Trump's victory raises concerns among automakers, while CATL vigorously promotes all-solid-state batteries | Overseas Daily
"Top 3 News"
Trump's Victory Worries Automakers, But BMW Says It'll Be Okay
Key Points:
With Trump's re-election as the US President, the market is concerned about the possible policy changes he may bring, especially the increase in tariffs and restrictions on foreign automakers. European automakers are generally worried that Trump will continue to raise import taxes, especially on electric vehicle imports, which will impact their business in the US. However, BMW states that it has large-scale production facilities in the US, especially the factory in Spartanburg, South Carolina, giving it the confidence to deal with possible policy changes.
BMW 5 Series (Source: BMW)
Opinions:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG's (BMW) third-quarter financial report shows that the company's profits dropped by 61% due to a decline in sales in the Chinese market, but electric vehicle sales still maintain growth. BMW's optimistic attitude towards Trump's re-election showcases its advantages in the global layout. With a large factory in the US, BMW can to a certain extent avoid the impact of import tariffs, thereby maintaining the stable development of its business in the US. However, other European automakers that rely on exports may face more challenges. If the Trump administration continues to pursue high tariffs and protectionist policies, especially in the areas of clean energy and electric vehicles, it may suppress the growth of the US electric vehicle market.
Mercedes-Benz Previews the Upcoming CLA Electric Vehicle
Key Points:
Mercedes-Benz recently revealed the upcoming CLA electric version for the first time. This new vehicle is planned to be launched in 2025 and will become the flagship model in Mercedes-Benz's entry-level electric vehicle lineup. The CLA electric version draws on Mercedes-Benz's future design concept and adopts some design elements of the EQXX concept car. Its main features include an efficient electric platform and a unique aerodynamic design to maximize range and performance. It is reported that the model will be equipped with a modular platform that supports pure electric and hybrid configurations, in line with future electric vehicle needs. At the same time, the CLA electric version will be equipped with the new MB.OS system, allowing drivers to enjoy a more intelligent interactive experience through the AI-assisted MBUX virtual assistant. In addition, Mercedes-Benz will further realize the market segmentation of the entry-level luxury electric vehicle market through the CLA electric version, enabling a wider range of consumers to experience high-end electric technology. The design and configuration of the CLA electric version demonstrate Mercedes-Benz's vision for the future of electric mobility. Mercedes-Benz plans to attract young consumer groups with this entry-level electric vehicle while meeting the needs of user groups with a high environmental awareness. The new vehicle's range and charging efficiency will be the key selling points, and the AI intelligent interaction system makes it more attractive. The CLA electric version will reflect Mercedes-Benz's innovation in the field of electric vehicles, showing the integration of high performance, technology and luxury in future electric mobility. As the launch date approaches, the market response to the CLA electric version is worth looking forward to, and this vehicle may become a major success for Mercedes-Benz in the entry-level electric vehicle market.
CLA Electric Vehicle (Source: Electriccarsreport)
Opinions:
The launch of the Mercedes-Benz CLA electric version not only shows the active exploration of the traditional luxury brand in the electric vehicle market, but also highlights its keeping pace with the times in technology and design. This model is positioned as an entry-level luxury electric vehicle, catering to the multiple needs of young consumers for intelligence, high performance and luxury experience. In terms of design, the CLA electric version continues Mercedes-Benz's consistent elegant and innovative style while significantly enhancing the user experience. The combination of an efficient modular electric platform and the new MB.OS operating system provides users with higher range, more flexible charging methods, and a more intelligent interactive experience. For consumers who are concerned about environmental protection and intelligent travel, this is undoubtedly an anticipated choice. Mercedes-Benz's decision to launch the electric version CLA in the entry-level market indicates that it not only focuses on the high-end market but also attaches importance to the potential users brought by the popularization of electric vehicles. Its AI-supported virtual assistant will be a highlight, making the vehicle more humanized. And the improvement of range and performance will provide users with a longer-distance travel guarantee, further alleviating consumers' "range anxiety" about electric vehicles. However, the final market performance of the CLA electric version will also depend on the balance of its price, actual range and user experience. If Mercedes-Benz can achieve a high cost performance, the CLA electric version is expected to become a benchmark in the electric vehicle market and help the brand gain new competitiveness in the electrification transformation.
