China Auto Thread

[Yommie]

Jiyue 07, an electric sedan from Baidu and Geely, opens pre-sales

Jiyue 07 opens pre-sales claiming to be world's strongest intelligent car. EV sedan is from a Geely Baidu joint venture.

carnewschina.com

Jiyue 07, an electric sedan from Baidu and Geely, opens pre-sales​

Reading Time: 4 minutes

Mark Andrews

August 29, 2024


0

News like this to your inbox or phone?​

Weekly summary to your inbox
I want this

Never miss and important news
Get Instant notification once the news is published.
Follow Us
On August 28, the Jiyue 07 officially opened pre-sales, claiming to be the strongest intelligent car on the planet. Pre-sales prices start at 215,900 yuan (30,450 USD), and it is believed the car will officially launch on September 10. Jiyue is a brand created by Baidu with Geely and was at one point known as Jidu Auto. Currently, the brand, which is 65% owned by Geely, only has the 01 SUV on sale. The fact that the 07 is only now opening pre-sales is a surprise, seeing that 07 sedans began arriving at dealers back in early July.


Jiyue seems to be at pains to emphasize that the car has a Chinese original design. It should be noted that the design has won awards from both Red Dot and iF. With a 3013 mm wheelbase, the car has short front and rear overhangs, which help optimize space for the occupants. At the front, a sculpted LED running light strip connects the two headlight clusters. The 07 has a largely enclosed front other than a trapezoidal air intake at the bottom of the fender.

Most Chinese EVs these days have hidden door handles, but in the case of the Jiyue 07 (see specs), it takes a different approach and locates door opening and closing buttons on the B and C pillars. It adopts a fastback design, and the drag coefficient is just Cd 0.198. At the back the car has intelligent ISD interactive piano key style tail lights. There is a rear wing that automatically rises when the speed exceeds 95 km/h. The car is relatively large with dimensions of 4953, 1989, and 1475 mm (l/w/h).


Inside, the Jiyue 07 gives a quite high-tech image with its yoke-style steering wheel and the 35.6-inch 6K screen. This can realize full-screen, dual-screen, or triple-screen display setup with all divisions being virtual rather than physical. The screen itself extends from around the midpoint of the driver’s side to the midpoint of the passenger side. There’s also a small screen on the back of the center console for use by the rear occupant. It’s claimed that the development of the yoke-style steering wheel cost 20 million yuan (2.8 million USD) and that in addition to providing a good grip, it does not block the driver’s line of sight – Jiyue will apparently offer a normal steering wheel as an option.

Single motor versions have 400V architecture and a maximum power of 200 kW. On the other hand, the dual motor versions use an additional 200 kW motor on the front axle and will also have 800V architecture. Lower spec versions use a 71.4 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery, which is enough for a 660 km CLTC range. Higher spec versions gain a 100 kWh ternary lithium (NMC) battery, which for the single motor version gives an 880 km range, whereas for the dual motor version, the range is 770 km. Currently, no information regarding charging times is available. Being a Geely product, the car uses the SEA platform.

The Jiyue 07 will come with the 2.0 version of ASD (Apollo Self Driving), the high-end intelligent driving system from Baidu’s Apollo unit. Like Tesla’s FSD and the forthcoming Xpeng Eagle Vision systems, this is a vision-only-based system and does not use lidar. Use of it requires a subscription of 599 yuan (84 USD) per month, but it will be free of charge for the first three months, and for a limited time, there is a special lifetime purchase price of 4999 yuan (700 USD) reduced from the normal 29,900 yuan (4,200 USD).


The 2.0 system uses a new end-to-end perception model which improves detection, tracking, mapping, and scene understanding capabilities. It is unclear why Jiyue are calling the 07 the strongest intelligent car on the planet, however, it appears that ASD 2 .0 will be able to manage unrestricted assisted driving on all types of roads. We will however have to wait to see how capable the system really is and what exactly it covers.

Sources: Autohome, Fast Technology

 

[Yommie]

Tesla to start production of 7-seat Model Y in China in October, coming to Europe later – report says

Tesla plans to start mass production of the Model Y seven-seater option in the Giga Shanghai plant in October.

carnewschina.com

Tesla to start production of 7-seat Model Y in China in October, coming to Europe later – report says​

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Jiri Opletal

August 29, 2024


0
Tesla Gigafactory in Shanghai. Credit: Xinhua

News like this to your inbox or phone?​

Weekly summary to your inbox
I want this

Never miss and important news
Get Instant notification once the news is published.
Follow Us

Tesla plans to start mass production of the Model Y seven-seater option in the Giga Shanghai plant in October, domestic media reported. The updated electric SUV is intended to launch in the Chinese and European markets.


The China-made Model Y with third row of seats has already completed the homologation process for the European Union market, NBD reported. The new 7-seater will weigh 45 kg more than the standard 5-seat variant, the report also notes.

CarNewsChina reached its source inside Tesla’s Shanghai plant, which wants to stay anonymous as it is not authorized to speak with the media. The source denied that production had already started as it is planned for October but declined to provide more information about the 7-seater Model Y version as it is classified.


Tesla’s China plant currently produces two cars – Model 3 sedan and Model Y SUV, both as 5-seaters only. Tesla launched an updated Model 3 codenamed Highland last year in China.

The updated Model Y, codename Juniper, is supposed to be launched in early 2025. Tesla CEO Elon Musk reiterated in June that a Model Y refresh is not coming this year. It is unclear if the 7-seater Model Y will be the new Juniper update.

Tesla launched a slightly updated Model Y for China only in October last year, with more power, ambient lighting, and a revamped dashboard. However, this refresh was not intended for export.


In 2021, Tesla started offering a 7-seater version of the Model Y only for the 4WD dual motor Model Y Long Range in the US. The third of the seats cost 2,000 USD extra.

