China Auto Thread

[Yommie]

China EV registrations in W5: BYD 43,300, Tesla 10,600, Aito 9,000, Nio 3,100

The last week before Chinese News Year was mostly down in term of sales, with several exceptions.

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China EV registrations in W5: BYD 43,300, Tesla 10,600, Aito 9,000, Nio 3,100​

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Jiri Opletal

February 6, 2024


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The fifth week (W5) of the year, between January 29 – February 4, was the last before the Chinese New Year starts. It was mostly down, with several exceptions. BYD sold the same amount of vehicles as the week before, Tesla was 17% down, Aito 13% up and Nio 6% down.

The weekly data were published by Li Auto, and they represent weekly sales. The background data are weekly insurance registrations. The numbers are rounded and present new energy vehicles (NEV), the Chinese term for BEVs, PHEVs, and EREVs (range extenders). To be completely precise, it also includes hydrogen vehicles (FCEVs), but their sales are almost non-existent in China.
BYD won first place as usual, registering 43,300 vehicles, the same as the week before.

BYD subbrands registrations breakdown:

• Denza: 2,500, up 8.7% from the week before
• Fang Cheng Bao: 1,400 vehicles, up 27.3% from the week before
  • FCB has only one vehicle on sale, Bao 5 (Leopard 5)
• YangWang: 470 vehicles, down 6% from the week before
  • YangWang has only one car on sale, YangWang U8, which costs about 153,000 USD

BYD surpassed the 3 million sold vehicles milestone in 2023 and became the world’s largest BEV seller in Q4 of 2023, beating Tesla. BYD sold about 200,000 vehicles in January, down 40% from December but up 33% from the same month last year.

Tesla registered 10,600 EVs, down 17.19% from 12,800 the week before.

The new generation of Tesla Model Y codenamed Juniper, is rumored to start production in the Shanghai factory in April. Meanwhile, On February 1, Tesla launched an updated Model Y with an HW4 smart driving computer.
Tesla started the Cybertruck roadshow on January 28 in China, despite not being clear if the vehicles will be available for sale in China due to the potentially problematic homologation of the large steel pickup.
In January, Tesla sold 71,447 China-made vehicles from its Shanghai plant, down 24.1% from 94,139 in December.
Sales breakdown:

• Model Y: 7,700, down 20% from the week before
• Model 3 (Highland): 2,900, down 6% from the week before

Nio registered 3,100 EVs, down 6.06% from 3,300 the week before.
Nio plans to launch its mass-market brand Alps in March or April and introduce a 2024 update of its existing lineup. Nio started to offer massive discounts of up to 5,500 USD in January for its current stock models.

Aito secured the first spot among Chinese EV startups, beating even the EREV hegemon Li Auto. Huawei-backed automaker registered 9,000 vehicles, up 12.50% from 8,000 the week before.
Despite most automakers experiencing a drop in sales in January, Aito delivered a record-breaking 32,973 vehicles, up over 600% from the previous year.
Li Auto got the second spot with 7,200 registered vehicles, down 15.29% from 8,500 the week before. Li Auto sells only EREVs (basically a BEV with an ICE generator), and on March 1, it will launch its first battery electric vehicle (BEV) called Li Mega.
Zeekr sold 3,600 EVs, up 16.13% from 3,100 the week before.
Changan’s Deepal registered 3,100 vehicles, up 3.33% from 3,000 the week before. Neta and Voyoah both registered 1,200 EVs, down 29.41% and 20.00% from the week before, respectively.
Volkswagen-backed Xpeng registered 2,700 EVs, up 22.73% from 2,200 the week before. Stealntis-backed Leapmotor registered 3,000 vehicles, up 11.11% from 2,700 the week before.

 

[Yommie]

The OMODA E5​

 

[Yommie]

Toyota, Nissan, Honda and GM sales fall in China for second straight year​

 

[Yommie]

2024 Chery Tiggo9 (2.0T) 7 Seater SUV Review ( English) | Chinese Car Reviewer​

 

[Yommie]

Volvo XC40 RECHARGE - anything special?​

 

[Yommie]

Nio ET5 with range boost revealed in China

Nio ET5 with 150 kWh battery and 1055 km range details.

