork and shared success.

Qiu called on all automotive professionals in China to remain committed to serving the country's broader development goals, drive new breakthroughs through innovation and technological leadership, and carry forward the industry's proud traditions to achieve even greater success.