Tesla adds new configurations to deal with extreme weather, and Chery's mid-range SUV enters the UK market | Overseas Daily
"Top 3 News"
Tesla Adds Quick Defrost Option for Charging Port to Combat Cold Weather
Key Points:
As winter approaches, Tesla has introduced a new software update to address the potential freezing of charging ports in cold weather, adding a direct charging port defrost function. This update is undoubtedly good news for Tesla owners in cold regions. When the Model 3 first experienced winter in 2018, Tesla faced a series of problems in low-temperature environments. Owners reported difficulties entering the vehicle due to issues such as door handles not opening, windows freezing, and charging ports freezing. Tesla subsequently released a software update to solve these problems and began installing a dedicated charging port heater in vehicles in late 2020.
Although the charging port heater has been in vehicles for several years, Tesla previously did not provide owners with a clear option to activate this function. Typically, the charging port heater would automatically activate when the vehicle's overall or rear defrost function is initiated. Now, Tesla has changed this with the latest software update. According to the Not A Tesla App, which tracks Tesla software updates, some Tesla vehicles can now manually activate the charging port heater through a software update. However, this feature is not available in all vehicles and currently only appears in the release notes of a small number of vehicles. It has been confirmed that the 2024 Model X and some 2023 Model Y show this feature in the Tesla software update 2024.44.3.1. This change is very timely for the upcoming cold weather as it will enable owners to directly heat the charging port when needed, improving charging efficiency.
Tesla Model X and Model Y (Source: Electrek)
Opinion:
This update by Tesla is undoubtedly an important enhancement to the owner experience. In the field of electric vehicles, winter charging issues have always been a challenge, especially in extremely cold regions. Tesla's direct solution to this problem through software updates demonstrates its emphasis on user feedback and its rapid response capability. This move by Tesla not only improves the practicality of the vehicle but also enhances brand loyalty. The function of directly activating the charging port heater allows owners to be more at ease in the face of extreme winter weather, reducing the inconvenience and anxiety caused by a frozen charging port. In addition, this update also reflects Tesla's continuous investment in technological innovation. By enhancing hardware functions through software updates, Tesla showcases its leadership in the electric vehicle field. This innovative model of combining software and hardware not only improves the user experience but also sets a new standard for the entire industry.
Aston Martin Valkyrie Confirmed to Participate in 2025 WEC and IMSA Races
Key Points:
Aston Martin's Valkyrie Le Mans Hypercar is nearing completion of its Homologation after more than 7700 miles of testing and is set to shine on the racing stage in 2025. This highly anticipated supercar will make its debut at the opening round of the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) in Qatar on February 28, 2025.紧接着, just two weeks later, Valkyrie will head to Florida for the 12 Hours of Sebring, marking its first appearance in the IMSA SportsCar Championship in the United States. Valkyrie will be the only Hypercar-class vehicle to participate in both series next year. This undoubtedly puts a great deal of pressure on this new racing car, but it also shows Aston Martin's confidence in its performance.
The most anticipated event for Valkyrie is undoubtedly the 24 Hours of Le Mans, which will be Aston Martin's first real attempt to win this legendary race again since it won with the DBR1 in 1959. Valkyrie is equipped with a 6.5-liter Cosworth-derived V12 engine and is expected to perform well on every track. Aston Martin first announced this project nearly five years ago, so expectations from the outside world are very high. Valkyrie will carry Aston Martin's famous "007" and "009" racing numbers and compete with Ferrari's double Le Mans-winning 499P, BMW's M Hybrid V8, and prototypes from Alpine, Cadillac, Peugeot, Porsche, and Toyota. It is worth noting that Lamborghini recently chose to withdraw from the 2025 WEC season and focus on the IMSA races. Aston Martin Valkyrie's participation is not only a tribute to the brand's racing history but also a challenge to the limits of modern racing technology. As the races approach, global racing fans are looking forward to Valkyrie's performance on the track and whether it can stand out in the fierce competition to continue Aston Martin's racing legend.