The Model Y SUV is the best-selling EV in China in 2024, with almost 300,000 units sold between January and July (including exports), far outselling the Model 3 sedan.

The RWD variant of the Tesla Model Y SUV starts at 249,900 yuan (35,000 USD), while the RWD variant of the Model 3 sedan starts at 231,900 yuan (32,500 USD) in China.

Update (Aug 29, 21:06 pm Shenzhen time): According to Shanghai Security Journal, Tesla denied it will launch the 7-seater Model Y domestically but didn’t comment on export to Europe part of the report.

 

[Yommie]

New 2025 BYD Han piles up at dealers before the sales start

The first batch of new 2025 model year BYD Han sedans arrived at dealers for display indicating the car is ready for the sales start.

carnewschina.com

New 2025 BYD Han piles up at dealers before the sales start​

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Denis Bobylev

August 29, 2024


0
2025 model year BYD Han EV at dealer in China

News like this to your inbox or phone?​

Weekly summary to your inbox
I want this

Never miss and important news
Get Instant notification once the news is published.
Follow Us

The first batch of new 2025 model year BYD Han sedans arrived at dealers for display indicating the car is ready for the sales start. The updated Han EV has a new rear suspension and body color. Another important adjustment is a LiDAR sensor. The Han DM-i variant will adopt the exterior design of its electric sibling.


The BYD Han is the brand’s old-timer launched in 2020. It has undergone several planned adjustments during its time on the market. And BYD is determined to extend the lifespan of the Han with another short-term update. The 2025 model year Han had already reached dealers before the sales started in China.

2025 model year BYD Han at dealers​

The 2025 model year BYD Han EV arrived at dealers for display. Interestingly, only the single-motor variant with a 506 km range made it to the stores. This move goes against the car makers’ habit of putting the most expensive versions of their products on display. It’s worth mentioning the 2025 model year Han DM-i still hasn’t made it to the dealerships.


2025 BYD Han DM-i
Previously, the 2025 BYD Han DM-i was seen on a car carrier and during road tests. It adopts the styling of its electric version. Previously, the Han DM-i had a large grille and blocky headlights (see specs). But the new model has elongated headlights, a closed front end, and a chrome-plated element with a “汉” (Han) logo on it. You can distinguish the Han DM-i by the fuel door on the left rear fender and emblems.

2025 model year Han EV piles up at dealers
So, only the BYD Han EV has arrived at dealers at the moment. It stays in line with the 2024 model year Han EV (see specs) with a few exceptions. The most obvious one is the new gray body color. Another change is a new multi-link independent suspension system. The Han EV will also get an optional LiDAR sensor on the roof. However, entry-level cars displayed at showrooms don’t have this feature.

In contrast with other newly refreshed BYD cars, the Han EV still has the “Build Your Dreams” inscription on the tailgate. Meanwhile, other BYD-branded vehicles have an illuminated BYD logo on the rear end. Inside, the Han EV remained the same with a large rotatable screen and a digital instrument cluster. The displayed Han EV has a 204 hp e-motor in the front axle and a 506 km range. Prices of the new Han have yet to be disclosed.


Source: Weibo

 

[Yommie]

New Voyah Dreamer with Huawei tech opened pre-sales at 49,100 USD

The new Voyah Dreamer is the world's first MPV equipped with both Huawei's HarmonyOS and Qiankun ADS, according to the official.

carnewschina.com

New Voyah Dreamer with Huawei tech opened pre-sales at 49,100 USD​

Reading Time: 4 minutes

Dong Yi Chen

August 29, 2024


0

News like this to your inbox or phone?​

Weekly summary to your inbox
I want this

Never miss and important news
Get Instant notification once the news is published.
Follow Us

On August 28, Dongfeng’s Voyah brand opened its new Voyah Dreamer MPV for pre-sales with a price range of 349,900 – 489,900 yuan (49,100 – 68,800 USD), officially positioned as a “panoramic luxury technology flagship MPV”, available in PHEV and EV variants.

• 4WD Kunpeng PHEV: 349,900 – 429,900 yuan (Voyah Xiaoyao Cockpit & Voyah Kunpeng ADS)
• 4WD Kunpeng EV: 369,900 – 449,900 yuan (Voyah Xiaoyao Cockpit & Voyah Kunpeng ADS)
• 4WD Qiankun PHEV: 469,900 yuan (Huawei Qiankun ADS & HarmonyOS)
• 4WD Qiankun EV: 489,900 yuan (Huawei Qiankun ADS & HarmonyOS)

On August 29, Voyah announced that the number of pre-orders exceeded 10,000 units within the first three after pre-sales opened.

For the exterior, the new Voyah Dreamer largely continues the design of the previous generation (see specs) with dimensions of 5315/1980/1820 mm and a wheelbase of 3200 mm, positioned as a medium-to-large MPV. The front grille adopts a waterfall design with a total of 34 chrome bars representing China’s 34 provincial-level administrative regions.


The rear adopts a matrix-like taillight group, supplemented by a chrome bar and the Voyah brand logo.

Additionally, seven exterior body colors are offered.

Another product offering variation is with lidar and without lidar. The lidar variant is equipped with 27 sensors, including a 192-line lidar, a millimeter-wave radar, and high-performance cameras.


The entire series comes standard with an intelligent electric four-wheel drive system. The PHEV variant is powered by a 1.5T 110 kW (148 hp)/220 Nm engine and dual motors with a total power of 310 kW (416 hp) and a peak torque of 620 Nm. The top speed is 203 km/h, the CLTC pure electric range is 235 km, the comprehensive range is 1,411 km, and the comprehensive fuel consumption is 0.65L/100km. The battery spec has not been revealed at this time officially.

The EV variant is powered by dual motors that output a combined power of 320 kW (429 hp) and torque of 620 Nm, coupled with a 108.73 kWh ternary lithium battery pack, providing a CLTC range of 650 km.