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Nio ET5 with range boost revealed in China​

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Mark Andrews

February 7, 2024


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Further details of the Nio ET5 fitted with the 150 kWh battery were revealed today by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT).

Until now the Nio ET5 and ET5 Touring (ET5T) came as standard with a 75 kWh battery with an option of a larger 100 kWh battery. Now the car will be available with the 150 kWh semi-solid state battery produced by WeLion. According to WeLion the battery has a cell density of 360 Wh/kg. MIIT information gives the weight of the battery as 575 kg which is just 20 kg heavier than the 100 kWh battery used by Nio.

At the end of 2023 a Nio ET7 equipped with the 150 kWh battery driven by Nio founder William Li and a co-driver achieved a 1,044 km (650 miles) range with 3% battery capacity remaining. The 14 hour drive was live-streamed. The battery has been a long time coming, first being announced at Nio Day 2020 – held in January 2021. Currently Nio are saying deliveries will commence in April 2024 but it should be noted that it has been promised a number of other times over the last few years.


According to MIIT information the official CLTC range for the Nio ET5 using the new battery is 1055 km while in the wagon version the ET5T range is a bit less at 1010 km. Curb weight of the car when fitted with the new battery is 2214 kg for the sedan and 2254 kg for the wagon.
The 150 kWh battery is however very expensive reportedly costing as much as an ET5 and so for the foreseeable future it will only be available to rent. It will likely be used by people as a short term hire when needed for longer journeys.
The battery is compatible with all Nio cars produced to date thanks to the modular nature of the swappable battery packs.

MIIT figures also list the CLTC ranges of other Nio models fitted with the 150 kWh battery. The lowest range is 900 km in the ES8. Both the ES6 and ES7 can do 930 km whereas the EC6 is slightly better at 935 km and the EC7 better still at 940 km. Nio sedans though take the range past the 1000 km barrier with even the large ET7 being supposedly good for 1050 km just 5 km less than the ET5.
MIIT figures also show ranges with a smaller 70 kWh battery as well as the standard 75 kWh unit and cost option 100 kWh one. The 70 kWh battery is a cheaper LFP (lithium iron phosphate) and should be available soon. Ranges with that battery are:

• Nio EC7 70 kWh – 445 km
• Nio ET7 70 kWh – 470 km
• Nio EC6 70 kWh – 450 km
• Nio ES6 70 kWh – 450 km
• Nio ET5 70 kWh – 500 km
• Nio ES8 70 kWh – 430 km
• Nio ET5T 70 kWh – 475 km
• Nio ES7 70 kWh – 440 km

 

[Yommie]

New Zeekr 001 revealed with 95-kWh LFP battery for 722 km range

The facelifted Zeekr 001 has two battery variants, 580-kW peak power, and up to 750 km range. To launch in China shortly.

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New Zeekr 001 revealed with 95-kWh LFP battery for 722 km range​

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Denis Bobylev

February 7, 2024


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Battery options of the Geely’s Zeekr 001 restyling were revealed by the Chinese MIIT in the catalog of NEVs exempted from vehicle purchase tax. In contrast with its predecessor, the facelifted variant got an optional LFP pack. Zeekr also didn’t fill for a version with a 140-kWh battery, hinting it won’t be available on the facelifted 001.

Zeekr is a young, high-end brand launched by Geely Group in 2021. All of its vehicles are based on the SEA modular architecture. Presently, Zeekr’s line comprises four models: 001 liftback, 007 sedan, 009 minivan, and X crossover. This brand also sells overseas. In 2024, it has a sales goal of 230,000 units. Soon, the very first Zeekr model, the 001, will get a facelifted variant. The governmental regulator exposed its battery options.

Zeekr 001 restyling battery variants​

The new Zeekr 001 will have two battery options: LFP and ternary NMC. This liftback will be the second Zeekr-branded model to have a LiFePo pack after the 007 sedan launched in December last year. Both batteries are manufactured by the joint venture between Geely and CATL, which is based in Sichuan, China.


