Classic brands left behind by new players

Chinese startups ahead of the competition and winning over consumers, says study

Smart functions, ranging from digital keys to gesture control, are becoming increasingly important factors for car buyers in China, according to a J.D. Power China survey.

The finding helps explain the surging popularity of local Chinese electric car startups, which are quicker to introduce new technologies into their models.

"The intelligent vehicle-related field has been the most important battlefield for more and more automakers," said Elvis Yang, general manager of auto product practice at J.D. Power China.