The interior offers “2+2+3” 7-seat and “2+2” 4-seat layout options. The 7-seat comes with new zero-gravity second-row seats, new standard electric adjustment/seat heating functions for all seats, and dual 6-inch armrest screens in the second row. A 13 L in-vehicle refrigerator that supports heating and cooling is also added.

The cockpit adopts a new design, using a stand-alone LCD instrument panel and dual 15.4-inch screens, canceling the previous generation’s triple-screen design. The cockpit is powered by Huawei’s HarmonyOS 4.0 paired with a Qualcomm 8295P chip, making the new Voyah Dreamer the world’s first MPV equipped with Huawei Qiankun ADS 3.0 and Harmony cockpit system, according to the official. Furthermore, the low-end trims are equipped with Voyah’s Xiaoyao cockpit system and Kunpeng advanced driving assistance system.

At the same time, the rear passengers have access to a newly added 17.3-inch 3K ceiling entertainment screen. The center console adopts a simple layout featuring wireless charging panels and cup holders, and the number of physical buttons has been minimized. Other configurations include a 29-inch AR-HUD, dual 50W mobile phone wireless charging panels, 22 speakers (including headrest speakers), and 64-color ambient lights.

Source: DongCheDi, ITHome

 

[Yommie]

Neta S Wagon with 800V platform starts presales from 26,650 USD

Neta S Wagon BEV, priced between 26,650 and 29,500 USD. The vehicle features a minimalist interior with advanced tech, including a 17.6-inch touchscreen and a 49-inch AR-HUD. Deliveries are expected in November 2024.

carnewschina.com

Neta S Wagon with 800V platform starts presales from 26,650 USD​

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Adrian Leung

August 29, 2024


0

News like this to your inbox or phone?​

Weekly summary to your inbox
I want this

Never miss and important news
Get Instant notification once the news is published.
Follow Us

Neta Auto has begun presales for the Neta S wagon, a fully electric station wagon available in three trims, priced between 189,900 and 209,900 yuan (26,650 to 29,500 USD). Deliveries are expected to start in November 2024. A 99 yuan (14 USD) deposit can be used as a 1,000 yuan (140 USD) credit toward the purchase during the presale.


The electric Neta S wagon uses the CIIC 800V platform with a 200 kW silicon carbide electric drive system and supports a 5C charging rate. It has a range of 550 kilometers under CLTC. The Neta S wagon CIIC 800V Max model is equipped with a 128-line LiDAR system, 31 driver assistance sensors, and Nvidia Orin-X autonomous driving chips. It also includes high-speed navigation assistance.

The Neta S wagon maintains the front design of the Neta S sedan, featuring a split headlight setup and a trapezoidal air intake with black mesh. The wagon has a straight roofline compared to the sedan, with redesigned C/D-pillar triangular windows and no chrome trim on the top of the windows. The rear includes a roof spoiler and an optional “ducktail” style spoiler. The wagon measures 4980 mm in length, 1980 mm in width, and 1480 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2980 mm. The roof rack supports up to 100 kg.


Inside, the Neta S wagon features a minimalist design with faux suede materials. It includes a 17.6-inch 2.5K central touchscreen, a 12.7-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 49-inch AR-HUD head-up display. The vehicle also has a 6.5L refrigerator, a sound system, and heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats.

There is also an EREV variant of the Neta S wagon, which features a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine that functions as a generator and an electric motor producing 200 kW (268 hp). It offers two battery options: a 31.7 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery or a 43.9 kWh ternary NMC battery. The electric-only range varies from 125 to 185 kilometers, with a total range of up to 1,200 kilometers in hybrid mode. The deliveries of the EREV variants are scheduled for September.

The Neta S wagon is part of Neta Auto‘s expansion into the new energy vehicle (NEV) market. The brand, launched by Hozon Auto in 2018, includes models like the Aya, X, and L crossovers, S sedan, and GT coupe. The Neta S wagon is their latest addition.

 

[Yommie]

Wuling Starlight S launched at 14,000 USD, available in PHEV and EV

The PHEV variant has a 1,100 km comprehensive range. Wuling claimed the EV variant can increase the range by 200 km with 15 mins of 2C fast charging.

carnewschina.com

Wuling Starlight S launched at 14,000 USD, available in PHEV and EV​

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Dong Yi Chen

August 29, 2024


0​

​

News like this to your inbox or phone?​

​

Weekly summary to your inbox

I want this​

Never miss and important news
Get Instant notification once the news is published.

Follow Us​

​

On August 28, Wuling officially launched its Starlight S SUV under its Silver Label series targeting family-oriented consumers, with a price range of 99,800 – 129,800 yuan (14,000 – 18,200 USD). The new car is offered in five trims in both PHEV and EV variants.

Variant	Trim	Price
PHEV	60km advanced version	99,800 yuan (14,000 USD)
PHEV	130km pilot version	109,800 yuan (15,400 USD)
PHEV	130km flagship version	119,800 yuan (16,800 USD)
EV	510km pilot version	119,800 yuan (16,800 USD)
EV	510km flagship version	129,800 yuan (18,200 USD)

The Wuling Starlight S is officially positioned as the “first dual-power SUV based on SGMW joint venture’s Tianyu D architecture”, with dimensions of 4745/1890/1685 (1680) mm and a 2800 mm wheelbase. Its curb weight range is from 1680 kg to 1790 kg. The official also claimed that the car has 19 aerodynamic features to achieve a drag coefficient of 0.277Cd, which increases the cruising range by 20 km.

The pure electric variant is powered by a 150 kW (201 hp)/310 Nm front electric motor and a 60 kWh Shenlian 2C (lithium iron phosphate type) battery pack, providing a CLTC cruising range of 510 km. Under 2C fast charging, Wuling claimed that charging for 15 minutes can increase the range by 200 km. Under slow charging, it takes 10 hours to replenish the battery from 20% to 80%. The top speed is 175 km/h.

