China Auto Thread

[Yommie]

Real world tests of BYD’s DM-i 5.0 technology show better than advertised results

Last week BYD launched its fifth generation PHEV technology – DM-i 5.0. Since then there has been a lot of controversy over the three central claims of

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Real world tests of BYD’s DM-i 5.0 technology show better than advertised results​

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Mark Andrews

June 5, 2024


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Last week BYD launched its fifth generation PHEV technology – DM-i 5.0. Since then there has been a lot of controversy over the three central claims of 46.06% thermal efficiency, 2.9 l/100 km fuel consumption and 2,100 km range. However a number of tests have shown that the claims are not unreasonable, the most recent done just today where a 2.54 l/100 km figure was returned.

Today’s event was a BYD official test, live-steamed by Li Yunfei GM of BYD’s brand and PR department. At the unveiling of the technology the first two cars using it were also launched: the Qin L and the Seal 06. Since then the Qin L (see specs) seems to have grabbed most of the headlines and anecdotally most of the sales as well. Today’s turn was the Seal 06 (see specs).
The test involved a Seal 06 with a nearly depleted battery showing 15% state-of-charge (SOC). During the test the car covered 103.1 kilometers and used 2.56 liters of fuel. Furthermore the SOC dropped to 13%. Taking into account the distance covered and the drop in SOC this means fuel consumption of 2.54 l/100 km which is well under the 2.9 l/100 km figure claimed by BYD.

Screenshot from the BYD livestream showing the result
Over the last week BYD has come in for a lot of criticism over the 2.9 l/100 km claim as this uses NEDC testing rather than WLTC as used for the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) official figures. Most people claim the WLTC is more accurate as it uses conditions more representative of the real world. BYD, however, claim that the lower NEDC figures more realistically match those experienced by most drivers in cities. Under WLTC the consumption figure is 3.8 l/100 km rather than the 2.9 l/100 km under NEDC for the 80 km range versions.
Unfortunately some key details of the test are unknown most notably the speed profile. However, based on a tweet by Li Yunfei saying that he spoke continuously for 3 hours during the streamed test we can assume an average speed of around 33 km/h. Also presumably the car was the 80 km range version which has the better headline NEDC figure of 2.9 versus 3.08 l/100 km for the 120 km range version.
At the press conference for DM-i 5.0 it was publicized that a number of media test drives achieved a combined range of over 2,400 km with the highest recorded at 2,547 km. However, Car News China has been unable to discover under what conditions these ranges were achieved.

Far better detailed has been a test undertaken by a blogger going by the name of ‘uninterrupted power to the north’ (向北不断电) over 3 days in the top spec Qin L 120 km all-electric range Excellence which retails for 139,800 yuan (19,300 USD). The drive started in Xi’an, Shaanxi Province and took the driver to Shenzhen, Guangdong Province. Air conditioning was set at 24°C and where possible the car was driving at the 120 km/h speed limit as much as possible. On the third day very bad weather including heavy rain forced the speed to be reduced.
The 1977 km travelled in the test
At around 1,800 km the fuel gauge stopped showing but the car was driven until it was fully depleted which was achieved after a distance of 1,977 km. The video at the end of the test not only shows the sealed fuel tank and charging port but the car being loaded onto a recovery vehicle. After it is driven to a fuel station the blogger managed to fill it with 66.74 liters of fuel – note the official fuel tank capacity is 65 liters.
The amount of fuel 66.74 liters put into the Qin L after it was taken to a fuel station on a recovery truck.
In conclusion he says that the car achieved 3.37 l/100 km which is closer to the NEDC figure used by BYD than the WLTC one used by MIIT – note 3.08 versus 3.98 l/100 km respectively for the 120 km electric range version. It should also be pointed out that the test was not done under the slower speeds of NEDC. Unfortunately no mean speed is available for the test. A Honda Accord PHEV which was used as an accompanying car in the test ran out of fuel after 1,291 km and achieved fuel consumption of 3.99 l/100 km – the Accord has a much smaller fuel tank with the blogger managing to refuel it with 51.6 liters.

Editor’s note:​

The blogger live-streamed the event and believes that had it not been for the heavy rain on day 3 the test would have broken 2,000 km. He is about to undertake a high-speed endurance test in a Seal 06 versus three ICE cars which will be selected by a vote on Weibo.
Sources: Fast Technology, Fast Technology

 

[Yommie]

Mercedes-Benz to use autonomous driving technology from Chinese startup in all-electric CLA, sources say

The all-electric CLA will hit the market in April 2025 with autonomous driving capabilities.

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Mercedes-Benz to use autonomous driving technology from Chinese startup in all-electric CLA, sources say​

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Jiri Opletal

June 6, 2024


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Mercedes-Benz CLA BEV Concept. Credit: MB

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Mercedes-Benz is reportedly accelerating its autonomous driving solution advancements with the help of Chinese providers. According to a report by local media, the German luxury automaker’s all-electric CLA will feature a high-level intelligent driving solution from Chinese startup Momenta, which does not rely on high-definition maps. This advanced system will enable urban navigation assistance, and the electric vehicle is scheduled to enter mass production in April 2025.

The media outlet 36Kr, China’s TechCrunch alternative, reported that including Momenta’s technology would mark the first time Mercedes-Benz has adopted an intelligent driving solution from a Chinese supplier. The new CLA would be the first Mercedes-Benz model to incorporate city pilot-assisted driving capabilities. A Nvidia Orin X chip will power the autonomous and ADAS features.
Momenta, founded in 2016 and headquartered in Suzhou, about a one-hour drive from Shanghai city center, has quickly risen to prominence in the intelligent driving industry in China. The report notes that Mercedes-Benz recognized Momenta’s potential early on, participating in its Series B funding round in early 2017, just six months after its inception. Mercedes-Benz continued its investment in 2021 by participating in Momenta’s Series C round.

Other investors in Momenta include US GM, Chinese Shanghai Auto (SAIC Motor Corp.), and billionaire Jack Ma’s Yunfeng Capital.
China’s smart driving market is fiercely competitive, with companies like Huawei, Nio, Xpeng, and Xiaomi already offering advanced driver assistance features. In contrast, Mercedes-Benz’s progress in this area has lagged behind. Its latest innovation is highway pilot assistance in the 2023 E-Class long-wheelbase version.
This delay in adopting high-level smart driving features has impacted the Mercedes-Benz brand’s premium and sales growth in China. The new CLA, targeting a younger and more tech-savvy demographic, aims to address this gap. Built on the Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA) platform, the CLA will support 800V electrical architecture and up to 250kW charging power. It will also feature the company’s proprietary MB.OS operating system, enhancing computational power and user interaction.