The lithium iron phosphate battery of the Zeekr 001 has a capacity of 95 kWh. Since LFP packs offer lower energy density, the 001’s battery is bulky, weighing 720 kg. It occupies one-third of the car’s curb weight. The new Zeekr 001 equipped with this battery has several range options, depending on the powertrain.

• RWD, 310 kW, 95 kWh LFP battery, 722 km range
• 4WD, 580 kW (270 kW + 210 kW), 95 kWh LFP battery, 626-675 km range

The second battery option is ternary NMC for 100 kWh. It has a better energy density and a lower weight of 606 kg. It is available for both RWD and 4WD models.

• RWD, 310 kW, 100 kWh ternary NMC, 750 km range
• 4WD, 580 kW (270 kW + 310 kW), 100 kWh ternary NMC battery, 656-705 km range

The wheel options probably cause the listed difference in the range of 4WD variants. The new Zeekr 001 with the ternary NMC battery looks more desirable regarding cruising range. However, the LFP battery packs have longer life cycles, and they are cheaper. The current version of the Zeekr 001 also offers a 140-kWh battery for the 1032 km range. However, this pack wasn’t listed in the latest MIIT catalog, hinting the new facelifted 001 won’t get it.

More about the new Zeekr 001​

The facelifted Zeekr 001 has minor exterior adjustments. It has new bumpers, an optional LiDAR on the roof, new rims, and a new body color. Its dimensions are 4977/1999/1545 mm with a wheelbase of 3005 mm. Inside, it stays close to the Zeekr 001 launched last year.
The biggest enhancement of the new Zeekr 001 is the powertrain. Its RWD model will offer an e-motor for 310 kW. For clarity, the current rear-wheel-drive version of this liftback has a peak power output of 200 kW. The 4WD model is even crazier with 580 kW: 270-kW motor in the front and 310-kWh one in the rear. The current 4WD version’s peak power output is just 400 kW. As for the icing on the cake, the new variant can tow up to 2000 kg.
The new Zeekr 001 will enter the Chinese market shortly, replacing its predecessor. According to CarNewsChina’s sources, it will later hit the overseas markets. However, there is no precise timing of its international launch.
Source: MIIT

 

[Yommie]

BYD Intelligent driving NOA system set for a pivotal upgrade in March

BYD announces a big upgrade to its Urban Navigation Assistance system in China.

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BYD Intelligent driving NOA system set for a pivotal upgrade in March​

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Naveed Rastegar

February 7, 2024


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BYD’s announcement of a substantial upgrade to its intelligent driving system signals a notable advancement in its efforts to improve this technology. Scheduled for March 30th, this update signifies a significant step forward for BYD in the realm of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). The upgrade will further enhance its Navigation On Autopilot (NOA) or its internally known Urban Navigation Assistance (UNA) system in cities across China.

The upgrade was alluded to in 2023 with the BYD Denza N7 with its advanced lidar system and came on the heels of recent improvements to Xpeng’s XNGP intelligent driving system. Telsa has also been a strong competitor in the intelligent driving race, with announcements last year aiming to improve its FSD system. According to sources, the initial rollout of BYD’s Urban Navigation Assistance (UNA) system is slated for March 30th, starting with the N7 model among its existing lineup of over 20 vehicles.

Sources suggest that the UNA system will initially be implemented in several major cities, with Shenzhen being a primary target. Since January this year, BYD’s planning institute has been actively recruiting talent for its intelligent driving division. Sources reveal a significant number of positions available for intelligent driving engineers, including several high-ranking positions.

Before 2023, BYD primarily focused on mass market sales, where advanced intelligent driving features held less significance due to pricing and technological considerations. However, the landscape has evolved, with many competitors entering the high-end market segment and making intelligent driving a standard feature for high-end vehicles. This shift underscores the heightened importance of intelligent driving for BYD. Observing its current actions, BYD seems to be employing a strategy akin to its approach in the electrification sector: leveraging in-house research to master core components.

