China Auto Thread

[Yommie]

BYD sold 3.02 million vehicles in 2023, up 61.9%

BYD has achieved its sales target of 3 million vehicles set at the beginning of 2023. Sales include 1.57 million pure EVs. BYD has achieved its sales target of 3 million vehicles set at the beginning of 2023. Sales include 1.57 million pure EVs.

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BYD sold 3.02 million vehicles in 2023, up 61.9%​

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Qian Jin

January 1, 2024


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BYD has reported the sale of 3,024,417 new energy vehicles in 2023, reflecting a year-on-year increase of 62.3%. These sales significantly surpass the previous year’s sales record of 1,863,494 vehicles.

Let’s take a brief look at the situation in December. In December, BYD sold 341043 cars, an increase of 45.0%. Among them, the sales of EVs were 190754 units, an increase of 70.4%, accounting for 56.1% of the total passenger car sales for the month.
A key contributor to this success has been BYD’s dedication to new energy vehicle production, with 3,045,231 units manufactured in 2023, presenting a year-on-year increase of 62.2%.


Notably, BYD’s commercial vehicle segment has played a pivotal role, recording sales of 11,511 units in 2023. This category encompasses electric buses, trucks, and other vehicles, experiencing a notable uptick of 88.2%. This growth in commercial vehicle sales outpaced the company’s overall sales growth.
Zooming in on the passenger car business, BYD’s sales in this segment reached 3,012,906 units in 2023, marking a year-on-year increase of 62.2%. A particularly noteworthy trend within this segment is the surge in sales of pure electric models, which totaled 1,574,822 units, indicating a robust year-on-year growth of 72.8%. Battery electric vehicle (BEV) sales have notably accounted for 52.3% of the total passenger car sales, underscoring the increasing consumer preference for electric mobility.

While plug-in hybrid models also exhibited substantial growth, their rate was slightly more moderate than pure electric vehicles. Sales for plug-in hybrid models in 2023 reached 1,438,084 units, reflecting a year-on-year increase of 52.0%.


BYD Group comprises four major automobile brands – BYD, Denza, FCB (focusing on off-road performance), and YangWang (a luxury brand with an average bicycle price of more than 150,000 USD).
BYD’s overseas electric vehicle sales demonstrated an outstanding trajectory, reaching a total of 242,766 vehicles sold in markets outside China in 2023. This staggering figure reflects a year-on-year increase of 334%, surpassing the company’s cumulative overseas sales for nearly two decades.

Additionally, BYD has positioned itself as a significant player in battery production, achieving a new energy vehicle power and battery installed capacity of 150.909GWh in 2023. This secures BYD the second position globally, only surpassed by CATL.
BYD’s ambitious goal at the beginning of 2023 was to sell 3 million vehicles, a target that raised some skepticism among industry observers. However, the company has not only met but exceeded this goal. To commemorate this achievement, BYD is providing subsidies to all its dealers in China, offering a reward of 666 yuan (94 USD) for every car sold in 2023, celebrating this significant milestone in its automotive journey.
Source: BYD

 

[Yommie]

President of Evergrande Auto and Hengchi brand arrested

Evergrande Auto, a subsidiary of Evergrande group continues to have problems mount in its auto business. From low sales to production halts and now an arrested president.

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President of Evergrande Auto and Hengchi brand arrested​

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Naveed Rastegar

January 9, 2024


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The abrupt announcement formally made by Evergrande Auto, a division of the Evergrande Group, at noon on January 8 sent shockwaves as it revealed the detention of Liu Yongzhuo, an executive director, due to suspected illegal activities.

Liu Yongzhuo, presently holding positions as the Executive Vice President of Evergrande Group, President of Evergrande New Energy Automobile Group, Chairman of Evergrande New Energy Technology Group, and Director of the Vehicle Research Institute, has been a prominent figure within the conglomerate and its Hengchi brand of vehicles that launched in 2021.

This arrest marks a significant development in the ongoing legal issues surrounding the prominent figures within China Evergrande Group. Notably, Liu Yongzhuo, considered a key figure within the company, previously served as a crucial figure alongside Xu Jiayin, the chairman of China Evergrande Group. Liu Yongzhuo’s influence extended beyond the business realm; he was at the helm of the Guangzhou Evergrande Football Club during its ascent to dominance in Asian football, which has had its own series of controversies.

The arrest has added fuel to the fire at Evergrande Auto, which has already been navigating a series of setbacks, including suspension from trading, financial discrepancies, and the fallout from failed agreements with investors. The company’s attempt to secure a strategic investment of approximately 500 million USD from the Newton Group, intended to bolster its operations and production, ended in disappointment as agreements lapsed just days ago at the end of December 2023.
Hengchi 5
The company did announce in May 2023 the resumption of production of its Hengchi 5, and Mr. Liu was seen at a Hengchi customer delivery event just two weeks ago. However, 2023 saw dismal sales of less than 1000 units for the year. In 2021, Hengchi announced bold ambitions of selling 1 million units in 2025, a goal that seems extremely far off its current reality.