The MMA platform represents a significant step in Mercedes-Benz’s electric transformation. Following the setbacks with the EQ series, the company aims to improve technology and brand image. The advancements made on the MMA platform are expected to extend to the next generation of mainstream electric models, 36kr says.
The strategic partnership with Momenta underscores Mercedes-Benz’s potential commitment to speeding up its smart driving initiatives. By leveraging local expertise, Mercedes-Benz aims to stay competitive in a market where technological innovation is rapidly advancing.
In addition to the CLA, Mercedes-Benz has outlined plans for three product lines in China that will support high-level smart driving features. The E-Class long-wheelbase version, launched at the end of 2023, includes highway pilot assistance developed by the Mercedes-Benz China R&D team. The EQS and S-Class models utilize software developed by Nvidia, with road testing already underway as of late 2023.
CLA Concept interior. Credit: MB
36kr claims Mercedes-Benz’s local R&D team is crucial to its global development network. This team has been instrumental in projects like the autonomous parking feature, which originated in China and was subsequently rolled out worldwide. Given the rapid advancements in smart driving technology by Chinese companies, Mercedes-Benz is increasingly relying on its Chinese R&D capabilities.
Insiders have indicated that due to evolving international relations, Mercedes-Benz may push for further localization of L2+ smart driving features, with future high-level intelligent driving solutions potentially being fully developed by Chinese teams or suppliers.
Globally, Mercedes-Benz has already achieved several milestones in autonomous driving. Since 2021, the company has obtained commercial licenses for L3 autonomous driving and L4 automated parking in Germany. In 2023, it secured similar L3 licenses in Nevada and California and L3 testing permits in Beijing and Shanghai.
These achievements underscore Mercedes-Benz’s robust autonomous driving credentials and global market reach. However, with China accounting for a third of Mercedes-Benz’s sales, the report concludes that succeeding in the Chinese market remains crucial for the automaker’s overall strategy.
Mercedes-Benz is 20% Chinese-owned, as Geely founder and CEO Li Shufu owns about 10% of the company, and state-owned Beijing Auto (BAIC) owns another nearly 10%, the largest shareholders. According to previous reports, Mercedes-Benz will use BYD’s Blade LFP batteries for CLA entry-level trims in China.

 

[Yommie]

Chery and Huawei made the Tesla Model Y competitor called Luxeed S9

The Luxeed S9 electric SUV coupe from Chery and Huawei revealed in China. It enters the market in H2 2024 with a starting price of 41,900 USD.

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Chery and Huawei made the Tesla Model Y competitor called Luxeed S9​

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Denis Bobylev

June 6, 2024


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The Luxeed S9 SUV coupe from Chery and Huawei was released in official images. It is positioned as the Tesla Model Y competitor priced in 300,000 – 400,000 yuan (41,900 – 55,200 USD) range. The Luxeed S9 stands on the E0X modular architecture from Chery. It will enter the market in H2 2024 and will be sold in HIMA stores.

Briefly about Luxeed​

Luxeed at the Auto Show
Luxeed is a joint project between Huawei and Chery. In this project, Huawei acts as a parts and software supplier, while Chery provides the modular architecture and handles the production. Huawei is also responsible for selling Luxeed cars in its flagship stores and a specially created network of HIMA (Harmony Intelligent Mobility Alliance) stores.
Luxeed S7
The Luxeed model line currently comprises a single model, which is the S7 sedan (see specs). It was initially launched in China in November last year. However, it appeared that Chery wasn’t ready to provide enough production volume to satisfy the customers’ demand. Only after some adjustments on the production site and the model re-launch Luxeed S7’s sales volume started to rise. For clarity, in April of this year, Huawei delivered over 5,000 units of this sporty sedan.

Luxeed S9 released in China​

The Luxeed S9 was previously spotted in China several times during road tests. Now, this model has been released in official spy shots. The car in the pictures is covered with heavy camouflage. However, the S9 adopts the design language of the Luxeed S7 and Aito M9 (see specs).
The front end of the Luxeed S9 has thin LED headlights joined by a light strip. Its other features are a closed front end, a trapeze-shaped air intake with integrated 4D millimeter-wave radar, and a sloped bonnet line. The S9 rides on R20 wheels with 255/50 Pirelli Scorpion tires. Its roof has a noticeable bump, and it is a Huawei-made LiDAR sensor. Its front fenders also have Huawei’s two sensors.
From the back, the Luxeed S9 adopts a single LED taillight unit partly covered with camouflage. It also has a glossy plastic rear bumper. The trunk door has a ducktail spoiler that adds sportiness to the look of this SUV coupe. Other features of the Luxeed S9 are retractable door handles, conventional side-view mirrors, and a huge sunroof.

It was previously disclosed the interior of the Luxeed S9 stays in line with the Luxeed S7. It has a three-spoke oval-shaped steering wheel with a gear shifter mounted behind it, a floating touchscreen, two wireless charging pads, two cup holders, and a spacious storage compartment.

Luxeed S9 specs​

Luxeed S9 spy shot
Huawei has disclosed new information about the Luxeed S9. According to official sources, the S9 adopts the advanced ADS 3.0 driving assist system. Another feature is the Xmotion 2.0 body structure, which enhances the S9’s sportiness, handling, and safety. It also adopts the Hongmeng 3.0 cloud service. Inside, the Luxeed S9 has the Huawei 2.0 AR-HUD.
E0X architecture from Chery
As mentioned, the Luxeed S9 stands on the E0X modular architecture designed by Chery. It supports an 800V silicon carbide high-voltage system. It is highly possible the S9 will adopt the powertrain of the S7 sedan. Its RWD variant has a 215-kW (288 hp) e-motor. And the 4WD trim offers 365 kW (489 hp) of power. The Luxeed S9 will have three optional batteries: LFP for 62 kWh, M3P (NMC+LFP) for 82 kWh, and NMC for 100 kWh.
The S9 will enter the market in H2 2024 with a price range of 300,000 – 400,000 yuan (41,900 – 55,200 USD). It is positioned as a direct competitor of the Tesla Model Y. It will be sold in Huawei and HIMA stores.
Source: Huawei

 

[Yommie]

Geely-baked LEVC L380 MPV enters China in June as Li Mega rival

The LEVC L380 minivan from Geely Group will enter the Chinese market later this month with a starting price tag of 400,000 yuan (55,200).

