Category: EV vehicles

March 18, 2025
Tesla Model Y: 0% APR Financing & Price Hike in China
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla is moving away from frequent price changes and “price wars,” aiming for stable pricing for the Model Y.
2. The new Model Y is considered to offer “exceptional value for money” at its current price.
3. Tesla has recently increased the price of the AWD Model Y in China for the first time, indicating a shift in strategy.
4. To support the sales of the RWD Model Y, Tesla is offering a 0% APR financing option and a free FSD trial.
5. The company is balancing sales by raising prices on higher-demand models while promoting financing and insurance offers for popular trims.
Tesla might be changing its approach to pricing for the Model Y, according to its Country Director for Australia and New Zealand, who mentioned that the company will “not engage in price wars” anymore.
Thom Drew remarked, “We have a reputation for quickly adjusting our prices in the past years,” but he believes they have found a solid pricing point now. The new Model Y is seen as “exceptional value for money” at its current price.
Price Changes in Recent Years
It’s an understatement to say Tesla’s pricing has seen drastic fluctuations over the last few years, with some prices plummeting by over a third. This has led to feelings of regret among those who purchased during the highest pricing periods.
The era of price cuts might be behind Tesla, as evidenced by the recent increase in the price of the AWD Model Y in China—its first launch market—by around $1,380 rather than a decrease.
Current Pricing Details
This price increase applies only to the dual-motor non-Launch Series edition available since February 26th, while the lowest-priced RWD Model Y refresh remains at $36,430. Interestingly, Tesla typically sells about 80% of its RWD Model Y units in that market. The price hike for the more expensive version is surprising, especially since it already has longer delivery times ranging from 6 to 10 weeks compared to the RWD Model Y.
To boost sales for the new Model Y RWD in China, which may not be performing as expected, Tesla has introduced a 0% APR financing option for the base trim, which has a quicker lead time of only 2 to 4 weeks. This is the very first 0% APR offer for the 2026 Juniper facelift and is available for orders placed by April 30.
Sales Strategy Insights
By raising the price of the higher-demand AWD Model Y and offering 0% APR financing for the popular RWD trim, Tesla may be trying to balance their sales figures in line with their initial production capacity planning.
Besides the financing offer for a term of 36 months, Tesla is also providing a free FSD trial with each purchase and running a subsidized insurance promotion, indicating their commitment to the crucial Chinese market.
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Tags: Model Y, price strategy, Tesla
March 18, 2025
Zeekr Takes on Tesla’s FSD in China with Free Driver Assistance
Key Takeaways
1. Zeekr launches a free version of its Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) to compete with Tesla’s paid Full Self-Driving feature.
2. The current system allows drivers to almost fully relinquish control but requires hands on the wheel until regulatory approval is obtained.
3. Zeekr’s technology utilizes two Nvidia Orin X chipsets and one lidar unit, with plans to introduce more advanced chips in the future.
4. The free ADAS version will be tested by a select group before a broader release in April, with no subscription fees during development.
5. Tesla is developing its own ADAS without lidar but offers a free one-month trial of its Full Self-Driving feature in China.
Zeekr may not be as well-known globally as Tesla, but it’s showing that it can hold its own in the market. The Chinese car manufacturer has made a bold move against Tesla’s paid Full Self-Driving (FSD) feature by launching a free version of its Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS).
Advanced Driving Features
Zeekr’s technology enables drivers to almost completely relinquish control of the vehicle on designated routes. However, for now, users must keep their hands on the wheel, similar to the requirements set by Tesla, as the company is still waiting for official regulatory approval.
The system uses two Nvidia Orin X chipsets along with one lidar unit. In the future, Zeekr plans to roll out the Nvidia Thor automotive chip, which includes one long-range and four short-range lidar units. This setup is specifically designed for the Chinese market, while vehicles intended for international sales will be equipped with different chips to meet local regulations.
Launch Plans
Zeekr intends to provide the free version to a select group for testing before it becomes broadly available in April. CEO Andy An mentioned that there’s no reason to start subscriptions while the ADAS is still being developed, and it’s hard to ignore the nod towards Tesla’s FSD, which comes with a hefty price tag of $8,850.
Tesla is also working on its own ADAS without using lidar, a component that An acknowledges raises costs but also improves safety. Meanwhile, Tesla is enticing drivers in China by offering a free one-month trial of its FSD.