Aston Martin Valkyrie (Source: TopGear)
Opinion:
Aston Martin Valkyrie's participation plan is undoubtedly a shot in the arm for the racing world. It not only represents the brand's unremitting pursuit of high-performance racing cars but also indicates the direction of future racing technology development. Valkyrie's participation, especially its appearance in the WEC and IMSA races, shows Aston Martin's confidence in the competitiveness of its products on the international stage. The design concept and technological innovation of this supercar, such as the 6.5-liter V12 engine and advanced aerodynamic design, are both a tribute to Aston Martin's racing tradition and an exploration of future racing technology. Valkyrie's participation is not only a display of the brand's own technical strength but also a challenge to the limits of racing sports.
At the same time, Valkyrie's participation is also a powerful boost to the globalization of racing sports. Through its appearance in the WEC and IMSA races, Valkyrie will showcase its performance globally, which not only can enhance Aston Martin's brand image but also can promote the exchange of different racing cultures and technologies. In the current increasingly competitive environment of global racing sports, Valkyrie's participation undoubtedly adds new highlights and topics to racing sports. In addition, Valkyrie's participation is also a positive response to environmental protection and sustainable development. With the global emphasis on environmental protection, racing sports are also seeking more environmentally friendly racing methods. As a high-performance hybrid racing car, Valkyrie's participation will demonstrate the application potential of hybrid technology in the racing field and provide a reference for the green transformation of future racing sports.
Genesis to Soon Release Flagship SUV - GV90
Key Points:
The Genesis brand is preparing to launch its new ultra-luxurious electric SUV - GV90, and more anticipated information about this flagship SUV is emerging after its debut near Hyundai Motor's research and development facilities. In March of this year, Genesis introduced the Neolun concept car as a preview of its upcoming full-size SUV. This SUV will serve as a technological benchmark, helping Genesis move into the high-end market and challenging ultra-luxury brands such as Rolls-Royce and Bentley.
The Neolun concept car adopts a "subtractive design", giving it a clean and minimalist appearance. One of the notable features is the connected two-tone headlights, which are shaped similar to Genesis' signature winged grille. Genesis even introduced coach doors on the concept car. After removing the B-pillar, this electric SUV showcases a sleek and high-end appearance. In terms of the interior, the GV90 offers a royal-like treatment for passengers. When the coach doors are opened, the electric steps automatically extend, and the seats inside can rotate, providing a flexible and spacious interior space. In addition, the SUV includes an immersive audio experience, almost similar to a "concert hall", with each speaker carefully arranged.
The GV90 is also equipped with a huge 24.6-inch infotainment screen that can be adjusted or integrated into the dashboard as needed. Genesis has also introduced the "Ondol" heating system based on the Korean floor heating method, claiming that it will improve heating efficiency while providing a lounge-like experience. This summer, reports in Korea stated that the first prototypes of the GV90 would be built in October. According to TheKoreanCarBlog, the first prototypes have already been spotted outside Hyundai Motor's research and development facilities in Korea.
Genesis GV90 Concept Car (Source: Electrek)
Opinion:
Genesis is preparing to launch two models, the standard version and the exclusive version. The standard version will be equipped with standard doors, but it is expected that the exclusive version will retain the coach doors on the concept car. The exclusive version will be produced in limited quantities, and Genesis hopes to improve its ranking in the luxury market through this. It is expected to compete with large luxury SUVs such as the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class and Bentley Bentayga. It is reported that Genesis is completing the development of the production prototype after solving the problem of the coach doors. Hyundai Motor's research and development facilities are said to have solved this problem, and the GV90 prototype is ready for testing on public roads. The advent of the Genesis GV90 indicates that the ultra-luxurious SUV market will welcome a strong competitor.
