China Auto Thread

[Yommie]

Fang Cheng Bao Bao 3 spied testing in run-up to launch

New spy shots have emerged of the Fang Cheng Bao Bao 3 testing. These show a rear mounted spare wheel and the interior.

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Fang Cheng Bao Bao 3 spied testing in run-up to launch​

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Mark Andrews

August 15, 2024


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New spy shots have emerged of the Fang Cheng Bao Bao 3 being tested, including shots of the interior. The car will be the third model from BYD’s more upmarket Fang Cheng Bao brand, following on from the Bao 5, which is currently on sale, and the Bao 8, which should launch soon. There are, though, some key differences between the Bao 3 and the other two cars, although all three models are SUVs. Firstly, the Bao 3 uses a load-bearing structure, whereas the previous two models in the Fang Cheng Bao range have a body-on-frame structure and use BYD’s DMO platform. Secondly, the new car will be the first fully electric model in the range; the previous two cars were both PHEVs.


Externally, the car is also quite a departure from the looks of the Bao 5 and Bao 8, with far more futuristic looks and less emphasis on hardcore SUV styling. The styling continues the look seen on the Super 3 concept car, which previewed the looks of the Bao 3. It’s believed that there will be two different front-face styling designs. The Bao 3 is a relatively compact SUV with dimensions of 4605, 1900, and 1720 mm and a wheelbase of 2745 mm. In the latest spy shots, we can see that at the rear, there is an exposed spare wheel, whereas previous pictures have shown a school bag-type storage compartment. This suggests that there may be differing options for what is mounted at the rear.

Despite the exterior being a departure from the looks of the Bao 5, the same cannot be said for the interior, which closely follows that first seen in Fang Cheng Bao’s first model. Although there is still considerable camouflaging of the interior, we can see the basic setup. Notably, we get a good view of the center console, where we see an aircraft-style push-type leaver for drive selection, which is then surrounded by various control buttons. This sits between a dual wireless mobile phone charging pad and to the rear dual drink holders. There are two screens; the smaller of the two is an instrument panel, which is buried further into the dashboard, while there is a floating infotainment screen in the center. We can also see a four-spoke steering wheel with a number of controls mounted on it.


Powering the Bao 3 is a 110 kW electric motor on the front axle and a 220 kW motor on the rear. This gives the car a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 4.9 seconds. Adding considerably to the overall weight of the car is the 560 kg 78.72 kWh battery pack. Sourced from BYD subsidiary FinDreams, the lithium iron phosphate blade battery pack gives the car a CLTC range of 510 km. It should be noted that the battery pack accounts for around a quarter of the Bao 3’s curb weight of 2150 kg.

Previous estimates put the starting price of the new model at around 220,000 yuan (30,750 USD), but in light of decreases in the price of the Bao 5, prices may now be lower. Previously, it was reported that the Bao 5 would be rebadged as a Denza in Europe. Given its smaller dimensions and being a soft-roader type SUV, the Bao 3 makes a good candidate for such treatment as well. The car should launch in China around the end of the year.

Source: Autohome

 

[Yommie]

Lynk & Co Z10 opened for pre-orders; starts at 30,100 USD to rival SU7

The Z10 features advanced technology, luxurious interiors, and a sleek design, competing with top electric sedans like BYD Han EV and Xiaomi SU7.

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Lynk & Co Z10 opened for pre-orders; starts at 30,100 USD to rival SU7​

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Adrian Leung

August 15, 2024


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Lynk & Co, winner of multiple WTCR titles, has officially opened pre-orders for its first fully electric sedan, the Z10. This marks a significant leap in the brand’s transition to electric vehicles. The Z10 is offered in five variants and priced from 215,800 yuan (30,100 USD). Buyers will enjoy a package worth over 28,000 yuan (3,900 USD) when placing an order during the pre-order phase. The package includes 23 speaker Harman Kardon audio system, Nappa seats, a charger voucher, and more.

Lynk & Co Z10 lineup
Model	Price
400V 602km RWD Pro	215,800 yuan (30,100 USD)
400V 766km RWD Max	to be announced
400V 766km RWD Smart Max	to be announced
800V 806km RWD Smart Max	to be announced
800V 702km AWD Smart Ultra	to be announced

Built on the same Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) platform as the Zeekr 001 (see specs), the Z10 has 400V and 800V configurations. These versions are powered by lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, which deliver impressive ranges. The entry-level model features a 200 kW rear-wheel-drive motor paired with a 71 kWh battery, offering a CLTC range of 602 kilometers. Higher-end variants have a 95 kWh battery, with the top models boasting an 806-kilometer CLTC range. The flagship Z10, with its dual-motor setup (310 kW rear and 270 kW front), accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 3.5 seconds and can add 573 kilometers of range in just 15 minutes, thanks to its 800V fast-charging system.

Visually, the Z10 presents a sleek, aerodynamic design. The front features split LED daytime running lights, while the rear showcases a continuous LED light strip integrated with the main headlights. The sedan’s coupe-like silhouette, defined by its sloping roofline and rising beltline, contributes to a low drag coefficient of just 0.198 Cd. Its dimensions—5028 mm in length, 1966 mm in width, and 1468 mm in height—place it firmly in the mid-to-large sedan category, with a wheelbase of 3005 mm.
Inside, the Z10 offers a luxurious and technologically advanced environment. The cabin has a 12.3:1 narrow digital instrument panel, a prominent 15.4-inch floating multimedia display, and a two-spoke multifunction steering wheel. Comfort is prioritized, with leather-upholstered seats providing heating, ventilation, and massage functions for front and rear passengers. Audiophiles will appreciate the Harman Kardon sound system, which includes 23 speakers and a 1600W amplifier enhanced by WANOS panoramic sound technology.
Set to compete with popular models like the Zeekr 001, BYD Han EV (see specs) and Xiaomi SU7 (see specs), the Lynk & Co Z10 is poised to make a strong impression in China’s rapidly growing electric vehicle market. With its blend of performance, technology, and luxury, the Z10 is expected to attract a tech-savvy audience when it officially launches on September 5.

