Category: EV vehicles

  • BYD Introduces Hiace 07 Electric SUV: Fast Charging, Voice Control

    BYD Introduces Hiace 07 Electric SUV: Fast Charging, Voice Control

    BYD has introduced the Hiace 07 EV, an electric SUV packed with features that runs on their latest e-platform 3.0 Evo. This platform ensures a dynamic and efficient driving experience. The design of the Hiace 07 EV is sleek and resembles a coupe, drawing inspiration from BYD's Ocean Network family. Inside, it offers a roomy interior with generous storage space and a distinctive dual-state LED logo at the back.

    Technological Advancements

    The company is set to roll out a specialized charging service accessible through their mobile app. Technological innovation takes center stage within the vehicle, featuring a HUD display, crystal gear lever, and a premium sound system. Standard offerings include in-vehicle toll collection, smartphone integration, and voice command functionality for over 1,000 car operations. Comfort is a key consideration with features like ventilated/heated seats and a magnetic charging microphone for voice control.

    Safety and Powertrain Options

    BYD is introducing a dedicated charging service through their Haiyang App to streamline the charging process. Safety is paramount, with the inclusion of 11 airbags, advanced driver-assistance technologies (planned for future integration), and a direct tire pressure monitoring system. The Hiace 07 EV is available in three powertrain configurations, with two-wheel drive models offering 230kW or 170kW motors. The four-wheel drive variant boasts a total power output of 390kW. With a high-performance motor, it can achieve a top speed of 225km/h. The single-motor model provides a range choice between 550km and 610km, while the dual-motor version offers a 550km range. Additionally, the Hiace 07 EV incorporates fast-charging technology that maximizes the capacity of most public DC charging stations. With its attractive design, tech-rich interior, and impressive range, the BYD Hiace 07 EV emerges as a competitive option in the electric SUV segment.

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  • Xiaomi SU7 Car Breaks Down After 39 Km Drive

    Xiaomi SU7 Car Breaks Down After 39 Km Drive

    Mr. Wen, an owner of the Xiaomi SU7 EV, recently shared a video revealing that his vehicle experienced a breakdown after just 39 kilometers of travel. He had to have the car towed back to the delivery center for inspection. Despite an initial check revealing no issues, after-sales staff offered to manage the return process, but Mr. Wen insisted on a vehicle exchange.

    User’s Request for Replacement

    Mr. Wen had purchased the standard version of the Xiaomi SU7 at the Xiaomi Auto Delivery Center in Xiang’an, Xiamen City. This incident triggered discussions about the reliability of the new car among enthusiasts and consumers alike.

    After-Sales Response and Resolution

    Conversations between Mr. Wen and the after-sales service, including a plea for a new vehicle rather than a return, were shared by the user. The after-sales team highlighted the necessity of sending the car back to the factory for a thorough analysis to determine the cause of the breakdown. They mentioned that immediate repairs were not feasible due to this need for further investigation.

    The after-sales team assured Mr. Wen that the car would be returned to him post a detailed inspection, emphasizing their commitment to ensuring the quality of their vehicles. They acknowledged and apologized for the dissatisfaction caused by his car purchasing experience.

    Agreement for Replacement

    Despite the company’s focus on diagnosing the breakdown issue and improving their cars, Mr. Wen persisted in requesting a replacement. Following an internal review, the Xiaomi after-sales team agreed to provide a replacement under the original order number. However, they mentioned that due to a high volume of orders, the delivery of the replacement may not be immediate.

    While the company works on identifying the cause of the breakdown, they are unable to instantly offer a substitute due to the current demand for their vehicles. To compensate Mr. Wen during the waiting period for the new car, the company agreed to provide transportation rights compensation of 150 yuan in cash or equivalent points per day.

