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Chery Launches The Fengyun A8 Plug-in Hybrid – 355hp, 1400km Range

Chery has officially launched its Fengyun A8 plug-in hybrid sedan in China. Priced between 119,900 to 149,900 yuan (approximately RM78k to RM97k), the Fengyun A8 is part of Chery’s new energy vehicle series. Positioned as a compact sedan, it offers consumers four model options.

Key features of the Chery Fengyun A8 include a large trapezoidal grille connected to the headlights in the front and an upturned tail design above the trunk at the rear that has a resemblance to the Audi A8. The interior boasts a 12.3-inch instrument panel, a 12.3-inch central control screen, and a four-spoke flat-bottom steering wheel. The cockpit is powered by Chery’s Lion 5.0 operating system, with high-end models equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip.

Powering the Chery Fengyun A8 is Chery’s Kunpeng Super Performance Electric Hybrid C-DM system, comprising a fifth-generation ACTECO 1.5TGDI hybrid engine and a permanent magnet synchronous motor. The total power output is 355hp and 530Nm of torque, with an acceleration time from 0 to 100km/h in 7 seconds.

The car’s 18.3 kWh lithium battery pack provides a pure electric cruising range of 127km (CLTC) and a total range of over 1,400km (WLTC). The fast-charging capability allows the battery to be fully charged from 30% to 80% in 19 minutes, while slow charging takes at least three hours.

The lineup comes standard with navigation, OTA updates, Bluetooth, remote control through the app, and karaoke functions. Both CarPlay and HiCar are supported. The advanced driving assistance system, available only in high-end models, includes features such as front and rear collision warning, automatic emergency braking, full-speed range adaptive cruise control, and lane merge assist.

BYD’s ‘Vehicle To Load Function’ Powers A Dialysis Machine

Amidst power outages caused by storms and flash flooding on 25th December 2023 in Australia, an electric vehicle (EV) owner on the Gold Coast utilised her car’s emergency power system to run her 11-year-old son’s life-saving dialysis machine.

Kristy Holmes, a resident of the Gold Coast, utilised her BYD electric car, equipped with a “vehicle to load” system, allowing the EV to function as an emergency power source for various devices.

The unexpected blackout prompted Holmes to initially assist her neighbours by connecting their refrigerators to her EV. However, as the power outage persisted, she realised that her BYD Atto 3, purchased in February, could potentially power her 11-year-old son Levi’s life-saving dialysis machine. Taking a decisive step, Holmes successfully ran the dialysis machine off the car’s power, ensuring that Levi, who is on the verge of joining a transplant list, received critical treatment despite the adverse weather conditions.

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China Unveils Advanced Aircraft Carrier With Next-Gen Launch Tracks

New images of China’s most advanced aircraft carrier, the Fujian, have been unveiled, showcasing next-generation launch tracks capable of catapulting a wider range of aircraft from its deck. First unveiled in June 2022, the domestically designed and built Fujian is yet to undergo its first sea trials.

The Fujian surpasses its predecessors, the Shandong commissioned in 2019 and the Liaoning, acquired from Ukraine in 1998, in terms of size and technological advancements. Images broadcasted on state television depict the Fujian being towed by a smaller vessel, revealing all three tracks of its electromagnetic catapult system on the deck.’

While sea trials are pending, the carrier has undergone various tests, including mooring tests. In November, the Fujian initiated launch tests for its electromagnetic catapult system, distinguishing it as the only carrier, besides the US Ford-class carriers, equipped with the latest Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS).

China’s version of EMALS enhances its capability to launch a broader spectrum of aircraft compared to its predecessors, Shandong and Liaoning. Additionally, it is touted to be more reliable and energy-efficient, marking a significant milestone in China’s military modernisation efforts.

President Xi Jinping’s emphasis on increased combat-readiness and technological advancements aligns with the trajectory of modernising the Chinese military, with the Fujian showcasing its commitment to achieving these goals. The unveiling comes amid heightened tensions, with some speculating potential military actions concerning Taiwan, particularly ahead of the 100th anniversary of the People’s Liberation Army in 2027. The carrier’s advanced features and capabilities underscore China’s commitment to strengthening its naval prowess on the global stage.