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Geely-baked LEVC L380 MPV enters China in June as Li Mega rival​

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Denis Bobylev

June 6, 2024


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The LEVC L380 minivan from Geely Group will enter the Chinese market later this month with a starting price tag of 400,000 yuan (55,200). This 5.3-meter MV with up to 8 seats inside will offer various interior layouts and powertrain options. It’s often called the main rival of the Li Mega. LEVC has already opened pre-sales for the L380 with a refundable deposit of 2,000 yuan (280 USD). It will become available in the UK in the next two years.

Our regular readers know that LEVC is a successor to the well-known British London Taxi Company, founded in 1919. The cab maker was acquired by Geely in 2013, and its manufacturing plant was relocated to China. Nowadays, LEVC sells a single car called TX. However, it has already started the mass production of the L380 minivan, dedicated to both private and fleet projects.

LEVC L380 enters the market this month​

The LEVC L380 minivan was opened for pre-orders on May 21. Customers can book this car for a refundable deposit of 2,000 yuan (280 USD). This move indicates that the L380 is in its final stages before sales start. Today, various Chinese media have reported that the LEVC L380 entered the market in late June. It will begin deliveries to clients at the same time.

Interestingly, LEVC positions the L380 not only as a luxurious taxi or a cargo car for fleet projects. It also aims at private customers since big electric-powered minivans became a growing trend in China after the huge success of the Denza D9 (see specs). Lots of manufacturers launched their products to get their slices of pie. Minivans are considered cool cars in China. They often act as criminal bosses’ daily drivers in movies.
This is why the L380 also aims at private customers. LEVC has already opened lots of showrooms across China. At the same time, it has started promoting its social media accounts.
Chinese outlets report that the LEVC L380 won’t be a cheap vehicle. Its starting price for private customers will be around 400,000 yuan (55,200 USD). For clarity, we’ve listed the price range of potential LEVC L380 rivals:

• GAC Trumpchi E9: 319,800 – 409,800 yuan (44,150 – 56,550 USD)
• Hongqi HQ9 PHEV: 358,800 – 538,800 yuan (49,550 – 74,100 USD)
• Hycan V09: 318,800 – 438,800 yuan (44,100 – 60,600 USD)
• Zeekr 009: 500,000 – 789,000 yuan (69,150 – 109,000 USD)
• Li Mega: 529,800 yuan (73,150 USD)
• Voyah Dream (Dreamer): 339,900 – 639,900 yuan (46,900 – 88,350 USD)
• Maxus Mifa 9: 269,900 – 449,900 yuan (37,250 – 62,100 USD)
• Denza D9: 339,800 – 660,000 yuan (46,900 – 91,100 USD)
• XPeng X9: 359,800 – 419,800 yuan (49,650 – 57,950 USD)

As we can see, the LEVC L380 has lots of strong rivals. However, lots of netizens often compare the Geely-baked MPV with the Li Mega launched in March 2024. This comparison is mainly caused by the exterior styling of the L380. From some angles, it looks like the Li Mega’s sibling.

More on LEVC L380​

The LEVC L380 is a huge multi-purpose vehicle with up to 8 seats and a 2 + 2 + 2 + 2 layout inside. Its second and third rows of seats have independent captain chairs. The LEVC L380 stands on the SOA platform derived from SEA architecture. It boasts hefty dimensions of 5316/1998/1940 mm with a wheelbase of 3185 mm. The LEVC L380 also has three powertrain options:

• 200-kW electric motor, 170 km/h top speed, 100 kWh ternary NMC battery, 570 km range
• 200-kW electric motor, 170 km/h top speed, 116 kWh ternary NMC battery, 675 km range
• 400-kW two electric motors, 180 km/h top speed, 140 kWh NMC battery, 785 km range

Previously, the L380 completed safety crash tests organized in Geely’s internal lab. According to brand’s officials, it has passed 52 inspection items. During the side collision, the L380 can handle 70-ton impact. The collision strength per unit area is 1670 kN/m3. After collisions, the L380’s doors could be opened normally, the high-voltage battery pack electrolyte leakage was less than 5L within 30 minutes. No signs of smoke and fire were founded. However, we are still waiting for independent crash tests.
According to the LEVC official social media account, the L380 will enter the UK market in 2 years.
Source: Gandongpai, LEVC, LEVC Inner Mongolia

 

[Yommie]

Stellantis backed Europe bound Leapmotor to list new C16 SUV on June 28

New Leapmotor 6 seat SUV the C16 is the largest and most advanced car yet from the brand. European sales likely to start in 2025.

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Stellantis backed Europe bound Leapmotor to list new C16 SUV on June 28​

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Mark Andrews

June 6, 2024


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Stellantis backed Leapmotor will officially list its latest car the C16 on June 28 and according a previous comments by an official the price won’t be more than 200,000 yuan (27,600 USD). After opening pre-sales during the Beijing Auto Show the C16 attracted 11,950 orders within 24 hours. Leapmotor is once again pushing its boundaries with this car which seems not only to be a step more upmarket but is also the first car equipped with 800V architecture.

The C16 is mid-size electric SUV with a 2+2+2 seating arrangement. Design wise it is a fairly inconspicuous SUV with one of the most eye-catching features being the roof mounted Lidar unit. In many ways it looks like an enlarged C10 (see specs), which was the brand’s first world car, and up until the C-pillar there is little to distinguish them. This may well be a deliberate attempt to copy the Li Auto strategy where the L series are largely only differentiated on size and price with a very distinct look carried across the range. Certainly positioning wise in China the C10 is sold as a cheaper L7 and the C16 aims to be a half price L8 and compete with cars such as the Aito M7.
By the time the C16 reaches the D-pillar there is considerable difference with the C10 and the third window is much bigger due to the car being longer and having a third row of seats. The C16 measures in at 4915, 1905 and 1770 mm (l/w/h) and rides on a 2825 mm wheelbase. It is based on the Leap 3.0 architecture and is the largest Leapmotor model to date. Buyers get a choice between 20 and 21-inch wheels and can also choose from six exterior colors: Star Silver, Star Purple, Sky Gray, Pearl White, Metallic Black, and Glazed Emerald.