Since the first half of 2023, BYD has been developing its Urban Navigation Assistance (UNA) system, aligning with the industry trend towards urban NOA deployment. By December 2023, Li Auto aimed to launch its urban NOA in 110 cities, while Xpeng announced its urban NGP landing in 243 cities in January 2024.
BYD’s progress in intelligent driving marks a significant endeavor, with its focus on in-house research and development shaping its approach in this domain. The company’s efforts reflect the broader industry trend towards advanced ADAS systems and the race among automakers to integrate intelligent driving features into their vehicles.

Source: LatePost news

 

[Yommie]

BYD cooperates with ARVAL to promote European business

BYD and ARVAL signed an MoU to enhance electric mobility and sustainability in Europe, expanding eco-friendly vehicle options. BYD and ARVAL signed an MoU to enhance electric mobility and sustainability in Europe, expanding eco-friendly vehicle options.

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BYD cooperates with ARVAL to promote European business​

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Qian Jin

February 7, 2024


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BYD has entered into a strategic partnership with ARVAL to enhance its presence in the European market. This collaboration, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on February 6th, marks a pivotal step in BYD’s efforts to localize its operations across Europe, aligning with the continent’s ambitious carbon reduction goals.

BYD and ARVAL cooperation signing ceremony
ARVAL, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the BNP Paribas Group since its inception in 1986, has established a formidable footprint in vehicle leasing and mobility services. With operations spanning 29 countries and territories worldwide, ARVAL manages a fleet exceeding 1.7 million leased vehicles. This partnership with BYD signifies ARVAL’s commitment to diversifying its global automotive portfolio by integrating BYD’s electric passenger and light commercial vehicles, thereby offering a broader range of mobility solutions tailored to European customers’ sustainability objectives.
The collaboration between BYD and ARVAL is built on a shared vision of promoting green mobility. It aims to address the diverse needs, preferences, and budgetary requirements of both corporate and individual clients in Europe by providing them with high-quality, eco-friendly transportation options. By leveraging its comprehensive and high-quality EV lineup, BYD seeks to expand ARVAL’s green vehicle offerings, contributing significantly to the region’s reduction of carbon emissions. Beyond mobility, the partnership encompasses an array of green solutions, including electric vehicles, energy storage systems, and solar power solutions, demonstrating a holistic approach to environmental sustainability.

Key to this strategic alliance is using BYD’s extensive European dealership network, ensuring customers receive top-notch localized services and an exceptional electric driving experience. Schou Shuyi, General Manager of BYD Europe’s Automobile Sales Division, emphasized aligning both companies’ goals towards achieving sustainable mobility. He highlighted the synergy between BYD’s advanced new energy technologies and ARVAL’s expertise in leasing solutions, offering attractive options for customers aiming to green their fleets with BYD electric vehicles.
Alain van Groenendael, CEO and Chairman of ARVAL expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, underscoring the commitment to providing customers with diverse, reliable, and flexible green mobility solutions. He believes the combined strengths of both companies will encourage more businesses and individuals to transition to electric vehicles, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.
BYD’s foray into the European market has been marked by rapid expansion. In 2023, the company achieved a milestone by selling over 3 million new energy vehicles worldwide, securing its position as the global leader in new energy vehicle sales. Over the past year, BYD has established a significant presence in Europe, covering 19 countries, including the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain, with more than 250 dealerships. The company has launched six regional models, including the Yuan Plus (ATTO 3 in some countries), Seal, Dolphin, and Song Plus EV, underscoring its commitment to deepening its market penetration in Europe. Through collaborations with high-quality local partners like ARVAL, BYD aims to further its green transformation efforts and contribute to its global goal of reducing the planet’s temperature by 1°C.

Source: BYD

 

[Yommie]

Tesla China gave away 30 days of EAP, and cold weather packages could be purchased at half price for some Model 3s

Tesla China launched exclusive offers for vehicle owners, including promotional upgrades and benefits on EAP and cold weather functionalities. Tesla China launched exclusive offers for vehicle owners, including promotional upgrades and benefits on EAP and cold weather functionalities.