 

[Yommie]

GWM Tank 400 to get a petrol (gasoline) powered version

Tank 400 will get a petrol engine according to Chinese media and the car is pictured testing. The car will likely be exported.

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GWM Tank 400 to get a petrol (gasoline) powered version​

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Mark Andrews

August 14, 2024


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Days ago, thanks to a government regulator, we learned that the Tank 400 from Great Wall Motor is about to get a diesel-engined version. Chinese media are now suggesting that a car spied testing is a petrol (gasoline) version and that it will likely be priced at around 250,000 yuan (35,000 USD).


Currently, the Tank 400 is only available in a Hi4-T version, which is a PHEV. The car spotted testing looks largely the same, with very angular lines and a hardcore off-road feel. However, there are some differences, such as the lack of a charging port.

It is unclear why Chinese media believe this car is a petrol version rather than simply pictures of the diesel version, which we know will launch soon. Perhaps the answer is as simple as the photographer hearing the engine.


The car will likely measure 4985, 1960, and 1905 mm (l/w/h) with a wheelbase of 2850 mm. These are the dimensions of the diesel-powered version which is almost identical in size bar a five millimeter height increase to the Hi4-T PHEV version. The curb weight is also likely to be similar, with the diesel weighing 2455 kg.

Ground clearance of the Hi4-T version (see specs) is 224 mm, and the wading depth is 800 mm. The diesel version has an approach angle of 33 or 31 degrees and a departure angle of 33 or 29 degrees, with presumably the difference being due to a traction device.

Chinese media speculate that the car may be a mild hybrid using a longitudinal 2.0T petrol engine, a 48V hybrid system, and Geat Wall’s self-developed nine-speed automatic gearbox. This powertrain is offered in some of the ICE variants of the Tank 300.


For reference, the diesel version of the Tank 400 uses an E24D 2.4 T turbocharged engine. Its maximum power is 137 kW, and it will likely be matched with the nine-speed AT gearbox. On the other hand, the Tank 400 Hi4-T uses a 185 kW 2.0 T engine along with a front-mounted 120 kW electric motor. The combined power for the system is 300 kW, and the combined torque is 750 Nm.

A petrol engine in the Tank 400 will undoubtedly extend the car’s appeal. However, given the rapid electrification of the Chinese market, demand for such a car may be higher from overseas, meaning exports are sure to happen.

Source: Fast Technology

 

[Yommie]

Mystery sedan spied – possibly the first Maextro model from Huawei JAC tie-up

A new large sedan has been spied testing in China. Speculation suggests it may be the first car from Maextro the JAC Huawei brand.

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Mystery sedan spied – possibly the first Maextro model from Huawei JAC tie-up​

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Mark Andrews

August 14, 2024


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A new D-class sedan has been spied testing in China, but no one seems too sure what the car actually is. From the lone spy shot, it is apparent that the new car is at least 5.2 meters long and has a fastback-type design at the rear. Also apparent are the large wheels, which some Chinese media are comparing to those of a Rolls Royce and claiming that the car has a strong sense of dignity.


Some bloggers are claiming that the car is the first model of the Maextro brand which Huawei and JAC created under the Harmony Intelligent Mobility Alliance (HIMA) ecosystem. Huawei has three operating models for the auto industry, with HIMA being the most involved and under which Huawei not only provides an intelligent cockpit and intelligent driving solution but is also involved with elements including the design, production, sales, after-sales, and other vehicle stages but stops short of producing the car. There are three brands In the HIMA ecosystem that are currently selling cars. Most successful is Aito which is a collaboration between Huawei and Seres, there is also Luxeed with Chery, and Stelato, a collaboration with BAIC.

At the end of last year, JAC Motors signed a smart new energy vehicle cooperation agreement with Huawei, which lasts for 10 years. Earlier this month, it was announced that the new brand created by JAC and Huawei would be known as Maextro (尊界 – Zunjie in Chinese). This month Stelato launched the S9, an executive luxury sedan with two trim levels priced 399,800 and 449,800 yuan (55,900 and 62,900 USD), respectively, and positioned as a Mercedes Benz EQS competitor.


Richard Yu (Yu Chengdong), chairman of Huawei’s smart car unit, mentioned on August 14 at the China Electric Vehicle 100 Forum (2024) that the maximum price of the brand with JAC would reach 1 million yuan (140,100 USD). This suggests that models from the new Maextro brand will be positioned higher still than Stelato. Earlier reports suggested that the first model from Maextro would be an electric MPV; however, according to people familiar with the matter, this is not correct, and the first car will actually be a sedan aimed at competing with cars like Maybach.

Sources suggest that we should first see the car before the end of this year. Recently JAC has accelerated recruitment for the Maextro project with roles such as quality system experts, quality review experts, product line quality experts, production quality experts, vehicle quality experts, etc. It’s said that these roles require more than eight years of relevant experience in high-end car projects with models that sell for more than 300,000 yuan and preferably from joint venture brands.

Source: Fast Technology

 

[Yommie]

Zeekr come in for criticism for launching another new 001 – just 6 months after the last

The 2025 Zeekr 001 comes just 6 months after the 2024 Zeekr 001 and many are not happy. New car gains notably better intelligent driving capability.

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Zeekr come in for criticism for launching another new 001 – just 6 months after the last​

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Mark Andrews

August 14, 2024


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Zeekr, as well as launching the 2025 model 007 at the Evolution New Generation press conference on the evening of August 13 also launched the 2025 model year Zeekr 001. Ordinarily, this might not have been a problem, but Zeekr already launched a new version of the 001 at the end of February this year, meaning that there have been three significantly different versions of the car on sale over the course of this year. Customers who bought the new version that launched only in February are not happy that just six months later, another new version Is being launched.
Zeekr CEO, An Conghui, has responded to criticism saying, “Maybe we didn’t do it well and didn’t communicate in advance, and Zeekr’s products will be released in advance in the future.”