Inside the C16 marks a definite step up in terms of quality and overall look for Leapmotor. For the first row there is a fairly standard separate 10.25-inch instrument screen and floating 14.6-inch infotainment unit setup. A Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295 chip powers the infotainment system and it runs the Leap OS. The car comes with a 21 speaker sound system and a wireless phone charger.
Earlier reports indicated that the C16 would come in both six and seven seat versions but so far there has only been an application for a sales license for a six seater. Rear occupants are treated to a 15.6-inch roof mounted fold-down entertainment screen. Additionally the backs of the front seats house fold-down trays for the second row passengers. Seats in the second row are electrically adjustable and along with the third row have a one-button adjustment mode. In addition to three-zone independent air conditioning there are electric sunshades.
The C16 will be available as both an all-electric EV and a range extended EV. Power for the former comes from a TZ220XY008 providing up to 215 kW of power. Coupled with a 67 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery pack from Zenergy it has a range of 520 km CLTC. On the other hand the EREV version has a 1.5 liter H15R self-aspirated engine with maximum output of 70 kW as a range extender with actual power coming from a 170 kW electric motor. The EREV uses a 28.4 kWh LFP battery pack from CALB which is good for 134 km all-electric CLTC range.

Stellantis took a 20% stake in Leapmotor last year. Since then the two parties have formed Leapmotor International, with Stellantis holding the controlling 51% share, which will be used to expand the global reach of the brand, particularly in Europe. In September the Leapmotor T03 and C10 cars will launch in nine European countries: Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Italy, Greece, Romania, Spain, Portugal, and France. Designed as a world model the C16 will likely follow onto the international market with sales possibly commencing overseas by early next year.
Source: Autohome

 

[Yommie]

The G Wagon like BAW 212 is back again with big plans

This old school Chinese off road car is roaring back with a new generation.

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The G Wagon like BAW 212 is back again with big plans​

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Naveed Rastegar

June 6, 2024


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An all-new BJ212 was officially released on June 6th, 2024. The vehicle is sometimes dubbed the “Chinese G Wagon” for its classic, boxy design. The 212 dates back to 1965, and this is the first time in nearly 60 years that the classic 212 based on Russian off-roaders has been replaced. Not only is this 212 a new generation car, but the name has now been expanded from a single model to an entire brand, with the new 212 “special edition” serving as the inaugural product in this family. The last time the car saw any action was in 2021 with a tribute edition.

Retaining the iconic design cues that have made the 212 a favorite among off-road enthusiasts, the new 212 model features the classic split-headlight setup, grille, and boxy silhouette. The front end is especially rugged, with a thick bumper that could practically double as a step. Flared fenders give the 212 an imposing, Jeep-like stance. Even the door handles remain true to the 212’s traditional styling.
Under the hood, the 212 is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine producing 185 kW, putting it on par with the new BJ40 model. Strangely, given the car’s supposed hard-core off-roader styling, there was no mention of the torque produced by the engine, which delivers power through an 8-speed automatic transmission. The 212 off-road credentials go beyond just the engine, and it boasts a “part-time” adjustable 4WD system with high and low ranges, locking differentials front and rear, and an OFFROAD drive mode tailored for extreme conditions. Approach and departure angles of 40 and 36 degrees, respectively, mean that the 212 can tackle tough terrain.

Inside, the 212s cabin strikes a utilitarian tone, with physical controls for the climate and off-road systems taking precedence over touch-based interfaces. A fully digital instrument cluster and floating central display provide the necessary modern tech features. While the 212 will face competition from models like the BJ40 and Haval H5, its combination of classic styling, robust off-road capability, and (hopefully) an affordable price point could make it a tempting choice for adventure-seeking buyers. The yet-to-be-confirmed and estimated price for the 212 model is between 14,000 and 20,000 USD.
The 212 brand comes from the BAW (Beijing Auto Works) company and was a BAIC subsidiary before it was sold in the private sector. The brand has long been associated with accessible, no-frills off-roading, and the 212 seems poised to continue that legacy. If the 212 can replicate the success of brands like Xiaomi, offering a range of models at different price points, it may become the everyman’s off-road vehicle of choice.
Source: Autohome and MyDrivers

 

[Yommie]

BYD dominates the 2024 Shenzhen Auto Show, spending 138 million USD

The exhibition covers 200,000 square meters, attracting 200 automakers featuring over 1,000 vehicle models.

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BYD dominates the 2024 Shenzhen Auto Show, spending 138 million USD​

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Adrian Leung

June 6, 2024


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The 28th Greater Bay Area Auto Show, also known as the Shenzhen Auto Show, is a significant event in the Chinese automotive industry. For the first time, it will be held at the Shenzhen International Convention and Exhibition Center from June 1 to June 9.

The exhibition, covering an area of 200,000 square meters, has attracted approximately 200 automotive manufacturers featuring over 1,000 vehicle models. This is a unique opportunity for technology enthusiasts to stay informed and engaged with the latest developments in the industry. Parts suppliers, technology service providers, and academic research organizations are also present, further enriching the event.
The Greater Bay Area of China is located in South China. It includes nine cities in Guangdong Province and the two special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau. Its total population is 86 million.

BYD invested approximately one billion yuan (138 million USD) in Hall 1, which spans 20,000 square meters indoors and nearly 30,000 square meters outdoors. The pavilion features BYD and its sub-brands, Denza, Yangwang, and Fangchengbao. The exhibition includes the world’s first large-scale public demonstration of floating driving technology from the Yangwang U8. On center stage stood the BYD Seal 06 and Qin L DM-i models, which use BYD’s fifth-generation DM technology. In Hall 2, we could find Huawei HiCar’s booth showcasing a range of models from its Aito, Stelato, and Luxeed brands.
BYD and Huawei, both Shenzhen-based companies, are leading the way in the Chinese new energy vehicle market. In the first five months of 2024, BYD sold 1.2713 million new energy vehicles, making it the top seller in China. Similarly, Huawei, with its delivery of 148,098 new cars on June 4, has emerged as the top-selling brand among the new players.
Other prominent automotive brands, including Geely, GAC, XPeng, NIO, and Mercedes-Benz, exhibited their latest innovations at the event.

The Future Automotive Pioneers Conference, a key part of the show, played a pivotal role in shaping the future of the automotive industry. Leaders such as Lei Jun, Richard Yu, and William Li discussed technology challenges and market opportunities, emphasizing self-developed technology, market insights, innovation speed, and strategic layouts for intelligent driving. Their insights and discussions at the conference highlight the industry’s prospects and the potential for international cooperation, instilling a sense of hope and optimism in the audience about the future of the automotive industry.
Shenzhen leads China in the development of new energy vehicles (NEVs). Its three-year plan is to become a world-class automotive hub by 2025 and target over 2 million NEVs annually. In 2023, the city achieved a 67.9% NEV penetration rate, double the national average.
Editor’s Notes:
At the event, I noticed a shift of interest from overseas brands to Chinese domestic car brands. The crowds were especially drawn to BYD, Nio, Li Auto, and Geely, just to name a few. Honda’s exhibition was surprisingly quiet. Not even Ultramen can save them.