Source:
Link
Tags: ADAS, Tesla, Zeekr
March 18, 2025
Xiaomi Hits 200,000 EV Deliveries with Strong SU7 Demand
Key Takeaways
1. Xiaomi achieved 200,000 electric sedan deliveries, marking a successful entry into a new market.
2. The company celebrated its 15th anniversary by introducing a special red color for its milestone SU7 delivery.
3. Xiaomi’s local demand is strong, with over 135,000 deliveries and more than 20,000 units shipped monthly for the past five months.
4. Customers are experiencing wait times over 30 weeks for their orders, as the company relies solely on local demand without exporting vehicles.
5. The SU7 is available in three versions (Standard, Pro, Max) ranging from $29,840 to $41,422, with the SU7 Ultra starting at $73,190.
It’s rare for a company to hit it big right out of the gate with its first product in a new market. Yet, Xiaomi, which was mainly known for its smartphones until last year, is now celebrating the remarkable delivery of its 200,000th electric sedan.
Special Color Celebration
Images shared by Xiaomi on Weibo show a young couple receiving their milestone SU7 in a unique red shade. This color option was introduced to mark the company’s 15th anniversary. The announcement also highlighted that it took 229 days to achieve the first 100,000 deliveries, but the second 100,000 was reached in just 119 days.
Impressive Local Demand
By the end of 2024, Xiaomi reported over 135,000 deliveries, having accumulated nearly a quarter of a million orders. For the past five months, they’ve been shipping out more than 20,000 units every month.
It’s noteworthy that Xiaomi reached this success without exporting any vehicles and is relying solely on local demand. The interest for this initial model is so strong that customers are facing wait times exceeding 30 weeks for their orders. Nevertheless, the company has plans to venture into international markets by 2027.
Pricing and Versions
Xiaomi provides the SU7 in three different versions: Standard, Pro, and Max, with prices set at $29,840, $33,964, and $41,422, respectively. Additionally, they offer the SU7 Ultra, which boasts more horsepower, starting at a higher price point of $73,190.
Source:
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Tags: Electric Sedan, SU7, Xiaomi
March 18, 2025
Xiaomi YU7 Crossover: Certified with 770 km Range
Key Takeaways
1. The Xiaomi YU7 is set to debut between June and July, featuring a top model with a range of 770 km.
2. The design includes modern elements such as “teardrop” headlights, semi-hidden door handles, and unique “halo” taillights.
3. The interior features an ultra-wide dashboard screen and a roof-mounted LiDAR sensor for advanced self-driving capabilities.
4. Performance options include single and dual-motor setups, with power ranging from 235 kW to 508 kW and speeds up to 253 km/h.
5. The YU7 is expected to start at around RMB 250,000 (approximately USD 34,562), with various battery options available.
Xiaomi’s new sporty crossover, the YU7, is looking to be a strong player in the electric vehicle (EV) market. Recent information from China’s MIIT platform has uncovered some exciting features. The YU7 is anticipated to debut between June and July and is expected to have a top model that boasts an impressive range of 770 km.
Design Inspired by the SU7
Taking cues from the Xiaomi SU7, the YU7 showcases a modern design with elegant “teardrop” headlights and a sleek front bumper that enhances its aerodynamic shape. The car boasts semi-hidden door handles, frameless side mirrors, and a ducktail spoiler with unique “halo” taillights that contribute to its contemporary appearance. With dimensions of 4,999 mm in length, 1,996 mm in width, and 1,608 mm in height, alongside a wheelbase of 3,000 mm, the YU7 promises generous interior space for its occupants.
Innovative Interior Features
Inside, the YU7 departs from conventional layouts, featuring an ultra-wide dashboard screen that presents all the necessary driving metrics, including range, speed, and navigation data. Adding to its technological edge, a roof-mounted LiDAR sensor suggests that the vehicle may have advanced self-driving capabilities. Nonetheless, even models without LiDAR will include autonomous driving features.
Performance and Pricing Details
The YU7 will come in both single and dual-motor setups. The high-end dual-motor all-wheel-drive version can deliver a combined power of 508 kW (691 horsepower), allowing it to reach a maximum speed of 253 km/h. There is also a lower-powered dual-motor option that provides 365 kW, while the single-motor rear-wheel-drive variant produces 235 kW, achieving speeds of up to 240 km/h.
Battery choices include a 96.3 kWh NMC pack with ranges of 770 km, 760 km, and 675 km, as well as a larger 101.7 kWh NMC pack offering ranges of 670 km, 750 km, and 760 km. Additionally, an LFP battery is said to be available for the single-motor model. The YU7 is projected to start at around RMB 250,000, which translates to approximately USD 34,562.