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Tesla China gave away 30 days of EAP, and cold weather packages could be purchased at half price for some Model 3s​

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Qian Jin

February 7, 2024


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On February 7, Tesla China introduced Chinese New Year special offers for its existing vehicle owners.

The offers include various benefits such as limited-time transfers of Full Self-Driving (FSD)/Enhanced Autopilot (EAP), free Supercharging, exclusive 30-day EAP access for a million vehicle owners, and promotional upgrades for cold weather packages.
The exclusive 30-day EAP access targets vehicles delivered before February 7 that have not been equipped with EAP or FSD and are hardware-compatible with EAP. Eligible vehicles will receive notifications about the EAP trial, and the offer is tied to the current owner.

Tesla has offered significant discounts on features designed to enhance comfort during cold conditions. The package includes reduced prices for cold weather functionality and rear seat heating at 1200 yuan (167 USD) and 800 yuan (111 USD), respectively. These offers are available from February 7 to February 16 through an Over-The-Air (OTA) purchase. Model 3 Standard Range Plus (SR+) vehicles produced between January 1, 2021, and November 18, 2021, are eligible for the “cold weather package” upgrade, while those delivered before November 2021 can opt for the “rear seat heating” upgrade.
Additionally, Tesla introduced several new policies, including limited-time FSD/EAP transfers and free Supercharging transfers. These policies allow for the transfer of FSD/EAP benefits to new vehicles purchased before March 31, 2024, and delivered between February 7 and March 31, 2024. The free Supercharging benefit can also be transferred to new cars under similar conditions.
Furthermore, Tesla China offers immediate cash benefits of 8000 yuan (1,115 USD) for specified versions of the Model Y and up to 10000 yuan (1,393 USD) off on selected paid paint options for any Model 3/Y vehicles, provided the car is picked up before March 31, 2024. There are also special financial offers with annual rates starting at 2.5% (equivalent to an annualized interest rate of 4.58%) for the Model 3/Y/S/X vehicles, including specified versions of the Model Y available for immediate delivery.

These promotions by Tesla China are part of a broader strategy to enhance customer loyalty and satisfaction, particularly among existing owners. By offering a range of benefits and upgrades, Tesla aims to encourage the adoption of its advanced driving assistance systems, improve the driving experience in cold weather, and facilitate the transition to new Tesla models.
Tesla poster
Source: iTHome

 

[Yommie]

BYD sold 217 EVs in Japan in January, accounting for 20% of imported EV sales

In January, BYD's EVs sales surged in Japan, showcasing the growing demand for imported EVs and expanding market presence. In January, BYD's EVs sales surged in Japan, showcasing the growing demand for imported EVs and expanding market presence.

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BYD sold 217 EVs in Japan in January, accounting for 20% of imported EV sales​

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Qian Jin

February 7, 2024


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According to data released by the Japan Automobile Importers Association (JAIA) on February 6th, the total number of imported electric vehicles in Japan reached 1,186 units in January, marking an 11% increase compared to last year. Notably, BYD‘s sales accounted for approximately 20% of these imports, with 217 vehicles sold during the month, a sixfold increase from the previous year.

Due to statistical factors in the data source, the data may have an error within 2%.
BYD officially entered the Japanese passenger car market in January 2023, launching two all-electric models, the Dolphin and the ATTO 3, with the latter being the international version of the Yuan Plus, familiar to many. The ATTO 3, in particular, has garnered popularity due to its advanced safety features, attracting a broad range of customers, including those trading in luxury cars and individuals over 60.
BYD Dolphin
However, BYD’s local representatives have acknowledged that, despite these early successes, the overall sales volume for imported EVs remains modest, and brand recognition is still relatively low, indicating a need for further market penetration and awareness efforts.