 

[Yommie]

Reports claim Firefly brand is not compatible with existing Nio swap stations and will launch in China first

News claims that Nio will now launch its third brand codenamed Firefly in China first. Reports also indicate it cannot use Nio's swap stations.

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Reports claim Firefly brand is not compatible with existing Nio swap stations and will launch in China first​

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Mark Andrews

June 6, 2024


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News suggests that all might not be looking good for Nio’s third brand codenamed Firefly. Already at the Onvo launch in May we learned that the third brand’s debut had been postponed from this year to the second quarter of 2025. Firefly is meant to be largely aimed at the European market and was originally planned to be launched simultaneously in Europe and China. Now according to news reports, which Nio has yet to respond to, the brand will initially launch in China.

More serious still to investors is that although the Firefly brand supports battery swapping Fast Technology claim its incompatible with Nio battery swap stations. Nio’s second generation and third generation battery swap stations require a wheelbase of 2800 mm or more. The Firefly brand will focus on smaller, more affordable cars positioned in the 100,000 – 200,000 yuan (13,800 – 27,600 USD) segment, today’s earnings call indicated the first model would be around 100,000 yuan (13,800 USD).As such they will likely require a wheelbase shorter than 2800 mm. Nio’s fourth generation swap stations will go live from June 13 but currently there is no news on whether the wheelbase requirement will be shortened.
A Nio ET7 undergoing battery swapping with the Nio Power Swap Station 3.0 installed at the Nio Delivery Center, Nanxiang, Jiading District, Shanghai, China.
While Onvo brand cars use different capacity battery packs to those in the mainstream Nio brand the cars are compatible with the third generation (after modification) and new fourth generation swap stations. Reports indicate that Firefly due to its smaller battery pack will not be able to use existing swap stations. Furthermore, it seems that all three brands will use different packs. Some sources such as 21st Century Business Herald claim the fourth generation stations will be compatible with the swapping requirements of Firefly.

Although Firefly’s first car has been spotted in the wild little is known about it. From the spy shots we can see the car is a hatchback like SUV with styling similar to a Zeekr X or Volkswagen ID.3. Along with high ground clearance we can clearly see a sporty spoiler on the rear roofline. Given that the brand will be affordable items such as Lidar will be absent and the car will use doors with frames.

Editor’s note:​

There seems to be no end to Nio’s cash burn. If the Firefly brand is not compatible with Nio battery swap stations but is battery swappable, does this mean that Nio is going to roll out another swap station network? Hopefully, the new brand will be able to use the fourth-generation swap station, and we should have a clearer idea later this month when the first stations go live.
This comes days after Nio announced it had commenced building its F3 plant. Currently there is some confusion over where the Firefly brand will be assembled with some reports saying it would be built at the former Leopard (Liebao) factory in Chuzhou, Anhui Province while others indicate Nio’s F1 plant.

Postponement of the European launch is probably inevitable. As reported yesterday Nio only saw 35 cars registered in Germany last month a 20% year-on-year drop. Furthermore an announcement about whether the EU is going to put tariffs on the import of Chinese cars is imminent with tariffs of around 20% more than likely. These factors make a successful launch of the Firefly brand in Europe both difficult and costly for Nio.
Source: Fast Technology

 

[Yommie]

GAC Aion Hyper GT Global Model with 710 km range enters market at 28,100 USD in China

GAC claims that the Global Model uses the same self-healing paint as that of the Rolls-Royce.

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GAC Aion Hyper GT Global Model with 710 km range enters market at 28,100 USD in China​

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Dong Yi Chen

June 7, 2024


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On June 6, GAC Aion officially launched the global version of its Hyper GT pure electric sedan, available in three trims with a price range of 203,900 – 259,900 yuan (28,100 – 35,900 USD). The new car features an 800V platform and a 710 km cruising range (CLTC).

Earlier, the car has undergone road testing in Europe and Thailand. As suggested by its name, the Hyper GT Global Model is expected to be exported overseas.
The car presents a low-lying posture with a fastback shape and runs on star-shaped 19-inch rims. Built based on GAC’s new all-electric AEP 3.0 platform, the size of the car measures 4886/1917/1449 mm, and the wheelbase is 2920mm. Its drag coefficient is 0.1975Cd and the turning radius is 5.3 m.

In the front, the Hyper GT Global Model has a closed face and slender LED headlights. The roof is equipped with a watchtower lidar and the fenders are implanted with side cameras.
Two new exterior colors have been added, namely, Quantum Red and Budapest Pink. GAC claims that the car uses the same self-healing paint as that of the Rolls-Royce, which can self-repair small scratches.
Furthermore, the Hyper GT Global Model comes with 34 sensors to power its mapless Hyper Pilot advanced driving assistance system, including three lidars, six millimeter-wave radars, and 13 cameras.

The interior has also added two new color schemes called Afternoon Macchiato and Elegant Orange Brown. There is an oval-shaped steering wheel, an 8.8-inch full LCD instrument panel, and a 14.6-inch 2.5K touch central control screen powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155P chip. Additionally, the entire series is equipped with GAC’s ADiGO intelligent driving ecosystem, which features a multi-lingual ADiGO SENSE AI assistant.
Other configurations include 23 speakers, 50W mobile phone wireless charging, front seat heating/ventilation, multi-color ambient lights, a driver monitoring system, and facial recognition. The trunk has a 450 L standard volume.
Power comes from a rear electric motor with a maximum power of 250 kW and a peak torque of 430 Nm, paired with an 80 kWh ternary lithium battery pack, providing a CLTC cruising range of 710 km. The official 0 – 100 km/h acceleration time is 4.9 seconds. Under fast charging with its 800V platform, the Hyper GT Global Model can achieve a range of 450 km in 15 minutes.
Source: Hyper

 

[Yommie]

Deepal G318 hardcore off-road SUV will launch on June 13 in China

The Deepal G318 features a range-extender power system with a reported comprehensive range of 1,000 km.

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Deepal G318 hardcore off-road SUV will launch on June 13 in China​

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Dong Yi Chen

June 7, 2024


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On June 6, Changan announced that its Deepal G318 hardcore off-road EREV SUV will launch on June 13 in China. The car debuted earlier on March 18 when it performed a challenge of climbing a 60% slope to demonstrate its off-road capabilities.

