Category: EV vehicles

  • Xiaomi Unveils its Debut Electric Vehicle – The Xiaomi SU7 in China

    Xiaomi Unveils its Debut Electric Vehicle – The Xiaomi SU7 in China

    Xiaomi Unveils the SU7: A High-Performance Electric Sedan

    Xiaomi has finally revealed its highly anticipated electric car, the SU7, during a recent event. Positioned as a "C-class high-performance ecological technology sedan," the SU7 showcases a sleek design, impressive performance, and cutting-edge technology.

    Building a Car for the Future

    During the launch event, Xiaomi's founder Lei Jun emphasized the company's goal of creating a car that will withstand the test of time. They envision the SU7 as a vehicle that will look good not just today, but even ten or fifty years from now.

    To achieve this vision, Xiaomi has assembled a top-notch design team consisting of industry experts from Mercedes-Benz and BMW. Additionally, renowned car designer Chris Bangle has been brought in as a consultant to add finesse to the SU7.

    Sleek and Futuristic Design

    Xiaomi's first electric vehicle (EV), the SU7, boasts a stunning design. It features a carefully crafted silhouette with a long wheelbase of 3000mm and short overhangs, reminiscent of a sporty coupe. The water drop-shaped headlights and halo-shaped taillights add a touch of futuristic flair.

    The SU7's sleek exterior includes clever design choices like semi-hidden door handles and a stylish, pebble-shaped rearview mirror. Xiaomi claims that the car is incredibly aerodynamic, with a drag coefficient of only 0.195 Cd, making it the lowest among production vehicles.

    In terms of dimensions, the SU7 stretches an impressive 4997mm long, 1440mm high, and 1963mm wide. Lei Jun compared its spaciousness to that of a BMW 5 Series, highlighting that it is a full-size class car that sits above the popular Tesla Model 3. The car also offers ample storage space, with a 105-liter frunk and a boot space of 517 liters.

    Performance and Technology

    The SU7 comes in two variants: the regular version and the Max version. The Max version features a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system that delivers a staggering 673 horsepower and an impressive 0-100 km/h acceleration time of just 2.78 seconds. The regular version, while still powerful, offers a single-motor rear-wheel drive setup with a 0-100 km/h time of 5.28 seconds.

    The Max version shines in terms of range, offering an 800km CLTC range, thanks to its 101kWh CATL Kirin battery. The car also supports super-fast charging, with the ability to gain 220km of range in just 5 minutes and 510km in 15 minutes.

    Inside the SU7, you'll find a spacious and luxurious cabin with a panoramic view, thanks to the expansive 5.35㎡ glass area. The car is equipped with a 16.1-inch touchscreen, a 56-inch HUD, and a 7.1-inch instrument cluster to keep you informed and entertained. Additionally, the 25-speaker sound system with Dolby Atmos ensures an immersive audio experience.

    Safety is also a priority for Xiaomi. The SU7 features an armored cage-type steel-aluminum hybrid body, 7 airbags, and a quadruple braking safety mechanism. The car has achieved 5-star safety ratings and comes with a comprehensive suite of active safety features, including automatic emergency braking.

    Integration of Technology and Ecology

    Xiaomi emphasizes the integration of technology and ecology in the SU7. The car is equipped with the latest Xiaomi HyperOS system, powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295 chip. This allows for seamless software connectivity features, such as mirroring your phone or tablet.

    The SU7 is also compatible with Xiaomi Home IoT devices. Users can connect and control various smart home gadgets, such as cameras and robot vacuum cleaners, directly from the car. While Xiaomi gadgets work best with the SU7, Lei Jun assures that even Apple product users will have a great experience with Xiaomi cars.

    Another exciting feature of the SU7 is its self-driving mode called Xiaomi Pilot. Powered by two Nvidia Orin-X chips, the car is equipped with 1 lidar, 3 radars, 11 HD cameras, and 12 ultrasonic sensors, providing a safe and reliable self-driving experience for highway driving, self-parking, and car summoning features.

    Availability and Pricing

    The Xiaomi SU7 is still undergoing testing and is set to officially launch in the first half of 2024. Pricing details have not yet been revealed.