BYD plans to introduce the Seal, an all-electric sedan, to the Japanese market by spring 2024, with ambitions to expand its sales network to 100 outlets by the end of 2025. This move is part of BYD’s strategy to solidify its presence in Japan, responding to the growing demand for diverse and innovative electric vehicles.
BYD Seal

Current status of Japan’s EV market​

The Japanese EV market currently features 118 models from 17 brands, including notable entries such as the Volkswagen ID.4, Audi Q4 e-tron, and upcoming models like the BMW iX2, Alfa Romeo, Jeep’s first electric vehicle, and Volvo’s compact SUV, the EX30. These additions highlight the increasing competition and variety in the Japanese EV landscape, offering consumers a wide range of electric mobility options.
The surge in interest and sales of foreign EVs in Japan indicates a broader trend. In 2023, imports of electric vehicles from foreign manufacturers exceeded 20,000 units for the first time, reaching 22,890 units and representing a 59.6% increase from the previous year. This growth reflects a gap in the domestic EV offerings from Japanese manufacturers, with foreign brands stepping in to provide a diverse selection of electric vehicles to Japanese consumers.

The JAIA has noted the rising influence of overseas manufacturers in the Japanese EV market, underscoring a shift in consumer preferences towards more sustainable and innovative transportation solutions.
BYD’s performance in January is a clear signal of the company’s growing influence in the Japanese market and the broader acceptance and interest in electric vehicles among Japanese consumers.
Source: iTHome

 

[Yommie]

Geely will introduce new cars of Zeekr brand to the Mexican market

Geely announced a deal with Zeekr to bring new energy vehicles to Mexico, aiming to tap into the growing Latin American EV market. Geely announced a deal with Zeekr to bring new energy vehicles to Mexico, aiming to tap into the growing Latin American EV market.

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Geely will introduce new cars of Zeekr brand to the Mexican market​

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Qian Jin

February 7, 2024


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On February 7, Geely disclosed in a Hong Kong Stock Exchange filing that it had entered into a vehicle purchase agreement with Zeekr, a move poised to bring Zeekr’s new energy vehicles (NEVs) to the Mexican market. This agreement includes the procurement of whole cars along with the requisite after-sales parts and accessories for resale in Mexico. This is a significant step forward for Geely in expanding its footprint in the global electric vehicle (EV) market.

Zeekr X
This initiative is part of a broader strategy to tap into the burgeoning demand for electric vehicles in Latin America, focusing on Mexico. The Mexican government has already set ambitious targets for the automotive sector, aiming for hybrid and electric cars to account for 50% of the market share by 2040 or earlier.
Geely’s decision to introduce the Zeekr brand in Mexico is a forward-looking move designed to establish a preliminary foothold in the region well ahead of this target, providing the company with a “key strategic advantage” to expand its operations across Latin America.

Zeekr, as a brand under Geely, has been making waves in the EV sector with its rapid growth and innovation. In January alone, Zeekr reported a delivery volume of 12,537 units, marking a 302% increase year-over-year and bringing the brand’s cumulative deliveries to 209,170 units. Despite the competitive market dynamics, including aggressive pricing strategies by rivals, Zeekr’s Vice President Lin Jinwen has stated that the brand will not engage in price wars. Instead, Zeekr is setting its sights on a sales target of 230,000 units for the year, with reservations for its 007 model expected to surpass 25,000 by the end of January.
Zeekr 009
Zeekr’s international expansion is not limited to Mexico. The brand announced its entry into the European market in December of the previous year, with the first European version of the Zeekr 001 being delivered in the Netherlands. This marked the beginning of Zeekr’s journey in Europe, with the brand now present in several European countries, including Sweden, the Netherlands, and Germany, as well as markets in Central Asia and the Middle East.
The introduction of Zeekr vehicles in Mexico signifies Geely’s commitment to advancing the adoption of electric mobility solutions worldwide. By bringing cutting-edge EV technology and models to new markets, Geely aims to meet the growing demand for sustainable transportation options while contributing to global efforts to reduce carbon emissions.

Many well-known EV companies, including Geely, BYD, and others, have entered the Mexican market. Some analysts believe that against the political background of the United States suppressing China’s EV industry, Chinese companies’ large-scale entry into Mexico is an attempt to develop the North American EV market.
Source: iTHome

 

[Yommie]

Radar RD6 4WD pickup to have similar acceleration as Tesla Cybertruck, CEO says

Radar RD6 EV pickup truck from Geely with 4WD will enter the domestic market in Q2 2024.