Positioned as a medium-to-large SUV, the Deepal G318 measures 5010/1985/1960 mm with a 2880 mm wheelbase and a curb weight of 2360 kg. As an off-road SUV, its approach angle is 27°, departure angle is 31°, longitudinal passing angle is 27.3°, towing capacity is 1600 kg, and ground clearance can reach 240 mm.
The front adopts a large closed design and C-shaped headlights that look like sharp fangs.

The roof features four lights and luggage racks that can support a camping tent.
A full-size spare tire is located in the center of the rear. The longitudinal taillights are simple, coupled with an optional hook.
The cockpit features a D-shaped three-spoke steering wheel, a 12.3-inch instrument panel, and a 14.6-inch central control screen operated by the Deepal OS. The gear lever adopts a push-pull rod design. Six driving modes are supported including an “ET all-terrain mode” and five terrain modes: snow, mud, sand, rugged, and wading; as well as five daily driving modes: economy, comfort, sports, exclusive, and custom.

The front seats can be laid flat to form a bed with the rear seats. There are also 31 storage areas throughout the vehicle.
Furthermore, the standard trunk volume is 818 L and can be expanded to 1,747 L after folding down the rear seats.
The Deepal G318 will be available in single-motor and dual-motor versions with a 1.5T range-extender powertrain. At this time, Chinese media reported that the Deepal G318 has a CLTC pure electric range of 190 km and a CLTC comprehensive range of 1,000 km, but it’s unclear which version this applies to. The official battery capacity and type have not been announced at this time.
Single-motor version

• 110 kW electric motor

Dual-motor version

• front electric motor: 131 kW/262 Nm
• rear electric motor: 185 kW/310 Nm
• 0 – 100 km/h acceleration time is 6.3 seconds

In terms of battery safety, Deepal collaborated with Tsinghua University in China to develop an upgraded version of its Golden Bell Battery (Golden Bell 2.0) that uses nanofiber diaphragm technology. The battery’s temperature resistance has increased from 150°C to 200°C and is equipped with 10 layers of battery bottom protection to further reduce the risk of battery damage.
We’ll watch closely for more information.
Source: Deepal, DongCheDi, 36kr

 

[Yommie]

Zeekr X RHD version rolls off production line bound for Australia or Thailand

Production of right hand drive versions of the Zeekr X has begun. Deliveries overseas set to start in Q3 likely in Australia or Thailand.

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Zeekr X RHD version rolls off production line bound for Australia or Thailand​

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Mark Andrews

June 7, 2024


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The first right hand drive versions of the Zeekr X have now rolled off the production line. Overseas deliveries are expected to begin in the third quarter of this year. Previous Australian reports have indicated that Zeekr will launch there in the second half of the year and so Australia may be the initial destination for RHD versions.

Thailand is also a possibility given that both the Zeek X and 009 opened to pre-orders at the Bangkok International Motor Show in March. Zeekr at the time claimed deliveries in Thailand would commence in Q3. Zeekr plans to open its first Thai store in Bangkok this year and gradually expand the sales and service network to cities including Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Pattaya.
Bar having the steering wheel on the right the only major difference between the RHD model and the LHD model is the choice of colors which at the beginning are restricted to a just Hangqing Green or Athens Cloud White.

There is currently no word as to whether both the four seat and five seat versions of the Zeekr X (see specs) will be available in RHD markets but it is likely that initially only the more normal five seat version will be exported. The four seater at first glance looks as if it has a normal bench in the back but the center portion has a large fold down armrest and the cushion part is not only removable but provides storage. Meanwhile the seats on either side can pop the cushions up to provide a space for transporting pets.
The Zeekr X comes with an 8.8-inch LCD instrument panel and a 14.6-inch infotainment unit. On at least some versions the center screen can electrically move over to the passenger side. For the driver there is a head up display complete with animated navigation prompts.
Both rear wheel drive and all-wheel drive versions are available and the car rides on a 400V version of Geely’s Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) platform. In China the single motor version powered by a 200 kW motor that produces 343 Nm of torque is only available as a four seater. Meanwhile there are both four and five seat versions of the 2024 model year all-wheel drive version which adds an additional 115 kW of power and 200 Nm of torque with a motor on the front axle. Range for the single motor version is 560 km (CLTC). For the four wheel drive version range is either 512 or 500 km (CLTC) depending on trim level. Battery capacity for all versions is 66 kWh with batteries supplied by either CATL or CALB.

Prices in China range between 200,000 and 220,000 yuan (27,600 – 30,400 USD).
Sources: Zeekr, Autohome

 

[Yommie]

IM Motors’ first EREV, an SUV, will launch in 2025 and be a new design

SAIC's IM brand is set to start selling EREV cars from next year with the launch of an all new SUV model designed as an EREV.

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IM Motors’ first EREV, an SUV, will launch in 2025 and be a new design​

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Mark Andrews

June 7, 2024


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IM Motors are the latest Chinese brand to abandon a fully electric lineup and introduce extended range EVs after similar moves by brands including Avatr, Leapmotor and Neta. The new EREV from IM Motors will launch next year and will be a new design benchmarked against the Li Auto L7.

As early as last year it was known that IM Motors would have an EREV as its fifth model. The current line up consists of the L6 and L7 sedans and LS6 and LS7 SUVs, all of which are fully electric.
Liu Tao, CEO of IM Motors in a media interview last year said “We believe that in the next three to five years, or even five to eight years, range extender products have their market potential.” At the same time, he mentioned the fifth product being an EREV.

IM L7 sedan
Now according to 36Kr Auto the new car will be unveiled in the first quarter of 2025. Furthermore it is an SUV and judging from SAIC using the Li Auto L7 to benchmark the new car will likely compete against Li Auto products. An insider is reported as saying “The range extension project was approved in the second half of last year, and the first car will use SUV positioning to quickly harvest the market.”
IM LS6 SUV
The new car will use a modified version of SAIC’s E1 platform. According to Yicai Global the E1 platform is the platform covered in last year’s agreement between Audi and SAIC which the German company will use to co-develop EVs set to debut next year.
EREVs are the fastest growing segment in China’s NEV market. Sales in the past year reached 620,000 which was a year-on-year increase of 186%, the third consecutive year that the increase has been triple digits. In contrast, PHEVs experienced an 87% increase while fully electric cars only achieved 24%.