2024 Toyota GR Corolla Introduces Changes for Enhanced Aerodynamics

Toyota’s iconic 2024 GR Corolla is making waves in the automotive industry with unconventional yet intriguing updates aimed at elevating vehicle performance and aerodynamics.

In a commitment to continuous innovation, Toyota has introduced subtle yet impactful changes to the 2024 GR Corolla. Among these updates are new bolts, air ducts, and a noteworthy addition – four strips of specially designed aluminium tape. This unconventional addition serves a unique purpose, addressing the often-overlooked phenomenon of electrostatic discharge in automotive design.

The concept of electrostatic discharge comes into play as a vehicle moves, causing both the car body and the surrounding air to develop a positive charge. This phenomenon can lead to repelling forces that subtly affect airflow around the vehicle. The revelation of this challenge emerged during the development of the facelifted Toyota 86, where inconsistent test results were observed due to electrostatic issues.

Toyota’s solution involves the integration of patented aluminium tape, strategically placed to manage electrostatic discharge and, concurrently, enhance aerodynamics. This innovative approach showcases Toyota’s commitment to understanding the intricacies of vehicle dynamics and pushing the boundaries of design.

Pro drifter Ken Gushi, an early adopter of the 2024 upgrade kit on his 2023 GR Corolla, has provided subjective yet promising feedback. Gushi noted a significant difference in his vehicle’s driving dynamics post-upgrade. While awaiting confirmation from controlled testing, Gushi’s observations underscore the potential impact of these minor modifications. The improvements hint at the transformative power of seemingly small tweaks in fine-tuning and optimising vehicle performance.

Toyota’s 2024 GR Corolla sets a precedent for innovative design thinking in the automotive industry, proving that even minor changes can lead to substantial enhancements in driving dynamics and overall performance.

Porsche’s Upcoming Taycan Variant Shatters Nürburgring Lap Record

In a sensational feat, Porsche has unveiled its upcoming Taycan variant, setting a new lap record at the iconic Nürburgring circuit. Driven by Porsche development ace Lars Kern, the pre-series Taycan achieved a remarkable 7:07.55 lap time, surpassing its predecessor, the 2022 Taycan Turbo S, by an impressive 26 seconds. This performance even outpaced the 992 911 Turbo S, firmly establishing the electric vehicle’s prowess.

Identified by its distinct rear spoiler, the Taycan variant, speculated to be named Turbo GT, is expected to lead a mid-cycle update for the Taycan model, which entered the scene four years ago. This achievement highlights the electric car’s ability to sustain high performance consistently, addressing a common concern associated with electric vehicles.

Under the hood, the Turbo GT is anticipated to boast three motors, delivering a baseline power level exceeding 800PS. The two motors at the rear axle promise enhanced power distribution and torque vectoring, contributing to the car’s versatile performance capabilities.

Porsche enthusiasts and the automotive community eagerly await the official unveiling of the Taycan Turbo GT, expected within the first half of 2024. The company plans to release additional details and full footage of the record-breaking lap in March, adding to the excitement surrounding this groundbreaking electric vehicle.

BYD Achieves Record Sales of 3.02 Million NEVs in 2023

Chinese automaker BYD has reported a significant milestone in its electric vehicle (EV) sales, with a record-breaking 3,024,417 new energy vehicles sold in 2023. This figure represents a remarkable year-on-year increase of 62.3%, surpassing the previous year’s sales record of 1,863,494 vehicles.

The impressive growth in sales is attributed to BYD’s commitment to new energy vehicle production, with 3,045,231 units manufactured in 2023—a 62.2% increase compared to the previous year. The commercial vehicle segment played a crucial role, recording sales of 11,511 units, including electric buses, trucks, and other vehicles, experiencing a notable uptick of 88.2%.

In the passenger car business, BYD’s sales reached 3,012,906 units, marking a year-on-year increase of 62.2%. Notably, the sales of pure electric models surged, totalling 1,574,822 units with a robust year-on-year growth of 72.8%. Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) accounted for 52.3% of total passenger car sales, reflecting increasing consumer preference for electric mobility.

 

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Koenigsegg Jesko ‘Attack’ With 24-Karat Gold Accents Hits The Streets

Koenigsegg has just delivered a jaw-dropping Jesko ‘Attack’ to a lucky owner, featuring an exterior entirely clad in glossy exposed carbon fibre with exquisite 24-karat gold leaf accents. Limited to just 125 units worldwide, the Jesko replaces the renowned Agera and has quickly become a coveted hypercar.