2025 Zeekr 001​

Changes to the 2025 model year Zeekr 001 are largely confined to intelligent driving. The car gains the Haohan Intelligent Driving 2.0 system and also the Zeekr OS AI and brings the car’s capabilities broadly in line with the 2025 year 007, which was also launched at the same event. The 2025 model year versions of the Zeekr 001 are as follows:

Version	Price
We 95 kWh rear-wheel drive	259,000 (36,300 USD)
We 95 kWh all-wheel drive	269,000 (37,700 USD)
We 100 kWh rear-wheel drive	269,000 (37,700 USD)
Me 100 kWh all-wheel drive	299,000 (41,900 USD)
You 100 kWh all-wheel drive	329,000 (46,100 USD)
001 FR	769,000 (107,750 USD)

Previously, the Zeekr 001’s intelligent driving system was based around Mobileye chips. For the 2025 model year version, the Mobileye chip remains on the 95 kWh We rear-wheel drive version but is replaced by a dual Nvidia Orin X chipset with 508 TOPS computing power on all other versions of the car. These versions also gain an ultra-long range lidar that offers 200 meters of range and a 120-degree ultra-wide horizontal field of view, the equivalent of 128 lines.

The Haohan intelligent driving system uses a scene cognition large model (SCM) to improve the recognition of targets. The system now recognizes 1000 new traffic scenarios, and the accuracy of cognition has improved by more than 120%. Using an interactive planning large model (IPM) the system mimics strategies used by human drivers. For example, in heavy traffic, the system will make a slight pre-lane change maneuver to tell surrounding vehicles that it wants to change lanes and to see whether the car behind will yield or not. Furthermore, IPM can predict the behavior of surrounding vehicles and pedestrians 1.2 seconds in advance, and the accuracy has improved by 21%.
The system can now deal with 30 kinds of complex intersections, giving the car a pass rate of over 95%. Also added is a fingertip-controlled parking application that allows the user to draw a temporary parking space and drag the car icon into it. This is available not only in the car but also through the Zeekr app on a mobile phone, allowing people to park in very narrow spaces.



Over the coming months, the system will be upgraded significantly, with the aim of having a door-to-door capability by Q1 2025.
The other major highlight of the 2025 Zeekr 001 is the Zeekr OS AI, which integrates advanced machine deep learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and other large-model technologies. This enables much better voice control of the car’s functions and also allows the car to be smarter in terms of being proactive rather than acting purely on the user’s commands. The car will now offer suggestions and tips to the driver.
There have been no significant changes to the appearance of the 2025 model year Zeekr 001, although there are now two new color options. Similarly, there have been no changes to the powertrain. Earlier this year, the 2024 upgrade ushered in a new full-stack 800V high-voltage system platform. At that time, the car was introduced with a 100 kWh Qilin battery from CATL, which gives the car a maximum range of 750 km. The car is also offered with a 95 kWh Shenxing battery, from CATL. This is an ultra-fast charging lithium iron phosphate battery capable of 5C charging and allows the car to charge from 10 to 80% SOC in 11.5 minutes.

Controversy​

A Zeekr company representative said that the development of the 2024 model year 001 was confirmed around the beginning of 2023, and at the time, there was no plan to adopt the intelligent driving system. This version of the car was then launched on February 27, 2024.



After the car was launched, many potential purchasers praised the Haohan system in the Zeekr 007, and research appeared to show that potential buyers were being put off acquiring the 001 due to its lack of the system.
Purchasers of the 2024 model year Zeekr 001 wondered whether their car could be upgraded. However, that version exclusively used Mobileye-based intelligent driving solutions in terms of the underlying chip, system layout, and wiring harness layout, and so it cannot be upgraded to the new system unless at a very high cost.



What this now means in reality is that at the beginning of this year, the Zeke’s 001 on sale was largely the same car that first launched In 2021. Then from February the 2024 model year launched which along with some upgrades to the intelligent driving system, introduced the 800V platform and the new Qiin and Shenxing batteries from CATL, together with more powerful motors and upgrades to the appearance of both the exterior and interior. The 2025 model, on the other hand, is largely just an upgrade in terms of intelligent driving capability and the operating system’s capabilities.

Editor’s note:​

Zeekr says progress with intelligent driving is moving too quickly and that consumers are increasingly using this as a differentiating factor when choosing a car model.
China is experiencing a situation where the model life cycle of a car is being radically compressed. Whereas in the past, a car could be on sale for 5 to 10 years, perhaps with one or two facelifts within that time, this is no longer possible. The main driver for this change is the rapid acceleration of intelligent driving.
This change first became apparent in 2021 with cars from Xpeng. In the first half of the year, Xpeng was pushing the new capabilities of the Xpeng P7, which at the time included Highway NGP and a memory parking function. However, in the second half of the same year, the company launched the Xpeng P5, which was equipped with two lidar units. This immediately promised a much higher capability with intelligent driving but on a smaller, cheaper car than the P7.
While OTAs can usher in many improvements over the course of a car’s life, they are limited by the actual hardware fitted to the car itself. The latest intelligent driving solutions often need new sensors or chips to operate, and as we see from Zeekr’s statement, this is probably the tip of the iceberg, with them being reliant on many underlying structures and systems.
Sources: Autohome, Fast Technology,​

 

[Yommie]

Third-generation BYD Tang spied and is likely to be over 5 meters

Spy shots show an all new third generation BYD Tang which will likely launch in 2025. 3 row SUV will come in EV and PHEV versions.

