NEWS

Xinhua News, Hefei, September 11 (Reporter Zhou Chang) — The 2024 International Ecological Rally Cup (China leg) and the 2024 Mount Huangshan International Ecological Car Rally will take place from September 26 to 30 in Anhui, marking the first time this prestigious event is held in China.

The "International Ecological Rally Cup" is a world-class competition organized by the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) specifically for new energy vehicles (NEVs). The event aims to promote the popularization and development of NEVs through competitive sports. This is the first time Anhui has hosted a NEV competition, with 40 race vehicles, all being domestically produced NEVs. Several brands, including Chery, NIO, JAC Motors, and Volkswagen, will showcase their vehicles during the event.

Qin Xu, deputy director of Anhui Sports Bureau, said, "This event’s first appearance in Asia, with China as the host and Anhui as the venue, is of great significance."

The competition will feature 80 drivers from China and abroad, with 20 international drivers who are past event winners. The five-stage race will cover a total distance of approximately 800 kilometers, linking the NEV industrial clusters in Hefei and Wuhu, and passing through scenic spots like Taohuatan in Xuancheng, Huangshan, Jiuhuashan in Chizhou, and Tianzhushan in Anqing.

“This event not only introduces a top international competition but also helps Anhui’s NEV brands enter the global market,” said Wan Heping, Honorary Vice President of the FIA. “Using sports events to promote cities has become a new lifestyle. This rally can further leverage sports to boost economic and social development and popularize NEV sports.”

Wang Yi, second-level inspector of Anhui Development and Reform Commission, highlighted that the vehicles participating in the event and support vehicles will be listed in the FIA’s international vehicle directory, allowing foreign drivers to directly use Chinese NEVs in future races. "Hosting the 'International Ecological Rally Cup' in Anhui not only recognizes the strength of Anhui’s automotive industry but also presents an important opportunity for promoting automotive culture and brand building."

During the competition, Anhui will host a series of events related to automotive culture, intangible cultural heritage experiences, and cultural performances, along with exhibitions and promotions featuring local specialties.

Shuo Haiwei, Deputy Director of the Anhui Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, said, “We will further promote the deep integration of sports, culture, and tourism, seeking to connect points within the sports and cultural tourism industry chain, and continue to strengthen the 'Travel with Events' brand.