    During the launch, Lei Jun expressed ambitious goals for Xiaomi's automotive venture, aiming to establish the company among the top five car manufacturers within the next 15-20 years. With the impressive features and technology showcased in the SU7, Xiaomi is certainly making a strong entry into the electric car market.

  • BYD Sets Up Electric Car Factory in Hungary, Enters European Market

    BYD Sets Up Electric Car Factory in Hungary, Enters European Market

    China’s BYD Announces Plan to Build First Electric Vehicle Plant in Europe

    BYD’s European Venture

    China’s automotive giant BYD has revealed its strategy to set up its inaugural electric car manufacturing hub in Europe. The company, well-known for its electric vehicle lineup, has chosen Hungary as the base for its operations to cater to the demands of the European Union. This strategic move not only reflects BYD’s faith in the region’s potential but also underscores its dedication to meeting the soaring interest in electric vehicles within Europe.

    Rationale for Selecting Hungary

    The decision to invest in Hungary and establish an electric car factory is driven by the country’s favorable business landscape, skilled workforce, and advanced infrastructure, all of which make it a compelling choice for BYD. Hungary’s central location within the continent ensures efficient distribution of vehicles throughout Europe, giving BYD a competitive advantage in the market.

    Nurturing the European Electric Vehicle Market

    The anticipated impact of BYD’s manufacturing plant in Szeged on the European electric vehicle sector is significant. As the demand for eco-friendly transportation escalates and emission regulations become stricter, the interest in electric vehicles is on the rise. BYD’s presence will not only expand consumer choices but also fuel the growth of the electric vehicle industry within Europe.

    Price Points and Technical Details

    While the specific pricing and detailed specifications of the electric models slated for production in Szeged are currently undisclosed, consumers can anticipate cutting-edge features, advanced technology, and competitive pricing, aligning with BYD’s reputation for delivering top-notch electric vehicles.

    Final Thoughts

    BYD’s strategic move to establish its maiden European electric car manufacturing center in Szeged, Hungary, represents a significant milestone in its global expansion strategy. By seizing the opportunities presented by the rapidly expanding European electric vehicle market, BYD aims to support the shift towards sustainable transportation. As the company continues to explore new territories and embrace innovative technologies, it plays a pivotal role in shaping the automotive industry’s future trajectory and fostering a more environmentally conscious tomorrow.


  • China’s Geely and Baidu Launch Jiyue 07 EV with an Award-Winning Design at Red Dot Award 2023

    China’s Geely and Baidu Launch Jiyue 07 EV with an Award-Winning Design at Red Dot Award 2023

    The Jiyue 07, a new electric liftback, has been officially unveiled in China. This electric sedan is a collaboration between Geely and Baidu and has already been recognized as the winner of the Red Dot Award for 2023. Consumers in China can expect to see the Jiyue 07 available for purchase in 2024.

    Features

    The Jiyue 07, previously assumed to be named Jiyue 02, is built on Geely's SEA architecture and comes equipped with self-driving capabilities developed by Baidu. Jiyue is a joint venture between Baidu and Geely, with Baidu initially holding a 55% stake in the brand. However, after some restructuring, the brand was renamed Jiyue and Geely's holding increased to 65%. Geely handles the manufacturing aspect of the vehicle, while Baidu is responsible for the software, ADAS, and connectivity.

    The Jiyue 07 is the second model in the Jiyue lineup, following the release of the Jiyue 01 SUV. This mid-size liftback car is based on the Jidu Robo-02 concept and boasts sleek styling, a low beltline, and wide wheel arches. The Jiyue 07 distinguishes itself by omitting door handles and featuring buttons on the B and C-pillars instead. The front end of the car showcases Y-shaped headlights, similar to its predecessor. Additionally, the Jiyue 07 includes a large panoramic roof, an active spoiler, and a single taillight unit on the side.

    The Jiyue 07 electric liftback is equipped with five-spoke rims that come with aerodynamic covers. This model has been honored with two design awards: the 2023 Red Dot Design Award and the iF Design Award 2023. The Red Dot Design Award for 2023 recognized 16 cars, including the Peugeot 408, Genesis G90, Deepal SL03, and the Jiyue 07. In terms of specifications, the entry-level version of the Jiyue 07 features a single e-motor with a 200kW output and a 71.4kWh LFP battery. On the other hand, the 4WD version is equipped with a 400kW motor and a 100kWh NMC battery pack.