Volvo Confirms Its Best-Selling EX30 Electric SUV Will Land in the US by the End of 2024
Key Points:
Volvo has recently confirmed that its latest electric SUV, the EX30, will land in the US market by the end of 2024. The EX30, which was originally planned to be delivered in 2025, is being delivered earlier due to strong demand in the US market, especially for the high-performance EX30 Twin Motor model, which has attracted much attention. The starting price of the EX30 Twin Motor version is $44,900, with 422 horsepower, a 0-60 mph acceleration time of just 3.4 seconds, and a range of 253 miles. The single-motor version of the EX30 is priced at $34,950, with a range of up to 275 miles. This SUV has also improved in charging performance, supporting 153kW fast charging, which can charge the battery from 10% to 80% in just 25 minutes. Previously, due to the high tariffs imposed by the US on electric vehicles made in China, the EX30 plan was postponed to 2025. However, to meet market demand, Volvo has decided to accelerate production at its Belgian factory to avoid the impact of import tariffs. The EX30 integrates high-tech configurations such as the Google built-in system and wireless Apple CarPlay, making it one of Volvo's most technologically advanced and cost-effective electric SUVs.
Volvo EX30 (Source: Electrek)
Opinions:
The early delivery of the Volvo EX30 shows Volvo's agility in responding to market demand, and also demonstrates its global layout in the field of electric vehicles. In the US, Tesla and other brands occupy a large market share. Volvo's move may be intended to attract more young consumers with the high performance and cost-effectiveness of the EX30. The performance parameters of the EX30 Twin Motor are indeed excellent, but for daily commuters, the single-motor version with a higher cost performance and longer range is more attractive. In addition, Volvo's strategy of avoiding tariffs by accelerating production at its Belgian factory and supplying the US market shows its flexibility. Overall, the EX30 is expected to stand out in the highly competitive US electric SUV market, but its success or failure will also depend on the improvement of after-sales service and charging network. Volvo needs to continue to optimize the supply chain and customer experience to further enhance its competitiveness in the North American market.
"Big Events"
Tesla Model S Plaid Becomes the World's Fastest Police Patrol Vehicle
Tesla Model S Plaid (Source: Electrek)
Recently, the Tesla Model S Plaid has become the world's fastest police patrol vehicle after being customized by Unplugged Performance. This modified electric vehicle is named UP.FIT Plaid Pursuit and will be equipped for the Los Angeles County Police Department to serve the police force's community liaison and law enforcement needs. The UP.FIT Plaid Pursuit relies on the high-performance platform of the Model S Plaid and has an astonishing 0-60 mph acceleration time of just 2 seconds. This police vehicle performs outstandingly in high-speed pursuit tasks and also provides the police department with an environmentally friendly zero-emission option. Its design particularly strengthens the braking system and adds an innovative external lighting configuration to enhance the practicality and safety of the police vehicle in various pursuit scenarios. In addition, Unplugged Performance equips the vehicle with side skirt lights, front and rear glass-embedded warning lights, and high and low frequency sirens to meet the requirements of California traffic regulations. It is reported that the Plaid Pursuit has a range of up to 345 miles, making it an ideal alternative to traditional gasoline vehicles, and is expected to help save a significant amount of fuel expenses and reduce maintenance costs, while also conveying an environmental protection concept. Unplugged Performance CEO Ben Schaffer said that the UP.FIT Plaid Pursuit perfectly interprets the advantages of electric police vehicles in terms of performance, economy and environmental protection, and will further promote the application of global electric vehicles in the public service field. This modified vehicle not only has excellent acceleration performance but also has a long range, which helps improve law enforcement efficiency and public safety.