    Xiaomi SU7 Car Breaks Down After 39 Km Drive
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  • BYD Shark Electric Pickup Truck to Premiere in Mexico on May 14

    BYD Shark Electric Pickup Truck to Premiere in Mexico on May 14

    Chinese electric vehicle giant BYD is gearing up to introduce its latest creation, the Shark electric pickup truck, on a global platform in Mexico next week. This marks a significant milestone as the Shark represents BYD’s inaugural foray into the realm of electric pickup trucks beyond China. The official global unveiling is set for May 14, as indicated by a teaser poster released by the company.

    BYD’s Global Entry into the Pickup Truck Market

    BYD has positioned the Shark as a pioneering vehicle that signals the dawn of a new era for energy-efficient pickup trucks worldwide. With a strategic focus on international markets, the Shark’s debut in Mexico signifies BYD’s intent to expand its footprint beyond its domestic borders. This move follows a series of successful passenger car launches by the brand, reflecting a deliberate shift towards catering to the specific demands of the pickup truck segment.

    The BYD Shark distinguishes itself as a mid-to-large-sized model, surpassing the dimensions of popular counterparts like the Toyota Hilux. Constructed on the BYD dual-mode offroad (DMO) platform, which was first introduced during the Fang Cheng Bao lineup launch in August 2023, the Shark embodies BYD’s commitment to innovation and cutting-edge technology. In a market witnessing a surge in demand for electric pickup trucks, exemplified by Geely’s introduction of the Radar RD6 in 2022, BYD’s entry into this space further validates the growing interest in eco-friendly utility vehicles. The Radar RD6, designed for rugged off-road terrains, has seen promising sales figures since its initial rollout in November 2022, with recent expansions into markets like Laos.

    Future Outlook and Anticipation

    As of now, BYD has refrained from disclosing pricing details for the BYD Shark electric pickup truck. Additionally, the exact release date remains shrouded in mystery, heightening anticipation and speculation among enthusiasts and industry observers alike. With the upcoming May 14 launch event drawing near, all eyes are on BYD as it prepares to showcase its latest innovation to a global audience.

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  • Strong NEV Sales Boost BYD in April – Continued Growth Anticipated

    Strong NEV Sales Boost BYD in April – Continued Growth Anticipated

    BYD had a remarkable performance in April 2024, as the company reported robust sales figures. They managed to sell an impressive 313,245 new energy vehicles (NEVs) last month, marking a substantial year-on-year growth of 48.96%. This brings their total NEV sales for 2024 to 939,508 units, showing a healthy year-on-year increase of 23.24%. In addition, BYD’s overseas NEV sales also showed strength in April, reaching 41,011 units.

    BYD’s Strong Sales Performance

    BYD’s performance in April 2024 continued to impress with significant year-on-year growth in NEV sales and a notable increase in overseas sales.

    The company is also ramping up its battery production, with their total installed capacity for new energy vehicle power batteries and energy storage batteries reaching around 12.559GWh in April. This has contributed to a total capacity of 42.295GWh for 2024 so far.

    Other Automakers’ Positive Results

    In the same period, Geely Automobile witnessed positive outcomes, selling 153,267 vehicles in April, showing a year-on-year increase of 39%. SAIC Group also achieved strong sales, selling 285,000 NEVs from January to April, marking a year-on-year increase of over 35%. GAC Aion reached global sales of 28,113 units in April.

    BYD continues to lead the Chinese EV market, with other emerging Chinese automakers also making significant sales strides. Hongmeng Zhixing maintained its position as a top performer among new Chinese players by delivering 29,632 vehicles in April. Leapmotor experienced substantial growth with 15,005 delivered vehicles, reflecting a notable year-on-year increase of 72%. Li Auto delivered 25,787 vehicles in April, with a slight year-on-year increase of 0.4%, while Ji Krypton saw significant growth, delivering 16,089 vehicles in April, marking a 99% year-on-year increase. Xpeng Motors also delivered 9,393 vehicles, showing a year-on-year increase of 33%.