As Evergrande Auto grapples with these issues and the repercussions of key personnel controversies within the larger conglomerate, its future remains uncertain. The company’s ability to navigate these hurdles, stabilize its operations, and regain investor confidence amid a turbulent business environment will be crucial for its continued viability in the competitive automotive industry that has significantly heated up over the past few years.

Source: Nbd

 

[Yommie]

Nio delivered 18,012 EVs in December and 160,038 in 2023, up 31%

Nio delivered 160,038 EVs in 2023, up 31% from 2022.

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Nio delivered 18,012 EVs in December and 160,038 in 2023, up 31%​

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Jiri Opletal

January 1, 2024


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In 2023, Nio’s cumulative deliveries were 160,038 vehicles, up 30.66% from 2022, when the company delivered 122,486 units. Nio sold 18,012 EVs in December, up 12.86% from November and 13.89% up year-on-year.

Nio surpassed its delivery guidance for December as it expected to sell only 16,000-17,000 vehicles, based on a Q4 estimate of 47k-49k. Cumulative deliveries of Nio vehicles reached 449,594 as of December 31.
Last month, Nio introduced an end-of-year sales push consisting of various perks for customers who buy their Nio vehicle before December 31, such as 30 free battery swaps and 5000 yuan (705 USD) for accessories. The benefit package also included one year of free NOP+ (Navigate on Pilot) autonomous driving system subscription. Customers had to pay the non-refundable deposit before year-end.

Nio’s CEO and co-founder William Li previously announced a 2023 target to double sales from 2022 to about 245k cars. This target was missed by about 90k vehicles, as the company delivered 160,038 cars in 2023.
Nio didn’t provide a delivery target for 2024. However, in the leaked supply chain memo, Nio internally told its suppliers they expect to deliver 230,000 Nio-badged cars in 2024.
The December deliveries comprised 12,048 premium electric SUVs and 5,964 electric sedans. Nio doesn’t provide sales breakdowns for models. However, we can estimate it based on CPCA data. Nio offers eight models in China, two of which are responsible for most sales: the ES6 SUV and ET5 sedan (including its station wagon version ET5T). In November, those models were responsible for 68% of Nio sales, according to CPCA.

There is one target Nio fulfilled. It planned to build 1,000 new swap stations (PSS) in 2023 in China and bring the total number to 2,300. Nio reached this milestone on December 21 ahead of schedule. As of today, the company operates 2,320 PSS in China. Also, on October 9, Nio surpassed the 30 million provided battery swaps milestone.
In Europe, the initial target was 120 PSS by the year’s end, which was later reiterated to 80. By the end of 2023, Nio had 35 PSS in Europe.
Besides slight facelifts of some existing models, Nio doesn’t plan to launch any new product in 2024. However, it will launch the new entry-level brand Alps (codename) in early 2024, with deliveries starting before the year’s end, according to Qin Lihong, Nio’s president.
Alps will be to Nio what Seat is to Volkswagen Group. The new brand will be independently operated with its R&D and management. It will target the crowded 200,000 yuan to 300,000 yuan (28,200 – 42,400 USD) mass market. The Alps will be launched in China first, and the first model might be an 800V SUV with a swappable 90 kWh battery, based on report and spy shots CarNewsChina obtained.
For 2025, Nio announced two main launches: The entry-level Firefly brand (codename), which, unlike the Alps, is Europe-first and will launch on the Old Continent before China early next year, Lihong confirmed last month. Firefly will focus on budget EVs so that it will be positioned even under the Alps.
The second main launch of 2025 will be the executive sedan ET9, unveiled on December 23 at Nio Day. The flagship EV started presale for 800,000 yuan (113,000 USD), but the first customer will have it delivered more than a year from now.

 

[Yommie]

Li Mega all-electric MPV with 710 km range and CATL Qilin 5C battery will launch on March 1 in China

Once launched, Li Mega will be the most aerodynamic MPV in the world, with a drag coefficient of 0.215Cd.

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Li Mega all-electric MPV with 710 km range and CATL Qilin 5C battery will launch on March 1 in China​

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Dong Yi Chen

December 31, 2023


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On December 31, Li Auto announced that its first pure electric MPV, the Mega, will launch on March 1, 2024, with a price tag of less than 600,000 yuan (84,700 USD). The Li Mega has started pre-sale on November 17 at the Guangzhou Auto Show. Orders placed before March 1, 2024, can enjoy a free upgrade from the standard 7 kW AC charging pile to the 20 kW DC charging pile, which is worth 10,000 yuan (1,400 USD).

The original release schedule of the Li Mega was December 2023. This delay might be due to the carmaker making additional adjustments to the car’s second-row seats with feedback from the pre-order customers.

Positioned as a large MPV, the Li Mega measures 5350/1965/1850 mm, the wheelbase is 3300 mm.