IM LS7 SUV
IM Motors was founded in 2020 as a joint venture between SAIC Motor, Alibaba Group, and Zhangjiang Hi-Tech. The first model was the L7 sedan which went on sale in 2022 and has since been followed by the LS7 and LS6 SUVs and this year by the L6 sedan.
The IM brand has not been a major success for SAIC with sales last year of 38,253 cars. Early indications suggest the brand is set to get a considerable boost from the new L6. Introducing EREVs to the product mix should help sales momentum.

Editor’s note:​

It should be remembered that IM Motors are meant to be expanding overseas beginning this year. The new EREV could be one of the models exported in the future. So far there is no definitive word as to whether IM Motors will retain its name overseas or be rebranded under the MG badge.
Sources: Fast Technology, 36Kr Auto

 

[Yommie]

Deepal S05 SUV spied testing ahead of Q3 China launch

The Deepal S05 SUV has been spied testing ahead of Q3 launch. We now also have range and battery information.

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Deepal S05 SUV spied testing ahead of Q3 China launch​

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Mark Andrews

June 7, 2024


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The Deepal brand from Changan is set to get a lot bigger this year. Firstly the Deepal G318 will launch later this month and the new smaller S05 SUV should launch over the coming months. Spy shots have recently emerged of the S05 testing without camouflage along with an interior spy shot.

The new car will be the fourth car from the brand. Like the first two models, the SL03 sedan and the S7 SUV, the new S05 car will be available in both fully electric and range extended guises. The third model the G318, an off-road oriented SUV, is set to be only available as an EREV.
Sales cannot be too far off as the car already has an MIIT listing without which it cannot go on sale in China. That the car is now being spotted testing without camouflage reinforces this.

The car is smaller than the Deepal S7 (see specs) and measures in at 4620, 1900 and 1600 mm (l/w/h) and has a wheelbase of 2880 mm. It has a more rounded exterior design and features a closed front grille with split LED headlights. There are concealed door handles and at the back a through LED light bar. Buyers of the S05 will have a choice between and 18 and 20-inch wheels and options include a panoramic roof and a roof rack.
Fully electric versions come with a 175 kW motor and a 56.12 kWh battery pack giving a range of up to 510 km (CLTC). Meanwhile the range extended version uses a 1.5 liter engine which has peak power of 72 kW. Although there are two different versions of the EREV both use the same 160 kW XTDM38 electric motor. Where they differ is the size of the battery pack with a choice between 17.08 kWh and 27.28 kWh which are good for 100 km and 155 km all-electric range respectively using CLTC measurements. Fuel consumption for each version is quoted as 4.95 l/100 km and 5.05 l/100 km respectively.
A poor quality interior spy shot reveals little else other than a large seemingly portrait infotainment screen and possibly an LCD instrument panel.

Currently a launch of the Deepal S05 is expected at some point in Q3 and prices will be lower than the S7 which starts from 134,900 yuan (18,600 USD). The S05 will probably start from somewhere close to 120,000 yuan(16,550 USD).
Deepal was originally referred to as Shenlan in English before gaining an official English name. The brand is majority owned by Chang’an and currently sells new energy cars in China and Thailand. Other owners of the brand include CATL and Huawei and the car’s Deepal OS is built on the Harmony OS from Huawei.
Source: Fast Technology

 

[Yommie]

Sunday China Drive | Xpeng X9 is a starship on wheels

As more fully electric MPVs join the market, is the Xpeng X9 a good choice? Let's find out!

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Sunday China Drive | Xpeng X9 is a starship on wheels​

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Adrian Leung

June 8, 2024


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Recently, China’s MPV market has seen a significant shift. Previously dominated by traditional ICE models like the Buick GL8, Toyota Sienna, and Honda Odyssey, it now includes fully electric MPVs such as the Zeekr 009, Li Auto Mega, and Xpeng X9. This week on Sunday China Drive, we will examine Xpeng’s first MPV, the X9, and evaluate its performance.

Booking for a test drive
I learned of a friend’s recent purchase of the Xpeng X9 MPV. As CNC’s test driver, I instinctively asked my friend Sunny for a test drive and why he chose this MPV.

First Impressions
The car being tested is the top-trim Xpeng X9 640 Performance Max (AWD), priced at 419,800 yuan (57,980 USD). Unlike traditional MPVs, the X9 has an elongated profile with a sloping front at 21 degrees and a rear window at 23 degrees, boasting a sleek 0.227 Cd drag coefficient. It has a closed front grille complimented with a hexagon honeycomb panel. The diamond-shaped headlights are integrated into the bumper. “The forward sensing camera is cleverly hidden under the front windscreen, unlike other EVs,” Sunny said proudly.
The Interior