    The self-driving system of the Jiyue 07 relies on cameras and radars, but does not include hip LiDAR sensors. Unfortunately, pricing and full release details for the Jiyue 07 have not been disclosed at this time. However, it is anticipated that the EV will make its way to the Chinese market by mid-2024.

  • Over 200,000 EVs are now powered by China’s first locally manufactured automotive-grade chip, Geely’s Dragon Eagle-1.

    Over 200,000 EVs are now powered by China’s first locally manufactured automotive-grade chip, Geely’s Dragon Eagle-1.

    SiEngine's Dragon Eagle-1 Chip Finds Its Way Into Over 200,000 Vehicles

    SiEngine, a chip startup backed by Geely, has announced that its Dragon Eagle-1 chip is now being used in more than 200,000 vehicles. This automotive-grade chip, manufactured entirely in China, was released in December 2021 and has gained significant traction in the market.

    The Dragon Eagle-1: Powering Various EVs

    The Dragon Eagle-1 chip can be found in a range of electric vehicles (EVs), including the Lynk & Co 08 SUV, 06 EM-P SUV, and Livan 7 SUV, all manufactured by Geely. Additionally, SiEngine has received orders from other EV manufacturers, such as FAW, for over 20 different models.

    A Compact and Powerful Solution

    The Dragon Eagle-1 is an integrated circuit that consolidates all the necessary components of a system into a single chip. Despite its small size, measuring about 83 sq. mm (as small as a fingernail), it packs a powerful punch. With 8.8 billion transistors and 87 layers of circuitry, the chip's CPU boasts 8 cores, while its GPU features 14 cores. Furthermore, it includes programmable NPU, ISP, VPU, and DSP clusters, making it a versatile solution for automotive applications. The Dragon Eagle-1 chip is built using the 7nm fab process, ensuring high performance and energy efficiency.

    A Joint Venture with Strong Support

    SiEngine is a joint venture between ECARX and ARM China. ECARX, founded by Geely's founder Eric Li (Li Shufu), is an automotive technology provider, while ARM is a chip design company based in the UK and owned by Softbank. Both ECARX and ARM have played a crucial role in supporting SiEngine in its early IP design and tape-out. In 2022, SiEngine received significant investments from multiple sources, including FAW and diversified industrial chains, through its Series A/A+ financing. This injection of capital has propelled SiEngine's development, as evidenced by the success of the Dragon Eagle-1 chip.

    Future Expansion and Advancements

    SiEngine, technically owned by Geely, is steered by Shen Ziyu, who serves as the Chairman and CEO of ECARX, as well as Xingji Meizu, a Geely subsidiary. Moving forward, SiEngine plans to continue enhancing the capabilities of the Dragon Eagle-1 chip and expanding its usage across a broader range of EV brands.

    With its Dragon Eagle-1 chip gaining significant traction in the market and a strong foundation backed by Geely, SiEngine is poised for further success in the automotive chip industry.

  • Enhanced Features: Mercedes-Benz EQE Fully Electric SUV Released, Starting at 486,000 Yuan ($68,000)

    Enhanced Features: Mercedes-Benz EQE Fully Electric SUV Released, Starting at 486,000 Yuan ($68,000)

    Mercedes-Benz has recently unveiled its latest offering, the new EQE SUV, providing consumers with an upgraded model that falls within the price range of its predecessor. The new EQE SUV is priced between 486,000 and 630,600 yuan (~$68,000 – $88,250). Despite the various improvements and additions, the base Pioneer version remains affordable.

    Upgraded Features and Specifications

    The exterior design of the EQE SUV maintains the distinctive language of its predecessor. It showcases a closed grille, a through-type LED light strip, and innovative "Meteor Shower" intelligent digital headlights with 2.6 million illumination pixels. The front bumper has been enhanced to exude a more sporty aesthetic, and the SUV boasts a 98% ultra-high screen-to-body ratio, contributing to its captivating appearance.

    For a seamless driving experience, the EQE SUV offers optional air suspension (AIRMATIC) and an adaptive damping system plus (ADS+), which enhances the vehicle's height for increased passability. It also offers multiple driving modes, including "Energy Saving," "Comfort," "Sport," "Personalized," and "Off-Road," catering to diverse driver preferences.