Its drag coefficient is 0.215Cd, which Li Auto claims is the lowest among the mass-produced MPVs once launched.
The powertrain consists of a dual-motor four-wheel drive system, with the maximum power of the front and rear motors being 155 kW and 245 kW, respectively, and a combined peak torque of 542 Nm. The 0 – 100 km/h acceleration time is 5.5 seconds and the top speed is 180 km/h.
The battery comes from CATL’s Qilin 5C ternary lithium battery pack with a capacity of 102.7 kWh, providing a CLTC cruising range of 710 km and a comprehensive power consumption of 15.9 kWh/100km. In addition, the Li Mega supports 5C ultra-fast charging with an 800-volt architecture with a 552 kW peak charging capacity. It takes only 12 minutes to replenish 500 km of range, according to the carmaker.

As of December 31, Li Auto has put 300 supercharging stations into operation.

Marketed as a “family technology flagship MPV” and the “high-speed rail for the whole family”, the Li Mega adopts a waterdrop-shaped front and fastback roof.

Inside, the interior has a four-spoke steering wheel, a 4.82-inch LCD instrument panel that is integrated with the steering wheel, a 15.7-inch central control screen, and a 15.7-inch co-pilot entertainment screen. The interior’s 7-seater layout is in the form of 2+2+3, and the seats are wrapped in Nappa leather material.
In addition, a refrigerator is accessible from the second row. The third-row seats can be folded forward to increase the trunk longitudinal depth from 680 mm to 1066 mm.
Source: Li Auto

 

[Yommie]

China car imports in 2023 – A shifting landscape

The Chinese import automobile market is experiencing significant changes.

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China car imports in 2023 – A shifting landscape​

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Naveed Rastegar

December 31, 2023


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The Chinese import automobile market is experiencing significant changes. According to the China Passenger Car Association, the country saw a continued downturn in import car sales for the past six years with signs of improvement in 2023. Notably, the demand for high-end vehicles within the domestic market remained resilient. Though the luxury car sector thrives domestically, the status of standard imported passenger vehicles has been giving signals.

Aside from the strong luxury car market, the volume of imports has sustained an incremental decline since 2017. Data shows in 2017 China imported cars totaled 1.24 million units and declined continuously with only 940,000 units sold in 2021 and 880,000 in 2022. However, even with a slow start this year, spurred by luxury sales, the first 11 months of this year saw 820,000 units sold, a 7% year-on-year increase. Until this year, the annual rate of decrease since 2017 has been around 10% per year on average. Imports from Germany, Japan, and the United States saw the most decline in 2023 with Japan leading the way with the most significant decrease in sales totals. Remarkably, imports from Korea surged by an exceptional 264% during the same period.
As for the luxury car sales, the top five import brands from January to November 2023 were BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Lexus, Porsche, and Audi. BMW and Mercedes-Benz showed impressive growth at 23% and 14% respectively, while Audi, achieved an even better 37% expansion. However, both Lexus and Porsche saw declines in 2023.

a few popular imported brands logos
Lexus, historically one of Japan’s top luxury brands had strong sales in previous years, however, in 2023 it trended down 6% year on year. An industry insider stated, “Although Lexus is also transitioning to electrification, it has not been widely recognized by the market.” Observers would surmise this trend is due to strong and growing domestic manufacturers taking market share.
In general, according to the China Passenger Car Association, the import car market is slightly cooler than its domestic rivals. As more China car manufacturers ramp up their production, this trend is likely to continue.
Source: Autochat

 

[Yommie]

Huawei-BAIC’s STELATO brand will release an all-electric sedan in 2024

The new car will be unveiled in the first half of 2024 in the 42,000 - 56,000 USD price range.

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Huawei-BAIC’s STELATO brand will release an all-electric sedan in 2024​

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Dong Yi Chen

December 30, 2023


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Recently, BAIC BJEV insiders revealed that the first new car of the Huawei and BAIC BJEV collaboration will be a medium-to-large pure electric sedan. The prototype has been built and will be unveiled in the first half of 2024. BJEV is the new energy vehicle arm of BAIC.

Earlier, Huawei’s managing director and chairman of the smart car solutions unit, Yu Chengdong, said a total of four car companies have collaborations with Huawei, namely Seres, Chery, BAIC BJEV, and JAC.

• Huawei x Seres: SF5, AITO
• Huawei × Chery: Luxeed S7
• Huawei x BAIC BJEV: C-class pure electric smart vehicle
• Huawei x JAC: a luxury MPV

In the recent announcement made by the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA), Huawei has transferred multiple “STELATO” trademarks to BAIC BJEV. The international classification involves construction repair, website services, scientific instruments, etc. STELATO is likely to be the English name of the Huawei x BAIC collaboration brand, similar to AITO and Luxeed. However, the official name of the brand has not yet been confirmed in Chinese. STELATO means “starry sky” in Chinese.

Luxeed S7
In fact, at the Luxeed S7 launch conference in November this year, Yu Chengdong revealed that the internal code of the model jointly developed by Huawei and BAIC is called X4 and will be priced at 300,000 – 400,000 yuan (42,300 – 56,500 USD). Referencing AITO’s business model, BAIC BJEV will be responsible for providing the vehicle platform and production, while the product definition will be done by Huawei and will enter Huawei’s sales channels in the future.