The plug-in hybrid variant is powered by a 1.5L naturally aspirated engine that outputs 78 kW (105 hp)/130 Nm and a 150 kW/310 Nm electric motor, mated to an E-CVT. Two different Shenlian battery pack options are offered: 9.5 kWh and 20.5 kWh, providing a CLTC pure electric range of 60 km and 130 km, respectively. The fuel tank capacity is 53 L and the top speed is 170 km/h. Additionally, the official comprehensive range is 1,100 km.

Inside, the cockpit features a 15.6-inch central control screen, an 8.8-inch rectangular instrument panel, and a flat-bottom steering wheel. The vehicle operating system is supported by a built-in Ling OS, which supports OTA updates, voice recognition, and mobile phone remote control, to name a few. Level 2 advanced driving assistance capabilities are also present.

The seats are wrapped in leather material, and all trims come standard with a 6-way electrically adjustable driver seat. Front-seat heating/ventilation and rear-seat heating are optional. At the same time, the rear seats support a maximum tilt angle of 127°.




There are six airbags and 23 storage spaces throughout the vehicle, along with a 1.18㎡ panoramic sunroof. The standard trunk volume is 610 L and can be expanded to 1,768 L after the rear seats are folded down.
Source: Wuling, Xchuxing​

 

[Yommie]

Xpeng Mona M03 can make a profit despite low price, and more details on Max’s smart driving

On August 27, Xpeng officially launched its Mona M03 EV. What surprised many was how low the starting price was for the new model, ranging from 119,800 to

carnewschina.com

Xpeng Mona M03 can make a profit despite low price, and more details on Max’s smart driving​

Reading Time: 5 minutes

Mark Andrews

August 28, 2024


0

News like this to your inbox or phone?​

Weekly summary to your inbox
I want this

Never miss and important news
Get Instant notification once the news is published.
Follow Us

On August 27, Xpeng officially launched its Mona M03 EV. What surprised many was how low the starting price was for the new model, ranging from 119,800 to 155,800 yuan (16,800 – 21,850 USD). This has led many people to question how Xpeng will make a profit from such a car. Following the launch, more information has emerged regarding how Xpeng can sell the car at such a low price, along with the other big question mark over what exactly the Max is going to offer with regard to smart driving ability.


The Mona M03, which, despite looking like a sedan, is really a liftback-style hatchback, is the product of more than four years of R&D and an investment of four billion yuan (560 million USD). He Xiaopeng, Xpeng’s chairman, answered many of the burning questions on the media’s lips at a Q&A session after the main press conference.

He Xiaopeng answering questions after the Mona M03 launch
One of the main ways that Xpeng has been able to produce the car at such a low price has been through its commitment to controlling costs through technological innovation. He emphasized breakthroughs in vehicle energy management that enable vehicles to achieve longer ranges with lower battery capacity. It should be noted that the Max version, which is the heaviest, has a curb weight of only 1739 kg, which for an EV of that size is quite light. No doubt furthering this ability to get more range from a smaller battery is the Mona M03, claiming to have the lowest drag coefficient figure for a mass-produced electric hatchback. The car manages to get up to 620 km of CLTC range from a 62.2 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery supplied by BYD subsidiary FinDreams.


According to Xpeng, technical optimization not only improves the product’s performance but also effectively reduces the production cost, which means that Xpeng’s Mona M3 (see specs) can be priced more competitively.

Yang Guang, product manager for the Xpeng Mona M03, said that the company’s goal was to sell 10,000 of the model a month. Furthermore, Xpeng is developing follow-up models. According to Xpeng data, the number of orders for the new car reached 10,000 within 52 minutes of the launch.

He Xiaopeng revealed that despite the apparently low pricing all versions of the Mona M03 can achieve profits. It has previously been reported that the gross profit margin for Xpeng has increased over the last four quarters and in Q2 2024 reached 14% a level which is higher than that of Nio. However, between January and July 2024, the company only sold 63,000 vehicles, just 22.6% of the annual target. Although Xpeng has high hopes for the Mona M03 to increase volume, this comes from the company’s cheapest vehicle, and so will unlikely have a huge effect on the company’s bottom line.


Concerning positioning, He Xiaopeng draws parallels between the Mona M03 and the BYD Qin. For many in China, the Qin was their first new energy vehicle, and in the case of the Mona M03, it will be their first smart car. The car seems to be particularly aimed at younger people.

Max in name and nature​

Some Chinese media are saying that the Tesla Model 2 is already on sale in China, and that car is the M03. When making such statements, they’re talking about the Max version of the car, which won’t be available until after the Chinese New Year in 2025. Not only does the interior of the Xpeng Mona M03 take a very Tesla-like approach with its minimalist style, but the Max version also takes a Tesla-like approach to smart driving.

Up to now, most vision-based systems in China have been restricted to situations such as highways and urban expressways, along with offering parking assistance. Similarly, the computing power of the cars has been much lower than those equipped with Lidar. Most Lidar-equipped cars use Nvidia Orin X chips to provide the computing power with most of them using a pair for 508 TOPS. This is exactly the same as used in the Max version of the Mona M03, but this car will not be equipped with Lidar. Despite not having Lidar, the Max version will offer urban NOA as a standard and it will not depend on road conditions, cities, or maps.

In terms of sensors, the Max version is equipped with 12 exterior cameras, 12 ultrasonic radars and 3 millimeter wavelength radars. Xpeng believes it has created the cheapest high-end smart car model in history. Although Xpeng is not referring to the system as XNGP the capabilities are very similar, according to what we currently know. Of course, as the system has yet to be released, we don’t know how well it performs in real life. According to Xpeng the Max version of the Mona M03 will have the same capabilities as the flagship X9 MPV for parking. Furthermore, the car will be able, without high-precision maps, to negotiate roundabouts, U-turns, and other road conditions.