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Third-generation BYD Tang spied and is likely to be over 5 meters​

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Mark Andrews

August 13, 2024


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The Tang SUV has a long history and was one of BYD‘s earliest new energy models. Recently, spy shots have emerged of a third-generation BYD Tang being tested, including interior and exterior shots. Little is currently known about the new car. However, the EV version will likely use the e-platform 3.0 Evo, and the plug-in hybrid version will have BYD’s DM 5.0 technology. With the second generation dating back to 2018, the third generation should see a launch in the first half of 2025.


Exterior spy shots suggest that the third-generation BYD Tang will have a split headlight design and a changed chrome strip in the center. The new car will gain hidden door handles, and from the spy shots, we can see new low-drag wheels. At the rear, there is a split spoiler ending at the roof line similar to that of the BYD Song L. There is likely to be a high-mounted brake light between the two sections.

The new Tang is expected to be considerably larger than the second-generation version and may well exceed five meters in length. For reference, the current Tang EV (see specs) has dimensions of 4900, 1950, and 1725 mm, while the wheelbase is 2820 mm. On the other hand, the PHEV DM version (see specs) has slightly smaller dimensions of 4870, 1950, and 1725 mm, and the wheelbase is also 2820 mm.


BYD’s third-generation Tang will be a three-row SUV available in six and seven-seat versions. From the current interior spy shots, we can see that the new car will have a fairly standard BYD layout consisting of a large, most probably rotatable central infotainment screen and an LCD instrument panel located further back in the dashboard. As pictured, the car seems to be in a fairly early state and does not yet have the center console fitted. The steering wheel appears as if it will be a three-spoke design.

A second-row spy shot shows it to be very much a work in progress. All that can really be made out is that there are two independent seats that will slide on rails.

Currently, there is little solid information on the specifications of the third-generation BYD Tang. However, based on what is known about other members of the BYD family, we can have a good idea of what to expect. Given the size of the Tang it will use in its PHEV form the more powerful version of the DM 5.0 system which is based around the 115 KW 1.5T engine. This will likely be paired with a 200 kW electric motor as with the forthcoming Han DM-i, and the all-electric range should be in the region of 125 km.


The EV version will use the e-platform 3.0 Evo as used by the latest BYD EVs such as the upgraded Seal EV and the Sea Lion 07. This platform affords super-fast charging and has a 12-in-1 electric drive system.

The car is expected to come with front MacPherson and rear five-link suspension along with the BYD DiSus-C suspension system. With Lidar units now creeping their way into the higher-end models in the BYD range, we should also expect a Lidar unit to appear on the Tang, giving an improved intelligent driving capability.

Source: Autohome

 

[Yommie]

World’s fastest charging EV: 2025 Zeekr 007 debuts with 2nd generation Golden Battery

2025 model year Zeekr 007 launches with new second generation Golden Battery. This Zeeks claims makes it fastest charging EV.

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World’s fastest charging EV: 2025 Zeekr 007 debuts with 2nd generation Golden Battery​

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Mark Andrews

August 13, 2024


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Zeekr launched its 2025 model year version of the 007 at the Evolution New Generation press conference held on the evening of August 13. Probably the most exciting development is that the car will now come with the second-generation version of the Golden Battery. Other highlights include faster acceleration times, an upgraded intelligent cockpit, and new wheel choices.
The four versions of the 2025 Zeekr 007 are as follows:

Version	Price
Rear-wheel drive intelligent driving	209,900 yuan (29,350 USD)
Long-range RWD intelligent driving	229,900 yuan (32,150 USD)
Four-wheel drive intelligent driving	229,900 yuan (32,150 USD)
4WD performance version	299,900 yuan (41,950 USD)

A mid sized performance oriented sedan the 007 has from launch been available with two different batteries a 75 kWh Golden Battery and a 100 kWh CATL Qilin battery. The 2025 model year model Zeekr 007 retains the 100 kWh Qilin battery in the longer ranged versions, this battery is a ternary lithium battery optimized for super-fast 5C charging. Meanwhile, the 75 kWh battery pack versions gain the second generation Golden Battery. Sometimes known as the Golden Brick Battery, it is a lithium iron phosphate battery that was self-developed by Zeekr. So far, the biggest change known about the second generation version is that the charging speed has gone from 4.5C to 5.5C. This means in practice that it can be charged from 10 to 80% SOC in 10.5 minutes, which is 4.5 minutes faster than with the first generation.


Zeekr claims that it now charges faster than a ternary lithium battery and that the Golden Brick Battery is the world’s fastest-charging mass-produced battery. In turn, this makes the Zeekr 007 equipped with the Golden Battery the world’s fastest mass-produced EV. When the first generation Golden Brick Battery was launched, Zeekr announced the extreme safety testing that the battery had undergone. Presumably, such safety feats as being thrown into a fire of 1000°C, then placed back into the car still apply to the second generation.

The Zeekr press conference said that 66% of 007 buyers choose versions equipped with the Golden Battery.
Through an algorithm change, acceleration times of the Zeekr 007 (see specs) have been boosted. Rear wheel drive versions have the 0- 100 time cut from the fastest 5.4 seconds to 5.0 seconds. For the standard all wheel drive version it gains a cut from the fastest 3.5 to 3.4 seconds. Meanwhile, the acceleration time of the four-wheel drive performance version remains unchanged at 2.84 seconds, which Zeekr claims makes it the world’s fastest accelerating mid-level pure electric car. The algorithm will apparently be pushed in an OTA to existing cars as well, meaning that their acceleration times will get upgraded.
The 2025 Zeekr 007 comes with the Haohan intelligent driving 2.0 system, which works on a Lidar plus visual fusion basis. Two Nvidia Orin X chips provide 508 TOPS computing power. With the help of the over 30 sensors, the Zeekr 007 can manage 30 kinds of complex intersections with a pass rate of more than 95 percent. The system introduces 1000 new traffic scenarios, and the accuracy of cognition has improved by more than 120%. As part of the upgrade, the ability to park has also been improved. One new feature is remote control fingertip parking, which allows the use of a drag-and-drop vehicle icon to mark a temporary parking space. Over the next few months, various upgrades will arrive, culminating in a door-to-door capability in quarter one of 2025.
The operating system has been upgraded to Zeekr OS AI. Utilizing this, all car systems can now be controlled by voice from any part of the cabin. In addition to passively following commands, the system can make active recommendations based on the scenario. These include things such as reminders to charge the car or changing the internal circulation of the AC when entering a tunnel. Zeekr claims that the car has a 720-degree perception, meaning 360 degrees around the outside of the car but also 360 degrees on the inside of the car.


