Modern Auto Builds Factory in Slovakia, Tesla Enters South American Market | Overseas Daily
"Top 3 News"
BYD Seal 7 Debuts in Europe, Challenging Tesla Model Y
Key Points:
BYD launched the Seal 7 electric SUV at the 2024 Paris Motor Show, aiming to further expand BYD's electric vehicle market layout in Europe. The Seal 7 is the latest member of BYD's "Ocean Series" and is positioned as a direct competitor to the Tesla Model Y. The vehicle is equipped with BYD Blade Battery, featuring high performance and range. Depending on the configuration, the Seal 7 can offer a maximum range of 610 kilometers in the Chinese market, and the European version is expected to be similar. The vehicle is equipped with a 15.6-inch rotatable central control screen, BYD DiPilot 100 autonomous driving assistance system, and supports fast charging of up to 230kW, fully catering to the European consumers' demand for high-performance electric SUVs.
BYD Seal 7 (Source: BYD)
Opinions:
The launch of the BYD Seal 7 demonstrates the rapid expansion of Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers in Europe. Europe, as a region with a high penetration rate of electric vehicles globally, is an important market for emerging giants like BYD. The Seal 7 has strong performance and range capabilities, giving it the opportunity to challenge the market position of the Tesla Model Y. In addition, BYD's strategy to expand the European market is clear: by launching multiple models with different positioning to meet the diverse needs of consumers. From economy models to high-performance models, it is gradually enhancing its market presence. If this multi-model strategy is properly implemented, it is indeed possible for BYD to become an important competitor in the European market in the coming years. Currently, the starting price of the BYD Seal 7 in the UK is £45,000, and the starting price in China is 189,800 yuan.
The New Ford Capri is Set to Hit the European Market
Key Points:
Ford Motor Company has introduced the all-new Ford Capri, an all-electric SUV with a streamlined roof design, which is different from the retro sports car of the same name in the past. Despite the same name, this new Capri is actually a stylish coupe SUV based on the same platform as the Volkswagen ID5, competing with other similar models such as the Skoda Enyaq Coupe and the Peugeot E-3008. In terms of exterior design, the new Capri is relatively restrained. In addition to the bright yellow paintwork it is launched with, its features include thick black grille bars and the subtle curves of the front bumper, and the roof line smoothly extends to the high trunk lid with a small spoiler. In terms of the interior, the new Capri shares most of the design with the Ford Explorer SUV, and except for some switches, it is not easy to tell that it is based on the Volkswagen platform (Ford shares electric vehicle technology with this German automaker). The vehicle is equipped with a 14.6-inch vertical infotainment screen that can slide to reveal a hidden storage space.
The New Ford Capri (Source: Ford)
Opinions:
The new Ford Capri is produced at the Ford Cologne plant, which has undergone a $2 billion investment and transformation into an advanced electric vehicle center. This Capri is not a traditional coupe, but an electric SUV with a streamlined roof, which is different from the same-named sports coupe in the 1960s. The design of the new Capri is relatively soft and restrained, with the roof line smoothly extending to the high trunk lid and equipped with a small spoiler. The vehicle is equipped with a 14.6-inch vertical infotainment screen that can slide to reveal a hidden storage space. The interior of the Ford Capri is largely shared with the Ford Explorer SUV and uses Volkswagen's electric vehicle technology based on the cooperation with Volkswagen. Ford has high hopes for this new model, believing that its return will attract a new generation of consumers to experience the legendary style and charm of the Capri.
The New Peugeot E-408 Unveiled at the Paris Motor Show
Key Points:
At the 2024 Paris Motor Show, the all-new Peugeot E-408 made its official debut. This electric sedan showcases an unprecedented sporty temperament with its unique fastback design. The vehicle has a height of 1.48 meters, optimizing its aerodynamic performance. The E-408 is built on the Peugeot E-EMP2 platform, with a wheelbase of 2,787 mm. The battery design makes the cabin space more spacious while lowering the center of gravity and enhancing handling. In terms of power, the E-408 is equipped with a 157-kilowatt (210-horsepower) permanent magnet synchronous motor, with a torque of 345 Nm. The battery capacity is 58 kWh, with a WLTP range of 453 kilometers. The vehicle's interior design is exquisite, equipped with a 10-inch digital instrument cluster and a high-performance TomTom navigation system. To enhance the driving experience, the E-408 is also equipped with multiple driving modes (normal, sport, and economy), as well as a three-stage regenerative braking system. In addition, the E-408 also has a rich array of comfort configurations, including a heated steering wheel, seats, and a standard 11-kW three-phase AC charger, supporting 100-kW DC fast charging, which can charge from 20% to 80% in just 30 minutes. In terms of safety, the E-408 is equipped with a series of advanced driving assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and a night vision system, ensuring driving safety and convenience.
