A delegation of more than 30 young Singaporeans toured leading enterprises and industrial parks in Shanghai's Jiading district on March 31, exploring cutting-edge technologies such as new energy cars and autonomous driving.

This visit coincides with the 35th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Singapore, marking a significant milestone in the longstanding partnership between the two nations.

Zhai Zihan, chairman of the Singapore China Association Youth Chapter, highlighted the numerous collaborative programs that have been established between China and Singapore over the years.

He emphasized the growing communication and cooperation between Shanghai and Singapore across various sectors including finance, technological innovation, people-to-people exchanges, and cultural exchanges, underscoring the importance of fostering dialogue and enhancing cooperation, particularly among young people.

For the Singaporean delegation, Shanghai represents an international beacon of openness, inclusiveness, and innovation.

Gai Yicheng, a member of the Singapore China Association Youth Chapter, praised Shanghai as an incubator for innovation and a gateway to exploring China’s emerging industries.

During their visit to the delivery center of Chinese electric carmaker Nio, the delegation had the opportunity to witness firsthand the swift process of battery changing for electric vehicles.

"Changing the battery takes just a few minutes – something I’d never have imagined," said Gai, adding that he was most impressed by the human-centered design of the operation.

Cai Jiayi, a junior student from Singapore Polytechnic studying green-energy-related subjects,  lauded Nio's cutting-edge battery technology, from its self-developed chips to the charging efficiency of its products, recognizing the company as a frontrunner in the industry and foreseeing its potential to excel in the Singaporean market.

In addition to the Nio base, the young Singaporeans also visited Shanghai Intelligent Automobile Software Park and Baidu’s Apollo Park, where they experienced autonomous driving. They were particularly impressed by the quick response of the intelligent system.

"I think Shanghai is very accepting in terms of technological innovation," said Lu Quanfang, a senior student at Singapore Management University’s school of computing and information systems.

The rapid development and innovative advances of emerging industries such as autonomous driving in China, especially Shanghai, are way ahead of most other countries, she said.

She underlined the importance of the green transition of the automotive industry, saying that she is interested in seeing future trends.

The achievements are about more than new technologies — they are about teamwork and turning research results into actual products, Lu added.

Looking ahead, the young Singaporean expressed hope for expanded cooperation between Shanghai and Singapore, particularly in knowledge sharing and discussions among young individuals from both sides.

By fostering friendships and deepening their understanding of the green energy industry, they aim to contribute to the mutual growth and development of both nations.