Xpeng is calling its vision-based solution Eagle Vision. It appears that the system will first debut on the forthcoming P7+ before making its way into the Max version in 2025. Allowing the system to operate is an upgrade in camera accuracy and viewing distance which has partly been aided by the color resolution of the Eagle Vision solution. This means the system will work in low light and where there is a significant light difference or other environments. AI appears to be one of the crucial elements behind the system and the solution reduces the need for computing power by 20% compared with Xpeng’s XNGP system. Visual information does not need to be transformed and is directly used as input in the neural network.

The result is that the delay for the intelligent driving system is reduced by 100 ms, giving a much smoother system with faster responses. Eagle Vision is an innovation at the algorithm level, and the underlying technology behind Eagle Vision and XNGP is the same, but the implementation is different. The Mona M03 was launched on the tenth anniversary of Xpeng, and the Eagle Vision system is, in many ways, a full circle, whereby Xpeng is once again returning to its vision-based origins for its smart driving system.

Editor’s note:​

One thing that currently no one appears to be talking about is the fact that the Mona M03 has a front wheel drive layout. For a smart EV start-up, it seems a strange choice, but it should be noted that both the G3 and P5 models from Xpeng were also front wheel drive. This leads us to question whether perhaps the Mona M03 might be based on some development of the David platform, which underpins the earlier two models. If that is indeed the case, then that would also help explain how Xpeng is able to offer the M03 at such a low price – one which, in fact, undercuts both the G3i and P5.

Sources: Fast Technology

 

[Yommie]

Great Power displays all-solid state battery with 280Wh/kg and claims mass production in 2026

Great Power has unveiled its all-solid state battery which uses an oxide route process. Company claims it will be mass produced in 2026.

carnewschina.com

Great Power displays all-solid state battery with 280Wh/kg and claims mass production in 2026​

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Mark Andrews

August 28, 2024


3

News like this to your inbox or phone?​

Weekly summary to your inbox
I want this

Never miss and important news
Get Instant notification once the news is published.
Follow Us

On August 28, Great Power, which in Chinese is known as Penghui Energy, held a new product launch press conference to unveil its all-solid state battery. Some key features are that it boasts a 280 Wh/kg energy density and it is expected to be mass-produced in 2026. Furthermore, Great Power claims that it expects to be able to produce the battery at only a 15% higher cost than that of current lithium batteries. The battery itself has a capacity specification of 20 Ah.


At the unveiling, the Guangzhou based company said that there are currently three mainstream technical routes for achieving an all-solid state battery. These are polymer, sulfur/halide, and oxide – Great Power says that it has chosen the oxide route. The company claims to have solved the process and technical problems of an oxide solid-state electrolyte and to have achieved a two-way breakthrough in the process and materials of solid-state batteries.

Usually, an oxide solid electrolyte needs to be produced using a high-temperature sintering process, creating an inherent brittleness of ceramic materials. Great Power has created an electrolyte wet coating process which solves the problem of oxide electrolyte preparation and greatly simplifies the production process. The battery displayed at the unveiling is the first generation product. Due to the simplified production process it’s expected that the cost will only be about 15% higher than that of today’s conventional lithium batteries. With further optimization of the process and reduction in material costs, it’s expected that over the next three to five years, the cost can reach parity.


The battery uses an inorganic solid-state electrolyte to replace the separator and electrolyte, thereby eliminating the safety hazard of an organic electrolyte. This opens up more possibilities for the development of the next generation of high-performance solid-state batteries.

Great Power claims that its solid-state battery has a life of 600 cycles of charging and discharging and that this can be done in ambient temperatures of -20°C~85°C. Currently, the energy density is 280 Wh/kg but Great Power believe that in 2025 the battery will be capable of over 300 Wh/kg, this will be through using a higher proportion of silicon-based anode. Pilot research and development, along with small-scale production, will be launched in 2025, and following that, a production line and full mass production will be established in 2026.

Great Power was established in 2001 as a lithium-ion battery producer. The company does produce batteries for EVs, but this is just one of five main business areas; the company appears to be more focused on energy storage.

Editor’s note:​

This is exciting news but we will have to wait to see whether Great Power can really deliver upon its promises and produce such a battery at scale and for the cost they claim.

True solid-state batteries are considered to be the holy grail of battery technology thanks to their high energy density, stability, and, by extension, safety, as well as their ability to operate across a wide range of temperatures. However, the battery announced by Great Power doesn’t seem to have that high an energy density, at 280 Wh/kg.

Source: Fast Technology

 

[Yommie]

Forthing Xinghai S7 electric sedan, which is really a hatchback, opens pre-sales

Forthing Xinghai EV opens pre-sales. Car will launch in September. It's the second car in the Xinghai range and will be joined by a third in 2024.

carnewschina.com

Forthing Xinghai S7 electric sedan, which is really a hatchback, opens pre-sales​

Reading Time: 4 minutes

Mark Andrews

August 28, 2024


0

News like this to your inbox or phone?​

Weekly summary to your inbox
I want this

Never miss and important news
Get Instant notification once the news is published.
Follow Us

On August 28, pre-sales opened for the Xinghai S7, an EV sedan/hatchback produced by Dongfeng’s Forthing brand. The car will officially launch on September 20 and, before the opening of pre-sales, had already attracted blind bookings for 6,053 units. With pre-sales, two versions were announced, priced at 129,800 yuan (18,200 USD) for the Joy Edition and 139,900 yuan (19,650 USD) for the Luxury Edition. Both have a claimed range of 555 km for the car with energy consumption quoted as 11.9 kWHh per 100 km. It’s reported that there will be an extended-range EV version in the future.