Aesthetic changes include a new 20-inch wheel design and 19-inch multi-spoke wheels available with blacked out styling. There is a new sky green exterior color and exclusively for the 4 wheel drive performance version a shadow black color, along with a new teal green accented interior option.


Sources: Fast Technology, Autohome​

 

[Yommie]

BYD dominates PHEV sales in July with top 9 best-selling models

BYD in July had 9 out of 10 best selling PHEV models and for the year so far 7 out of 10. Figures are though for wholesale.

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BYD dominates PHEV sales in July with top 9 best-selling models​

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Mark Andrews
August 13, 2024

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New figures from the China Passenger Car Association (CPCA) show that BYD dominates the PHEV market in China. According to the figures just released, BYD had nine out of the 10 best-selling PHEV models last month. As always, though, there are some caveats with such information.
The top 10 list looks as follows:

1	BYD Song	48,769
2	BYD Qin L	32,941
3	BYD Qin	29,074
4	BYD Destroyer 05	25,558
5	BYD Seal 06	25,200
6	BYD Han	10,950
7	BYD Tang	10,839
8	BYD Song L	10,147
9	Denza D9	8,514
10	Chery Fulwin T9	8,309

Table of Top 10 best-selling PHEVs in July in China and the wholesale sales figures
As we can see, the only non-BYD car on the list is the Chery Fulwin T9. The table is based on wholesale sales of 944,000 new energy passenger vehicles in July, a 28% year-on-year increase.
The CPCA data seems to distinguish between EREVs and PHEVs, so the figures only cover PHEVs. In July, 318,000 PHEVs were sold, accounting for 33.7% of the total new energy vehicle market. This is a 73% year-on-year increase and is reportedly the main driver of growth for the new energy vehicle market.
Interestingly, for July, the Top five cars are all relatively cheaper models, and there is a big drop to the more expensive Han in sixth position. This trend, however, is not backed up by this year’s sales to date.
BYD’s dominance extends further, as can be seen in the Top 10 chart for the year so far. Even here only the bottom three cars are from producers other than BYD.

1	BYD Song	359,187
2	BYD Qin	179,439
3	BYD Destroyer 05	163,745
4	BYD Han	76,816
5	BYD Tang	74,603
6	Denza D9	59,104
7	Qin L	58,041
8	Wuling Starlight	54,604
9	Geely Galaxy L7	42,741
10	Lynk & Co 08 EM-P	41,496

Table of Top 10 best-selling PHEVs in China and the wholesale figures from January – July
The biggest caveat with this data is that the sales are wholesale rather than retail. It is quite common for producers to push their dealers to buy inventory, which does not necessarily equate to final sales. In 2023, there was a huge problem with dealers having large inventory, which was not matched by the actual consumer demand.
What also reduces the meaningfulness of this data is that EREVs appear to be treated separately. An EREV is really just a series PHEV, and so theoretically should be treated in the same way as a parallel PHEV.
Despite these caveats, the data does help us see how much BYD is dominating the market in China. Interestingly, this is not solely because of BYD’s DM 5.0 technology; only around half the cars in the Top 10 list are currently using this version of BYD’s PHEV system.
Source: Fast Technology​

 

[Yommie]

Neta S started presales in China as a 24,500-USD EREV wagon

The EREV variant of the Neta S wagon started presales in China at a price of 175,900 yuan (24,500 USD). Its sales will start this month.

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Neta S started presales in China as a 24,500-USD EREV wagon​

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Denis Bobylev

August 13, 2024


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Neta S wagon started presales in China

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The EREV variant of the Neta S wagon (shooting brake) started presales in China at a price of 175,900 yuan (24,500 USD). Its sales will start this month, with deliveries scheduled for September.


Neta is a mainstream NEV brand launched by Hozon Auto in 2018. Its current model line comprises Aya, X, and L crossovers, S sedan, and GT coupe. Among these models, Neta S and Neta L have BEV and EREV variants. On August 13, Neta started presales of its sixth vehicle, the Neta S wagon.

More about the Neta S wagon​

The Neta S station wagon has a distinguishing official name in China. It is called Neta S Liezhuang. That Liezhuang word can be translated as “hunting outfit”. So, the Chinese name of this vehicle is Neta S Hunting Outfit. But we will call this car a Neta S wagon to simplify things.


The Neta S wagon stands on the Shanhai 2.0 modular architecture. Its exterior styling stays in line with the S sedan (see specs). Its front end adopts thin taillight units and a trapeze-shaped air intake. The front bumper of this shooting brake has integrated headlights. The car has flush door handles, tinted rear windows, a sporty spoiler, and a single taillight unit. Its dimensions are 4980/1980/1480 mm with a wheelbase of 2980 mm.

Inside, the Neta S wagon also retains a familiar styling. It adopts a huge 17.6-inch portrait-oriented screen, which is one of the biggest in its class. Another feature of the center console is a large 49-inch head-up display. The Neta S wagon also offers heated, ventilated, and massaging seats, a 6.5L fridge, and a Neta Sound system. The car adopts Nvidia Orin X chips and an AT128 LiDAR sensor from Hesai. Previously, Neta planned to use Hesai’s LiDARs in 2025.