Furthermore, the first car under the brand jointly developed by Huawei and JAC is codenamed X6 and is expected to be launched in the fourth quarter of 2024. At the same time, the MPV model by the Huawei and JAC collaboration is also currently under development and is expected to be launched in 2025.
We’ll watch closely for more information, stay tuned!

Source: CNIPA, BAIC, Yu Chengdong

 

[Yommie]

Pre-production Zeekr M-Vision spotted with 1-billion yuan element

The pre-production Zeekr CM2E stands on the M-Vision concept car. It is an MPV with double sliding doors that will hit the US in 2024.

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Pre-production Zeekr M-Vision spotted with 1-billion yuan element​

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Denis Bobylev

December 30, 2023


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During road tests, the Zeekr CM2E multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) from Geely Group was spotted in China. It is the pre-production version of the M-Vision concept car Zeekr promoted with Waymo. The CM2E stands on the SEA-M architecture and supports an advanced self-driving system. Its production version has a 1-billion yuan (140 million USD) Zeekr Stargate light band in the front end.

Zeekr M-Vision concept car
The CM2E is an electric vehicle Zeekr was developing for the Waymo robotaxi fleet since 2021. It will be integrated with the Waymo Driver self-driving system. The mass production of this vehicle is scheduled for 2024. Then, it will be put into operation in the United States. In 2022, Zeekr displayed the CM2E concept car called M-Vision at the Guangzhou Auto Show 2022. It had a cute exterior design with a round shape. The CM2E will be sold separately from the Zeekr-Waymo project as well. Now, the pre-production version of this MPV was spotted in China with a seemingly adjusted exterior design.

Zeekr CM2E fresh spy shots​

The Zeekr CM2E was spied on in camouflage. But we can immediately highlight its front end, which has the Zeekr Stargate light band first adopted by Zeekr 007. It is a 90-inch element consisting of 1,711 lamps. It supports personal projections. According to Zeekr CEO An Conghui, they’ve spent over 1 billion yuan to develop this element.

The Zeekr CM2E has short overhangs and physical side-view mirrors. It has a short and high bonnet line that merges into the front pillars, creating a sleek look for this MPV. We can underline a single LED taillight strip and a roof spoiler from the back.
We noticed that the CM2E doesn’t have the LiDAR sensors and cameras we saw in the M-Vision concept car. It indicates that Zeekr will also sell this vehicle separately from the Waymo project. The exact dimensions of this MPV have yet to be revealed. But its length is around 4.6 meters.
The Zeekr CM2E has double electrically powered sliding doors. Inside, it has five seats with a 2 + 3 layout. Earlier, Zeekr’s patent fillings show that this MPV will also have a 3 + 3 layout thanks to the front armrest that can transform into one more seat.

The Zeekr CM2E stands on the SEA-M platform derived from the original SEA architecture. It supports a wide range of MPVs, robotaxis, and logistic vehicles. According to Zeekr, every SEA-M-based car will meet global five-star safety standards. The powertrain of the Zeekr CM2E has yet to be revealed. It will most likely adopt an electric motor from VREMT (Geely’s subsidiary). The Geely-CATL joint venture will probably manufacture its battery pack.
The Zeekr CM2E will start mass production in 2024. It will hit the United States as a part of the Zeekr-Waymo project. But it will also sell in China without those loads of self-driving tech from Waymo. We will keep an eye on this model, so stay tuned!
Source: Weibo

 

[Yommie]

Li Auto’s new electric SUV undergoes winter tests. Possible name: M9

The Li Auto S01 was spotted during winter tests next to the Li Auto Mega MPV. It adopts the latest Li Auto tech.

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Li Auto’s new electric SUV undergoes winter tests. Possible name: M9​

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Denis Bobylev

December 29, 2023


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The new Li Auto SUV, codenamed S01, was spotted in China during winter tests. It adopts the brand’s latest design language. It is an all-electric crossover with M9 as a possible name. It sits on the 800V platform. Let’s get to know this vehicle better.

The M9 (S01) will become the flagship model in the Li Auto electric SUV line. It was first spied on in China during road tests in August 2023. Now, a new bunch of spy photos leaked online, as this crossover hit the winter tests in China.

Li Auto M9 (S01) winter tests​

The Li Auto M9 was spotted in Yakeshi, Inner Mongolia, China. It is one of the coldest places in China. The lowest temperature here reaches minus 45 degrees Celsius. Most Chinese manufacturers prefer to test their vehicles there because of severe climate conditions and lack of prying eyes. However, photos of the new Li Auto model leaked online.


The Li Auto M9 undergoes winter tests alongside the Li Auto Mega MPV. In leaked shots, we can see the size difference between them. The M9 is narrower and lower than the large Mega. The new SUV should stay close to the Li Auto L9 crossover in dimensions. The L9 measures at 5218/1998/1800 mm.

The Li Auto M9 is covered in heavy camouflage. But we can see that it follows the design language first adopted by the Li Auto Mega minivan. It has a sleek bonnet line that merges into the front pillars. The spotted vehicle has retractable door handles, and a slanted roofline.