    Inside the vehicle, drivers and passengers can enjoy an oversized triple screen, a multi-function steering wheel, and multi-color ambient lighting, creating a harmonious blend of technology and luxury. The car's MBUX Hyperscreen in-car system spans an impressive 141 cm in width and introduces a zero-level interface that prioritizes key applications, providing an intuitive and distraction-free driving environment.

    Tailored for the Chinese Market

    Mercedes-Benz has specifically tailored the EQE SUV for the Chinese market, introducing ten exclusive configurations that cater to the preferences of Chinese consumers. These configurations include a "boss button" and comfortable rear headrests. The vehicle also focuses on improving noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) levels, incorporating features such as double-layer silent glass in the front row and a comprehensive vehicle acoustic package.

    Power and Safety Features

    Under the hood, the EQE SUV houses a dual-motor, four-wheel-drive system with a 96.1 kWh battery pack. The 350 model delivers a maximum output power of 215 kW, while the 500 model offers an impressive 300 kW. With a maximum cruising range of 613 kilometers under CLTC operating conditions and a 128-kilowatt charging power, the EQE SUV prioritizes both performance and efficiency.

    In terms of safety, the EQE SUV is equipped with active and passive features such as the attention assist system, active braking assist system, and active lane-keeping assist system. Additionally, an enhanced driving assistance package is available, featuring an intersection start and stop function.

    A Formidable Player in the Electric SUV Market

    With continuous efforts to optimize safety, performance, and user experience, the new EQE SUV positions itself as a strong contender in the electric SUV market. Mercedes-Benz has managed to retain affordability while introducing various upgrades and tailoring the vehicle to meet the preferences of Chinese consumers. The EQE SUV offers a seamless driving experience, advanced technology, and a luxurious interior, making it an attractive option for those in the market for an electric SUV.

  • Tesla’s Revenue Prospects to be Boosted as it Plans to Incorporate TSMC’s 3nm Chips by 2024

    Tesla’s Revenue Prospects to be Boosted as it Plans to Incorporate TSMC’s 3nm Chips by 2024

    Tesla has announced that it will be participating in TSMC’s 3nm NTO chip design finals in the coming year. This move aligns with TSMC’s plans to ramp up its 3nm chip production in 2024 to meet the increasing demand for advanced semiconductor solutions. The inclusion of Tesla as an N3P customer indicates the company’s intention to utilize TSMC’s cutting-edge technology for the production of next-generation Full Self-Driving (FSD) smart driving chips.

    TSMC’s N3P Process

    TSMC has ambitious plans for its N3P process, which is set to begin production in 2024. Compared to the N3E process, N3P aims to achieve a 5% improvement in performance, a 5% to 10% reduction in power consumption, and a significant 1.04 times increase in chip density. TSMC has highlighted that N3P’s performance, power, and area (PPA) metrics, along with its technological maturity, surpass Intel’s 18A process.

    Tesla’s Ongoing Collaboration with TSMC

    This collaboration between Tesla and TSMC is not new, as the electric vehicle manufacturer has previously placed multiple orders with the semiconductor company. These past ventures include the Dojo D1 chip, which utilized the 7nm process, and the HW 4.0 chip, featuring the 5nm process. The addition of Tesla to the N3P customer list signifies a strategic move for both companies.

    Impact on Tesla and TSMC

    Industry analysts predict that this partnership will elevate Tesla to become TSMC’s seventh-largest customer, injecting fresh momentum into TSMC’s revenue growth trajectory. As Tesla continues to lead the automotive industry in innovative technologies, its collaboration with TSMC underscores the crucial role that semiconductor advancements play in shaping the future of electric and autonomous vehicles.

    In conclusion, Tesla’s confirmation of its participation in TSMC’s 3nm NTO chip design finals for the upcoming year highlights the growing demand for advanced semiconductor solutions. The collaboration between the two companies signifies Tesla’s intent to leverage TSMC’s cutting-edge technology for the production of next-generation FSD smart driving chips. This partnership is expected to propel Tesla to become one of TSMC’s top customers, further solidifying its position as a leader in the automotive industry.