Taking inspiration from the iconic Agera RS named ‘Phoenix,’ owned by real estate mogul Manny Khoshbin, this Jesko boasts clear-coated exposed carbon fibre body panels adorned with delicate gold specks. The opulent use of 24-karat gold leaf is evident in various exterior elements, including front canards, wing mirror arms, a central front fascia element, side skirt aerodynamic flics, rear wing endplates, Koenigsegg badges, and roof accents.

This specific Jesko is the ‘Attack’ variant, emphasising track-focused performance with aggressive aerodynamics to enhance downforce. Notable features include an imposing rear wing, an enhanced front splitter, and a distinctive diffuser. Koenigsegg offers an alternative ‘Absolut’ version tailored for high-speed performance, omitting the rear wing and potentially reaching speeds exceeding 480km/h.

Under the Jesko’s hood lies a formidable 5.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, generating 1,280hp on petrol or an astounding 1,600hp on E85 fuel. The powertrain is seamlessly paired with Koenigsegg’s innovative 9-speed multi-clutch transmission, delivering exhilarating performance to the rear wheels.

Limited production, combined with the exquisite gold-accented carbon fibre exterior, makes this Jesko a true collector’s item, embodying Koenigsegg’s commitment to exclusivity and cutting-edge automotive engineering.

Datsun 240Z Transformed into Tesla-Powered Batmobile

In a rare instance where a virtual car rendering transforms into a tangible reality, the Datsun 240Z has undergone an extraordinary metamorphosis into an actual vehicle, and the results are nothing short of spectacular.

The concept originated in the mind of Ash Thorp, renowned for designing the Batmobile featured in The Batman movie (2022). Collaborating with Carlos Pecino from Make Haste Corp, the matte black Datsun emerged as the fruit of their partnership, marking their inaugural joint project.

Several design elements set this transformed Datsun apart. Notably, the side cameras, serving as mirrors, are ingeniously concealed within dedicated housings in front of the doors. The rear of the car boasts an immensely oversized diffuser, complemented by carbon fibre wheel caps adorning BBS multi-spoke alloys. The overall styling draws inspiration from the Batmobile, evident in the sharp side skirts.

Under the hood, the original 2.4-litre inline-six engine has made way for a Tesla-derived fully electric powertrain. Power is supplied by a Model S electric motor situated on the rear axle, providing the revamped Datsun with an impressive 401hp, nearly three times the output of the original 240Z. Despite a slight increase in weight to around 1133kg, the car maintains agility.

Inside the car, only a few components hail from the original 240Z, with a custom layout featuring three central dials, a steering column sourced from the Chevy Equinox, a digital instrument cluster, and a substantial centre console.

This real-life manifestation of a virtual concept showcases the boundary-pushing creativity and collaboration within the automotive design realm, bringing an imaginative vision to the streets.

JDM Companies Working On High-Performance Digital Chip

In a significant collaborative effort, twelve leading companies from the automotive, electrical component, and semiconductor sectors joined hands to establish the “Advanced SoC Research for Automotive” (ASRA) on December 1st. The primary goal of ASRA is to conduct research and development for high-performance digital semiconductors, specifically System on Chip (SoC), intended for use in automobiles.

Participating Companies:

  • Automotive Manufacturers: Honda Motor Co., Ltd., Mazda Motor Corporation, Nissan Motor Corporation, SUBARU Corporation, Toyota Motor Corporation
  • Electrical Component Manufacturers: Denso Corporation, Panasonic Automotive Systems Co., Ltd.
  • Semiconductor Companies: Cadence Design Systems, Japan, MIRISE Technologies Corporation, Renesas Electronics Corporation, Socionext Inc., Synopsys Japan

Given that modern automobiles utilise approximately 1,000 semiconductors, with varied applications, SoCs are particularly crucial for autonomous driving technology and multimedia systems. These applications demand cutting-edge semiconductor technology to achieve advanced computing power.