Chinese designer Oldwang made a fan render image of the Li Auto M9 based on spy shots. As we can see, he imagined it as a scaled-down Mega with regular doors instead of sliding ones. There is no official information about the M9’s powertrain. However, it will most likely adopt the Mega’s battery pack and electric motors. The Li’s MPV has two e-motors for 400 kW (536 hp) and a ternary NMC pack for 102.7 kWh.

The Li Auto M9 will be revealed next year as the brand strengthens its transition into the EV world. We will keep an eye on it, so stay tuned!
Source: Weibo讴德王，Weibo科技少帮主

 

[Yommie]

BYD delivers the first batch of 20 pure electric buses to Mexico

Currently, BYD's electric buses have reached more than 400 cities in more than 70 countries and regions around the world. Currently, BYD's electric buses have reached more than 400 cities in more than 70 countries and regions around the world.

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BYD delivers the first batch of 20 pure electric buses to Mexico​

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Qian Jin

December 29, 2023


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BYD Mexico Branch recently fulfilled a significant delivery, providing the Mexico City transportation government department with the inaugural fleet of 20 electric buses, marking the initiation of a collaboration encompassing 55 pure electric buses. This is the most extensive single delivery of electric buses in Mexico.

The delivery ceremony saw the participation of notable figures, including the Mayor of Mexico City, Martí Batres Guadarrama, Secretary of the Mexico City Transportation Authority, Andrés Lajous Loeza, General Manager of the Metrobús Bus System in Mexico City, Rosario Castro Escorcia, Director of Promotion of the National Financial Institutions of Mexico, Alberto Adib Carrera, Executive Director of the Mexico Airport Corridor Center, Adrián Escamilla, Director of Enel X, Rafael Burgos, and BYD Mexico Branch Country Manager, Zou Zhou.
The Delivery CeremonyThe Cooperation Photo
The 55 BYD electric buses are slated to operate on Route 4 in Mexico City. Covering a distance of 35 kilometers and encompassing 40 stations, Route 4 is anticipated to cater to the daily commuting requirements of approximately 120,000 passengers. Compared to traditional fuel buses, deploying these electric buses is expected to result in an annual reduction of 5,845 tons of carbon dioxide emissions, significantly alleviating local air pollution and enhancing the air quality in Mexico City.

The BYD electric buses, measuring 15 meters long with a low floor design for easy passenger boarding and alighting, have a maximum capacity of 130 passengers. Sporting a cruising range of 200 kilometers, a 300 kWh battery capacity, and an impressive charging time of as little as 3 hours, these electric buses contribute to environmental goals and reduce noise pollution with their silent operation. Special facilities and equipment for disabled people have been incorporated, including lowered suspension height for enhanced accessibility.
Moreover, in a commitment to public safety, these electric buses are equipped with a real-time communication system linked to the control center, ensuring continuous synchronization of the onboard situation.
Rosario Castro Escorcia, the general manager of Mexico City’s Metrobús bus system, emphasized the importance of zero-emission, sustainable transportation solutions. The collaboration with BYD is seen as a pivotal step in transforming Mexico’s transportation system toward electrification, aligning with the city’s efforts since 2018 to revolutionize transportation technology.

This delivery adds to BYD’s global presence in the electric bus market, with previous reports highlighting deliveries in Japan, South Africa, Chile, and Spain, among other countries. BYD’s electric buses are operational in over 400 cities across 70 countries and regions globally. As of October 2023, BYD celebrated the milestone of delivering 100,000 electric buses worldwide, underscoring its significant impact on the transition to sustainable urban transportation.
Source: BYD

 

[Yommie]

GAC Aion’s one-millionth vehicle rolled off production line, world’s fastest vehicle brand to do so

The world's fastest vehicle brand to do so, it took GAC Aion 4 years and 8 months to reach the one millionth vehicle production milestone.

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GAC Aion’s one-millionth vehicle rolled off production line, world’s fastest vehicle brand to do so​

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Dong Yi Chen

December 29, 2023


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On December 28, GAC Aion announced that its 1 millionth vehicle, the Hyper HT all-electric medium-to-large SUV, had rolled off the production line after 4 years and 8 months. GAC Aion stated that it is not only the fastest new energy vehicle brand but also the fastest vehicle brand in the world to reach this milestone.

Brand	Time took to reach the one millionth vehicle production milestone
GAC Aion	4 years and 8 months
SGMW	5 years
Dongfeng-Nissan	5 years and 3 months
Lynk & Co	6 years
Tesla	12 years
BYD	13 years

Source: company press release and media
The brand was established in 2017, initially named GAC New Energy, and then officially changed its name to GAC Aion in 2021. Currently, GAC Aion has two smart factories, and its third factory in Changsha is also under preparation. The factory is expected to be put into use in June 2024, by that time, GAC Aion’s production capacity will reach 800,000 vehicles per year.
Hyper SSRHyper GTHyper HT
In recent years, GAC Aion’s sales have increased significantly. Its sales from 2019 to 2022 were 42,003, 60,033, 120,155, and 271,156 vehicles, respectively, doubling almost every year. Last year, GAC Aion launched its high-end luxury sub-brand, Hyper. So far, a total of three models have been launched, namely, Hyper SSR, Hyper GT, and Hyper HT.