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Radar RD6 4WD pickup to have similar acceleration as Tesla Cybertruck, CEO says​

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Mark Andrews

February 7, 2024


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Zhejiang Province, China – 28122022: Stationary picture of a Radar RD6 electric pickup truck.

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Geely will officially launch a 4WD version of its Radar RD6 electric pickup truck in the second quarter of this year. Originally launched as just a rear-wheel drive truck in November 2022 it is a rare breed.

There are few electric pickups available anywhere and most that are on sale are conversions of ICE vehicles like the Chinese Maxus T90 EV or as in the case of the Ford F150 Lightning heavily based on an ICE. The Radar is different being the first Chinese pickup designed from the ground up as an EV and unlike the Tesla Cybertruck it’s actually being delivered.

Geely seems almost to have as many brands as models and currently Radar just has the RD6 pickup for what’s positioned as a lifestyle brand. The RD6 rides on a dedicated EV platform for such vehicles, the Multiplex Attached Platform (MAP). This platform itself is derived from Geely’s Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) platform as used by the Zeekr range, and the new electric Smart and Lotus cars.

Despite originally being rumored for the first half of last year the 4WD version finally seems set for launch. Speaking at Geely’s annual media conference Radar CEO Ling Shiquan said that it would now launch in the second quarter of 2024. Ling also gave details about the new version’s performance.
He claims that acceleration is in the same region as the Tesla Cybertruck and capable of around four second acceleration (0-100 km/h, 0-62 mph) while carrying hundreds of kilograms of cargo although he didn’t actually give a definite weight. Similarly Ling said that the 4WD RD6 had a wading depth which exceeded that of the Hummer EV (813 mm).
Currently the RD6 has a 200 kW motor powering the rear axle and is available with battery packs of 63 kWh, 86 kWh and 100 kWh which are good for ranges of 410 km, 550 km and 632 km respectively. As yet no details have been announced about the 4WD configuration but the battery packs are likely to be carried over and it is probable that like in the all-wheel drive Zeekr 001, the permanent magnet motor will simply be duplicated on the front axle. The platform can reportedly accommodate battery packs of up to 140 kWh and so it is possible that the 4WD version will come with a larger pack.

Crucially a big improvement over the existing 2WD version is the increase in payload, which will now be 865 kg up from 430 kg (400 kg in the 100 kWh version). Also up is the towing capacity, increasing from 2.5 to 3 tons. The pickup can power up to 6 kW of electrical items and has 12V 220V and 380V outlets in the truck bed. New to the 4WD version will be the ability to directly charge other EVs.

In 2023 Radar had a 61.5% share of the electric pickup truck market in China. In August the first RD6 pickups were exported most probably to Laos. Geely reports that exports to the South American market began in late 2023 and that it will expand the brand’s overseas expansion in 2023.
Source: Geely, Autohome

 

[Yommie]

Want a pig nosed EV camper van?

BAW EV camper van from China with a pig nose has 90 kW electric motor and raisable tent.

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Want a pig nosed EV camper van?​

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Mark Andrews

February 8, 2024


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While if you were after an EV camper, you would have few options, until now if you wanted one with a pig nose you would have been sorely disappointed. Chinese media have perhaps somewhat unfairly branded this camper van from Beijing Automobile Works as having a pig nose. What do you think?

The appropriately named Freedom Kingdom Vala is sold under the BAW Ruisheng brand. BAW is a Qingdao based subsidiary of BAIC Group. Chinese netizens are naming it the most abstract domestic car of the year after it appeared in the list of new cars declared by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology on February 6.

The Freedom Kingdom Vala is based on the Ace M7 a cheap MPV which originally appeared as an ICE in 2022. It has since gained a van version and EV versions of both the van and MPV.


The nose though of the Freedom Kingdom Vala, pig like or not, is very different to the Ace M7 and has a retro feel reminiscent of some European or Japanese vans from the 70s. Certainly it doesn’t really match the rest of the car and also doesn’t look EV like.
Rated as a four seater the vehicle has two passenger seats mounted on rails in the back which allow them to be moved. There are also a couple of storage boxes come tables, one of which seems to have some sort of water dispenser. On the roof is a raisable tent for sleeping.