  • China’s Nio ET9 Sedan Marks Striking Luxury EV Market Debut

    China’s Nio ET9 Sedan Marks Striking Luxury EV Market Debut

    Nio’s Audacious Step in the Premium Automobile Sector

    Nio’s Bold Strategy in the Luxury Car Market

    With a price tag hovering around 800,000 yuan (equivalent to $112,151), the introduction of the ET9 by Nio marks a significant leap in ambition and cost for the company. Scheduled for delivery in early 2025, this model directly competes with established luxury hybrid vehicles from Mercedes-Benz and Porsche, signifying a clear challenge to existing industry norms. The launch of the ET9 underlines a transformative shift in the automotive realm, as Chinese enterprises increasingly dominate the forefront.

    Advanced Features of the ET9

    What distinguishes the ET9 is not solely its price but a vast array of cutting-edge features. Boasting high-performance automotive chips and an innovative suspension system, this model promises to deliver a harmonious blend of power and comfort to its users. The CEO of Nio, William Li, emphasized these technological strides at the Nio Day event, noting that the ET9 embodies the pinnacle of the company’s technological prowess.

    Chinese Auto Manufacturers Elevating their Position in the Value Chain

    This progression aligns with the overarching trend of Chinese automakers swiftly ascending the value chain within the electric vehicle (EV) domain. Intense competition between companies like Nio and its rival BYD against global industry giants is evident. Another noteworthy example is BYD’s Yangwang U8 luxury model, which showcases distinct features like tank turns and "crab walk" capabilities.

    Innovations in EV Technology and Production

    The ET9 from Nio will feature the Shenji autonomous driving chip, purporting to match the potency of four Nvidia Orin chips. Furthermore, the battery of the ET9 boasts an energy density significantly surpassing that of the average EV. These advancements not only enhance the luxury appeal of the vehicle but also underscore China’s expanding prowess in EV technology and manufacturing.

    Expanding Infrastructure to Foster a Comprehensive EV Ecosystem

    By planning additional battery-swap stations, Nio is expanding its infrastructure to address range anxiety for EV drivers, offering a convenient and effective solution. Moreover, the strategic partnerships forged by Nio emphasize the company’s dedication to nurturing a holistic EV ecosystem.

    In Conclusion

    In conclusion, the unveiling of Nio’s ET9 marks a daring foray into the luxury car market, epitomizing both opulence and technological innovation. With its state-of-the-art features and high-performance automotive chips, the ET9 competes head-on with established luxury hybrid models. This development mirrors the evolving landscape of Chinese automakers in the global EV industry, showcasing China’s expanding expertise in EV technology and manufacturing.

  • JD.com and Tesla to Unveil Exclusive Partnership Announcement on December 31

    JD.com and Tesla to Unveil Exclusive Partnership Announcement on December 31

    In a strategic move that has left automotive enthusiasts buzzing with anticipation, JD.com and Tesla have officially announced a joint venture set to be unveiled on December 31st. The excitement was sparked when JD.com, the Chinese E-commerce giant, released a promotional poster, cryptically stating, “See you on December 31,” and tagged Tesla’s official Weibo account. Tesla responded in kind, further fueling speculation about a major revelation on the horizon.

    JD.com and Tesla Join Forces

    JD.com, one of China's largest online retailers, and Tesla, the renowned electric vehicle manufacturer, have joined forces to establish a new partnership. The details of this collaboration are set to be revealed on December 31st, generating great excitement among automotive enthusiasts and industry insiders alike.

    A Cryptic Poster Fuels Speculation

    The anticipation surrounding this joint venture reached new heights when JD.com released a promotional poster, featuring the enigmatic message, "See you on December 31," along with a tag to Tesla's official Weibo account. This move immediately ignited speculation about what the two companies have in store for their fans and customers.

    Tesla's Response Adds to the Excitement

    Responding to JD.com's teaser, Tesla reciprocated the enthusiasm, further fueling the speculation surrounding the upcoming announcement. The exchange between the two companies has only intensified the anticipation, leaving enthusiasts eagerly counting down the days until December 31st.

    While the exact nature of the joint venture remains a mystery, many are speculating that it could involve collaboration in the electric vehicle market or an innovative partnership to revolutionize the online car shopping experience. Both JD.com and Tesla have a reputation for pushing boundaries and embracing innovation, making this collaboration even more intriguing.