With two major sub-brands, Aion and Hyper, GAC Aion’s sales have been increasing this year as well. As of the end of November this year, GAC Aion’s annual cumulative sales have reached 434,056 vehicles, achieving a year-on-year increase of 79.99%; of which 41,567 vehicles were sold in November, a year-on-year increase of 44.51%.
Aion Y Plus launch in ThailandAion Y Plus launch in Cambodia
Looking into the future, GAC Aion has set a production and sales target of one million vehicles by 2025. To achieve this goal, GAC Aion plans to further enhance its internationalization strategy. In June this year, GAC Aion signed a memorandum of cooperation with Jinhui, the first dealer in Thailand, representing the brand’s official entry into the Thai market.
Subsequently, GAC Aion held a launch conference in September to release its first overseas model – Aion Y Plus, in Thailand. Then earlier this month, GAC Aion announced its entry into the Cambodian market and launched the Aion Y Plus there, which is the second overseas market that the brand has entered after Thailand. So far, GAC Aion has exported 3,500 vehicles overseas.

2023 GAC Technology Day
GAC, GAC Aion’s parent company, is expected to achieve vehicle production and sales of approximately 2.513 million vehicles and 2.5 million vehicles, in 2023, representing year-on-year increases of 1.3% and 2.7%, respectively. In 2024, GAC aims to achieve a sales growth target of 10%, along with achieving solid-state battery production by 2026.
Source: GAC Aion, GAC Aion

 

[Yommie]

Xiaomi SU7 arrives at stores in China a day after launch

Xiaomi has lots of stores all around China.

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Xiaomi SU7 arrives at stores in China a day after launch​

Reading Time: 4 minutes

Jiri Opletal

December 29, 2023


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SU7 in Xioami Headquarters Store in Beijing.

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Xiaomi SU7 electric sedan was officially unveiled on Thursday with a 495 kW (663 hp) motor and 101 kWh CATL Qilin battery good for an 800 km range. The car from a consumer electronics giant reached the first Xiaomi store less than 24 hours after the press conference. The mass production start is set for the first half of 2024, and deliveries will start in a few months, Lei Jun, the company’s CEO, said.

Xiaomi SU7 showcase cars were first spotted in the company’s Headquarters Store in Xiaomi Science and Technology Park in Shangdi (Haidian District) in Beijing. Others will follow, and in the future, all Xiaomi flagship stores around China will have to showcase on display, the company said.

The salesperson of the Xiaomi store in Xujiahui, Shanghai, told Autohome that the first display cars will arrive in the first quarter of 2024. The Mi Home store staff member in Beijing said that many of their stores are too small and located on the first floor of the shopping mall, thus making it challenging to display cars. According to him, Xiaomi will need to renovate many of its stores so it can accompany a new product.


The salesperson from the Mi Home store in Foshan (a city near Guangzhou in Southern China) told Autohome that executives from Xiaomi HQ are visiting the existing stores and selecting locations where cars could be displayed.
SU7 offers three colors: Aqua Blue, Mineral Gray, and Verdant Green. Xiaomi is all about the ecosystem, so the company also launched smartphones, watches, and other accessories in the same colors as the cars.
You can have Xiaomi phones, watches, and cars in Verdant Green. Credit: Xiaomi
Moreover, the company developed a HyperOS system that will replace the existing MIUI OS and serve as a unified operation system for all Xiaomi devices, from cars and Mi Home gadgets to smartphones. Xiaomi promises excellent connectivity and digital experience, so your smartphone can communicate well with the vehicle, and you can, for example, mirror it on the interior screen or use your Mi Pad as the in-car screen for passengers. SU7 will also communicate well with Apple products, Lei Jun affirms.

Editor’s comment​

In China, it is nothing unusual to sell cars in shopping malls; almost all new EV startups do it. Some need to create brand new showrooms and stores, such as BYD, Nio, and Xpeng, and some can use their existing infrastructure, like Xiaomi or Huawei, which already sells its Aito vehicles in Huawei Flagship stores.
The price of the new EV hasn’t been announced yet, but Lei Jun already had to rein Xiaomi fans’ passions about the pricing, saying the EV will be more expensive than they expected. CarNewsChina expects the EV to start at under 300,000 yuan.
Xiaomi is known for offering high-end products for low prices, which is how it entered the smartphone business in 2010. Their first smartphones, M1 and Mi2S, were comparable with high-end models from Samsung at that time. Still, Xiaomi sold them directly to customers online for half the price, leading to hundreds of thousands of units sold in a few seconds, creating lots of marketing buzz.
However, Xiaomi wasn’t manufacturing the phones independently but was using third-party manufacturing partners such as Wingtech or Inventec. Xiaomi SU7 EV uses the same system, as it will be assembled in the factory owned by BAIC Off-road Vehicle Co., a division of state-owned Beijing Automotive Industry Holding Co. Ltd (BAIC).