Source:
Link

Tags: crossover, electric vehicle, Xiaomi YU7
March 18, 2025
Tesla Moves Forward with Model 3 and Model Y Homologation in India
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla has filed for homologation for its Model 3 and Model Y to meet Indian regulatory requirements.
2. The company initially sought seven test permits and has now added an eighth.
3. Tesla’s entry into India began in 2021, facing challenges from high import tariffs.
4. A discussion between CEO Elon Musk and Prime Minister Modi has led to a more favorable situation for Tesla.
5. Tesla is expanding its presence in India with a showroom near Mumbai airport and is recruiting for various positions amidst rising consumer interest in electric vehicles.
Tesla is eager to introduce its products to India and has filed for homologation for its two most popular models.
Understanding Homologation
Homologation is a crucial step for car manufacturers before they can officially market their vehicles in a new region. This process guarantees that the cars meet the local regulatory requirements. The automaker must comply with safety regulations, emissions standards, and roadworthiness checks.
Recent Developments
Reports from IANS indicate that Tesla initially sought seven test permits but has now put in an eighth. These permits are for the Model 3 and Model Y.
In 2021, Tesla began its journey into the Indian market by establishing a subsidiary, but the high import tariffs of up to 110 percent posed challenges. Nevertheless, after a discussion between CEO Elon Musk and Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the company feels that the situation has improved.
Expansion Plans
Tesla has already secured a showroom location in a high-end area close to the Mumbai airport. Additionally, it has begun recruiting for various positions, including vehicle service, sales, customer support, and operations.
The interest in electric vehicles among Indian consumers is on the rise, with nearly 100,000 units sold in 2023, representing a 20 percent increase from the previous year. Tesla will face competition from established automakers that already offer electric vehicles, such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, Audi, and Porsche.
Source:
Link
Tags: Model 3, Model Y, Tesla
March 18, 2025
Mark Rober: Tesla’s Lidar Decision Could Endanger Lives
Key Takeaways
1. Mark Rober’s video demonstrates that the Tesla Vision system can be easily fooled into not detecting obstacles on the road.
2. The absence of Radar and Lidar in Tesla vehicles raises safety concerns, especially in common weather conditions like fog and rain.
3. Despite the removal of essential hardware, Tesla’s autopilot system has a lower fatality rate involving pedestrians compared to overall pedestrian deaths on US roads in 2022.
4. Government hesitations about autonomous driving technology are influenced by concerns raised in videos like Rober’s, questioning the safety and reliability of such systems.
5. The video prompts discussions about the broader implications of autonomous driving beyond just Tesla, while also showcasing Rober’s innovative projects.
Famed YouTuber Mark Rober recently uploaded a video showcasing how the Tesla Vision system can be surprisingly easily deceived into not spotting obstacles on the road. While the video does feature some rather unusual road scenarios (such as a massive wall designed to resemble the road ahead), it also implies that the absence of Radar and Lidar could pose risks to human safety in certain situations. These situations include fog and rain, which are both common weather conditions on roads worldwide. However, the probability of encountering such extreme fog and rain as shown in the video and leading to an accident is likely debatable.
Concerns About Safety
Nonetheless, the notion that removing essential hardware for cost and weight reasons (rather than prioritizing accident prevention) indicates that the Tesla Vision system might not offer the road safety that pedestrians desire. Tesla’s choice to eliminate Lidar and Radar sensors from its vehicles, with Musk asserting that they were oversized, heavy, and costly, goes back to 2021. Nevertheless, as of now, the fatalities involving autopilot activation where a pedestrian or cyclist lost their life is substantially lower than the 7,552 pedestrians who perished on US roads in 2022 alone. This suggests that even without Lidar and Radar, the system remains statistically quite reliable.
Government Hesitations on Autonomy
Despite Rober’s eagerness in shining a light on the problems with Tesla specifically, it is the broader concept of autonomous driving for any vehicle (not only Tesla) that has led some governments to delay the implementation of such technologies. There are also several reports questioning if the car in the video is genuinely operating in full self-driving mode.
If you can overlook the fact that it’s improbable to ever confront a wall that looks just like the road in front of you, there are some real questions raised here. Regardless, watching Rober secretly map the interior of Disney’s ‘Space Mountain’ and create a 3D-printed model is definitely worth your time.
Tags: autonomous driving, Mark Rober, Tesla Vision
March 18, 2025
Tesla Cybercab Battery Size and Real-World Driving Range Revealed
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla plans to launch a robotaxi service by the end of this year, featuring the Cybercab vehicle.