    Conclusion

    With the official announcement of a joint venture between JD.com and Tesla scheduled for December 31st, automotive enthusiasts and industry insiders are eagerly awaiting the unveiling of this exciting partnership. The cryptic teaser from JD.com and Tesla's enthusiastic response have sparked intense speculation about what the two companies have in store. As the countdown continues, all eyes are on December 31st to see what innovative developments will emerge from this collaboration.

  • Lucid Motors Readies to Rival Tesla with Affordable $50,000 Electric Vehicle

    Lucid Motors Readies to Rival Tesla with Affordable $50,000 Electric Vehicle

    Lucid Motors, the well-known manufacturer of premium electric vehicles, has announced its plans to enter the mid-sized electric car market with a $50,000 vehicle. This strategic move positions the California-based company as a direct competitor to Tesla, specifically targeting the market dominated by Tesla's Model 3 and Model Y.

    Transitioning from luxury to more affordable models is a common path for emerging car companies. Lucid, which initially focused on high-end electric vehicles such as the $80,000 Air sedan and the $249,000 Air Sapphire, is now shifting its attention to the more mainstream segment of everyday family cars. This shift is significant, especially considering the recent statement made by Lucid's CEO, Peter Rawlinson, about the company's intention to compete in the high-volume family car market.

    One advantage that Lucid brings to this new venture is its expertise in battery technology. Having started as a battery company, Lucid can leverage its knowledge to offer superior range in its upcoming models. This is a crucial factor for many electric vehicle buyers, as range anxiety remains a common concern.

    Furthermore, Lucid can learn from Tesla's experiences, particularly in terms of quality control. Early Tesla models, such as the Model 3 and Model Y, faced criticisms over minor quality issues. Lucid has the opportunity to address these issues from the start and set a new standard in electric vehicle build quality.

    However, entering this competitive market segment will not be without challenges for Lucid. Tesla and other established automakers already have a strong presence in the mid-sized electric car market. To truly stand out, Lucid will need to find the right balance between affordability, quality, and range.

    In conclusion, Lucid Motors is making a bold move by entering the mid-sized electric car market with a $50,000 vehicle. Leveraging its expertise in battery technology and learning from Tesla's experiences, Lucid has the potential to carve out a significant market share. However, the company will need to overcome the challenges posed by established competitors to establish itself as a prominent player in the segment.

  • January 5 marks the global launch of Geely Galaxy E8

    January 5 marks the global launch of Geely Galaxy E8

    Geely Announces Global Launch Conference for Galaxy E8 Electric Sedan

    Automotive manufacturer Geely has officially announced the global launch conference for its highly anticipated medium and large pure electric sedan, the Galaxy E8. The event is scheduled for January 5, 2024, following the launch of pre-orders on December 16.

    Five Distinct Configurations

    The Galaxy E8 boasts five distinct configurations with tons of features:

    • 550km PRO
    • 550km MAX
    • 665km Starship Voyage Edition
    • 665km Starship Intelligent Driving Edition
    • 620km Starship Performance Edition

    With a pre-order price starting from 188,000 yuan, the vehicle is set to make a significant impact in the electric car market.

    Customization Options and Impressive Specifications

    As the flagship model of Geely Galaxy’s “Smart Pure Electric E Series,” the E8 is constructed on Geely Group’s SEA vast architecture. It offers an array of customization options, including six body colors and two interior color choices. The car’s dimensions measure 5010mm in length, 1920mm in width, and 1465mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2925mm and an impressive drag coefficient of 0.199Cd.

    Groundbreaking 45-Inch Smart Screen

    One of the standout features of the Galaxy E8 is its groundbreaking 45-inch smart screen, the largest of its kind globally. The screen, with an effective display area of 1130 * 138 mm, is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295 flagship cockpit chip and seamlessly integrates with Flyme Link. This allows for connectivity with Meizu 21, supporting functions such as three-finger task transfer and address transfer to the car.

    Battery Options for Different Driving Needs

    To cater to different preferences and driving needs, the Galaxy E8 offers 62kWh and 76kWh battery options, providing cruising ranges of 550km, 665km, and 620km.

    Overall, the Geely Galaxy E8 is set to make a splash in the electric car market with its impressive specifications, customization options, and groundbreaking features. The global launch conference on January 5, 2024, will mark the official introduction of this highly anticipated electric sedan.