The cockpit continues the Xpeng G6’s design language with added luxury. It features a blend of suede, leather, and wooden panels. The two-spoke steering wheel includes controls on both sides, while a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster sits on top. The center console boasts a 17-inch floating touchscreen, running on XPeng’s UI powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295 chipset for a seamless user experience.
The second role includes dual zero-gravity seats with temperature adjustments, massage functions, and adjustable leg support. The third role offers lots of head and leg room for the passengers. Measured at 5293/1988/1679 mm with a wheelbase of 3160 mm, the X9 comfortably seats seven adults.
The car has a retractable 21.4-inch TV with an adjustable angle and a container for drinks that can be warmed or cooled to your preference. Additionally, it is equipped with an X-opera 23-speaker entertainment system that provides a large sound stage with lots of bass yet lacks clarity.
“The front seat is very comfortable,” I noted upon entering. “My wife complains there’s no massage function in the co-pilot seat. Imagine on a road trip: I’m enjoying a massage while driving, and the kids in the back are watching a movie and getting massages, but my wife doesn’t get one. Xpeng should offer that option,” Sunny responded. “Compared to my Honda Stepwgn, the whole family has much more fun in the X9. There is so much space,” Sunny smiled.
Storage
The Xpeng X9 has 755 liters of cargo space and 2554 liters when the rear seats are folded down. The rear seats fold flat into the car’s floor electronically, and the headrests retract electronically, too. This is one cool feature.
Behind the Wheel
The Xpeng X9 is undoubtedly a big car to drive. However, built on Xpeng’s SEPA2.0 (Smart Electric Platform Architecture) with double wishbone independent suspension at the front and a multi-link independent suspension at the back, the X9 is a smooth and comfortable ride. “The dashboard, together with the sloping nose of the car, is very long, making it difficult to see the car’s distance in front,” Sunny said. The thin A-pillars offer good visibility. The steering is responsive. Aided by four-wheel steering, the X9 features an impressive 5.4-meter turning radius, and maneuvering through city streets and parking lots is manageable. As a reference, the turning radius for the Mini Cooper is 5.3 meters.
On the highway, the X9 maintains a stable and quiet ride. It has a 235 kW front motor and a 135 kW motor at the rear, totaling 370 kW with 640 N·m. Even at 2630kg, the X9 has more than enough power to overtake and climb hills. The Xpeng X9 can do 0 – 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds. If there were ever a drag race in an MPV category, the X9 would beat the mighty Toyota Alphard 3.5 V6 (0 – 100 km/h in 8.3 seconds). On a side note, the X9 also costs a lot less to run.
“Let me show you Xpeng’s XNGP advanced driver-assistance system,” Sunny said eagerly. “This is the main reason I picked the X9.” XNGP relies not heavily on high-precision maps but rather its cameras and sensors. We allowed the autonomous driving system to take over on the busy suburban roads in Zhuhai, China. Soon after, we passed a bus stop on our right, and a bus started moving. The X9 slowed down a lot when detecting large objects. Moving along, the X9 accurately detected objects around our car, enabling it to adjust speed and change lanes accordingly. There were occasions when the X9 made lane changes aggressively.
X9 drivers must be aware that certain road conditions may make the XNGP system hesitant. These include U-turns, exiting the highways, fast cars approaching from the rear, and making right turns (when traffic lights do not apply). As the Lane Centering Control (LCC) kicks in, the car will signal the driver to take over. At the time of testing, the X9 was running on XOS 5.1.0.8906.
Xpeng claims its end-to-end large model is trained on over 1 billion kilometers of video data, 6.46 million kilometers of real-world testing, and 216 million kilometers of simulation testing. By the third quarter of this year, Xpeng targets covering all of China with its XNGP, aiming to provide an urban autonomous driving experience comparable to its highly acclaimed highway autonomous driving by 2025.
Arriving back at the car park, we stopped the car. Sunny made some selections on the touchscreen, and the X9 started driving itself again. “The car has recorded the path to my parking spot and will now go there. The valet parking system will also put on its indicators as it makes turns,” Sunny explained.
Battery Range
Xpeng X9 640 Performance Max (AWD) offers 640 km CLTC, translating to 510 km in the real world.
Safety Features

1. Safety cage: it has an aluminum die-casting body structure and a safety cage made of 2,000 MPa steel, meeting global safety standards
2. Collision safety: 19 ring-shaped safety designs, meeting international safety standards
3. Level 2.5 Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS): includes Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR), and Automatic Parking Assist (APA)4

Conclusion
During the test drive, we pulled the car over on the side of the street. Sunny and I were relaxing in the zero-gravity seats in the second role. The massage seats reclined, and the leg supported up, watching Godzilla vs Kong with the air-con turned on. This would have been a guilty pleasure in a traditional ICE MPV. I can only imagine how much fun Sunny’s family has with the X9.
I learned something from this test drive. When picking a new family car, the emphasis is “family.” While Sunny enjoys his tech and looks forward to his next OTA update, the wife and the kids should equally enjoy the entertainment and ride quality the car may provide. The Xpeng X9 is the starship that Sunny chose to carry his family on their new adventures.
Stay tuned for next week’s Sunday China Drive at Car News China, where you can get more evaluations of Chinese EVs from a first-person perspective.

 

[Yommie]

New FAW-Volkswagen Talagon SUV launched starting at 36,100 USD

The Talagon is a gasoline-powered SUV, with three engine options: 183 hp 2.0T, 217 hp 2.0T, and 295 hp 2.5T V6 engines.

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New FAW-Volkswagen Talagon SUV launched starting at 36,100 USD​

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Dong Yi Chen

June 9, 2024


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On June 7, FAW-Volkswagen launched its new Talagon SUV (众享款 – Public Sharing Edition) in 12 trims, with a price range of 261,900 – 361,900 yuan (36,100 – 49,900 USD). As an annual facelift model, the new Talagon’s design and configurations remained largely the same compared with the old model, but its price tag has been reduced by as much as 43,000 yuan (6,000 USD).

The FAW-Volkswagen Talagon first launched in June 2021. In the first four months of this year, 2,884, 1,119, 1,638, and 1,442 Talagons were sold, respectively. By decreasing the price tag with the new Talagon, FAW-Volkswagen is most likely aiming to increase sales.
The new Talagon is positioned as a medium-to-large SUV, available in 6-seater and 7-seater versions, targeting the family car market segment. It measures 5152/2002/1795 mm with a 2980 mm wheelbase. Both single- and dual-color (black roof) exteriors are offered. The car runs on either 20-inch or 21-inch rims.

Inside, the cockpit remains unchanged, equipped with a 12-inch central control display, a 10.25-inch full LCD instrument panel, and and a leather three-spoke flat-bottom multi-function steering wheel.
The car comes standard with an 8-speaker audio system, leather and fabric mixed seats, keyless entry, an electric tailgate, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and driver fatigure monitoring. Furthermore, the high-end trims are equipped with a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, steering wheel heating, 30-color ambient lighting, and advanced driving assistance capabilities including parking assist, rear traffic warning, and blind spot monitoring.
The standard trunk volume of the 6-seat version is 942 L and the 7-seat version is 880 L. At the same time, the second row seats offer massage functions.

The new FAW-Volkswagen Talagon offers three engine options: a 2.0T low-power engine (137 kW/183 hp and 320 Nm), a 2.0T high-power engine (162 kW/217 hp and 350 Nm), and a 2.5T V6 engine (220 kW/295 hp and 500 Nm). All mated to a 7-speed DCT. An optional four-wheel drive system is also available. The official 0 – 100 km/h acceleration time is 10.8 seconds, 9.2 seconds, and 8.2 seconds, respectively.
FAW-Volkswagen 2023 sales performance
In 2024, FAW-Volkswagen set a sales target of 1.9 million to 2 million vehicles. According to official data, in 2023, FAW-Volkswagen sold 1.9102 million vehicles (including imported Audi vehicles), a year-on-year increase of 4.8%. Among them, Volkswagen sold more than 1.05 million vehicles, a year-on-year increase of 0.9%; Audi sold 698,188 vehicles (including imported vehicles), a year-on-year increase of 9.8%; and Jetta sold 162,000 vehicles, a year-on-year increase of 10.3%.
At the same time, FAW-Volkswagen indicated that it continues to launch gasoline-powered (ICE) vehicles due to their demand. For example, among the 21.699 million passenger vehicles sold in China last year, ICE vehicles accounted for about 64% of the total sales with 13.95 million units sold, compared with 7.75 new energy vehicles sold.
Source: DongCheDi, Sohu