Although bigger than the Xpeng Mona M03, the pricing and style of the car suggest that Dongfeng is aiming the Forthing Xinghai S7 as a competitor to the Xpeng car. The S7 has dimensions of 4935, 1915, and 1495 mm with a wheelbase of 2915 mm. It has a low drag coefficient of just Cd 0.191 and comes equipped with 19-inch wheels, which appear to have a low-drag design. There also seems to be an option for 20-inch wheels.

The S7 is the first sedan in the Xinghai series. However, although Chinese media are calling the car a sedan, it is really a liftback hatchback, and very obviously so. Overall, the design from the side looks quite awkward, as if the front half and the second half are from two completely different cars. At the front, the S7 has an enclosed face with striking light clusters, which are similar in shape to the figure 7. The car has adaptive high and low beams and is equipped with an active grille, which no doubt helps reduce the car’s wind resistance.


From the side, we can see that the car has concealed door handles, and the hatchback nature of the car is very evident. The roof line begins to fall steeply after the B-pillar, and by the time it gets to the C and D-pillars, it looks out of place. At the rear, there is a through type tail light along with a small ducktail type spoiler above. There is also a very prominent black lower surround design. Buyers will have a choice from five exterior colors: green, white, blue, red, and black.

Inside, the car has both a floating 8.8-inch instrument panel and a 15.6-inch infotainment screen. The S7 uses the Xinghai OS system and can support mobile phone connection and voice recognition. There is a two-spoke steering wheel with a flattened top and bottom. At a time when many producers are reducing the number of controls mounted on the wheel Dongfeng seems to have gone for a more traditional approach. There is a wireless mobile phone charging pad, and the driver’s seat gains heating and ventilation. Buyers have a choice between a black and a beige interior color scheme.

The S7 comes with an electric rear hatch as standard. With the seats up, the trunk space is 541 liters, and this is extendable to 1303 liters. It should also be noted that the car comes with a frunk.


At launch, the car has a 160 kW electric motor, which can deliver a maximum torque of 310 Nm. This provides the S7 with a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 6.67 seconds. A lithium iron phosphate battery pack with a capacity of 56.8 kWh gives the car a 555 km range using CLTC measurements. Using fast charging it can go from 30 to 80% SOC in 26 minutes. The EREV version will reportedly use a 1.5 liter engine as the range extender along with a 160 kW electric motor.

The car will offer an L2+ driving assistance function via 4 cameras and 8 ultrasonic radars as standard. The S7 is the second model in the Xinghai new energy range after the V9 MPV, and this year should also see the unveiling of the mid-size T7 SUV.

Sources: Autohome, Fast Technolgy

 

[Yommie]

Huawei’s Aito M7 Pro received 6,000 orders in 48 hours after launch

Launched on August 26, the Aito M7 Pro received 6,000 orders. It includes a basic version of Huawei’s driving assistance and a combined range of up to 1290 km CLTC. Available in four configurations, deliveries started on August 27.

carnewschina.com

Huawei’s Aito M7 Pro received 6,000 orders in 48 hours after launch​

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Adrian Leung

August 28, 2024


0

News like this to your inbox or phone?​

Weekly summary to your inbox
I want this

Never miss and important news
Get Instant notification once the news is published.
Follow Us

The Aito M7 Pro (see specs), a new offering from the Aito brand, a partnership between Huawei and Seres, was launched on August 26. The model quickly gained traction, securing over 6,000 orders within 48 hours. Available in four configurations, the M7 Pro is priced between 249,800 and 289,800 yuan (35,100 to 40,700 USD).


The M7 Pro is distinct from its sibling, the M7 Ultra, mainly due to its reliance on a vision-based assisted driving system, which replaces the more advanced Lidar unit found in the Ultra. This system, the basic version of Huawei’s Qiankun 3.0 ADS, offers Navigate on Autopilot (NCA) capabilities for highways and urban expressways but lacks the enhanced urban navigation features available in the Ultra. The Pro model is equipped with a suite of sensors, including millimeter-wavelength radars, high-definition cameras, and ultrasonic sensors.

The M7 Pro mirrors the Ultra model in terms of size, with dimensions of 5020 mm in length, 1945 mm in width, and 1760 mm in height, along with a 2820 mm wheelbase. It is offered in both five- and six-seater layouts, retaining the same exterior design as the Ultra, minus the Lidar unit. The interior includes Nappa leather seats, a 10.25-inch LCD instrument cluster, and a 15.6-inch 2K infotainment screen.


The M7 Pro’s powertrain remains consistent with the Ultra version. It utilizes a 1.5T engine for range extension, coupled with a 38.5 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery. Depending on the configuration, this setup provides a CLTC all-electric range of 200 km and a combined range of up to 1290 km.

Deliveries of the M7 Pro began on August 27, with Seres targeting 3,000 units in the first week and over 10,000 units within the first month. The M7 Pro positions itself as a more affordable alternative to the Ultra, offering essential features at a lower cost, which has likely contributed to its rapid sales success.

Huawei’s involvement with Aito remains strong even after selling the brand’s rights to Seres. This move likely aims to improve marketing and avoid legal issues in countries where Huawei is banned. Despite the sale, Aito continues using Huawei’s software, components, and retail channels and remains a key member of the Huawei-controlled HIMA alliance.


Updated: 29/08/24

 

[Yommie]

Geely, Chery, and JAC to establish car manufacturing in Algeria

Geely, Chery, and JAC will establish car manufacturing in Algeria to solidify its presence in North Africa.

carnewschina.com

Geely, Chery, and JAC to establish car manufacturing in Algeria​

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Denis Bobylev

August 28, 2024


0
Geely, Chery and JAC to assemble cars in Algeria

News like this to your inbox or phone?​

Weekly summary to your inbox
I want this

Never miss and important news
Get Instant notification once the news is published.
Follow Us

Geely, Chery, and JAC will establish car manufacturing in Algeria to solidify its presence in North Africa. This information was disclosed by Li Jian, Chinese Ambassador to Algeria. It’s a response of Chinese automakers to Algeria’s import restrictions implemented in 2023.