2. The Cybercab will have a battery capacity of less than 50 kWh, offering a driving range of approximately 300 miles.
3. The vehicle’s aerodynamic teardrop design enhances its energy efficiency, making it one of the most efficient electric vehicles available.
4. The tapered rear design of the Cybercab is intended to improve aesthetics while maintaining functionality.
5. Prototype Cybercabs are expected to be built this summer, with a full-scale launch anticipated in 2026.
Tesla is gearing up to unveil a robotaxi service by the end of this year, and key company leaders have shared important details about the vehicle that will support this ride-hailing initiative. Earlier today, Lars Moravy, the Vice President of Vehicle Engineering, and Franz von Holzhausen, the Senior Design Executive, discussed their plans with renowned automotive presenter Sandy Munro.
Impressive Specifications
The Cybercab will feature a battery pack with a capacity that falls short of 50 kWh. This allows for a practical driving range of around 300 miles, while also achieving the top energy efficiency among electric vehicles currently available.
The two-seater’s streamlined shape and aerodynamic wheel covers play a significant role in its leading energy efficiency. Von Holzhausen noted, “This vehicle is really special because of its teardrop design. It’s actually narrower at the back than at the front. Sure, you’ve covered the wheels, but the aerodynamics is a major element in achieving a longer range with a smaller battery.”
Unique Design Features
Von Holzhausen pointed out the tapered rear of the Cybercab, which can be easily seen from an aerial view. He emphasized that this design choice doesn’t make the vehicle look unattractive.
Tesla is in the process of installing production machinery for the Cybercab at its Giga Texas facility. Prototype versions are expected to be built during the summer, with a full-scale launch planned for 2026. The self-driving model has already been observed at the company’s large site in Austin, Texas.
Source:
Link

Tags: Cybercab, Robotaxi, Tesla
March 17, 2025
Huawei HiCar to Launch in BMW Cars Next Year
Key Takeaways
1. Huawei HiCar now supports around two dozen car brands, including upcoming BMW models made in China.
2. BMW Digital Key will allow users with Huawei smartphones to lock/unlock and start their cars.
3. The complete integration experience with HiCar will launch next year with the new BMW Neue Klasse models.
4. BMW is integrating with HarmonyOS to enhance in-car applications and connectivity for Huawei device users.
5. BMW is collaborating with Chinese firms on AI technologies to improve smart car experiences, with new electric models like the iX3 and a future electric 3-series sedan.
Released in early May 2020, Huawei HiCar (official site in Chinese) is now accessible for around two dozen car brands, and BMW cars made in China are also being added to this list. This year, BMW Digital Key is set to debut for BMW users utilizing Huawei smartphones. The features will enable vehicle owners to lock/unlock and start their cars through their mobile devices. However, the complete experience will commence next year when BMW Neue Klasse models manufactured in China are launched, which will include HiCar.
Integration With HarmonyOS
As per Sean Green, the President and CEO of BMW Group Region China, as quoted by China Daily, “In China, almost a quarter of MyBMW App users depend on Huawei devices. By deeply merging with the HarmonyOS ecosystem, BMW will improve in-car applications and digital connectivity services for HarmonyOS users, enhancing intelligent experiences in frequently used scenarios.”
Future Smart Car Enhancements
The German automotive manufacturer is partnering with Chinese firms on large language models, generative AI, and smart voice interaction to deliver the top smart car experience for local BMW users. The BMW Neue Klasse platform is set to begin production soon. According to Car and Driver, the iX3 electric SUV will be the first vehicle from this new line to enter the market. Following that, an electric 3-series sedan is expected to arrive in 2026, with i3 possibly being the name for this upcoming model, as indicated by the same source.
Source:
Link
Tags: BMW Neue Klasse, Huawei HiCar, MyBMW App
March 17, 2025
BYD Launches World’s Fastest 1MW EV Charger for Gas Car Speeds
Key Takeaways
1. BYD has introduced a 1000V powertrain platform that adds 270 miles of range in just 5 minutes of charging.
2. The company aims to match the charging speed of gas vehicles with its 1,000 kW fast charging technology.
3. BYD plans to build a network of 1MW charging stations, offering double the charging speed of Tesla’s V4 Superchargers.
4. The new powertrain enables faster and more powerful electric motors, with performance features like a 778 hp motor and acceleration times under four seconds for the Tang L SUV.
5. Safety improvements include a more resilient battery pack that can withstand severe crashes without losing shape.
As Tesla continues to struggle with its 800V powertrain setup on just one of its cars, BYD has unveiled its anticipated 1000V platform, showcasing a remarkable addition of 270 miles of range in only 5 minutes.