 

[Yommie]

Xiaomi EV website goes live

Hot on the heels of today's launch of Xiaomi's newly announced first car the SU7, Xiaomi has also unveiled a new dedicated website for its EV business.

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Xiaomi EV website goes live​

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Naveed Rastegar

December 29, 2023


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Home page of the all new website

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Hot on the heels of today’s launch of Xiaomi’s newly announced first car the SU7, Xiaomi has also unveiled a new dedicated website for its EV business. Xiaomi Automobile Technology Co., Ltd. was established in November 2021. The legal representative and CEO of the company is, Lei Jun, with a registered capital of 1 billion yuan and is wholly owned by Xiaomi Technology Co., Ltd. However looking at its intellectual rights application data, its website www.xiaomiev.com was registered by the company at a later date and formally passed registration review this year.

The website was noticed to be live and functioning shortly after today’s event. The sole focus is of course the SU7 which features such as an 800km range, 2.78s 0-100km, 800-volt system, and self-driving capabilities.
Info page of xiaomiev.com
Tapping into its tech and phone experience the new Chinese language-only website looks sleek and full of Xiaomi’s style. The site has a fairly simple design and seven tabs that connect as you scroll down from the first page. Along with the home page, the other tabs include some graphic photos (some of which have yet to be seen or released to the public), technical information about the various aspects of the vehicle, photos of the SU7 engine build, information about its huge 800v battery platform, a model of its “Hypercasting” line (along with a two-minute promotional video about its production), a closer look at its “Xiaomi Pilot” nodule including some video of the cars self-parking and driving features and finally more information about its integrated “HyperOS” running on all the screens in the car. It is clear that the “Hyper” mantra is a hallmark of Xiaomi’s vision for its vehicles!

Xiaomi enthusiasts are all wondering about the exact price of the car and the potential date of deliveries. This information is still currently unavailable on the website, however, a dedicated hotline and other links to Xiaomi are available at the bottom of the page.
Currently with only information about the SU7 on the website, present and future fans of the brand will surely keep an eye on this new site as Xiaomi Automobile Technology company grows.
Sources: HeXun News

 

[Yommie]

Dayun’s Yuanhang H8 pure electric SUV enters market with 950 km range, price starts at 49,200 USD

Dayun Group's Yuanhang H8 is an all-electric six-seater SUV.

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Dayun’s Yuanhang H8 pure electric SUV enters market with 950 km range, price starts at 49,200 USD​

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Dong Yi Chen

December 29, 2023


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On December 28, Dayun Group’s Yuanhang Auto launched its H8 all-electric six-seater SUV. A total of five models were launched with a price range of 349,800 – 559,800 yuan (49,200 – 78,800 USD), available in rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive. The H8 is the second model launched by Yuanhang after the Y6 all-electric sedan.

Positioned as a large SUV, the Yuanhang H8 has a size of 5230/2015/1760 mm and a 3126 mm wheelbase, with a 2+2+2 seat layout.

All Yuanhang H8 models come standard with level 2 advanced driving capabilities, which can realize traffic jam assist, highway driving assist, lane change assist, lane center keeping, full-speed range adaptive control, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking.


Consumers can choose from single motor rear-wheel drive and dual motor four-wheel drive. All models have a top speed of 210 km/h.
Two rear-wheel drive models

• 250 kW/400 Nm electric motor
• 88.42 kWh and 100 kWh ternary lithium battery pack options, which correspond to CLTC cruising range of 610 km and 700 km, respectively
• 0-100 km/h acceleration time is 6.5 seconds

Three four-wheel drive models

• 250 kW/345 Nm front electric motor and 250 kW/400 Nm rear electric motor
• 88.42 kWh and 100 kWh ternary lithium battery pack options, which correspond to CLTC cruising range of 560 km and 650 km, respectively
• 260 kW/370 Nm front electric motor and 260 kW/480 Nm rear electric motor + 150 kWh ternary lithium battery pack, providing a CLTC cruising range of 950 km
• 0-100 km/h acceleration time is 3.8 seconds

Under fast charging, it takes 30 minutes to charge from 20% to 80%. An optional external discharge function with a maximum discharge power of 3.3 kW is also available.

Coming to the interior, the design layout of the front cockpit is basically the same as that of the Yuanhang Y6. A large area is wrapped in leather material, providing the background against a flat-bottomed double-spoke multi-functional leather steering wheel, a 12.3-inch floating full LCD instrument, and a 17.38-inch central control screen with a vertical layout that comes with a built-in AliOS smart cockpit system.

In addition, the Yuanhang H8 also provides functional configurations such as an AR-HUD, a 27-speaker sound system, 256-color ambient lighting, a face recognition car entry system, voice recognition, and a digital rearview mirror.
In the current market, electric SUVs with similar price points to Yuanhang H8 include the AITO M9, NIO ES8, and Audi Q5 e-tron. With limited brand awareness, can Yuanhang H8 stand out in the market?
Source: Yuanhang

 

[Yommie]

Leapmotor C10 SUV will start pre-sale on January 10, available in EV and EREV

As Leapmotor's first global SUV, the C10 is expected to launch in the overseas market.