Algeria’s economy has been declining for several years in a row. As a result, local authorities aimed to revive the industry by restricting automobile imports. Newly imposed strict rules were about to entice car companies to establish manufacturing facilities in the country. The plan seems to be working as the Chinese Ambassador to Algeria has confirmed three automakers will assemble cars in the North African country.

Geely, Chery, and JAC to assemble cars in Algeria​

According to the latest interview with Chinese Ambassador to Algeria Li Jian, three Chinese automakers — Geely, Chery, and JAC — will establish car manufacturing facilities in this country. It is worth mentioning that JAC previously had a light truck KD plant in Algeria. Others have no industrial background in the North African country.


Chery Arrizo 8 Pro in Algeria
However, there is no information about the upcoming JAC manufacturing facility in Algeria. In contrast, Chery officials shared in November 2023 that they plan to establish a plant in Bordj Bou Arreridji. This facility will have a preliminary production capacity of 24,000 units per year. In the next three years, Chery will ramp up the production capacity to 100,000 vehicles per year. As a result, the factory will also export cars to other North African countries.

Geely GX3 Pro
Geely’s plans in Algeria were disclosed by its local partner Sovidem. The company’s GM reported that the biggest private-owned Chinese automaker plans to invest 200 million USD to build an automotive assembly plant in Algeria. Its initial production capacity will reach 50,000 units per year. The Geely Algeria plant will begin operating in 2026. The first model to roll off the production line is the Geely GX3 Pro (Geely Vision X3).

The Geely GX3 Pro is a small crossover launched in China in 2017. It sells in the Middle Kingdom under the Livan (Ruilan) brand jointly created by Geely and Lifan. Moreover, the GX3 Pro sells in Latin America, Central Asia, Africa, and other regions. The GX3 Pro measures at 4005/1760/1575 mm. It has a 1.5-liter naturally-aspirated engine for 101 hp paired with CVT.

Editor’s comment​

Chery Tiggo 2 Pro in Algeria
The start of production of Chinese cars in Algeria will be advantageous for both Chinese companies and the country. Algeria will resurrect its industry and improve its economy. Geely, Chery, and JAC will use those local plants as the export platform to solidify their presence in North Africa. However, at the current time, Geely, Chery, and JAC haven’t obtained official permission to produce cars in Algeria.

Source: China Embassy in Algeria, Dzair-tube, Sputniknews, Motors Algerie

 

[Yommie]

Xpeng Mona M03 sedan launched – prices start from just 16,800 USD

Xpeng launches the Mona M03 and prices are cheaper than expected. Max version should feature high smart driving capability.

carnewschina.com

 

[Yommie]

Xpeng actively looking for a site in EU for factory

Xpeng is actively going forward with plans for a factory in the EU to get around tariffs on EV imports. Company is currently looking for a location.

carnewschina.com

Xpeng actively looking for a site in EU for factory​

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Mark Andrews

August 27, 2024


2

News like this to your inbox or phone?​

Weekly summary to your inbox
I want this

Never miss and important news
Get Instant notification once the news is published.
Follow Us

In July, as the temporary tariffs levied by the EU on imported Chinese EVs came into force, we reported that Xpeng was considering setting up a production plant in Europe. This appears to have moved a stage further. Xpeng chairman He Xiaopeng recently revealed that the company is now planning to produce EVs in Europe to reduce the impact of tariffs. Selection of the site is still in its early stages.


Xpeng was one of the companies that cooperated with the European Commission’s investigation into subsidies received by Chinese EV producers. However, it was not one of the companies individually sampled, so it is currently subject to the 20.8% tariff. Under the newly announced finalized tariffs, such companies, including Xpeng, will be subject to an increased rate of 21.3%, subject to alterations between the announcement made earlier this month and the final implementation due by November at the latest.

Xpeng began exporting to Europe in 2020, with the initial market being Norway, from which it has subsequently expanded. In an earnings call earlier this month, it was reported that Xpeng had entered a period where international sales were rapidly increasing, acting as an important driver for both sales and profit growth. For the first time in the second quarter, the contribution from overseas sales exceeded 10%. Xpeng’s flagship SUV, the G9, was the top-selling mid to large pure electric SUV in Norway and Denmark, and it was also in the top three in Sweden and the Netherlands. Already, the company has entered thirty countries and regions, including Europe, the Middle East, and Latin America.


Long range 4WD performance version of the XPeng G9 electric SUV being driven on the road in Shanghai, China.
Xpeng joins a growing list of Chinese producers actively looking at locating factories within the European Union member states, with a number of these being a direct result of the EU tariffs. Stelantis-backed Leapmotor has already begun production in Poland, and BYD is building a plant in Hungary. SAIC is due in September to make an announcement on where a new plant to produce MG-branded cars will be located.

The final tariffs due to be implemented by the EU will see Tesla subject to 9% for imports from China, BYD 17%, Geely 19.3%, cooperating producers that have not been individually sampled 21.3%, and finally SAIC and non-cooperating producers 36.3%.