    Established automakers with a presence in the NEV market, such as SAIC-GM, also saw positive results. SAIC-GM delivered 8,762 NEVs in April, displaying a substantial year-on-year increase of 93.1%.

    New Entrants and Steady Growth

    New entrants like Xiaomi showed promising initial sales, with the Xiaomi SU7 delivering 7,058 units since its launch on April 3rd. Lantu Auto maintained steady growth, delivering 4,003 vehicles in April, demonstrating a year-on-year increase of 20%. Their year-to-date delivery volume reached 20,348 vehicles, reflecting a similar year-on-year increase of 20%.

    Strong NEV Sales Boost BYD in April - Continued Growth Anticipated
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  • China Targets 60 Million EV Sales by 2030, Industry Dominance

    China Targets 60 Million EV Sales by 2030, Industry Dominance

    China's automotive sector has achieved a significant milestone in 2023 by surpassing 30 million units in both production and sales, marking a historic moment for the industry. This achievement cements China's status as the primary global auto market and sets the stage for further supremacy in the electric vehicle (EV) segment.

    China Surpasses 30 Million Auto Sales in 2023

    Industry analysts are optimistic about the future of China's EV industry, projecting a remarkable 60% share of the global market by 2030. This estimate translates to an anticipated annual sales volume of 60 million EVs, a substantial increase from the current worldwide figures.

    Factors Driving China's EV Success

    Several factors contribute to this positive outlook. China already commands a significant 32% share of the global automobile market and over 60% of the global EV market. Moreover, the transition to EVs presents a strategic opportunity for China to excel. While traditional automakers from Europe, America, and Japan historically dominated the sector with their expertise in internal combustion engine technology, the emergence of EVs has leveled the playing field. China has swiftly developed its capabilities in crucial EV components like batteries, motors, and electronic controls.

    China's Position in the Global EV Market

    China's success in the EV market can be attributed to various factors, including government incentives such as subsidies and infrastructure support, a large domestic market with a growing middle class, and the rise of indigenous EV technology challenging established players. This combination has propelled China to the forefront of the global EV market, positioning it as a key player in the industry's future.

    The automotive industry's future is increasingly electric-focused, and China is well-prepared to leverage this shift. With ambitious objectives, technological advancements, and supportive government policies, China's auto market is set to maintain its dominance in the coming years.

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  • China to Witness Flying Cars as Xpeng’s AeroHT

    China to Witness Flying Cars as Xpeng’s AeroHT

    Chinese electric vehicle giants Xpeng and its affiliate AeroHT are venturing into the flying car industry, aiming to revolutionize city transportation. AeroHT, a subsidiary of Xpeng, has been diligently crafting its flying car for ten years, with recent successful low-altitude flight trials in Guangzhou's bustling central business district showcasing its advancements.

    AeroHT's Innovations and Progress

    AeroHT is on the brink of obtaining airworthiness certification for its groundbreaking flying car, a significant milestone in urban air technology. The company's CEO, He Xiaopeng, emphasized the transformative potential of low-altitude air travel during his presentation at Auto China 2024, emphasizing its profound impact on everyday urban living.

    The Future of Urban Mobility

    The upcoming AeroHT flying car, scheduled to open pre-orders in the fourth quarter of this year, boasts a dual-mode electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) vehicle that smoothly transitions between ground and air travel. Although specific launch dates and pricing details are yet to be revealed, industry insiders estimate a price range of approximately 1 million yuan ($138,000), with plans for future cost reductions.

    Xpeng's endeavors extend beyond flying cars, with its robotics division dedicated to developing robots for household chores and human interaction. This diversified approach underscores Xpeng's dedication to innovation across different sectors, cementing its position as a trailblazer in cutting-edge technologies.

    Shaping the Future of Transportation

    Chinese companies like Xpeng and AeroHT are at the forefront of globally commercializing flying cars, capitalizing on China's unparalleled expertise in electric vehicle technologies. With the Civil Aviation Administration of China evaluating type certification for AeroHT's eVTOL vehicle and Xpeng preparing for pre-orders, a transformative shift in urban mobility appears imminent.

