Photos: Auto Shanghai showcases world's latest EVs

The world's largest auto industry expo opens its doors Wednesday in Shanghai, showcasing the new electric world order even as mounting trade barriers risk dampening China's global ambitions.

With nearly 1,000 exhibitors present, foreign carmakers are raring to show they can keep pace with the ultra-competitive Chinese firms that dominate the sector's electric frontier.

Beijing's historic backing of EV and hybrid development has seen the domestic market flourish, with analysts considering it younger-leaning and more open to novelty.

It is the world's biggest, still growing while other major markets see declines.

Auto Shanghai, which runs until May 2, will see a flurry of launches for electric, high-tech new models - luxury SUVs, saloons and multi-purpose vehicles.