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Leapmotor C10 SUV will start pre-sale on January 10, available in EV and EREV​

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Dong Yi Chen

December 28, 2023


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Leapmotor’s upcoming first global SUV called the C10 will officially start pre-sale on January 10, 2024, available in EV and EREV modes. Subsequently, launch and delivery are expected to start in the first quarter of 2024 and will launch in the overseas market in the future.


The Leapmotor C10 is built based on the LEAP 3.0 (Four Leaf Clover) architecture, which supports both EV and EREV vehicles. Overall, the vehicle has a square and plump contour, coupled with 20-inch rims, hidden door handles, blackened exterior mirrors, and a suspended roof. At the same time, the car is equipped with a total of 30 sensors, including 12 cameras, five millimeter-wave radars, 12 ultrasonic radars, and a lidar on the roof, implying possible advanced driving assistance functionalities.
Positioned as a medium-sized SUV, the Leapmotor C10 measures 4739/1900/1680 mm with a 2825 mm wheelbase. In addition, five exterior body colors are offered: white, white gray, light blue, dark gray, and dark green.

Powertrain​

EV

• 170 kW and 350 Nm electric motor (model TZ220XY002)
• Two lithium iron phosphate battery pack options: 52.9 kWh and 69.9 kWh, with corresponding cruising ranges of 400 km and 530 km (assuming it’s CLTC)

EREV

• 70 kW 1.5-liter four-cylinder range extender
• 170 kW and 350 Nm electric motor
• 28.7 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery pack
• 200 km pure electric cruising range (assuming it’s CLTC)

Both fast and slow charging are supported. The charging port is located on the left rear fender. Under fast charging, it takes 30 minutes to charge to 80%. Under slow charging, it takes eight hours to fully charge to 100%.

Interior​

The interior is available in two color schemes: red haze orange and purple.
The suspended 14.6-inch 2.5K central control screen comes with a built-in Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295 chip, which powers the Leapmotor OS 4.0 operating system and can realize voice interaction. The cockpit is also equipped with a rectangular full LCD instrument panel, a double-spoke flat-bottom steering wheel, wireless mobile phone charging, and a 12-speaker audio system.
Furthermore, the front seats support electric adjustment, ventilation, and heating; when folded down, it forms a bed with the rear seats. Leapmotor claims that the seats are 3D-engineered to increase the comfort level.
Within the next two years, Leapmotor plans to launch five new vehicles. The new cars will be sold in Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and the Americas.
Source: Leapmotor

 

[Yommie]

Chery Fengyun T9 plug-in hybrid SUV rolled off production line in China

The Fengyun T9 is the plug-in hybrid version of the Chery Tiggo 9, and will be available in both rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive.

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Chery Fengyun T9 plug-in hybrid SUV rolled off production line in China​

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Dong Yi Chen

December 28, 2023


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On December 28, Chery announced that its upcoming Fengyun T9 plug-in hybrid SUV rolled off the production line at its Qingdao Super Factory. The T9 is expected to be launched in the first quarter of next year and costs around 150,000 – 200,000 yuan (21,100 – 28,100 USD).

Chery officially released the Fengyun (Fulwin) series in October this year. Two models will be launched this year under the series, namely, the Fengyun A8 and Fengyun T6; and then four models next year, including the Fengyun T9, Fengyun A9, and Fengyun T11.

The Fengyun T9 measures 4820/1930/1710 mm and has a 2820 mm wheelbase. It is worth pointing out that the Fengyun T9 is the plug-in hybrid version of the Chery Tiggo 9, available in both rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive.

The powertrain comes from the Kungpeng Super Performance Electric Hybrid C-DM system consisting of a 1.5T engine and permanent magnet synchronous motors, mated to a 1DHT or a 3DHT gearbox. The engine outputs 115 kW and 220 Nm while the motor outputs 150 kW/310 Nm or 165 kW/390 Nm. The WLTC pure electric cruising range is 100 km and 160 km, respectively, with the comprehensive range exceeding 1,400 km, according to Chery. In addition, the 0 – 100 km/h acceleration time is 4.26 seconds and the fuel consumption is 4.2L/100km. Under fast charging, it takes 20 minutes to replenish the battery from 30% to 80%.

As a plug-in hybrid vehicle, the front face adopts a closed grille design, outlined by chrome-plated strips. The hidden door handles, suspended roof design, and large multi-spoke rims are present, along with the through-type taillights at the rear. At the same time, the Fengyun English logo ‘Fulwin’ is displayed at the rear.
Inside, the interior adopts a blue-and-white color scheme and a six-seat layout. Unlike the Chery Tiggo 9, the Fengyun T9 does not continue the integrated dual-screen design, instead, it uses an independent floating 10-inch full LCD instrument panel and a 15.6-inch 2.5K central control screen with a built-in Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip. It is also equipped with a HUD.

The other configurations include a 14-speaker audio system and wireless charging for mobile phones.
Source: Chery, AutoHome, Sohu