Cybertruck Dual-Rear-Wheel Pickup, Kia Off-Road Concept Vehicle and Electric Mopars Unveiled at SEMA
Electric Mopars (Source: YouTube)
At the 2024 SEMA modified car show, Tesla's Cybertruck dual-rear-wheel off-road version became the focus, showing its design for off-road and towing needs. Kia launched two all-electric concept vehicles, the EV9 ADVNTR and PV5 WKNDR, to meet the needs of outdoor exploration and family travel, marking a new trend in future electric SUVs. In addition, Stellantis showcased an electric version of the Mopar brand's classic street car Plymouth, reinterpreting the classic model through an electric conversion kit. The diverse electric modification options show the automakers' innovative attempts in the wave of electrification, reflecting the industry's emphasis on diverse electric travel solutions. These electric concept cars and modified vehicles at the SEMA exhibition demonstrate the great potential of electric vehicles in meeting the different needs of users. The launch of Tesla's Cybertruck dual-rear-wheel off-road version undoubtedly attracts the attention of a large number of off-road enthusiasts. Tesla continues to show a strong brand appeal in this regard, and the dual-wheel design of the Cybertruck may bring a new direction for heavy-duty electric trucks.
General Motors Recalls Chevrolet Bolt Again
Chevrolet Bolt (Source: Electrek)
Recently, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced that General Motors (GM) is recalling some Chevrolet Bolt EV and EUV electric vehicles again, involving 107 vehicles of the 2020 to 2022 models. These vehicles were previously recalled and repaired due to the fire risk, but the newly installed battery diagnostic software was found to have a defect and failed to accurately detect battery faults, which may cause a fire when the battery is charged to nearly full. GM said that there are no fire reports due to this problem, and the recall measure is to reinstall the software for free. At the same time, NHTSA advises vehicle owners to avoid fully charging the battery, set the target charging level to 90%, and park the vehicle outdoors after charging. This recall has attracted attention because GM recalled the Bolt multiple times due to battery problems in 2020 to 2021, and in 2021 announced that LG Chem is responsible for replacing the battery module. It is reported that LG Chem is responsible for the battery defect and has borne a recall cost of $1.9 billion for GM. The recall history of the Bolt model has raised concerns among users about its safety and has affected consumers' confidence in this vehicle. As GM gradually exits the Bolt production line and shifts to the new-generation Ultium battery platform, the future market positioning of the Bolt will undergo adjustments. However, GM plans to launch the next-generation Bolt based on the Ultium platform in 2025.
CATL Advances All-Solid-State Electric Vehicle Batteries
CATL Exhibition Booth (Source: Electrek)
Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited (CATL), the world's largest electric vehicle (EV) battery manufacturer, is advancing the research and development of a new type of battery that promises a higher energy density. It is reported that CATL is investing heavily and expanding its workforce to bring all-solid-state electric vehicle batteries to the market. Pilot production has started, and we may see CATL launch all-solid-state EV batteries earlier than expected. CATL has entered the pilot production stage of 20 Ah samples and has added more than 1,000 employees to its R & D team this year. The company is currently focused on the final sulfide stage and has begun the pilot production of 20 Ah samples. CATL's solution has an energy density of up to 500 Wh/kg in lithium ternary batteries, 40% higher than existing batteries. However, the report points out that the charging speed and cycle life have not yet reached the ideal state. At 20 Ah, the battery solution has been finally determined and is ready to enter the next stage, which is the exploration of production technology.
"Cool Products"
AC Ace Classic Sports Car
At the 2024 SEMA auto show in Las Vegas, AC Cars introduced a new electric version of the AC Ace Classic sports car. This vehicle continues the design style of the classic 1950s model and is equipped with a 300-horsepower (225 kilowatts) electric powertrain provided by TREMEC.