Peugeot E-408 (Source: electriccarsreport)
Opinions:
The combination of design and technology in the New Peugeot E-408 reflects the automotive industry's response to the trend of electrification. As a sporty electric sedan, the E-408 not only has a sleek exterior design but also achieves a satisfactory balance in power performance and driving pleasure. Its fastback shape and spacious interior make this vehicle highly competitive in the same category. In addition, the E-408's range and charging capabilities also demonstrate Peugeot's technical strength in the field of electric vehicles. With the increasing acceptance of electric vehicles by more consumers, models like the E-408 will attract more attention, especially for the flexibility required in urban commuting and long-distance travel. Overall, the E-408 is an electric sedan worth looking forward to, and its success will largely depend on consumer feedback and market acceptance.
"Big Events"
The Kia EV6 GT Facelift Makes Its First Public Appearance with Design Updates and Performance Enhancements
Kia EV6 GT (Source: Electrek)
After the facelift, the Kia EV6 GT made its first appearance without camouflage, showing its updated exterior design, including the new daytime running lights and taillights with "Star Map Signature Lighting", as well as a more streamlined front and a 3D grille. The vehicle is equipped with the fourth-generation battery, improving the range to a maximum of 494 kilometers (307 miles) and supporting 18-minute fast charging. In addition, the interior has added a new ccNC infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens, and the virtual gearshift system will bring a stronger driving experience to the driver. The vehicle is expected to be released before the end of 2024, and the price will remain at around $61,600.
Tesla Launches Supercharging Network in Chile, Making Its First Entry into the South American Market
Tesla Chile (Source: Electrek)
Tesla recently officially launched its supercharging network in Chile, marking the company's first entry into the South American market. The first two charging stations are located in Santiago, the capital of Chile, and the coastal city of Curauma. Although the automotive market in Chile is relatively small, the demand for electric vehicles and the abundant supply of lithium resources have attracted Tesla's attention. The Chilean government plans to only allow the sale of electric vehicles by 2035, which further promotes the popularity of electric vehicles.
Toyota Partners with Revel, Offering Free Fast Charging for Electric Vehicle Users in New York City
Toyota and Revel (Source: Electriccarsreport)
Toyota Motors has partnered with Revel, allowing Toyota and Lexus electric vehicle users in New York City to enjoy three years of free charging services at Revel's DC fast charging network. Revel currently operates the largest public fast charging station network in New York City, providing 24-hour service, including both NACS and CCS plug types. The partnership between Toyota and Revel aims to enhance the charging experience of electric vehicle users and encourage the widespread use of electric vehicles.
Hyundai is Building a New Electric Vehicle Parts Factory in Slovakia to Conquer the European Market
Hyundai MOBIS (Source: Electrek)
Hyundai Mobis, as a supplier of the Hyundai Motor Group, plans to invest approximately $256 million (35 billion won) to build a new electric vehicle parts factory in Slovakia. This base will include Hyundai's first electric vehicle powertrain production plant in the region, known as the "bridgehead to conquer the European electrification market". Hyundai Mobis is the world's fifth-largest automotive parts manufacturer, providing parts to automakers other than the Hyundai Motor Group, including Volkswagen and Mercedes-Benz. To support its expansion in the world's second-largest electric vehicle market, Hyundai Mobis announced the establishment of a new electric vehicle parts factory in Slovakia. The construction of the new factory will have a total investment of approximately $256 million, covering an area of about 14 football fields (105,700 square feet), and will include Hyundai's first Power Electric (PE) system production plant in Europe. Hyundai's supplier said the goal is to start operations in the second half of next year. Once completed, the PE production base can produce up to 300,000 PE systems per year. The company is also building a new electric vehicle braking system factory in its existing Žilina facility.
"Cool Products"
RML P39
RML P39 (Source: TopGear)
RML Group recently released its limited-edition supercar - the P39 Project 40SE, aiming to celebrate the company's 40th anniversary. This car is modified based on the Porsche 911 Turbo S, equipped with a 900-horsepower powertrain, upgraded turbochargers and exhaust system, reducing the 0-60 mph acceleration time to 2.4 seconds. The vehicle features a carbon fiber body, combines the design elements of Le Mans racing cars, and has highly adjustable aerodynamic components to optimize performance and stability.
RML P39 (Source: TopGear)
RML plans to produce only 10 units of the P39 Project 40SE, and the expected price of each is £495,000. This car not only pursues the ultimate in appearance but also has undergone all-round technical improvements, especially in terms of handling and downforce. It can generate 923 kilograms of downforce at a speed of 177 miles (285 kilometers) per hour, which is much higher than the ordinary Turbo S model.