Neta S powertrain​

As mentioned, the Neta S wagon is underpinned by the brand-new Shanhai 2.0 platform. The EREV variant of this car is powered by the Haozhi 2.0 system. It has a 1.5-liter DAM15HE naturally aspirated petrol engine from Harbin Dongan Auto Engine, a Changan subsidiary. Its peak power reaches 70 kW (94 hp). However, this ICE works as a generator and doesn’t transfer torque to the wheels.


The Neta S wagon has a single TZ210XS002 electric motor on the rear axle with a peak power of 200 kW (268 hp). There are two battery options. The first one is LFP made by Gotion or Jiangsu CATL with a capacity of 31.7 kWh. The second variant adopts a ternary NMC battery for 43.9 kWh made by EVE Energy.

According to MIIT data, the range of the Neta S wagon is 125 – 185 km, depending on the battery option. However, Neta’s officials claim this shooting brake can run up to 300 km in electric mode. The mixed range reaches 1,200 km.

In the future, Neta will launch the all-electric variant of the S wagon. It will offer two powertrain options. The first one adopts a single e-motor in the rear axle for 200 kW (268 hp). There is also a 4WD variant with a combined power output of 370 kW (496 hp). At the moment, only the EREV variant of the NetS wagon is available for reservation.

Neta S presales and prices​

The Neta S EREV wagon has a starting presales price of 175,900 yuan (24,500 USD). You can find the price tag for every Neta S wagon trim level below:

• EREV 300 Standard – 175,900 yuan (24,500 USD)
• EREV 300 Pro – 189,900 yuan (26,450 USD)
• EREV 300 Max – 209,900 yuan (29,250 USD)

The name of each trim level hints the Neta S wagon has become available for order only with a larger ternary NMC battery pack with a capacity of 43.9 kWh. It seems Neta will unveil the cheaper variant of this car with a smaller LFP pack on board later this month. Its price tag is expected to start from 150,000 yuan (20,900 USD). The deliveries of the Neta S EREV are scheduled for September.

Source: Neta, MIIT

 

[Yommie]

GWM Tank 300 facelift spied in China -changes are mainly to the interior

Oldest car in the Tank family is set to get a facelift as revealed by spy shots. Changes seem largely confined to the interior.

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GWM Tank 300 facelift spied in China -changes are mainly to the interior​

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Mark Andrews

August 12, 2024


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Spy shots have emerged of a facelift for the Tank 300 SUV from Great Wall Motor. It is the oldest car in the Tank range, having started life as a model under the Wey line in 2020. Changes appear largely to be concentrated on the interior and should be applied to both the ICE and PHEV versions.


The current Tank 300 has an integrated dual screen in the dashboard. These consist of both an LCD instrument panel and an infotainment screen. Each is 12.3 inches but look like one continuous screen. Very noticeably on the new version the infotainment unit has been replaced with a much larger screen that rises from the dashboard line and is more in tune with other models in the Tank range.

Although the overall configuration of the center console seems fairly similar, there is one big difference: the facelift version no longer has the drive selector mounted on the center console, shifting it to a steering wheel column-mounted stalk. The steering wheel itself has also changed and is now a two-spoke flat-bottomed design. Notably, we can see that it also has a vastly simplified amount of controls, which seem to be now just based on two scroll wheels, whereas the old car has a pad with three switches below on each side of the wheel. Bar these changes, the overall look of the interior remains pretty similar, with items such as the same air outlets and patterning for the doors remaining the same.


Exterior spy shots show camouflaging around the front and rear doors, but it is not obvious that these areas have been changed.

Powertrain choices for the Tank 300 are expected to remain the same. This means a 2.0T engine with 167KW power and 387 Nm of torque. There is also an option of a 3.0T V6 engine equipped version, which has 265 kW of power and 500 Nm of torque. This version uses a 48V mild hybrid system and a 9-speed automatic as opposed to the 8-speed automatic on the 2.0T equipped cars.

The facelift should also make its way to the Tank 300 Hi4-T model soon as well. This is a PHEV version based around a 2.0T engine with 185 kW of power and 385 Nm of torque. There is also a 120 kW front-mounted electric motor, which provides 400 Nm of torque. The system has a combined total of 300 kW of power and 750 Nm of torque, and the car uses a 37.1 kWh ternary lithium battery. All electric range using the WLTC cycle is 105 km.


The Tank 300 and the Hi4-T (see specs) version measure 4760, 1930, and 1903 mm (l/w/H), and the wheelbase is 2750 mm. Prices for the Tank 300 currently range from 199,800 to 330,000 yuan (27,850 – 46,000 USD), and the 300 Hi4-T sells for 269,800 yuan (37,600 USD). Prices for the facelifted version should be very much in line with existing prices, and the new version should be on sale around the end of the year.

Source: Autohome

 

[Yommie]

BYD Tang Max/Zhou MPV interior spied ahead of launch later this year

New BYD MPV spied and again and this time the interior is exposed. The car is believed to be called Tang Max and should launch in Q4.

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BYD Tang Max/Zhou MPV interior spied ahead of launch later this year​

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Mark Andrews

August 12, 2024


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It’s not difficult to be confused by the names of BYD cars thanks to the same names being used for multiple models, often with very little relationship to each other. However, one of the biggest confusions at the moment is whether the new MPV that has been spied testing multiple times is called the Tang Max or the Zhou, with Chinese media seeming to switch between the two on a monthly basis. This month, it appears to be called the Tang Max again, and as the MPV gets over closer to launch, spy shots have emerged of the interior along with exterior shots, which give us a greater idea of how the actual car looks.


Inside the car adopts a 2 + 2 + 3 seating layout. In front, the Tang Max has a similar layout to the Qin L, giving further credence to the idea that the new car uses the DM 5.0 powertrain. In the center of the dashboard is a large suspended rotatable screen. There is also embedded in the dashboard an instrument panel for the driver, and it looks as if the front passenger may also gain a screen. The center console has an uncluttered design with a gear selection knob along with a few other controls, in front of which is the wireless mobile phone charging pad and behind it two drink holders. There appears to be a large storage space underneath the center console.