Source: Fast Technology

 

[Yommie]

Chery Fulwin T11 flagship SUV exposed – Chinese media claim it looks like a Range Rover

Chery's flagship PHEV SUV the Fulwin T11 has been exposed before its launch. The car features Lidar and is well over 5 meters long.

carnewschina.com

Chery Fulwin T11 flagship SUV exposed – Chinese media claim it looks like a Range Rover​

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Mark Andrews

August 27, 2024


0

News like this to your inbox or phone?​

Weekly summary to your inbox
I want this

Never miss and important news
Get Instant notification once the news is published.
Follow Us

Earlier this month, we reported that the Chery Fulwin T11 might launch at the Chengdu Auto Show, which opens on August 30. Before that, pictures of the fully exposed car emerged, and Chinese media said it looked like a Range Rover. Car News China is not so convinced and can see far more resemblance in the front end of the Chery Tiggo 7 Sport to a Land Rover and with the style of the Denza N9 to a Range Rover than in the case of this SUV.


Chinese media seems to be saying that where the Fulwin T11 looks like a Range Rover is with the front face. The running lights run across the front in a through-light design, along with 2 drooping C-shaped extensions surrounding the headlight clusters. Despite the impression of a grille, with the vertical chrome strips, the car actually has a solid face until the lower fender, where there is an air intake surrounded by yet more chrome. The T11 Is the flagship SUV model for the Fulwin range which is a Chery sub-brand now dedicated to new energy vehicles, to date all production cars from the sub-brand have been PHEVs but the forthcoming E06 promises to offer a fully electric version as well. Being the flagship, the T11 comes equipped with Lidar and so should offer a reasonable degree of assisted driving capability, reportedly including NOP city driving assistance and memory parking functions.

In a departure from the concept version of the T11, the production version switches concealed door handles to semi-concealed. Earlier a blogger had claimed that the T11 would have traditional door handles and it seems that perhaps they were half right. The switch to semi-concealed on a flagship model, seeing as other cars in the Fulwin range have concealed door handles, is a little strange. However, the multi-spoke wheels, which are 20-inch, certainly add a touch of refinement to the T11. At the rear, there is a through tail light with the light clusters themselves having geometric wave-like patterns. The design of the rear is quite clean, with the only distinguishing feature being the spoiler at the roof line, along with a chrome strip above the through lights along with another chrome strip just above the rear skid plate.


Chery Fulwin’s flagship has dimensions (see specs) of 5150, 1995, and 1800 mm, while the wheelbase is 3100 mm. At the front, the T11 uses double wishbone suspension, and at the rear, five-link suspension. The car is a six-seater using a 2 + 2 + 2 arrangement.

So far, there are no clear shots of the interior of the Chery Fulwin T11. However, based on previous announcements, it’s known that the front has a 30-inch integrated screen and that there is a 17.3-inch screen for second-row entertainment. There is also meant to be a hidden onboard refrigerator. The second-row seats are adjustable and, along with the front seats, have heating, ventilation, and massage functions. It’s believed that the leather-wrapped seats themselves can be controlled by voice, along with other functions in the car.

A PHEV, the T11 uses Chery’s Kunpeng Super Hybrid C-DM plug-in hybrid system consisting of a 1.5T engine and electric motors. The engine has a thermal efficiency of 44.5%, peak power of 115 kW (154 hp), and can deliver 220 Nm or torque. Reports now suggest that the car comes with front and rear electric motors to provide an intelligent four-wheel drive layout. The all-electric range is expected to be over 200 km, along with a comprehensive range of more than 1400 km. Charging time for 30 to 80% is reportedly 19 minutes. The T11 is said to have a 0-100 km/h acceleration time in the region of five seconds.


Given the current exposure of the Fulwin T11, it is highly likely that the car will be properly unveiled at the Chengdu Auto Show, which opens on August 30.

As a reminder, Chery is the joint venture partner of Jaguar Land Rover in China.

Source: Autohome

 

[Yommie]

Geely Galaxy E5 surpasses 12,000 sales in first 20 days

Geely’s Galaxy E5 electric SUV has sold over 12,000 units within 20 days of its release. Its diverse battery options and competitive pricing contribute to its substantial early sales figures.

carnewschina.com

Geely Galaxy E5 surpasses 12,000 sales in first 20 days​

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Adrian Leung

August 27, 2024


2

News like this to your inbox or phone?​

Weekly summary to your inbox
I want this

Never miss and important news
Get Instant notification once the news is published.
Follow Us

Geely’s Galaxy E5 electric SUV (see specs) has quickly impacted the market, achieving significant sales milestones shortly after its release. Launched on August 3rd, the Galaxy E5 delivered over 10,000 units within its first 20 days. By August 26th, cumulative sales had exceeded 12,000 units, indicating strong demand for this new model.


The Galaxy E5 starts at 109,800 yuan (approximately 15,400 USD) after an early bird discount of 3,000 yuan. It features Aegis short-blade lithium iron phosphate batteries and Meizu’s Flyme Auto infotainment system. The vehicle offers customization to suit various preferences and is available in eight colors, including Meizu’s pinky, green, white, silver, black, and blue.

The SUV provides two battery options: a 49.52 kWh battery with a range of 440 km and a 60.22 kWh battery extending the range to 530 km. These configurations cater to different driving needs, whether for daily commutes or longer trips. The Galaxy E5 measures 4615 mm in length, 1901 mm in width, and 1670 mm in height, with a wheelbase of E5 mm, placing it in the compact SUV category.


Powered by an electric motor with a maximum output of 160 kW, the Galaxy E5 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds. Its drag coefficient of 0.269 Cd contributes to its overall efficiency. The vehicle’s aerodynamic design and advanced materials improve performance and structural rigidity.

Inside, the Galaxy E5 offers a practical and spacious environment. With 4.03 square meters of interior space and 33 storage compartments, the vehicle is designed to accommodate various everyday needs, enhancing the SUV’s functionality for drivers and passengers.

The Galaxy E5’s early success —over 12,000 units sold in less than a month—positions it as a strong contender in the electric SUV market. Competing with models like BYD’s Atto 3 (see specs), the Galaxy E5’s sales performance will be closely monitored as it continues to influence the market. Geely’s ability to sustain this momentum will be crucial for the model’s long-term success.