The wheelbase is 3200 mm and overall length is 5240 mm although much of that must be accounted for by that long snout. Meanwhile width is 1900 mm and height 2075 mm. Power comes from a 90 kW electric motor on the rear axle. There’s no word on the battery but it’s likely the same as the 50.3 kWh one used by the electric version of the MPV.

 

[Yommie]

Hundreds of Xiaomi SU7s pile up in front of Beijing factory

Xiaomi SU7 is one step closer to deliveries.

carnewschina.com

Hundreds of Xiaomi SU7s pile up in front of Beijing factory​

Reading Time: 4 minutes

Jiri Opletal

February 8, 2024


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Hundreds of Xiaomi SU7 electric sedans were spotted in the parking lot close to its Beijing factory, hinting that mass production has already started. Chinese media previously reported that the new EV will enter SOP (start of production) in February, reach 2,000 monthly output in March, and ramp up to 10,000 units monthly by July.

The EV is contract-manufactured in Beijing by the BAIC Off-road Vehicle Co., which is a subsidiary of Beijing Automotive Industry Holding Co. Ltd (BAIC). Interestingly, BAIC also produces Mercedes-Benz cars in China under the joint venture Beijing-Benz, which was established in 2005 and where BAIC owns 51%.
BAIC is also one of the main Chinese shareholders in Mercedes-Benz itself, holding a 10% stake in the German legacy maker. The other one is Geely, which owns another 10%.

Xiaomi SU7 at the parking lot near its Beijing factory. Credit: 晴棵
The trial production of the SU7 started in December when Xiaomi manufactured 300 pre-production cars for testing purposes. CarNewsChina reported that road and track tests were undergone in China, and Xiaomi recently broke headlines in Chinese media as its test vehicle crashed on a snowy road.
On February 8, Xiaomi released a winter testing video, flexing the sports capabilities of their electric sedan in the extreme cold of -33°C near Heiha City in Nothern, China. Lei Jun, Xiaomi CEO, said during the unveiling conference that Xiaomi wants to be the king of winter range and efficiency, highlighting the benefits of their in-house developed heat pump.

The consumer electronic giant officially unveiled the Xiaomi SU7 on December 28. The performance version is called Max and is AWD with a peak power of 495 kW (664 hp) and 838 Nm torque. That is enough for 0-100 km/h acceleration in 2.78 seconds and 265 km/h top speed. The electricity is stored in a ternary (NMC) 101 kWh battery from CATL, good for an 800 km CLTC (China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle) range. The EV also features 875 V architecture, so expect some fast charging.

The standard RWD version was also unveiled, featuring a maximum power of 220 kW (295 hp) and 400 Nm of torque. It can sprint 0-100 km/h in 5.28 seconds. The battery has a 73.6 kWh capacity, providing a 668 km range under the CLTC.
The battery can recharge 390 km in 10 minutes, more than the Tesla Model S Plaid. In 5 minutes, SU7 can add 220 km, and in 15 minutes, 510 km, Xiaomi claims.
The SU7 sits on Xiaomi’s Modena platform and is slightly longer than the Porsche Taycan, its main competitor. The dimensions are 4997/1963/1455 mm (L/W/H), with a wheelbase of 3000 mm. The car has a sizeable 105-liter frunk and boot space with 517 liters.

The price of the car is unknown, and some Chinese media reported that the price would be 361,400 yuan (50,350 USD), which Xiaomi briefly denied as incorrect. Previously, Lei Jun said that some fans have unrealistic expectations about the price and to stop trolling with guesses as 99,900 yuan (14,000 USD) or 149,900 yuan (21,000 USD). CarNewsChina expects the price to be around 300,000 yuan (42,000 USD).
Xiaomi SU7 during extreme cold testing.
The delivery start is yet officially unknown, but Lei Jun previously said it will be in the first half of the year. We will keep an eye on it.