Second-row passengers get independent seats with independent armrests, and small tray tables fold down from the backs of the front seats. At least some versions of the new car will gain a refrigerator. There’s a passageway between the two second-row seats for access to the third row. Space in the third row looks relatively cramped, but there are drink holders to the sides.


From the exterior spy shots, we can see that the new car will have an imposing front grille and large-sized deflector grooves. With the temporary tail lights fitted, we can’t tell much about the look. However, YY Design has published renderings of what they believe the car will look like, and if this is correct, then the Tang Max will have a continuous light strip at the back.

Current information suggests the new model is a PHEV only and so will use a version of BYD’s DM 5.0 technology. So far, the largest car we have details about to use this system is the forthcoming Han DM-i. Unlike earlier versions of the DM 5.0 system, the Han DM-i uses a 1.5T BYD472ZQB engine, which has a maximum power of 115 kW. In the case of the Han DM-i, this is then matched with a 200 kW peak power TZ210XYD electric motor, and the Tang Max may well also use this electric motor. Previous reports suggested the Tang Max will have an all-electric range of 200 km which is far greater than any other cars fitted with the DM 5.0 technology.

Size is expected to be similar to the Denza D9 although most likely a little shorter than the 5250 mm of the D9 (see specs). Prices should fall in the 250,000 – 350,000 yuan (34,450 – 48,200 USD) range and the car will likely launch in the fourth quarter of this year.


Source: Autohome

 

[Yommie]

SUV/pickup truck Changan Nevo E07 to gain EREV version with up to 200km all-electric range

Pickup truck SUV mix Changan Nevo E07 will gain an EREV version. Car will have single and dual motor versions with up to 200 km range.

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SUV/pickup truck Changan Nevo E07 to gain EREV version with up to 200km all-electric range​

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Mark Andrews

August 12, 2024


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Last month, the all-electric Changan Nevo E07 started rolling off the production line. Thanks to a government regulator, we now know that soon, this version will be joined by an extended-range EV version as well. Additional information now tells us that this will be equipped with a 39.05 kWh battery pack, which gives an all-electric range of up to 200 km.


Externally, the EREV version is almost the same as the all-electric car. The only really noticeable difference is that the EREV has a traditional air vent design, whereas the EV has an active air intake grille. At the front, the Nevo E07 has a quite distinctive through light design, and the front end looks more like an SUV than a pickup truck. At the sides, the car has hidden door handles, black cladding surrounding the lower area and wheel arches. The doors have a considerable indent at the bottom, and the Nevo E07 features roof rack rails.

It is a unique genre-bending vehicle that can switch between SUV and pickup truck and is built on Changan’s SDA platform. The tailgate folds down like a pickup truck, and the load capacity is reported to be 300 kg. Dimensions are the same as with the EV version with a length of 5045 mm, width 1996 mm and height curiously given at three different levels 1640, 1665, and 1695 mm, meanwhile the wheelbase is 3210 mm. Curb weight for the single motor version is 2325 kg, and for the dual motor version 2395 kg.


Range extension for the Changan Nevo E07 is provided by a JL469ZQ1 1.5T engine with a maximum power of 110KW. Power to the wheels is provided by an ATDM02 231KW electric motor mounted on the rear axle for the single-motor version. For the dual-motor version this is supplemented by a 131 kW AYDM01 electric motor on the front axle. These motors are less powerful than the 188 and 252 KW electric motors in the all-electric version. Top speed for the EREV is 190 km/h.

Whereas the EV uses ternary lithium batteries, in an effort to keep costs down with the EREV there is a switch to lithium iron phosphate batteries sourced from CATL. A 39.05 kWh battery capacity gives the single-motor version an all-electric range of 200 km, and the dual-motor version has a range of 180 km. Declared fuel consumption figures are 5.8 and 6.1 l/100 km, respectively.

It should be noted that the Nevo E07 is known in China as the Qiyuan E07 and is based on the CD701 concept. The car features front double wishbone suspension and at the back H-arm all-aluminium alloy independent suspension. Wading height is 600 mm, and the angle of approach and departure are 21 and 23 degrees, respectively. The Nevo E07 features CDC shock absorbers plus air springs, and buyers have a choice of 20 or 21-inch wheels.


In the front, the car, like the EV version, should offer dual zero-gravity seats. Although there is no instrument panel, the car does get an augmented reality head-up display and a 15.4-inch infotainment screen. Pictures of the interior have also shown back-of-seat-mounted screens for the rear passengers.

As with the EV version, the listing information from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology shows that the EREV will come with Lidar. Using 11 cameras, five millimeter-wave radars, 12 ultrasonic radars, and two lidars the Nevo E07 should have a high degree of assisted driving capability.

Launch off the EV version is currently expected around October this year but the EREV version will likely come a few months later. For the EV prices are expected to start at around 300,000 yuan (41,800 USD), which will likely mean prices for the EREV will start in the region of 270,000 yuan (37,600 USD).

Sources: MIIT, Autohome

 

[Yommie]

BYD’s Fang Cheng Bao Bao 8 battery specs revealed with 100 km range

The Fang Cheng Bao Bao 8 from BYD has up to 100 km of electric range. It can enter Europe as part of the Denza brand.

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BYD’s Fang Cheng Bao Bao 8 battery specs revealed with 100 km range​

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Denis Bobylev

August 12, 2024


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Fang Cheng Bao Bao 8

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The battery specs of the BYD-backed Fang Cheng Bao (FCB) Bao 8 were exposed by the Chinese regulator. This PHEV crossover has up to 100 km of electric range. The Bao 8 will enter the Chinese market this year. Later, it can enter Europe as part of the Denza brand.


