By China.org.cn Staff reporter Wang Ke & Photographer Chen Boyuan

In modern society, the car has evolved from a mere transportation tool into an expression of the identity of its owner. And as car ownership spreads in China, auto customization has also begun to take root.

The 8th China International Custom Auto Expo (CICAE) opened today at the Beijing National Agricultural Exhibition Center. The show, organized by the China Association of Plant Engineering and YASN International Exhibition Company, attracted thousands of car fans despite the cold weather.

Safer, greener, more individual, more fashionable and more interactive, the 3-day Expo aims to introduce the delights of customization to a wide audience. Hundreds of renowned companies from home and abroad as well as more than 300 auto clubs will be represented at the Expo.

Ms. Hu Ping, head of Publicity for YASN International Exhibitions, told China.org.cn: “This is a great opportunity to boost the customization industry and promote customization culture, by providing a platform to showcase the style, energy and performance of customized cars.

In order to keep up to date with trends in the world market, CICA has invited experts from many countries with advanced auto customization industries, including the United States, Japan, New Zealand and Germany.