ASRA, with a focus on achieving high levels of safety and reliability required for automotive applications, will be spearheaded by automakers. The collaboration aims to leverage the combined technological and experiential knowledge of electrical components and semiconductor companies. The consortium plans to explore chiplet technology for SoCs, combining different semiconductor types.

Advantages of Chiplet Technology Include:

  1. Higher performance and multifunctionality
  2. Higher yield chips
  3. Timely commercialisation of SoCs tailored to end-user (automotive companies) requirements

 

ASRA has set ambitious goals, aiming to establish in-vehicle chiplet technology by 2028 and intends to install SoCs in mass-produced vehicles from 2030 onward. By capitalising on Japan’s technological capabilities and extensive experience in automotive, electrical components, and semiconductors, ASRA plans to collaborate with industry, government, and academia to position itself as a world-leading technology research group.

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Xiaomi Steps Into The EV World With The SU7 – Another Tesla Killer?

Chinese tech giant Xiaomi has officially stepped into the electric vehicle (EV) market with the launch of its highly anticipated SU7 sedan. It is positioned as a high-performance electric vehicle, boasting features that could potentially challenge competitors like Tesla and Porsche.

The SU7, short for “Speed Ultra 7,” is available in two variants: a standard rear-wheel-drive model and a Max version equipped with dual-motor all-wheel drive. Xiaomi claims that the vehicle offers acceleration speeds surpassing those of rival EVs. Let’s delve into the key specifications of each version:

Standard Version:

  • Acceleration (0-100km/h): 5.28 seconds
  • Top Speed: 210km/h
  • Horsepower: 200ps
  • Torque: 400Nm
  • Recharge Range: 668km

Max Version:

  • Acceleration (0-100km/h): 2.78 seconds
  • Top Speed: 265km/h
  • Horsepower: 673ps
  • Torque: 838Nm
  • Recharge Range: 800km

One standout feature of the SU7 is its massive CATL battery, utilising Xiaomi’s proprietary Cell-To-Body (CTB) technology. The battery is integrated into the floor of the car, providing structural rigidity and optimising interior cabin space.

The company claims to have developed advanced technology, including fast-charging capabilities, to mitigate the impact of extreme cold weather on the battery, ensuring sustained performance.

The Xiaomi SU7 is expected to be available for purchase in early 2024, primarily in the Chinese market. The car will be offered in three distinctive colors: Aqua Blue, Mineral Gray, and Verdant Green. Despite the comprehensive unveiling, Xiaomi has not disclosed specific pricing details or detailed plans for international distribution at this time.

The introduction of the SU7 marks Xiaomi’s entry into the highly competitive electric vehicle landscape, joining the ranks of tech companies venturing into the future of sustainable transportation. As EV adoption continues to grow globally, Xiaomi aims to carve its niche with a high-performance and technologically advanced offering.

Chery Launches The Fengyun A8 Plug-in Hybrid – 355hp, 1400km Range

  • 04/01/2024
  • English, Global News
  • Timothy Prakash

BYD’s ‘Vehicle To Load Function’ Powers A Dialysis Machine

  • 04/01/2024
  • English, Global News
  • Timothy Prakash

China Unveils Advanced Aircraft Carrier With Next-Gen Launch Tracks

  • 03/01/2024
  • English, Global News
  • Timothy Prakash

2024 Toyota GR Corolla Introduces Changes for Enhanced Aerodynamics

  • 03/01/2024
  • English, Global News
  • Timothy Prakash

Porsche’s Upcoming Taycan Variant Shatters Nürburgring Lap Record

  • 03/01/2024
  • English, Global News
  • Timothy Prakash

BYD Achieves Record Sales of 3.02 Million NEVs in 2023

  • 02/01/2024
  • English, Global News
  • Timothy Prakash

Koenigsegg Jesko ‘Attack’ With 24-Karat Gold Accents Hits The Streets

  • 02/01/2024
  • English, Global News
  • Timothy Prakash

Datsun 240Z Transformed into Tesla-Powered Batmobile

  • 30/12/2023
  • English, Global News
  • Timothy Prakash

JDM Companies Working On High-Performance Digital Chip

  • 29/12/2023
  • English, Global News
  • Timothy Prakash

Xiaomi Steps Into The EV World With The SU7 – Another Tesla Killer?

  • 29/12/2023
  • English, Global News
  • Timothy Prakash
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