Fang Cheng Bao is a high-end off-road brand launched by BYD in 2023. Its model line comprises a single car, which is a Bao 5 (Leopard 5) SUV. FCB has recently caused a scandal by slicing the Bao 5’s price to enhance the sales volume. This year, the BYD’s brand will launch two more cars: the Bao 3 electric crossover, and Bao 8 PHEV off-roader.

FCB Bao 8 battery specs​

Fang Cheng Bao Bao 8 (left) and YangWang U8 (see secs)
Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) revealed the battery specs of the Fang Cheng Bao Bao 8. It has a 36.864 kWh LFP Blade battery from BYD subsidiary FinDreams. This pack weighs 300 kg. The curb weight of the Bao 8 reaches an enormous 3,305 kg. As a result, the electric range of the Bao 8 reaches 100 km (unknown cycle).


The regulator’s filing revealed the fuel consumption of this massive beast is 8.87 L/100km. Under the hood, the Fang Cheng Bao flagship SUV has a 2-liter BYD487ZQD turbocharged petrol engine for 200 kW (268 hp). This ICE is paired with two electric motors for 200 kW (268 hp) and 300 kW (402 hp), respectively. There is no information about the mixed range of the Bao 8.

More about FCB Bao 8​

The Fang Cheng Bao Bao 8 is a full-size body-on-frame SUV. Its styling stays in line with the FCB Bao 5 (see specs). Its front end has a large bumper, blocky headlights, and a trapeze-shaped grille. The Bao 8 has a LiDAR sensor on the roof, flush door handles, and wide wheel arches. From the back, it has vertical taillights and a swing-out tailgate with a full-size spare wheel.

The Bao 8 has the DMO plug-in hybrid powertrain on board. Its dimensions are 5195/1994/1875 mm with a wheelbase of 2920 mm. Its approach and departure angles are up to 30/29 degrees, respectively. Inside, the Bao 8 has two interior layout variants: for 6 and 7 seats. Its zero-to-hundred acceleration time is 4.8 seconds. The top speed reaches 180 km/h. The Bao 8 will launch this year at a price of 500,000 yuan (69,600 USD).


Source: MIIT, Weibo

 

[Yommie]

Three-row version of the BYD-backed YangWang U8 is coming

The three-row version of the YangWang U8 from BYD is coming to China as the test car was spotted on a tow truck.

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Three-row version of the BYD-backed YangWang U8 is coming​

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Denis Bobylev

August 12, 2024


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The three-row version of the YangWang U8 from BYD is coming to China as the test car was spotted on a tow truck. It has a longer rear overhang and a slightly elongated wheelbase. It will enter the market to compete with other luxury three-row SUVs.


YangWang is a luxury brand under BYD launched in 2023. Its model line comprises two cars: the U8 off-roader (see specs) and the U9 supercar (see specs). However, the latter model started deliveries in late July 2024. So, the YangWang U8 SUV is the brand’s bestseller. From January to July 2024, YangWang sold 5,939 units of this model. The U8’s cumulative sales reached 7,940 cars.

The mentioned sales volume is high enough since the starting price of the YangWang U8 reaches 1,096,000 yuan (152,600 USD). However, it seems BYD wants to enhance the sales performance of this model by launching a more versatile variant of the U8 with three rows of seats.

Three-row YangWang U8​

The YangWang U8 with a longer rear overhang was spotted in China wearing heavy camouflage. Its front end remained the same, with a large grille, distinguishing running lights, and a LiDAR sensor on the roof. It has sizeable side-view mirrors, retractable door handles, and a blocky shape with a flat roofline.

The rear wheel arches of this off-roader were broadened. It hints that YangWang engineers have elongated the U8’s wheelbase. The 5-seat variant of the BYD’s most expensive SUV has a wheelbase of 3050 mm. So, the distance between the axles of the YangWang U8 can reach 3.2 meters. Its rear end is seemingly longer than the current version of the U8. It has a full-size spare wheel mounted on the swing-out tailgate.

The seat layout of the spotted YangWang U8 has yet to be known. Considering its high-end status, its cabin most likely adopts a 2+2+2 layout with two independent captain chairs in the second row.


Some netizens complained that the longer variant of the YangWang U8 will have less pronounced off-road capabilities. But its 5-seat variant is also a mediocre off-roader due to a massive curb weight of 3,460 kg. Its ramp angle is also moderate. So, this 150K USD SUV is a prestigious car for urban commutes in the first place. And the longer variant will enshrine this market positioning. The YangWang U8 with three rows of seats can make its official debut at the Chengdu Motor Show on August 30.

Specs of the YangWang U8​

The 5-seat YangWang U8 seats on the e-Platform 4 architecture. Its dimensions are 5319/2050/1930 mm with a wheelbase of 3050 mm. Its ground clearance reaches 285 mm thanks to the hydraulic suspension system. This vehicle’s trunk space is 1031 liters. Inside, the U8 has a 12.8-inch main screen, a 23.6-inch LCD instrument cluster, a 23.6-inch front passenger screen, and a pair of 12.8-inch monitors for the rear passengers.

Gavin Newsom in YangWang U8
The powertrain of the YangWang U8 comprises four e-motors with a combined peak power of 880 kW (1,180 hp) and a peak torque of 1,280 Nm. Its zero-to-hundred acceleration time is 3.6 seconds. A 49-kWh LFP Blade battery from BYD subsidiary FinDreams powers those electric motors. But the YangWang U8 is an EREV. So, it also has a 2-liter turbocharged petrol engine under the hood for 200 kW (268 hp). Thanks to a 75-liter fuel tank, the U8 can run up to 1,000 km (CLTC).

Source: Weibo

 

[Hamartia Antidote]

lots and lots of Teslas

How Many EVs Can I Find on a Walk in China? | I Saw the NEW Xiaomi SU7!​