Charging Speed Revolution
BYD aims to make the process of charging electric vehicles as quick as filling up a gas car. The company stated, “The 1,000 kW fast charging allows refueling and charging to have the same speed.” They further hinted that their “BYD Super e-Platform will use disruptive technology to completely solve the biggest headache in EV use.”
New Infrastructure Plans
The company is also planning a network of 1MW charging stations to complement its innovative EV architecture, which promises to provide charging speeds that are double those of Tesla’s V4 Superchargers.
The newly introduced Tang L SUV and Han L sedan in the Ocean series, which are launching this month, will be the first vehicles equipped with the new 1000V powertrain. However, the extremely rapid 10C charging is not the only advantage of this system.
Enhanced Performance Features
Thanks to the new 1MW high-voltage design, BYD has been able to create faster and more powerful electric motors that fit within the same space as the current ones in their vehicles.
For example, their new 778 hp (580 kW) motor can reach speeds of 30,511 RPM, allowing BYD cars to accelerate to 200 mph in no time. In the case of the heavier Tang L SUV, it achieves 0-60 mph in under four seconds, while the Han L sedan does it even quicker at 2.7 seconds, outpacing the Tesla Model 3 Performance, all while charging at a significantly faster rate.
Safety Enhancements
Moreover, BYD has improved the safety performance of its new models, focusing specifically on the battery pack’s resilience, which can now endure severe crashes without losing its shape.
Source:
Link
Tags: 1000V powertrain, BYD, Tang L SUV
March 17, 2025
Tesla Provides Free FSD in China Amid Huawei Self-Driving Tests
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla launched a free FSD trial in China to compete with local manufacturers offering better and cheaper electric cars with advanced self-driving systems.
2. Due to data export restrictions, Tesla is training its FSD algorithms using online videos sourced from China.
3. Local companies like Huawei have developed competitive driver-assist systems, prompting comparisons with Tesla’s FSD.
4. Both Tesla’s FSD and Huawei’s systems were tested in challenging rural environments, demonstrating strong performance despite limitations.
5. Tesla’s FSD in China lacks some features available in the US and is priced at $8,000, while local competitor BYD offers its self-driving system for free.
Faced with tough competition, not only because local manufacturers are offering better electric cars at lower prices, but also due to their advanced self-driving systems, Tesla has launched a free FSD trial promotion in China.
Recently, Tesla introduced a partially developed version of its FSD software in China, sending it over-the-air to existing subscribers as well as new customers. However, since the Chinese government prohibits exporting local driver data and the US doesn’t allow the import of FSD mileage data, Tesla has to be creative. It is training its algorithms using videos sourced from the internet in China.
Competition with Local Automakers
This situation creates a fascinating comparison between Tesla’s FSD offering and the various autonomous driving solutions from local companies, such as the latest driver-assist system from Huawei. Huawei, a giant in consumer electronics and communication, has recently ventured into electric vehicles. It has developed a comprehensive driver-assist system that car manufacturers can integrate into their models, which is widely regarded as one of the best available in China.
Unsurprisingly, as soon as Tesla rolled out FSD in China, local drivers began to pit it against domestically designed self-driving technologies, including Huawei’s ADS 3.0.
Testing in Diverse Environments
In China, autonomous driving systems are mainly designed for urban environments and congested traffic, so testers took both Tesla’s FSD and Huawei’s systems onto rural roads to provide a more challenging environment.
Overall, Tesla and Huawei’s driver-assist technologies performed admirably in these unfamiliar and poorly marked areas, successfully navigating around obstacles, slowing down at T-junctions, and avoiding collisions with unpredictable traffic.
Limitations and Local Offers
However, it should be noted that Tesla’s FSD in China doesn’t include the full suite of features available to US drivers because it cannot import or export raw driver data within the country. Elon Musk has stated that Tesla essentially relies on driving videos from the internet to train its AI for FSD in this market.
As a result, Tesla’s FSD currently supports highway ramp exits and city street navigation, recognizing traffic signals, making turns, changing lanes automatically, and using the cabin camera to ensure that the driver is attentive.
Nonetheless, FSD costs $8,000 in China, whereas BYD is equipping all its vehicles, even the more affordable ones, with its own self-driving system named Eye of God at no additional charge.
Moving forward, it will be interesting to see how many Tesla owners in China will not only take advantage of the free FSD trial but also choose to continue with the paid service once the trial period is over.
Tags: BYD Eye of God, Huawei ADS 3.0, Tesla FSD