Chongqing - While famous on global social media as a “cyberpunk city” for its vertical architecture, Chongqing revealed deeper dimensions to a delegation of students from over 20 U.S. universities during a technology and culture tour on April 10.

Chongqing is a hub of China's auto industry. In 2025, the city’s vehicle production reached 2.788 million, reclaiming its position as China’s top auto-producing city and underscoring its central role in the national industrial chain.

During the tour, the delegation visited a SERES super factory in Chongqing Liangjiang New Area, where they got a firsthand look at the city’s rapidly evolving new energy vehicle sector. The students explored AITO vehicles, experienced their smart features, and observed the factory’s advanced production lines in action.

SERES, one of Chongqing’s leading automakers, manufactures AITO vehicles in partnership with Huawei. Its flagship model, the AITO 9, has consistently ranked as the top seller in China’s luxury vehicle segment priced above 500,000 yuan (about 73,228 U.S. dollars).

On April 10, American youth students visited the Seres factory. (Photo/Seres)

Before entering the factory, students had a chance to sit inside AITO vehicles and try out a range of intelligent features through the central touchscreen system. Inside the plant, they were struck by the highly automated production lines and the sophistication of the manufacturing process.

After the visit, student Aliya Ruffin described the vehicles as innovative and futuristic, saying she was especially impressed by the touchscreen interface and the design of the door controls. She also praised the factory’s efficient use of robotics and the strong coordination among workers on the production floor.

"I previously only knew about the architecture and 'cyberpunk' labels; I didn't realize there was such a booming auto industry here," she admitted. "Not just in this factory—even the cars on the street feel futuristic. This contrast is both fascinating and striking."

Beyond its modern automotive industry, Chongqing boasts a profound historical heritage. The delegation also toured the Chongqing China Three Gorges Museum to explore the city's ancient past.

American youth students visited the Three Gorges Museum to learn about Chongqing's history. (Photo/Shared Journey for Youth Brighter Future in Chongqing event)

Inside the museum, the delegation examined various artifacts, including ancient bronze kettles, swords, and stone carvings, gaining firsthand experience with China's historical relics.

A student, Aaron Kirk, was struck by the extensive collection. "It’s really neat to see how people have been living in this area for so long and have gone through such technological and cultural changes," he remarked.

He added that such face-to-face cultural exchanges are significant for breaking down cognitive barriers and fostering a genuine understanding of Chinese history among American youth.

The journey concluded with a night cruise, allowing the students to experience Chongqing's night view in person—a sight they had previously only seen in short videos. On the river, they admired the dazzling lights and the city's unique architectural landscape at the confluence of the two rivers.

A student, Irene, noted that the physical experience far surpassed the impact of social media: "The lights reflecting on the river are as beautiful as a waterfall. Seeing it in person engages all your senses. It’s a wonderful experience that videos simply cannot capture, and I highly suggest everyone comes to see it for themselves."