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  • Hyundai, Kia, Baidu Partner for Connected Car Tech in China

    Hyundai, Kia, Baidu Partner for Connected Car Tech in China

    In a strategic move to advance connected car technology, Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation have signed an agreement with Baidu Inc., a prominent Chinese tech giant. This partnership marks a significant milestone in the development of cutting-edge automotive technologies.

    Collaboration for Innovation

    The signing ceremony, hosted at the esteemed Yosemite Hotel in Beijing, China, brought together key representatives from all parties involved. Figures such as Song Chang-hyun, Head of Hyundai and Kia's Advanced Vehicle Platforms (AVP), and Wang Yunpeng, Head of Baidu IDG and Vice President of Baidu Group, were present to formalize this collaboration.

    Driving the Future of Connected Cars

    The main goal of this partnership is to drive innovation in the connected car market, particularly within China's rapidly expanding automotive industry. By joining forces, Hyundai, Kia, and Baidu aspire not only to meet but to surpass consumer expectations by offering unparalleled value through technological enhancements.

    Advancing Automotive Technologies

    This agreement will leverage Baidu’s Smart Cloud to develop solutions that adhere to China’s stringent data regulations. Additionally, the collaboration will explore areas such as connectivity, autonomous driving, intelligent transportation systems, and cloud computing, setting the stage for a new wave of mobility solutions.

    This partnership signifies a strategic alignment between Hyundai Motor Group’s SDx software strategy and Baidu’s expertise in connectivity, AI, autonomous driving, and search technologies. Building upon their successful collaboration since 2014, Hyundai, Kia, and Baidu have jointly developed various connectivity systems like navigation, voice recognition, and smart content services.

    Hyundai and Kia have jointly expressed their dedication to creating a robust ecosystem for connected cars in the Chinese market, emphasizing their commitment to driving innovation and meeting the evolving needs of consumers. With China’s connected vehicle market poised for rapid growth, this collaboration is expected to drive substantial progress in the automotive sector, shaping the future of mobility in China and worldwide.

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  • Huawei-BAIC Stelato S9 EV Premieres at Beijing Motor Show

    Huawei-BAIC Stelato S9 EV Premieres at Beijing Motor Show

    Huawei and BAIC have joined forces to introduce the Stelato S9 under the Stelato EV brand at the Beijing Motor Show. This luxury electric vehicle follows the Aito M9, a previous creation backed by Huawei and developed by Aito, showcasing the commitment of the companies to innovation.

    Joint Venture for Innovation

    The Stelato S9 is a product of the collaboration between Huawei and BAIC BluePark, the electric vehicle division of the Beijing Automotive Group. This sleek EV is designed to cater to the premium market segment, offering a luxurious driving experience comparable to renowned models like the Mercedes S-Class, Audi A8L, and BMW 7 Series.

    Impressive Features and Specifications

    Featuring a spacious cabin with 3,460mm of usable room for enhanced comfort, the Stelato S9 comes in two versions: a single rear motor with 227kW output and a dual-motor option with an additional 158kW front motor. The dual-motor variant’s total power output, estimated to potentially reach 385kW, promises impressive performance on the road.

    Cutting-Edge Design and Technology

    With digital rear mirrors, 21-inch multi-spoke wheels, and dimensions measuring 5,160 x 1,987 x 1,486 mm, the Stelato S9 boasts a sleek and modern design. Powered by advanced Li-ion battery technologies developed by CATL, including Li-ion ternary and Li-ion ternary + lithium iron manganese phosphate, this EV is expected to offer a competitive range as a premium model.

    Pricing and Market Availability

    The anticipated launch of the Huawei-BAIC Bluepark Stelato S9 EV in China is set for July or August 2024, with an estimated starting price ranging between 300,000 yuan ($41,400) and 500,000 yuan ($69,000). While the model’s availability in other markets remains uncertain, its introduction in China signifies a significant step in the advancement of electric vehicle technology and luxury offerings.