"Big Events"
Chery's Jaecoo 7 SUV Launches in the UK with a Price Below £30,000
Chery Automobile has launched its new SUV model - Jaecoo 7 in the UK market. This high-end SUV made in China has attracted market attention with its technology-filled configuration and highly competitive price. The starting price of Jaecoo 7 is £29,435 (two-wheel drive petrol version), while the petrol hybrid version starts from £35,065. This price is significantly lower than that of its competitors in the same class, such as the Hyundai Tucson (starting price £39,330), BMW X1 (starting price £41,765), and Citroen C5 Aircross (starting price £35,735). The size of Jaecoo 7 is comparable to that of the above competitors, and it offers a four-wheel drive version with a starting price of £32,850 and has some remarkable off-road performance parameters, such as a 600mm wading depth and a 29-degree departure angle, comparable to the Land Rover PHEV that is three times more expensive. The four-wheel drive version is also equipped with a "Integrated Dynamic Braking" system developed by Bosch, which is said to be able to simulate the function of a differential lock with a response time of less than one-tenth of a second.
Chery Jaecoo 7 (Source: TopGear)
In terms of power options, Jaecoo 7 offers a 1.6-liter petrol engine or a PHEV version, the latter of which matches the engine with an 18.3kWh battery pack. Chery estimates that the PHEV version can travel 56 miles in pure electric mode, and with a full charge and a 60-liter full tank, the combined range can reach 745 miles. In terms of the interior, Jaecoo 7 provides a rich array of connected features, multiple advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), a high-resolution display screen, and a panoramic sunroof, among other configurations. These are typical practices of Chinese automakers in their efforts to gain recognition in the UK market. As part of the Chery brand, Jaecoo 7 has received a five-star safety rating and offers a seven-year warranty service. The SUV is currently available for pre-order and is expected to begin deliveries at the start of the new year. The launch of Jaecoo 7 not only provides consumers with a new, reasonably priced option but also showcases Chery Automobile's competitiveness and technological innovation capabilities in the global market. With more and more Chinese automotive brands entering the international market, the launch of Jaecoo 7 may have an impact on the existing SUV market competition pattern.
Opel Reduces Prices of New Grandland Electric SUV in the UK
Opel has recently announced a price adjustment for the new Grandland electric SUV, with potential savings of up to £4,700. After this price adjustment, the Design and GS models are both priced below £40,000, which will result in significant VED (Vehicle Excise Duty) savings for consumers. The new Grandland electric version starts at £37,345 for the Design model, representing a saving of £3,650. The GS model is priced at £38,495 (a saving of £4,650), while the Ultimate model has the largest price reduction, saving £4,700, with a new price of £40,495. This means that both the Design and GS versions are now below the £40,000 VED additional "expensive car surcharge" tax rate threshold, which currently incurs an additional £410 from the second year of vehicle ownership. In addition to the lower on-the-road (OTR) price, this means consumers can save £1,640 in VED over four years, equivalent to approximately £40 per month. The price adjustment also means that the price gap between the hybrid and electric versions has narrowed - it is expected that the price gap between the best-selling GS hybrid and GS electric versions is only £1,845. Additionally, in terms of charging costs, there is a potential cost-saving in ownership when using off-peak cheap electricity for charging compared to petrol costs.
Opel New Grandland (Source: Electriccarsreport)
The new Grandland electric version is the flagship product in Opel's new SUV range and is the first Opel model based on the STLA Medium platform. It is equipped with a 73kWh (net) battery, a 213-horsepower motor, 345Nm of torque, and energy-saving features such as a standard heat pump, with a single charge capable of traveling up to 325 miles (WLTP). Thanks to a 160kW fast charging capability, a 20% to 80% charge takes only 26 minutes. All versions come standard with a heat pump that improves efficiency in cold weather conditions - an option that is often an additional cost in competitor models. Opel also offers a "Plug & Go" offer, including a variety of charging solutions to simplify electric mobility. For online purchases, Opel provides a £500 subsidy for the purchase of an Octopus Energy Ohme Pro wallbox and installation. Thanks to a partnership with Tesco, customers can also choose £500 of free charging credit instead of the wallbox subsidy. In addition, retail customers who purchase a new vehicle at a participating Opel retailer can receive 50,000 Tesco Clubcard points worth £500.