Few global automakers, scrambling to secure tight microchip supplies for assembly plants back home, have bothered to provide an update on how the chip shortfall has impacted their China production so far this year.

Despite high operational costs, battery swapping has gained traction in China with the participation of a diverse range of domestic companies. 

When the tight supply of semiconductors started to dent auto production in China late last year, it was generally seen as a temporary problem. Now nearly six months into 2021, the threat posed by chronic chip shortages to the Chinese auto industry looms large. 

Xiaomi, the major smartphone maker, went public this week with bold plans to develop intelligent electric vehicles. A late entrant to the EV sector, Xiaomi has the potential to develop into a force that few other players could ignore.