    Huawei-BAIC Stelato S9 EV Premieres at Beijing Motor Show
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  • Nio ET7 2024 Model Launches with 180+ Upgrades

    Nio ET7 2024 Model Launches with 180+ Upgrades

    The Beijing Auto Show has recently showcased a range of new electric vehicles from different manufacturers. One notable introduction is the 2024 Nio ET7, an electric sedan that represents an update to the entire 2023 Nio ET7 lineup. Despite featuring 180 upgrades, the new lineup maintains the same initial price as its predecessor.

    Evolution of Nio ET7

    The original Nio ET7 made its debut in 2021 at the Nio Day 2020 event. Deliveries of the model commenced in March 2022, marking the first Nio vehicle built on the NT 2.0 platform. In April 2023, the 2023 Nio ET7 was unveiled at the Shanghai auto show with an initial price of 458,000 yuan ($63,204). Subsequently, Nio reduced the price by 30,000 yuan ($4,140) and introduced a paid option for a free battery swap service package. The ET7 has proven popular in the Chinese market, with over 30,000 units already sold.

    Upgrades and Variants

    The 2024 ET7 now offers two variants – Executive and Executive Signature, a shift from the standard and Signature Editions of its predecessor. The 2023 Nio ET7 featured a 100kWh battery pack, providing considerable range for the electric vehicle. The new model’s Signature Edition offers a choice between 75kWh and 100kWh battery packs.

    Pricing & Availability

    The latest iteration of the Nio ET7 starts at 458,000 yuan ($63,204) for the standard range Executive Signature Edition, while the long-range version is priced at 516,000 yuan ($71,208). The long-range model commands a 10,000 yuan ($1,380) premium compared to its 2023 counterpart, positioning it as the top-trim model in the lineup. Orders for the 2024 ET7 are now being accepted, with deliveries scheduled to commence on April 30. Interested customers can already test drive show cars.

    Nio ET7 2024 Model Launches with 180+ Upgrades
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  • Toyota Previews bZ3C and bZ3X Electric SUVs at Beijing Auto Show

    Toyota Previews bZ3C and bZ3X Electric SUVs at Beijing Auto Show

    Toyota has recently revealed its bZ3C and bZ3X electric SUVs at the Beijing Automotive Show, targeting younger drivers and families. These new EVs are set to make their debut in China, with Toyota sharing some essential specifications for both models. Last year, Toyota introduced these vehicles as concepts at the Auto Shanghai Exhibition, under the names bZ Sport Cross Concept (now bZ3C) and bZ FlexSpace Concept (now bZ3X). The bZ3C caters to Gen Z drivers, while the bZ3X is family-centric.

    Collaborative Development

    Toyota collaborated with BYD Toyota EV Technology, FAW, and Toyota’s Intelligent ElectroMobility (IEM) R&D Center Team to develop the bZ3C. The bZ3X, on the other hand, was a joint effort involving Toyota, the GAC Group, GAC Toyota, and IEM.

    Features and Design

    The bZ3X, being the larger of the two EVs, offers a more spacious cabin. Both SUVs boast a panoramic sunroof, digital dashboard, large infotainment screen, and wireless charging pads for convenient mobile device charging on the move.

    Toyota has hinted at advanced driver-assistance technology within the bZ3C and bZ3X but has not disclosed specifics regarding drivetrains and other key parameters. While an official launch date remains undisclosed, indications suggest a forthcoming release.

    Availability and Pricing

    Details regarding the pricing of the new Toyota EVs have not been made public. While initially designed for the Chinese market, it is uncertain whether these models will also be accessible in selected markets beyond China.

    Toyota Previews bZ3C and bZ3X Electric SUVs at Beijing Auto Show
    Toyota Previews bZ3C and bZ3X Electric SUVs at Beijing Auto Show
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